Understanding Labor Laws in the UAE

The UAE has established strong labor laws protecting employee rights, including regulated working hours and overtime requirements. Know your rights!


Understanding Labor Laws in the UAE

In accordance with Rule 33 of 2021 regarding the regulation of labor relations in the private sector, workers in the private sector in the UAE typically work 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week, with reduced hours of 2 hours during the month of Ramadan. They cannot be forced to work beyond agreed working hours without your written consent.

In accordance with the UAE labor legislation on working hours, an employer must clearly define working hours. The total number of working hours must not exceed 144 hours over three weeks. You are obliged to work 8 hours a day. However, working hours may vary depending on the demands of specific work, as established by labor regulations.

Employers may request overtime, but it should not exceed 2 additional hours per day, provided that it is necessary to prevent serious damage or incidents. You have the right to one or more continuous breaks lasting no less than one hour. You may request remote work. Employees can request to work remotely from any point in the world if their employer allows it.

In addition to career growth and financial stability, one of the greatest advantages of working here is the strong labor laws that protect employee rights. For a complete experience, it is important to know your rights. Travel time to work is not included in working hours, except in exceptional cases.

These breaks are not included in working hours, so you must utilize this opportunity. Working in the UAE offers countless opportunities for our compatriots and other nationalities from around the world. If you need help, call the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation at 600590000.