What Are Your Essential Employee Rights in UAE Under 2025 Labour Law?

Key Takeaways

• UAE labour law is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021
• Employees and employers both have specific rights and obligations under the law
• MOHRE handles labour disputes and can be contacted for complaints
• Understanding your rights is essential for a fair working relationship

UAE employee rights are comprehensively protected under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, covering fair wages, leave entitlements, workplace safety, and protection from discrimination. Every private sector worker in the UAE enjoys legal guarantees for overtime compensation, health insurance, annual leave, and end-of-service benefits regardless of nationality.Understanding your employee rights in

UAE helps protect your career and financial wellbeing. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) enforces these rights strictly, with significant penalties for employers who violate worker protections.What Fundamental Rights Do All UAE Employees Have?Equal treatment and non-discrimination Article 4 of the UAE Labour Law prohibits discrimination based on race, colour, gender, religion,

national origin, social origin, or disability. This protection extends through all employment stages, from recruitment to contract termination.Fair compensation standards Female workers must receive equal remuneration to male workers when performing the same work or work of equal value. Your employer cannot reduce your salary to compensate for mandatory benefits like health insurance.Safe working

environment The law strictly prohibits forced labour, sexual harassment, bullying, and any form of workplace violence. Employers must maintain safe working conditions and address health hazards immediately.What Are Your Working Hours and Overtime Rights?Standard working hours Normal working hours are capped at 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week under Article 17. Employees in trade, hotels, and security

may work up to 9 hours daily.Mandatory break periods You cannot work more than 5 consecutive hours without a break. Employers must provide at least one hour of total break time during your workday, not counted as working hours.Overtime compensation rates When required to work beyond standard hours, you're entitled to:Regular overtime: Basic hourly wage plus 25% extraNight shift (10 PM to 4 AM): Basic

hourly wage plus 50% extraRest days/public holidays: Basic daily wage plus 50% extra, or substitute rest dayWeekly rest entitlements You're guaranteed one paid rest day per week, typically Friday, though contracts may specify different days.What Leave Entitlements Can You Claim?Annual leave allowances After completing one year of service, you receive 30 calendar days of paid annual leave. Employees

with 6-12 months of service get 2 days per month on a pro-rata basis.During annual leave, you receive basic salary plus housing allowance if specified in your contract. Unused leave must be paid upon termination, though carrying forward requires written employer agreement.Sick leave provisions You're entitled to up to 90 days of sick leave annually:First 15 days: Full salaryNext 30 days: Half salaryFinal

45 days: UnpaidA medical certificate from an authorised healthcare provider is required. No paid sick leave applies during probation periods.Maternity and paternity benefits...

About This Article

This article provides general information about UAE labour law and employment regulations. The information is based on Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and subsequent amendments. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional or contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).