Filing a labour complaint in Dubai might seem intimidating, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal system or worried about your job security. However, the UAE Labour Law is structured to protect employees’ rights and offers a clear, step-by-step process to report workplace grievances—ranging from unpaid salaries and wrongful termination to contract breaches and harassment. This process becomes much more manageable with the guidance of experienced Labour Lawyers in Dubai.
If you’re unsure how to proceed with a formal complaint, or if you’re an employer responding to one, having Dubai Lawyers who specialize in labour disputes can help ensure that the matter is resolved fairly and legally.
Common Reasons for Filing a Labour Complaint
Labour Lawyers in Dubai regularly handle cases involving:
- Non-payment or delay of salaries
- Arbitrary or unfair dismissal
- End-of-service benefits not paid
- Discrimination or harassment at work
- Breach of employment contract
- Unlawful deductions from salary
- Refusal to provide visa cancellation or release letter
No matter the situation, employees have the right to file a complaint, and Dubai Lawyers can guide both individuals and businesses through the process.
Step-by-Step Process to File a Labour Complaint in Dubai
1. Internal Resolution (Recommended First Step)
Before escalating the issue to the authorities, it’s recommended to try resolving the matter directly with your employer. Often, employers are willing to address concerns once they are formally raised.
Labour Lawyers in Dubai can assist in drafting a legal notice or initiating negotiation efforts, which might resolve the issue amicably without involving government bodies.
2. File a Complaint with MOHRE
If internal discussions fail, the next step is to file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
This can be done through:
- MOHRE call center: 80060
- MOHRE mobile app
- MOHRE website
- Visiting a TASHEEL or MOHRE service center
The complaint must clearly describe the issue, along with supporting evidence such as the employment contract, salary slips, termination letters, or WhatsApp/email exchanges.
Dubai Lawyers ensure that all paperwork is accurate and complete, helping to avoid delays or procedural errors.
3. MOHRE Mediation and Summon
Once a complaint is filed, MOHRE assigns a legal mediator to handle the case. Both employer and employee will be summoned to attend a meeting where the mediator will attempt to resolve the matter without court involvement.
Labour Lawyers in Dubai often represent their clients in these mediations, presenting evidence and negotiating on their behalf to reach a favorable settlement.
If both parties agree, a settlement is signed and the case is closed.
4. Referral to Labour Court (If No Settlement Is Reached)
If mediation fails, MOHRE will issue a referral letter, which is required to file a case in the Labour Court. Once this document is received, either party may proceed to court.
The Labour Court falls under the jurisdiction of the Dubai Courts and handles all employment-related disputes.
With the help of Dubai Lawyers, your case file will include:
- Referral letter from MOHRE
- Legal documents and contracts
- Evidence such as bank records or correspondence
- Witness statements (if applicable)
Your lawyer will represent you in court, argue your case, respond to counter-claims, and follow up on enforcement if you win the case.
Time Frame for Resolution
The duration of the process depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to cooperate. Here’s a general timeline:
- MOHRE mediation: 1–2 weeks
- Labour Court proceedings: 2–6 months (varies by case)
- Enforcement of judgment: Additional few weeks if not voluntarily complied with
Labour Lawyers in Dubai speed up the process by ensuring all documents are filed correctly and by engaging proactively with the court and enforcement departments.
Costs Involved in Filing a Complaint
Filing a complaint with MOHRE is free of charge. However, if the matter goes to court, legal fees and court fees may apply. Court fees are typically waived for claims under AED 100,000.
Employing Dubai Lawyers may involve a fixed professional fee or a success-based arrangement, depending on the case and lawyer’s terms.
Employer’s Right to Respond
Employers also have rights during the complaint process. If a complaint is filed against your company, Labour Lawyers in Dubai help you:
- Respond to MOHRE summons professionally
- Present legal justification for actions taken
- Negotiate a resolution
- Defend the company in court
- Draft compliant policies to prevent future claims
Proper legal support protects companies from reputational harm, blacklisting, and financial penalties.
Free Zone Workers: What’s Different?
If you work in a free zone such as DIFC, DMCC, or JAFZA, the process differs slightly. Most free zones have their own dispute resolution departments. However, if the dispute remains unresolved, it may still proceed to the Labour Court.
Labour Lawyers in Dubai are familiar with both federal and free zone employment laws and can represent you accordingly.
Can You File a Complaint After Leaving the Country?
Yes. UAE law allows individuals to file or continue labour complaints even after exiting the country—particularly in cases involving unpaid wages or end-of-service benefits.
Dubai Lawyers can act on your behalf through a Power of Attorney to handle proceedings in your absence and ensure your rights are pursued even from abroad.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an employee seeking justice or an employer protecting your business, the complaint process in Dubai is structured, transparent, and accessible—but only when you understand your rights and obligations clearly.
Labour Lawyers in Dubai are instrumental in guiding individuals and businesses through every stage of the process. Their expertise ensures that cases are presented correctly, disputes are resolved efficiently, and legal outcomes are enforced without unnecessary delay.
If you’re unsure where to begin or what your next step should be, consulting Dubai Lawyers with labour law experience is the smartest decision you can make.
