Dubai: Protect yourself from exploitation. Discover the 10 essential rights for workers under the UAE Labor Law 2026, including salary protection, passport safety, and visa cost regulations.
Understanding your rights is the most powerful tool you have to ensure a fair and safe working environment in Dubai. The UAE has introduced significant updates to the Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, with further protections integrated into the 2026 regulatory framework specifically to curb exploitation and protect the dignity of the workforce.
For South Asian workers—who are a vital part of the UAE’s growth—knowing these 10 rights can be the difference between a successful career and an exploitative experience.
1. The Right to Your Passport
It is illegal for any employer in the UAE to withhold your passport. Your passport is the property of your home country’s government and must be in your possession at all times.
- The Reality: Employers often try to “safekeep” it. You have the right to refuse. If they insist, you can file a complaint with MOHRE immediately.
2. Your Employer Pays for Your Visa
Under UAE Law, the employer is responsible for all recruitment and residency costs. This includes your entry visa, medical tests, Emirates ID, and work permit.
- Warning: If an agent or employer asks you to pay back these costs or deducts them from your salary, they are breaking the law.
3. Protection via the Wage Protection System (WPS)
All private sector employees must be paid through the WPS. This is an electronic system that ensures your salary is paid on time and in the full amount agreed upon in your contract.
- The Benefit: If your salary is delayed, the system automatically flags the company, and they face heavy fines or a block on their operations.
4. Maximum Working Hours & Overtime
The standard working day is 8 hours (48 hours per week). During Ramadan, this is reduced by 2 hours.
- Overtime Pay: If you work more than 8 hours, you are entitled to overtime pay. This is your basic hourly wage plus an additional 25% (or 50% if the overtime is between 10 PM and 4 AM).
5. The Right to a Weekly Rest Day
Every worker is entitled to at least one paid day off per week. In 2026, many companies follow the Saturday-Sunday weekend, but your contract may specify a different day.
- Work on Rest Days: If you are asked to work on your day off, you must be given a substitute day off or your basic wage plus a 50% bonus.
6. Paid Annual Leave
After completing six months of service, you begin to accrue leave:
- 6 months to 1 year: 2 days of paid leave per month.
- Over 1 year: 30 calendar days of paid annual leave per year.
- Note: Your employer cannot force you to “forfeit” your leave; it must be used or carried forward/compensated.
7. End of Service Gratuity
If you have completed one year or more of continuous service, you are entitled to an “End of Service” payment (Gratuity).
- Calculation: It is based on your last basic salary. For the first five years, you get 21 days’ salary for each year. After five years, you get 30 days’ salary for each year.
8. Sick Leave Rights
You are entitled to up to 90 days of sick leave per year (after your probation period).
- Payment Scale: The first 15 days are full pay, the next 30 days are half pay, and the remaining 45 days are unpaid. You must provide a medical certificate.
9. Right to Resign (and Fair Notice)
You are not a slave to your contract. You have the right to resign as long as you provide the notice period specified in your contract (usually 30 to 90 days).
- No “NOC” Required: You do not need your employer’s permission to join a new company once your notice period is served.
10. Safe Working Environment (Midday Break)
During the peak summer months (usually June to September), the UAE enforces a mandatory Midday Break between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM for anyone working in direct sunlight. Employers must also provide health insurance for all staff.
Summary Table: Your Rights at a Glance
| Issue | Your Right in 2026 |
| Passport | Must stay with you. |
| Visa Costs | Employer must pay 100%. |
| Salary | Must be paid via WPS. |
| Gratuity | Earned after 1 year of service. |
| Complaints | Can be filed for free via the MOHRE App. |
Conclusion
Exploitation thrives on silence and a lack of information. By knowing these 10 points, you are no longer just a “worker”—you are a protected professional under UAE law. If your rights are being violated, do not be afraid to reach out to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). They are there to protect you.
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Next Step for You
Would you like me to explain exactly how to file a “Confidential Complaint” through the MOHRE app without your employer knowing, or would you like a guide on how to calculate your specific overtime pay?