Key takeaways
- Labour disputes start with a MOHRE complaint; employees and employers can both file.
- MOHRE contacts the complainant within 14 days; unanswered calls can close the complaint.
- MOHRE decides claims up to AED 50,000; appeals go to the Court of Appeal within 15 working days.
- After referral to court, the case must be filed within 14 days.
- Workers are exempt from court fees on claims under AED 100,000.
Step by step
- 1. File with MOHRE online. Workers give their work permit and passport numbers, employers their establishment number, with the contract and evidence such as salary records.
- 2. Answer MOHRE's call. A ministry representative contacts you by phone within 14 days; a complaint can be closed if you don't respond.
- 3. Mediation. MOHRE tries to settle the dispute between the parties.
- 4. Decision or referral. Up to AED 50,000, MOHRE decides; larger unsettled claims are referred to court.
- 5. Court. File the court case within 14 days of referral.
Key numbers
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| MOHRE's first contact | Within 14 days of filing |
| MOHRE final decisions | Claims up to AED 50,000 |
| Appeal against a MOHRE decision | Within 15 working days of notification, to the Court of Appeal |
| Filing in court after referral | Within 14 days |
| Court fee exemption for workers | Claims under AED 100,000 |
Working during the case
MOHRE's guidance says that once a complaint is referred to court, a worker can apply for a temporary work permit with a new employer during the 14-day filing period, unless an absconding report has been filed against the worker. Check your case before accepting a new job.
Evidence to prepare
- Employment contract and any amendments.
- Salary slips or WPS records, and bank statements.
- Messages and emails about the dispute.
- Leave records, warning letters or termination letter.
- A timeline with dates and amounts claimed.
Global Sky PRO is not a law firm and doesn't give legal advice. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2022, representing clients before the courts is reserved for licensed advocates, apart from limited exceptions for close relatives. We type complaints and statements and organise evidence. See labour complaint.
Sources
- MOHRE: how to file a labour complaint
- WAM: MoHRE to issue final decisions on labour disputes of AED 50,000 or less
- UAE government portal: labour disputes
- UAE Legislation: Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2022
Official sources checked on 7 November 2026. This guide explains published rules in plain English and is not legal or tax advice. Rules change; we check the current position for your case before you act.