How to file a labor/ employee complaint in UAE (MOHRE)

Facing issues like delayed salary payments or unfavorable working conditions due to your employer’s non-compliance with your labor contract in Dubai? Whether you’re an employee or an employer in the private sector, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) for mediation and resolution. Before initiating a labor complaint, familiarize yourself with the UAE’s Labor Law and executive regulations to understand your rights and obligations. With this knowledge, you can effectively navigate the process, seeking a prompt resolution to your concerns.

File the case early

If you encounter an issue with your employer in the UAE that requires MOHRE’s mediation, it is crucial to file your complaint promptly. Taking early action can facilitate a timely resolution. This is because according to the UAE Labour Law – Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 – no claim for any rights due will be heard after one year from the date of violation.

While the case is ongoing, you are allowed to seek employment by requesting MOHRE for a temporary work permit

During the court proceedings, you have the option to request a temporary work permit from MOHRE, allowing you to work for another employer until the case concludes. Article 17 (4) of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 permits MOHRE to cancel an employee’s work permit to allow the employee to work in another company. Additionally, Articles 4 and 5 of Ministerial Resolution No. 47 of 2022 provide that upon certain conditions, MOHRE could cancel an employee’s work permit or visa. Once this is done, the employee must apply once again for a visa and permit, to make sure he or she does not incur any fines and that his or her stay in the UAE is legal.

You can file a complaint without any charges, up to a certain defined level

Article 55 of the UAE Labour Law exempts workers or their heirs from paying judicial fees at all stages of litigation and execution, for claims less than Dh100,000.

Different kinds of complaints related to salary issues that you can file

In terms of salary-related complaints, there are four distinct types of complaints that you can submit.

1. Complaints regarding salaries that are delayed by more than 15 days.
2. Complaints about salaries that have not been received for a duration of one or two months.
3. Complaints regarding the non-payment of overtime compensation.
4. Complaints regarding illegal salary deductions.

 

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Different methods to file a labor complaint in the UAE

The complaint number for MOHRE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE, is a reference number provided to individuals who want to report labor-related issues or file grievances. It is obtained by contacting MOHRE through their call center, customer service centers, or online portal. The complaint number allows individuals to track the progress of their complaint and communicate with MOHRE throughout the resolution process, which may involve mediation, inspections, or legal actions in accordance with UAE labor laws.

1. Through the MOHRE call center

If you are employed in the private sector in the UAE, you have the option to contact MOHRE’s call center at 04 665 9999 and share the complaint details with a representative from MOHRE.

2. Through the MOHRE WhatsApp service

In addition to filing a labor complaint with MOHRE, you now have another convenient option: the newly launched verified MOHRE WhatsApp account. By saving the number 600590000 on your phone and starting a chat, you can easily connect with a Ministry representative and raise your concerns. This user-friendly approach allows you to share your complaint efficiently, ensuring your voice is heard. Don’t hesitate to leverage this convenient communication channel to seek a resolution and address any labor-related issues you may be facing. Trust MOHRE to provide prompt assistance and support through their WhatsApp platform.

3. Through MOHRE app

If you prefer to file your labor complaint using your phone, you can download the MOHRE app and follow these steps to complete the process.

• Download the MOHRE app from either the Apple App Store (“MOHRE UAE”) or Google Play Store (“MOHRE”).
• Launch the app and tap on the “Menu” button located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
• Select the “Employee” category from the menu and choose the “Complain” service.
• Click the “Apply for this service” button.
• Provide your full name and mobile number, then click on “Send OTP” to receive a One-Time Password on your registered mobile number.
• Enter the OTP and tap “Verify OTP”.
• Finally, select the “employee” icon within the application.
• Following that, you will be prompted to provide one of the following details:
  • Labor card number
  • Passport number and nationality
  • Full name, gender, nationality, date of birth
• To begin the process, click on the ‘Search’ button. MOHRE will then verify your employment record using the provided information, and once found, your details will be displayed on the screen. Simply scroll to the right and click on ‘Add Complaint’ to proceed. This user-friendly and streamlined approach ensures a seamless experience while accessing the necessary features to raise your concerns. Trust MOHRE to facilitate the complaint submission process and assist you in seeking resolution effectively.
• You will then see your details, including your labor card number, expiry, employer, and employee status.
• Enter the following additional details:
  • Mobile number
  • Email address

Indicate if your employment contract has ended (yes or no).

Provide your employer’s email address and mobile number.

Specify if your actual salary matches the amount mentioned in your contract (yes or no). If not, enter the correct amount.

Next, select the type of complaint. If it pertains to late or unpaid wages, enter the claim amount. For administrative complaints, select the violation type.

Once you have selected the complaint type, tap the ‘Add’ button. After adding the complaint to your account, click on the ‘Register Complaint’ button.

Once you submit your complaint, MOHRE will promptly send you a confirmation along with a unique transaction number to track your application’s status. Stay informed and updated on the progress of your complaint through this efficient and transparent process.