Question 1

What does UAE labour law cover?

Accepted Answer

UAE labour law sets out key rules for employment relationships, including employment contracts, working hours, wages, leave entitlements, termination procedures, health and safety obligations, and employee rights. It also defines employer duties and provides mechanisms to resolve disputes and ensure compliance. Our legal expertise helps both employers and employees understand and apply these provisions correctly.

Question 2

Can expatriates benefit from labour protections in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE Labour Law applies to most employees working in the UAE, regardless of nationality. Expatriate employees are generally entitled to protections related to contracts, wages, working hours, leave, termination, and end-of-service gratuity, subject to specific exemptions under the law. We guide expatriates and employers to ensure legal protection and compliance with current regulations.

Question 3

Are employment contracts mandatory in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Written employment contracts are mandatory for employees in the UAE. These contracts must comply with UAE Labour Law and should clearly set out job title, duties, salary, benefits, working hours, leave, probation, and termination terms. We review, draft, and negotiate employment contracts to safeguard rights and ensure they meet legal requirements.

Question 4

How are labour disputes resolved in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Labour disputes typically start with a complaint filed before the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, or the relevant free zone authority. If the matter is not resolved through mediation or settlement, it may proceed to the UAE labour courts for a binding decision. We advise and represent both employers and employees through each stage to protect their interests and support effective resolution.

Question 5

What is end-of-service gratuity?

Accepted Answer

End-of-service gratuity is a lump sum payment owed to eligible employees when their employment ends, calculated according to length of service, type of contract, and final basic salary, subject to the conditions set out in UAE Labour Law. Our team helps employers calculate gratuity correctly and assists employees in asserting their entitlement and resolving related disputes.

Question 6

Can an employer terminate employment without notice in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

An employer may terminate without notice only in limited circumstances defined under UAE Labour Law, such as serious misconduct that meets the statutory criteria. Even in such cases, employers must follow proper procedure and ensure documentation supports the decision. We provide strategic guidance to employers on lawful termination and advise employees on whether their termination complies with the law.

Question 7

Are there protections against workplace discrimination in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE law prohibits discrimination in the workplace based on gender, race, religion, nationality, and certain other protected characteristics. There are specific rules addressing equal opportunities, harassment, and unequal treatment. We advise organisations on policies that support compliance and represent employees and employers in discrimination-related complaints and disputes.

Question 8

What happens if wages are unpaid under UAE labour law?

Accepted Answer

If wages are unpaid or persistently delayed, employees can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation or the relevant authority. The authorities may intervene, facilitate settlement, and impose penalties or sanctions on non-compliant employers. We support employees in asserting wage claims and guide employers in resolving arrears, negotiating settlements, and restoring compliance.

Question 9

Do probationary periods exist in UAE employment contracts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. UAE Labour Law permits a probationary period of up to six months, subject to legal conditions. During probation, both employer and employee have specific rights and notice obligations if they wish to end the employment. We review probation clauses, advise on lawful termination during probation, and help manage any disputes that arise at this stage.

Question 10

How does Al Kabban & Associates help with UAE labour law matters?

Accepted Answer

We advise and represent both employers and employees on all aspects of UAE labour law, including drafting and reviewing contracts, internal policies, and HR frameworks, managing terminations and redundancies, calculating end-of-service gratuity, resolving unpaid wage claims, and handling disputes before MOHRE, free zone authorities, and labour courts. With over 30 years of experience in the UAE, we provide strategic guidance and legal protection to help clients navigate complex workplace issues and achieve fair, compliant outcomes.

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Dr Reyadh Al Kabban

Saif Al Mutawa

Amina Bin Jafar

Majid Al Kabban

Mohamed Lamloum Ratib

Hany Atef El Ashhat

Benoy Sasi

Sara Al Kabban

Sulaiman Rameez

Mohamed Zaineldin Mohamed

Urvi Raghunath

Amr Abdul Aziz Ahmed

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Mohammed Deyab

Ahmed Mustafa Elsayed

Mina Sami Mansour

Hassan Hamed

Sachi Goyal

Charlotte Jennifer Lopez

Mane Khachatryan

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