UAE Labour Law protects private-sector employees from practices including forced labour, recruitment charges, discrimination, harassment and unlawful contract changes.
ABU DHABI: Employees working in the UAE private sector have legal protections covering their wages, contracts, personal documents and treatment at work. UAE Labour Law, primarily Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and its implementing rules, sets obligations for employers and prohibits several practices that can undermine workers’ rights.
Here are seven important workplace practices employees should know about.
1. Charging employees recruitment fees
Employers are prohibited from charging workers recruitment or employment fees, either directly or indirectly. Article 6 states that these costs cannot be collected from the worker. Official UAE guidance also says employers bear recruitment and employment-related costs.
2. Confiscating an employee’s passport
Workers are entitled to retain possession of their passports and personal identification documents. Official MoHRE guidance states that an employee’s passport is a personal right and may not be seized. Documents required temporarily for residency procedures must be returned.
3. Illegally changing agreed contract terms
An employer cannot simply replace the conditions agreed in a signed job offer with less favourable or different terms. Changes require the worker’s consent, must comply with the law and require MoHRE approval where applicable. MoHRE guidance describes contract substitution as illegal.
4. Failing to pay wages on time
Employers must pay salaries on their due dates under UAE Labour Law. MoHRE guidance states that wages covered by the Wage Protection System must generally be paid within the first 15 days after the due date unless the employment contract specifies a shorter period.
5. Forcing an employee to work against their will
Article 14 prohibits employers from using threats or penalties to force employees to work or provide services against their will. Employment relationships are contractual, and workers can end employment subject to applicable notice and other legal requirements.
6. Workplace harassment, bullying or violence
Sexual harassment, bullying and verbal, physical or psychological violence against workers are expressly prohibited. The protection applies to conduct involving employers, supervisors, colleagues and other people working with the employee.
. Discrimination and unequal treatment
The law prohibits discrimination based on race, colour, sex, religion, national or social origin, or disability when it harms equality of opportunity or treatment in employment. Women must also receive equal pay for the same work or work of equal value.
How employees can report a violation
Workers who believe their rights have been breached can contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. MoHRE says workers can obtain labour advisory services through its Labour Claims and Advisory Centre and can submit labour complaints through official channels.
Impact to expect
Awareness of UAE Labour Law can help employees recognise potential violations earlier while encouraging employers to maintain compliant workplaces. Workers should keep copies of contracts, job offers and relevant records and use official MoHRE channels when seeking guidance about a specific dispute.
