Labour Lawyers in Dubai
Labour and Employment Disputes in Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi & UAE
25+ years of Excellence | Handled 6000+ Labour Disputes | 4.9* Client Rating | End to End Support
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 regarding the regulation of the employment relationship and its amendments, also referred to as the ‘UAE Labour Law’, is the governing legislation for the labour rights of the employees in the private sector. It applies to all employees in the UAE, both expatriates and UAE nationals. But some types of workers are not covered by this law and must follow different rules.
The main goal of the labor law in the UAE is to: provide the necessary conditions for the efficiency of the UAE labor market, attract the best labor and future skills, provide a competitive place for businesses and employees, and to clearly outline the obligations and rights of both parties in a mutually balanced manner.
Seeking proper legal advice is essential to ensure all employment-related activities are conducted in accordance with UAE labour laws and latest government regulations.
At HHS Lawyers, our labor lawyers in Dubai can assist you in the following ways:
- Assisting in the drafting and reviewing of your employment contracts to ensure they comply with the laws and regulations of the MOHRE.
- Assisting in labor disputes in front of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).
- Providing you with general legal advice regarding end-of-service benefits and gratuity calculations.
- Assisting you with disputes related to wrongful termination and arbitrary dismissal.
- Providing you with comprehensive advice regarding gratuity, notice period, and settlement negotiations.
What Is Labour Law in the UAE?
The UAE Labour Law outlines the laws governing the relationship between employers and workers in the private sector. The labour law has the following objectives:
- It makes the labour market in the UAE strong,
- brings in skilled labour, makes it a great place for businesses, and
- Makes it easy for everyone to know the rights and responsibilities of both employers and workers.
The law covers matters related to:
- employee rights,
- employment contracts,
- labour dispute resolution,
- working hours,
- overtime,
- leaves,
- vacation and public holidays,
- employment of juveniles,
- employee records,
- safety standards and occupational injuries,
- minimum wage,
- termination of employment,
- End of service gratuity payments, amongst others.
The labour law introduces new types of jobs like full-time jobs, part-time jobs, temporary jobs, and flexible jobs. It abolished the ‘unlimited’ type of contracts and allowed only limited or fixed-term contracts. Additionally, the law introduces new forms of leaves and addresses matters such as harassment, bullying, physical, and psychological abuse.
The labor law prohibits the use of forced labor and also prohibits discrimination based on gender, race, color, sex, religion, nationality, social background, or disability. Additionally, the law explains the obligations of the employer towards the employees.
Additionally, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is the competent authority responsible for regulating labour relations, enhancing productivity, and creating job opportunities in the private sector.
Why You Need Professional Labour Lawyers in Dubai
It is not wise to deal with employment disputes by yourself. One wrong move in the notice period or a wrong move in submitting a complaint to the MOHRE can cost you a huge amount. That’s where employment lawyers in Dubai step in to support you. They can help you with (but not limited to):
- Reviewing Your Contract: They can ensure that the employment contract is compliant with the updated UAE Labour Law and the latest regulations introduced by the government in the UAE.
- Dispute Resolution: If a dispute arises between an employee and an employer, the labour lawyer in Dubai first tries to resolve it peacefully through MOHRE mediation before taking the matter to court.
- Going to Court: If the case cannot be resolved through mediation, they will appear on your behalf before the UAE Labour Courts.
Who Does UAE Labour Law Apply To?
The UAE Labour Law is applicable to most workers in the UAE private sector. The UAE Labour Law applies to:
- All expatriate employees working for private sector companies operating in mainland UAE
- UAE national employees working in the private sector
- All employees working in free zones, excluding DIFC and ADGM, as these financial centers have their own regulations
- Part-time, temporary, flexible workers under the new types of employment contracts introduced in the UAE.
The UAE Labour Law does not apply to:
- Federal and local government sector employees,
- Domestic workers (who are separately regulated by Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022), and
- Members of the UAE armed forces.
Common Labour Disputes in Dubai
The most frequent labour grievances include:
- Non-payment or delay in the payment of wages
- Failure to pay end-of-service gratuity
- Termination of service without justification
- Breach of contract of service
- Refusal to grant annual leave or sick leave
- Workplace harassment
- Illegal deduction of salary
- Confiscation of passports by employers, which is an offence in the UAE.
Documents Required to File a Labour Dispute in Dubai
In order to commence the legal service relating to the labour dispute or file the complaint, the following documents are usually required:
- Original/Copy of Employment Contract: The contract registered with the MOHRE.
- Emirates ID: Of the employee or the authorized signatory of the company.
- Passport Copy: Including the residence visa page.
- Proof of Claim: Salary slips, bank statements reflecting WPS transfers, or termination letters.
- Power of Attorney (POA): If the lawyer represents you in court or in front of the authorities.
How a Labour Lawyer in Dubai Can Assist With Labour Disputes
The UAE has a clear and organised way to solve labour disputes. Most disputes are not taken to court. Many people prefer to hire labour lawyers in Dubai to know their rights and avoid mistakes during the dispute resolution process.
