The Federal Labor Law regulates the employment relationship between employees and employers in the private sector in the UAE. It is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Organization of Labor Relations and its amendments, known as the "UAE Labor Law." The provisions of the law apply to all establishments, employers, and employees in the private sector in the country. This new law came into effect on February 2, 2022, replacing Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 and its amendments.

The Labor Law aims to ensure the efficiency of the labor market in the UAE, attract the best talents and future skills from the workforce, provide an attractive working environment for employers, and establish balanced rights and obligations for all parties in this legal relationship.

The law covers various aspects of employment, including employee rights, employment contracts, resolution of labor disputes, working hours, overtime, official leaves and holidays, event-based employment, employee records, safety standards, workplace injuries, minimum wages, termination of service, and end-of-service gratuity, among others.

The law introduces new types of employment contracts such as full-time, part-time, temporary, and flexible contracts. It abolishes fixed-term contracts and only recognizes specified contracts. The law provides new types of leaves and addresses issues related to harassment, verbal and physical violence, and psychological harm to employees.

It prohibits forced labor and discrimination based on gender, race, color, religion, national origin, social status, or disability. Additionally, it outlines the responsibilities of employers towards their employees.

Scope of the Law:

The law applies to all employees working in the private sector in the UAE, with the following exceptions:

1. Employees and workers in the federal government and government entities in the member emirates.
2. Armed forces personnel, police, and security personnel.
3. Domestic workers and those in similar positions.

Note: Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2023, amending some provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Organization of Labor Relations, will come into effect on January 1, 2024.

Auxiliary Service Workers Law:

Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 regulates the employment relationships with auxiliary service workers in the country. It defines the responsibilities of the parties in the relationship to ensure their rights and obligations are balanced. The law provides a suitable working environment in line with existing legislation and international agreements in the country. Amendments to this law, outlined in Federal Decree-Law No. 21 of 2023, will come into effect on January 1, 2024.

Regulatory Authority for Private Sector Labor Relations:

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) is responsible for regulating labor relations, enhancing productivity, and creating employment opportunities in the private sector. Contact MoHRE for more information on your rights and obligations, whether as an employee or an employer, following the UAE Labor Law.

Check the official website of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization for key labor laws and regulations in the private sector. Also, review issued decisions and circulars related to regulating labor relations in the private sector.

Explore laws, policies, and programs related to Emiratization (nationalization of jobs) in the private sector, including initiatives such as the NAFIS program and efforts in Abu Dhabi.

Access forms and applications for services, job offers, and employment contracts in the private sector on the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization website.

Resources:

Read some resources related to work and jobs on the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization website, including the Labor Market Magazine, a booklet welcoming newcomers to work in the UAE (in English), and international agreements to protect workers' rights. Last updated on November 22, 2023.