Your rights as a private-sector employee in the UAE: pay, overtime, leave, gratuity and notice periods, and what to do when something goes wrong. Based on Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and MOHRE guidance, with notes where free zones such as DIFC and ADGM differ.
Most job problems in the UAE don’t start after months at work. They start when an employee signs
UAE overtime pay is your basic hourly wage plus at least 25%, or plus at least 50% for
If your salary is late or unpaid, a mainland private-sector employee can file a complaint with the Ministry
A UAE salary certificate is a letter from your employer confirming your job and current pay. Banks, landlords
You can claim ILOE unemployment insurance if you’ve been subscribed for at least 12 months in a row
In the UAE, your resignation notice period is whatever your contract says, and for mainland private-sector employees that
Annual leave is a statutory employment benefit for mainland private sector employees, not a discretionary favour from your
Probation in a UAE mainland private-sector job can last up to six months and can’t be extended beyond
You’ve found an evening job, weekend shift, remote work opportunity, or second role to help with your UAE
UAE Gratuity and Final Settlement Calculator Estimate your end-of-service gratuity, or your full final settlement with leave salary
Recruitment costs are the employer’s to pay. If you’re asked for a visa fee or “processing” charge before you’re hired, stop.
