The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, MoHRE working hours and wages, leave entitlements for private-sector employees to ensure fairness and transparency across workplaces.
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The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, MoHRE working hours and wages, leave entitlements for private-sector employees to ensure fairness and transparency across workplaces.
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation MoHRE working hours and wages, leave entitlements for private-sector employees to ensure fairness and transparency across workplaces. The awareness guide details the responsibilities of employers and rights of employees under the UAE’s Federal Labour Law.
Standard working hours are capped at eight per day and 48 per week, except in specific sectors permitted legal extensions. Overtime must not exceed two hours daily, and total working hours cannot exceed 144 over any three-week period. Employees working overtime are entitled to at least 25% additional pay for daytime work and 50% for nighttime hours between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. Employees scheduled on rest days must receive either a substitute day off or 50% extra pay.
MoHRE reaffirmed that salaries must be paid within 15 days through the Wage Protection System (WPS), a mechanism that ensures timely and documented payment of wages. Employers are solely liable for WPS registration and transaction costs—employees cannot be charged for any associated fees. Payments should be made in AED unless otherwise agreed upon and any deductions must comply with UAE labour law.
Employees are entitled to a minimum of 30 days of paid annual leave each year, in addition to special categories such as:
Bereavement Leave: Five days for the death of a spouse and three for the death of a parent, child, or sibling.
Parental Leave: Five working days (full pay) within six months of childbirth for either parent.
Sick Leave: Up to 90 days a year (15 full pay, 30 half pay, 45 unpaid).
Maternity Leave: 60 days for female employees (45 full pay, 15 half pay).
Study Leave: Emiratis with two years of service may take up to 10 days for exams.
Hajj Leave: Up to 30 days unpaid leave once during service.
National Service Leave: Granted in line with UAE laws.
MoHRE encouraged employers facing financial challenges to approach the ministry for guidance to remain compliant and safeguard worker rights. The updates aim to balance productivity with welfare, supporting a modern, regulated, and worker-friendly labour market that reflects UAE’s commitment to equality and justice in the private sector.
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