UAE Employment Guidelines for Private Companies

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has outlined specific employment obligations for private sector employers to ensure workers’ rights and a balanced work environment. These guidelines focus on safeguarding employees’ rights, improving workplace conditions, and adhering to legal frameworks. Here’s a detailed look at these requirements.

Key Obligations for Employers in the UAE

The Ministry emphasizes the need for employers to comply with a set of regulations that prioritize workers’ welfare while fostering a fair and productive workplace. Below are the essential obligations:

1. Maintain Accurate Employee Records
   Employers must maintain comprehensive files and records for their workers, as mandated by MOHRE’s policies. These records should be preserved for at least two years after the worker’s service ends, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with local regulations.
2. Respect Workers’ Legal Rights
   Employers are prohibited from seizing workers’ official documents or forcing them to leave the country after the termination of employment. This protects workers’ autonomy and prevents undue pressure during employment transitions.
3. Establish Workplace Policies
   Employers must develop clear work regulations, including guidelines on instructions, penalties, and rewards. Transparent policies foster a positive work culture and establish clear expectations for employees.
4. Provide Housing or Housing Allowances
   Employers are required to offer suitable, licensed accommodations that meet the country’s standards or pay a housing allowance. This ensures that workers have access to safe and comfortable living conditions.
5. Invest in Skills Development
   Fostering employee growth is crucial. Employers must provide training programs, empowerment tools, and opportunities for workers to enhance their skills, ensuring continuous professional development.
6. Ensure Occupational Health and Safety
   Employers must implement measures to protect workers from occupational injuries and illnesses. This includes offering guidance, conducting regular safety training, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
7. Communicate Workers’ Rights and Responsibilities
   To enhance awareness, employers should use appropriate tools to educate workers about their rights and obligations. Effective communication fosters transparency and mutual understanding.
8. Cover Medical Care Costs
   Employers are obligated to bear the costs of workers’ medical care, adhering to the UAE’s existing legislation. This guarantees workers access to necessary healthcare services.
9. Manage Insurance and Guarantees
   The employer must handle insurance, subscriptions, and guarantees as outlined by the country’s laws, ensuring financial security for workers in unforeseen circumstances.
10. Prohibit Unauthorized Employment
    Employers must not allow workers to engage in jobs for other employers unless permitted under the Labour Law, safeguarding against unauthorized employment practices.
11. Issue Experience Certificates
    Upon request, employers must provide workers with an experience certificate free of charge. This document should detail the employment period, job role, last salary, and reason for contract termination. Employers must ensure the certificate does not harm the worker’s reputation or job prospects.
12. Cover Repatriation Expenses
    Employers are responsible for covering workers’ repatriation costs at the end of their employment unless the worker terminates the contract or joins another employer. This ensures a fair and humane end to the employment relationship.
13. Create a Safe Work Environment
    Providing a safe and secure workspace is a fundamental requirement. Employers must eliminate hazards, maintain safety standards, and create an environment conducive to productivity and well-being.

Job Contracts: A Legal Foundation

Establishing an employment relationship in the UAE involves adherence to strict contractual requirements. Employers must issue a job offer that complies with MOHRE’s standards, ensuring clarity and fairness.

1. Use of Standardized Contracts
   Employers are required to use MOHRE-approved contract forms that align with the initial job offer. These contracts guarantee transparency and prevent discrepancies during the employment process.
2. Adding Employee Benefits
   Contracts may include additional benefits for workers, provided they do not conflict with the UAE’s Labour Law and related regulations. Employers can also add appendices to address specific terms while maintaining compliance.
3. Verification of Job Offers
   MOHRE-approved job offer forms come with a unique serial number (barcode) for easy verification. Employees can confirm the authenticity of their job offers through MOHRE’s website, mobile application, or call center (600590000).

Promoting Compliance and Fair Practices

By adhering to these employment guidelines, private sector employers in the UAE demonstrate their commitment to fostering a fair and supportive work environment. The outlined obligations not only safeguard workers’ rights but also enhance overall workplace efficiency and harmony.

Employers and employees alike benefit from these practices, which are designed to meet international labor standards while aligning with the UAE’s vision for a balanced and thriving labor market.