How to Check and Understand Your UAE Labour Rights (2025 Guide)

The UAE is known for its dynamic workforce, attracting professionals from around the world. To protect employees and maintain a fair workplace, the UAE government has established clear labour laws and regulations under the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021).
Whether you’re a new employee, an expat already working here, or planning to switch jobs, understanding your labour rights is essential.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to check your UAE labour rights, access your employment details online, and understand the key laws protecting employees in the UAE.

1. How to Check Your Labour Contract and Rights Online

Your labour rights depend on the terms stated in your employment contract, which is registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). You can verify your details easily online or through the MOHRE app.

A. Through the MOHRE Website

1. Visit https://www.mohre.gov.ae .
2. Click on “Services” → “Enquiry Services.”
3. Choose “Contract Information” or “Labour Card Information.”
4. Enter your passport number, labour card number, or Emirates ID.
5. You’ll see your employment details, job title, salary, contract type, and company name.

B. Through the MOHRE Mobile App

• Download the MOHRE app (available for iOS and Android).
• Log in using your UAE Pass or MOHRE account.
• Go to “My Dashboard” → “Employment Contract.”
• You can view, download, or print your digital contract anytime.

Tip: Always keep a digital copy of your labour contract for reference. This is your legal proof of employment and terms agreed upon.

2. Understanding Key UAE Labour Rights

The UAE Labour Law ensures fair treatment for all employees, regardless of nationality or job level. Below are the most important rights you should know:

a. Working Hours

• Maximum working hours: 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week.
• During Ramadan, working hours are reduced by 2 hours daily.
• If you work extra hours, you are entitled to overtime pay (125% to 150%), depending on the timing.

b. Rest Days and Leaves

• Employees are entitled to one paid rest day per week (usually Friday or Sunday).
• Annual Leave:
• 30 calendar days per year after one year of service.
• 2 days per month if you’ve completed 6 months but less than 1 year.
• Sick Leave:
• 90 days per year (first 15 days fully paid, next 30 at half pay, rest unpaid).
• Maternity Leave:
• 60 days (45 paid, 15 half-paid), plus additional unpaid leave if required.
• Paternity Leave: 5 days (can be used within 6 months of childbirth).

c. Gratuity (End-of-Service Benefits)

Employees who complete one year or more of continuous service are entitled to gratuity pay when leaving the company.

Gratuity formula:

• 21 days’ basic pay per year for the first 5 years.
• 30 days’ basic pay per year thereafter.
• Total gratuity cannot exceed two years of salary.

You can also calculate gratuity using MOHRE’s online Gratuity Calculator.

d. Termination and Resignation Rights

• Both employer and employee must give written notice (30–90 days) as per the contract.
• If either party ends the contract without notice, compensation may apply.
• Employers cannot terminate workers arbitrarily or for filing complaints.

e. Non-Discrimination & Equal Pay

• Discrimination based on gender, race, color, or religion is prohibited.
• Women are entitled to equal pay for equal work.
• Harassment, bullying, or violence at the workplace is punishable by law.

 3. How to File Complaints or Report Violations

If your employer violates your rights — such as non-payment of salary, unlawful termination, or passport confiscation — you can file a complaint directly with MOHRE.

How to File:

1. Call MOHRE Hotline: 800-60
2. Visit a MOHRE Service Center near you.
3. File Online:

• Go to https://www.mohre.gov.ae → “Submit Labour Complaint.”
• Fill in details, upload documents, and submit.

1. A MOHRE representative will contact you within a few days.
2. If the issue isn’t resolved, the case is referred to Labour Court.

Tip: Always keep proof such as payslips, offer letters, or messages regarding employment terms.

4. Common Mistakes Employees Make

Many workers unknowingly lose benefits because they:

• Don’t read or download their contract before signing.
• Accept verbal promises not written in the contract.
• Fail to check their end-of-service calculations.
• Work beyond contract terms without overtime pay.
• Don’t update their contact details in MOHRE systems.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures you are always legally protected.

📱 5. Useful Platforms to Check Labour Rights

Here are some official resources every worker should bookmark:

 6. FAQs About UAE Labour Rights

Q1. Can my employer hold my passport?
No. It’s illegal for employers to retain your passport unless you give written consent.

Q2. How often should I receive my salary?
At least once a month, via the Wage Protection System (WPS).

Q3. Can I switch jobs during probation?
Yes, but you must give 14 days’ notice, and your new employer may need to compensate the old one.

Q4. What if my employer doesn’t pay on time?
You can file a complaint with MOHRE after 15 days of delayed payment.

Q5. Is my residence visa linked to my job contract?
Yes, your visa is tied to your employment contract and sponsor.

 Conclusion

Knowing your UAE labour rights empowers you to make informed decisions, avoid exploitation, and ensure fair treatment at work.
With the government’s strong emphasis on transparency and digital access, you can check your contract details, benefits, and complaints status in just minutes through MOHRE or UAE Pass.

Understanding your rights isn’t just a legal safeguard — it’s a way to build a stable, respectful, and rewarding career in the UAE.