How to File a Complaint Against Your Employer in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide

 Complaining against an employer in the UAE involves several steps, and the process may vary depending on the nature of the complaint (e.g., labor-related, discrimination, unpaid wages, etc.). Below is a general step-by-step guide:

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1. Attempt to Resolve the Issue Internally

• Discuss the Issue: Try to resolve the matter directly with your employer or HR department. Many disputes can be settled amicably without external intervention.
• Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, contracts, payslips, and any evidence related to your complaint.

2. File a Complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)

• Visit MOHRE: Go to the nearest MOHRE office or use their online portal or app. ( See the contact details in the end of the article. 
• Submit a Complaint: Provide details of your grievance, including supporting documents (e.g., employment contract, evidence of violations).
• Or you can Download the MOHRE App and
•   Register as a user using your mobile phone number.
• ü  Choose the type of complaint: either 'Salary Complaint' or 'Labour Complaint'.
• ü  Fill out the complaint form with the necessary information, such as your work permit number, passport number, and any supporting documents.

• Await Response: MOHRE will review your complaint and may contact your employer to mediate the issue. Usually as per my experience, once an employee registers a complaint, the matter is approached seriously by the Ministry. They try to resolve it within 24 hours after filing a disputes. 

 

3. Escalate to the Labour Court (if necessary)

·       If MOHRE cannot resolve the issue, you can escalate the matter to the Labour Court.

·       File a Case: Submit a formal case to the Labour Court in the emirate where you work.

·       Pay Fees: There may be a small fee for filing the case.

·       Attend Hearings: Both parties will be summoned to present their case. Ensure you have all necessary evidence and witnesses.

 

4. Seek Legal Assistance

Ø  Hire a Lawyer: If the case is complex, consider hiring a labor lawyer to represent you.

Ø  Legal Aid: If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may seek assistance from legal aid services in the UAE.

 

5. Await the Court’s Decision

Ø  The Labour Court will issue a verdict based on the evidence and UAE labor laws.

Ø  If you win the case, the court may order the employer to compensate you or rectify the issue.

 

6. Appeal (if necessary)

• If you are unsatisfied with the court’s decision, you can appeal within a specified time frame (usually 15 days).
• The case will be reviewed by a higher court.

 

7. Enforcement of the Ruling

• If the employer fails to comply with the court’s decision, you can request enforcement through the court.

 

Important Notes:

• Time Limits: File your complaint as soon as possible. Delays may affect your case.
• Language: Complaints and court proceedings are typically in Arabic. You may need a translator if you are not fluent.
• Visa Status: Ensure your visa is valid during the process. If your visa is canceled, you may still file a complaint within a specific period.

 

Contact Information:

• MOHRE Hotline: 80060 (UAE) or +971 4 665 9999 (outside UAE)
• MOHRE Website: www.mohre.gov.ae
• Labour Court: Visit the court in the emirate where you work.

Always consult with a legal professional or MOHRE for specific guidance tailored to your situation.