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The labour laws in Abu Dhabi, as in the rest of the UAE, are governed by Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, and its subsequent amendments, which provide comprehensive guidelines on terms of employment, fair treatment at the workplace, compensation, and employee rights. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is the governement body overseeing employment laws. These laws are applicable to all workers in Abu Dhabi, except those working in the Ministry and governmental bodies.
In various situations, you may potentially need a lawyer, including the following: if you have been unfairly dismissed, if you are facing any kind of harassment or discrimination at work, if you haven’t been paid your wages or if you have been injured at work and the employer refuses to compensate. Legal help can guide you through the intricacies of labor laws and can help ensure your rights are protected.
Local labour laws significantly focus on employees' rights and protections. The key aspects include fair treatment, a non-discriminatory environment, timely wage payment, annual leave, sick leave, working hours regulation, and end of service benefits. In case of contract termination, proper notice and suitable severance pay are required. Maternity rights and protection against unfair dismissal are also well established. Encouragingly, the law also addresses health and safety standards in the workplace.
The maximum working hours are normally 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. However, some variations may apply depending on the work nature and during the month of Ramadan.
Typically, an employment contract can be terminated by mutual agreement, by providing a notice period, or instantaneously for a valid reason. Upon termination, the employer is usually required to offer a severance pay.
Overtime work is typically paid at a rate of 25% above the normal hourly wage. The percentage can rise to 50% for overtime work between 9 pm and 4 am.
Female employees are generally eligible for 45 days maternity leave with full pay if they have served for a continuous year. If the service is less than a year, the pay is typically at half rate.
The law provides significant protection against unfair dismissal. If an employee is dismissed unfairly, they can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to claim compensation.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has comprehensive resources and assistance for labour issues. Trade Unions, though not common in UAE, can provide assistance. Legal firms specializing in employment law can also be a useful resource.
If you need legal help regarding employment rights, your first step should be contacting the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. If the matter remains unresolved, you may then consult a law firm specializing in employment rights for professional legal advice.
