How do labour claims work in the UAE?

In the UAE, most private-sector labour claims start with a complaint to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), which tries to settle the dispute. If it is not settled, the case goes to the labour court. Claims usually cover unpaid wages, end of service gratuity, notice pay, leave and compensation for arbitrary dismissal.

Cases we handle

Labour cases our lawyers handle

For employees and for employers.

Unpaid salary

Late or missing wages and allowances.

End of service gratuity

Gratuity that is unpaid or calculated wrongly.

Unfair dismissal

Compensation for arbitrary dismissal.

Contract disputes

Notice periods, leave, overtime and contract terms.

Absconding and labour bans

Challenging absconding reports and related bans.

Employer defence

Defending companies against labour claims.

What we do

How our labour lawyers help

From the first complaint to the final judgment.

  • Calculate what you are owed
  • File the complaint with MOHRE
  • Represent you in mediation
  • File the case at the labour court
  • Claim gratuity, wages and notice pay
  • Claim compensation for arbitrary dismissal
  • Defend employers against claims
  • Appeal judgments
  • Enforce the judgment

Labour claims have a time limit, generally one year from the end of employment. Do not wait.

What to bring

What to bring about a labour claim

Your job

  • Employment contract and offer letter
  • Emirates ID and labour card details

Your pay

  • Salary slips and bank statements
  • Any warning or termination letter

To act for you

  • Messages with the employer
  • A lawyer power of attorney, which we prepare
Good to know
  • Most claims start with MOHRE before the court
  • Free zone employers can follow different procedures
We confirm the right route for your employer.

How it works

How we handle a labour claim in Dubai

  1. 01

    Check your entitlements

    We calculate salary, gratuity, leave and compensation.

  2. 02

    MOHRE complaint

    We file and represent you in mediation.

  3. 03

    Labour court

    If it is not settled, we take the case to court.

  4. 04

    Judgment and payment

    We enforce the judgment until you are paid.

Your side

Employee or employer

Employee

Claim what you are owed

We calculate your claim and pursue it through MOHRE and the labour court.

Employer

Defend your company

We review the claim, the contract and the records, and defend the company.

Company power of attorney

Good to know

Five things to know about labour claims in the UAE

  • Do not sign a final clearance too earlyCheck every amount before signing. Settlement letters
  • Keep salary recordsBank statements prove what was paid.
  • Gratuity depends on serviceIt is based on your basic salary and years of service.
  • Arbitrary dismissal can be compensatedCompensation is capped by law at up to three months' wages.
  • Act within a yearClaims are generally barred after one year.

Why Al Kirbi

Labour cases handled by advocates who know both sides

  • Clear calculationsYou know what you are owed before you start.
  • Court experienceOur advocates plead before all UAE courts.
  • Confidential from the first messageYour employment matter is handled in strict confidence.

Labour cases in the UAE: frequently asked questions

How do I file a labour complaint in the UAE?

For most private-sector jobs, the complaint is filed with MOHRE, which tries to settle it. If that fails, the case is referred to the labour court. We can file and represent you.

How is end of service gratuity calculated?

It is based on your last basic salary and length of service: generally 21 days' basic pay for each of the first five years and 30 days for each year after, subject to the legal cap.

What compensation applies for unfair dismissal?

If the dismissal is found to be arbitrary, the court can award compensation of up to three months' wages, in addition to other dues.

Is there a deadline for labour claims?

Yes. Claims are generally not heard after one year from the end of employment.

Do I have to sign a settlement to get my dues?

No. Check every amount before signing any final clearance.

How much does a labour lawyer cost?

Fees depend on the claim. We give you a clear quote after reviewing your contract and pay records.

Owed salary or gratuity, or dismissed unfairly?