For thousands of expatriates and professionals, understanding UAE labour law overtime payment rules is vital. Overtime often causes disputes between employers and employees, especially when payments are delayed, reduced, or denied. The law ensures fair compensation for employees while setting clear limits for employers. If you’re facing issues with labour law overtime payment in UAE, consulting a labour lawyer can help you resolve disputes and claim your rightful dues.
Facing unpaid overtime? Click on the WhatsApp icon below to Contact a licensed UAE labour lawyer.
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UAE Labour Law Overtime Payment.
Overtime is defined as work hours that extend beyond the normal working hours as established by the employment contract or UAE labor laws.
Overtime Compensation
According to UAE labour law, employees are entitled to overtime pay when they are required to work beyond their regular working hours.
The table below summarizes compensation entitlements under UAE labour law overtime payment:
| Scenario | Compensation Rate |
|---|---|
| Overtime on regular working days | Basic hourly rate + 25% additional pay |
| Overtime between 10pm–4am | Basic hourly rate + 50% additional pay |
| Managerial or supervisory roles | May be exempt from overtime provisions |
Limitations on Overtime
Under UAE labour law overtime payment, there are important restrictions employees and employers must respect:
- Maximum of two hours of overtime per day is permitted.
- Overtime should not exceed 144 hours in three consecutive weeks.
- Certain employees, such as those in managerial or supervisory roles, may be excluded.
- Employers are legally required to document and record overtime hours accurately.
Overtime on Rest Days and Public Holidays.
Employees who work on their rest days or public holidays are entitled to additional compensation.
Employees working on rest days or official public holidays are entitled to additional compensation as follows:
| Day Type | Compensation |
| Rest Day | Full-day salary + another rest day OR 50% additional pay |
| Public Holiday | Full-day salary + 50% additional pay |
Best lawyer for UAE labour law overtime pay cases.
Navigating the intricacies of UAE labour law, especially when it comes to overtime payment, can be challenging. This is where experts like our Lawyer & Legal Consultant come into play.
With a stellar track record in handling labour-related cases in the UAE, our employment lawyer in Dubai and his team offer invaluable legal counsel and representation.
Below are top lawyers specializing in employment disputes:
| Name | Specialization | Contact |
| Ali Obaid Al Shamsi | Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Private Notary Public | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Mohammed Reda | Legal Consultant | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Mohammed Siraj | Legal Consultant | +971 50 259 8887 |
| Shadi Ashour | DIFC Law Specialist | +971 50 259 8887 |
Ali Obaid Al Shamsi
Ali Obaid Al Shamsi provides comprehensive labour law services, from unpaid overtime claims to employment contract reviews and dispute resolution.
Mohammed Reda
Mohammed Reda is experienced in handling employer compliance matters, ensuring fair treatment of employees under UAE Labour Law.
Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj specializes in wage disputes, overtime claims, and wrongful termination, representing employees and employers in labour courts.
Shadi Ashour
Shadi Ashour focuses on cross-border labour disputes and arbitration, with particular expertise in DIFC employment cases and overtime entitlements.
FAQ
Understanding UAE labour law overtime payment provisions helps employees protect their rights and ensures employers remain compliant with regulations. Workers should always track hours worked, while businesses must apply the law fairly. If disputes arise concerning UAE labour law overtime payment, consulting a specialized lawyer provides clarity, legal protection, and effective solutions. With the right legal support, both employees and employers can achieve fair outcomes.
Contact our labor law firm in UAE for expert help. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
Learn about the Top Employee Rights and Obligations to Know in the UAE Law Dubai and read about the Importance of Overtime Clauses in Contracts.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a licensed lawyer in UAE for tailored guidance.
Legal sources:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations
- Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE)
- UAE Government Portal – Overtime Regulations
A legal consultant and legal expert in the United Arab Emirates. He publishes selected articles on the website and writes in various categories of UAE law, with a particular focus on labor law.