About Wage & Hour Law in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Wage and Hour Law in Dubai, which falls under the United Arab Emirates Labour Law, is dedicated to ensuring that employees are paid fairly for their work. It regulates aspects such as minimum wage, salary transfers, working hours, overtime, paid leave, and end-of-service benefits. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) oversees these regulations to ensure compliance.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Abiding by Wage and Hour regulations can be complex and it's often helpful to have a lawyer guide you through the process. If you believe that your employer has not paid you correctly according to your contract or UAE Labour Law, or if you are working extended hours without being paid overtime, you may require legal assistance. Those experiencing unlawful deductions from wages, issues with end-of-service benefits, or disputes concerning leave and vacation pay may also need a lawyer's help.
Local Laws Overview
In Dubai, the maximum weekday work hours for adult workers is 8 hours (48 hours per week). Any overtime should be paid at a rate of at least 25% above the normal wage. Additionally, wage payments should be made through the Wage Protection System (WPS) to ensure proper documentation. The law requires that there must be a day of rest every week, and there are specific regulations associated with annual leave and public holidays. In the event of termination, end-of-service gratuity is also mandated under the law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered as working hours under the law?
In Dubai, any time that an employee is at the disposal of the employer is considered working hours, which includes breaks.
What is the Wage Protection System (WPS)?
The WPS is an electronic salary transfer system that requires companies to pay workers’ wages via banks to ensure timely and full payment.
Is there a minimum wage law in Dubai?
Currently, there isn't a general minimum wage law in Dubai. However, some categories of workers do have prescribed minimum wages.
Can an employer make deductions from my wages without my agreement?
No, under Dubai law an employer cannot make deductions from an employee's wages without their consent, unless specified under the law.
What is an end-of-service gratuity?
This is a severance pay given to an employee when their contract ends or when they leave the company. The amount varies based on length of service and type of contract.
Additional Resources
For additional information, people can consult the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and Dubai Courts. They can also refer to legal advice websites specializing in UAE labour laws for specific articles and insights.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance concerning Wage and Hour issues, look for a credible lawyer specializing in labour law in the UAE. It's also beneficial to keep a record of all relevant documents such as employment contracts, timesheets, payslips, and any communication concerning wages and working hours. This will be important evidence in the event of any disputes.
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