DUBAI – Pakistan citizen, who are facing workplace issues such as unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, or breach of contract, are eligible to file a complaint through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The complaint process varies depending on the employer’s licensing authority as employees of companies licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) must file with MOHRE, while those in free zones must first approach the respective free zone’s mediation department, according to the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment.
Free zone authorities can mediate but cannot enforce decisions; if unresolved, they issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) enabling the employee to pursue the matter in court.
MOHRE offers multiple official channels for filing complaints, including a mobile app, call centre (80060), Tawseel service centres, and its website. Advisory support is also available via a dedicated Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre (80084).
For mainland employees, MOHRE attempts mediation through phone or video calls. If no resolution is reached, MOHRE can issue a legally binding decision for claims under Dh50,000. For higher-value claims, a NOC is issued for court proceedings. All mediation records are included in court files if the case escalates.
Employees must file complaints within two years of the incident, as per Article 54(9) of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, an extension from the previous one-year limit.
MOHRE is required to resolve complaints within 14 days, either through settlement, decision, or court referral.
Appeals to the Court of Appeal must be filed within 15 working days, during which the Ministry’s decision is suspended.
Regarding work permits, the original permit may be suspended or cancelled during the complaint process.
A temporary permit may be issued to allow employment with a new employer. If the case leads to termination, the original permit is cancelled after six months.
Following a final decision, the original permit must be cancelled within 60 days unless the employment continues.
