Labour Complaint in the UAE: Your Guide to Seeking Justice

If you’re an employee in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and find yourself facing workplace issues, understanding your rights and knowing how to seek justice is crucial. Whether it is unfair termination, unpaid wages, or unsafe working conditions, the UAE has specific laws in place to protect employees and ensure their grievances are addressed.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of filing a labour complaint and seeking justice.

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When Can You File a Labour Complaint?

As an employee, you have the right to file a complaint against your employer under various circumstances. Here are some situations where you may consider raising a grievance:

1. Unfair or Arbitrary Termination: If you believe you were terminated unfairly or without proper cause.
2.  Unpaid Overtime: When you have worked long hours beyond your regular schedule without receiving overtime pay.
3.  Unjust Demotion: If you have been demoted unfairly.
4.  Unsafe Working Environment: When your workplace lacks safety measures or poses risks to your health.
5.  Delayed Wages or Salary: If your employer consistently delays paying your wages.
6.  Denied Annual Leaves and Public Holidays: When you are not granted annual leave or time off on public holidays.
7.  Maternity Leave Issues: If you are a pregnant employee and not given maternity leave.
8.  Repayment of Employment Visa Costs: When your employer asks you to repay visa-related expenses.
9.  Passport or Emirates ID Held by Employer: If your employer holds your passport or Emirates ID.
10.  Gratuity Pay: When you are not given gratuity pay upon termination despite meeting the required employment period.

Also Read: What are the Working Hours in the UAE Labour Law 2024?

How to Register Your Labour Complaint in the UAE

The process of filing a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Calling MOHRE’s Call Centre (800 84):

Reach out to the customer care representative, who will address your queries and attempt to resolve the issue.

If immediate resolution is not possible, your complaint will be forwarded to the Department of Complaints and Advice.

If the dispute remains unresolved, you will be guided to file an official complaint, which may lead to a court case.

Using the MOHRE App:

Here are the steps:

• Both employees and employers can lodge complaints via the MOHRE mobile app.
•  Download the app from Google Play or the App Store.
•  Look for the Menu option (usually located at the bottom right corner of your screen).
•  Choose the “Employee” category from the list.
•  Click on the “Complain” service.
•  Tap the “Apply for this service” button.

MOHRE Website

Here are the steps:

• Visit the MOHRE website.
•  Select the option to “Register Labour Complaints”.
•  Click on “Start Service”.
•  Provide details such as Complaint Type, Applicant Type, Work Permit Number, and Unified Number.
•  Add the specifics of your complaint.
•  Submit the information provided.

Visiting TWAFOUQ (MOHRE Centre)

• TWAFOUQ centres are licensed by MOHRE and receive labour complaints from both employers and employees.
•  Visit a TWAFOUQ centre in person.
•  The centre will perform an initial investigation and provide recommendations to MOHRE for approval or refer the case to the judiciary.

Dubai Police (for Dubai Visa Holders)

Dubai visa holders can also raise complaints through Dubai Police.

UAE Labour Complaint Number 80084

• Dial the toll-free number 80084 to connect with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
•  Explain your situation and provide relevant details about your complaint.

Through the MOHRE WhatsApp Service:

• Save the number 600590000 on your phone.
•  Initiate a chat with a Ministry representative via WhatsApp.
•  Explain your complaint and provide the necessary information.

Remember these key points when filing a labour complaint:

• File Early: Report violations promptly according to UAE Labour Law.
•  Be Prepared: Gather relevant evidence and documents to support your case.
•  Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as an employee.

Asking for justice in labour disputes is important for maintaining a fair and transparent work environment. By following the correct procedures, you can protect your rights and ensure a just resolution. For more information, visit the official UAE Government portal or explore the Emirates Diary for detailed guidance.

Important things to remember when filing a labor complaint in the UAE

When filing a labour complaint in the UAE, keep the following important points in mind:

• Timeliness: Report violations promptly according to UAE Labor Law. Delaying complaints may weaken your case.
•  Gather Evidence: Collect relevant evidence to support your complaint. This may include emails, messages, contracts, or witness statements.
•  Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as an employee. Understand what the law says about your specific situation.
•  Stay Calm and Clear: When communicating your complaint, tell your concerns.
•  Be Prepared: Have all necessary details ready, including your work permit number, employer’s information, and specifics of the issue.
•  Take Legal Advice: If needed, consult legal professionals or labor experts to understand your options.

What is the MOHRE complaint number?

The MOHRE complaint number for labour-related issues in the UAE is 800 84. You can dial this toll-free number to connect with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). They will assist you in addressing your concerns and guide you through the process of filing a complaint.

How to check the Status of Labour complaint in MOHRE?

You can check the status of your labour complaint in MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) through the following steps:

1. Visit the MOHRE Services section on the official portal.
2.  Enter your MOHRE complaint number.
3.  Click “Submit”.

This will provide you with an update on the status of your complaint. You can also use the MOHRE mobile app or call their call centre for complaint tracking.