Employees in the UAE facing unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, or contract violations can file complaints through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The complaint process varies by employer type, as companies under the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) fall directly under the jurisdiction of MOHRE.
Employees in free zones must first contact their respective mediation departments before taking further legal action, according to the Bureau of Emigration.
Free zone authorities can only mediate disputes but cannot enforce decisions, and unresolved matters result in a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
MOHRE allows workers to file complaints through multiple channels, including its mobile app, website, Tawseel centres, and helpline 80060.
A separate Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre (80084) also assists employees seeking legal or procedural guidance regarding workplace disputes.
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For mainland complaints, MOHRE initially conducts mediation through calls or video sessions before proceeding to formal resolutions if necessary.
Claims under Dh50,000 can be settled through a binding MOHRE decision, while larger cases receive a NOC for court proceedings.
Employees must lodge complaints within two years of the incident, as required by Article 54(9) of Federal Decree-Law No.33.
The Ministry is obligated to resolve complaints within fourteen days, either by settlement, decision, or court referral when applicable.
Appeals must be filed within 15 working days, and during this period, the earlier decision of MOHRE remains temporarily suspended.
During proceedings, the original work permit may be suspended, cancelled, or replaced with a temporary one until the case concludes.
