When Sarah, an expatriate engineer, moved to Dubai, she signed her employment contract without much thought. Soon after, her employer changed her working hours, delayed salary payments, and eventually terminated her without cause or proper notice. Her situation highlights two fundamental pillars every employee—and employer—must understand in Dubai: labour law compliance and legal recourse.
In such cases, the guidance of an employment and labour lawyer in Dubai becomes crucial to navigate complex laws and secure rightful compensation.
Get expert legal help today, click the WhatsApp button below.
Table of Contents
Key Employment and Labour Issues in Dubai
Labour relations in Dubai are governed by federal law and are frequently updated to reflect market changes. Here are the most pressing issues employees and businesses face under current UAE labour law:
- Contract violations
New UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33/2021, amended in 2024) mandates all contracts be limited-term (max. 3 years), clearly set out duties, hours, compensation, and termination terms. - Unlawful termination
Employers must follow the law’s prescribed notice periods and offer valid reasons. Unlawful termination can lead to full compensation, including gratuity and back pay . - Delayed or unpaid wages
All private-sector salaries must be processed via the Wage Protection System (WPS). Violations now trigger hefty fines up to AED 10,000 per worker. - Flexible work arrangements
The 2025 updates legally acknowledge remote work, part-time roles, and freelance contracts. Such workers are now protected under labour law. - Leave entitlements
Employees are entitled to at least 30 days of paid annual leave per year, alongside enhanced maternity (60 days) and paternity entitlement. - Salary continuation during disputes
Employers now must continue paying up to two months of salary during labour dispute resolution to safeguard employee rights.
What Employment Lawyers Do?
Employment and labour lawyers in Dubai offer a wide range of essential services:
- Contract drafting & review
Ensuring all employment agreements comply with current UAE legislation and protect your interests. - Complaint filing & dispute resolution
Representing clients before MOHRE’s labour dispute units, and pursuing legal claims through courts if necessary. - Claims for unpaid wages or benefits
Lawyers pursue unpaid salaries, late payments, or incorrect gratuity—potentially earning employees double compensation. - Defending termination & seeking redress
When dismissal appears unfair or without cause, lawyers build a case for wrongful termination. - Advising on remote work & contract shifts
Supporting employees and employers in transitioning to compliant part-time or remote contracts. - Representing clients in court and DIFC tribunals
For professional employees under DIFC contracts, specialized procedures apply.
Top Labour Law Practitioners in Dubai
Choosing the right employment lawyer often starts with knowing who the key professionals are. The table below introduces four experienced legal experts known for their excellence in labour and employment law in Dubai.
| Name | Role & Expertise | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Ali Obaid Al Shamsi | Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Private Notary Public – drafting & notarization of employment contracts | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Mohammed Reda | Legal Consultant – handling contract disputes, wrongful dismissal, unpaid wages | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Mohammed Siraj | Legal Consultant – expertise in labour dispute resolution at MOHRE & courts | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Shadi Ashour | DIFC Law Specialist – focused on free‑zone employment law and professional contracts | +971 50 259 8887 |
Ali Obaid Al Shamsi
A seasoned lawyer and private notary, Ali excels in drafting robust employment agreements, notarizing legal documents, and ensuring full compliance with updated UAE labour legislation.
Mohammed Reda
Mohammed is a trusted advocate for employees facing wrongful termination, discrimination, or unpaid wages. He skillfully negotiates settlements and litigates with proven results.
Mohammed Siraj
An experienced labour law specialist adept at navigating MOHRE claims and labour courts to secure unpaid entitlements and fair resolutions for clients.
Shadi Ashour
With extensive knowledge in DIFC employment law, Shadi assists professionals bound by free-zone contracts, providing tailored advice and representation.
Choosing the Best Employment and labour Lawyer in Dubai
To ensure you’re working with the right expert, consider the following criteria:
- Proper licensing & registration
Lawyers must be registered with Dubai’s official legal bodies, including MOHRE and the court of DIFC. - Proven experience with labour disputes
Look for a track record of successful case outcomes in MOHRE or labour courts. - Knowledge of updated labour laws
Legal counsel must be fully informed on Federal Decree-Laws No. 33/2021 and No. 9/2024, along with remote, WPS, and DOE compliance. - Skill in contract drafting
Ensuring clear, enforceable contracts is essential—especially under the new limited-term and flexible contract provisions. - Effective dispute-resolution strategy
A lawyer should prioritize quick MOHRE mediation before court litigation to save time and costs. - Client communication & confidentiality
Clear updates, transparent fee structure, and respect for your privacy are non-negotiable.
Struggling with a workplace issue? Dubai law gives you powerful rights—but only if you act. Whether you’re dealing with wrongful termination, unpaid wages, or unclear contract terms, consult an employment and labour lawyer in Dubai today for expert guidance tailored to your situation. Reach out now via the WhatsApp button below.
Get expert legal help today, contact our employment lawyers in dubai, via the WhatsApp button below.
Read more about DIFC Employment Law End of Service Gratuity.
A legal consultant specializing in UAE labor law. He regularly publishes articles on the website and writes on various areas of UAE law, with a specific focus on labor law.