Step 1 — File a Complaint with MOHRE
The employee or employer can file a complaint with MOHRE online or through their mobile application. The employee or employer will be provided with a complaint reference number to track the case. Labour lawyers in Dubai can assist in filling out the complaint and make sure all documents are provided correctly.
Step 2 — MOHRE Mediation
MOHRE attempts to resolve the case by arranging a mediation meeting. If the case is not resolved within 14 days, a no objection letter will be issued by MOHRE, and the case will be referred to the Labour Court.
Labour lawyers help the clients throughout the process, and they will act on behalf of the clients and ensure a fair settlement.
Step 3 - MOHRE Final Decision (Claims below AED 50,000)
MOHRE can make a final decision in labour disputes if:
- the amount claimed is less than AED 50,000 or
- the parties reach an amicable settlement, regardless of the claim’s value.
However, if the disputed claim is more than AED 50,000 and the parties cannot agree on a resolution, MOHRE must refer the case to the judiciary.
Labour lawyers will support the clients through the whole process and act on their behalf.
Step 4 — Dubai Labour Court
When disputes exceed AED 50,000 or when mediation does not work, disputes are taken to the Dubai Labour Court. The Dubai Labour Court has three stages: First Instance Court, Appeal Court, and Cassation Court. Most disputes are settled within 30 to 60 days. Documents have to be in Arabic and translated into Arabic by a certified translator.
Labour lawyers in Dubai will draft all necessary documents, translate them into Arabic properly, and present a strong case for their clients.
Time Limits for Filing a Labour Claim
Time limits are very important in labour disputes. Failure to meet the deadline may mean losing your right to claim even if your claim is very valid.
Labour claims must be filed within two years from the date of termination of the employment relationship. However, it is always best to file the claim as early as possible. Delay may affect the quality of evidence and the ease of proving your claim.
Common Mistakes That Weaken a Labour Claim
| Mistake | Consequence |
| Waiting too long to file a complaint | Claim may be time-barred after two years |
| Not keeping copies of payslips and contracts | Harder to prove entitlements in court |
| Accepting a verbal settlement without written confirmation | Settlement may not be enforceable |
| Submitting untranslated documents to court | Documents will be rejected; case delayed |
| Signing a full and final settlement without legal advice | May waive rights to future claims |
| Missing the 15-day window to appeal a MOHRE decision | Decision becomes final and not be appealed. |
Labour Law Services Offered by HHS Lawyers in Dubai
Our labour and employment lawyers in Dubai assist both employees and employers across a full range of workplace legal matters, including:
Employment Contract Review & Drafting
We review and draft employment contracts to ensure they meet UAE Labour Law requirements while safeguarding our client’s interests.
Wrongful Termination Support
Our team provides assistance to workers who face wrongful termination by guiding them about their rights. We also represent them before MOHRE and UAE Labour Court representation.
Gratuity & Settlement Disputes
Our lawyers assist with settlement disputes by calculating correct gratuity and settlement values. We can also initiate legal proceedings for unpaid gratuity, notice pay and leave pay.
Unpaid Salary & WPS Violations
We assist workers with unpaid salary claims and WPS violations by enabling them to report these disputes.
MOHRE Complaint Filing & Representation
Our labour lawyers help clients with MOHRE complaint submission and they provide representation during the mediation process and decision making.
Labour Court Representation
We also provide complete representation for clients throughout every phase of Dubai Labour Court proceedings, including the appeals process.
Employer Compliance Support
We assist employers with HR policy updates and employment contract modifications to ensure their practices comply with UAE labour law requirements.
Non-Compete Clause Guidance
Our legal team educates employers and employees about non-compete clause regulations and their enforcement status in the UAE.
Workplace Harassment & Discrimination Support
We provide support to workers who experience workplace harassment and discrimination by helping them understand their rights and how to take legal action.
FAQ’s – UAE Labour Law
Is a labour complaint in UAE permitted by an employee?
Indeed, workers have the right to resort to MOHRE as a means of lodging labour complaints in the event of differences that arise due to employment reasons.
The duration of labour case under UAE?
The schedule is different based on the magnitude of the conflict and litigation.
Is there UAE labour law of expatriates?
Yes, the UAE Labour Law embraces both the UAE nationals and expatriate workers.
But what should an employer do when they fail to pay salary?
It can be claimed in a court and recovery can be obtained by the employees.
Does Free Zone company obey UAE Labour Law?
The majority of Free Zones comply with the UAE Labour Law with certain regulations.
Contact the Best Labour Lawyers in Dubai Today
Don’t let a workplace dispute ruin your life or your business. Whether you are dealing with unpaid wages, unfair termination, or contract disputes, HHS Lawyers is here to help. Call us now to schedule a consultation with our expert Labour Lawyers in Dubai. We will review your case and tell you exactly where you stand under the UAE law.
