How Pakistani workers can file complaints against employers in UAE

DUBAI: Pakistani citizens working in the UAE who face workplace problems — such as unpaid salaries, unfair dismissal, or contract violations — can file a complaint through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

The process depends on where the company is registered. If the company is licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the complaint should be filed directly with MOHRE.

However, if the company is located in a free zone, the employee must first contact the free zone’s mediation department. These authorities can try to settle the dispute but cannot enforce any decision. If the issue is not resolved, they issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) so the worker can take the case to court.

MOHRE provides several official channels to file complaints — through its mobile app, call centre (80060), Tawseel service centres, or the official website. Workers can also get advice by calling the Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre (80084).

For mainland employees, MOHRE first tries to solve the issue through phone or video mediation. If no agreement is reached, the ministry can make a binding decision for claims up to Dh50,000. For larger claims, MOHRE issues a NOC for court action. All mediation details are shared with the court if the case goes forward.

Workers must file complaints within two years of the problem, according to Article 54(9) of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, which increased the limit from one year.

MOHRE aims to resolve all complaints within 14 days, either by reaching a settlement, giving a decision, or referring the matter to court. If an employee wants to appeal, it must be done within 15 working days, during which the ministry’s decision is put on hold.

During the process, the worker’s original work permit may be suspended or cancelled. A temporary work permit can be issued to allow them to join a new employer. If the case ends in termination, the original permit is cancelled after six months, and once a final decision is made, it must be cancelled within 60 days, unless the employee continues working.

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