If your employer has not paid your salary, gratuity or final settlement, you can file a labour complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Filing is free for workers.
Before you file
- Ask your employer in writing for the payment and keep a copy.
- Work out what you are owed with the UAE final settlement calculator. Print or save the result as a PDF so you have your figures in writing.
- Collect your contract, payslips or bank statements, your leave record and any emails or letters.
How to file
- File through the MOHRE app or website, or call MOHRE on 600 590000.
- You can also go to a Tasheel or Tawjeeh service centre for help.
- MOHRE contacts both sides and tries to reach an agreed settlement.
If there is no agreement
Since the 2024 amendments (Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2024), MOHRE can decide disputes worth less than AED 50,000, and its decision can be enforced like a court ruling. Either side can challenge it before the Court of First Instance. Larger claims are referred to the labour court.
Time limit
A labour claim must be filed within two years of the end of employment. Before August 2024 the limit was one year.
What employers must pay and when
Your employer must pay your wages and end of service dues within 14 days of the end of the contract. Wages should be paid on time through the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Free zones
Most free zones follow the federal Labour Law. DIFC and ADGM have their own employment laws and courts.
Check each part of your claim with the UAE gratuity calculator and the UAE leave salary calculator, and read the UAE final settlement guide.
Sources
- Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations
- Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 (Executive Regulations)
- Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2024 (amendments, in force 31 August 2024)
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
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