How to File a Labour Complaint in the UAE (MOHRE)
If your employer breaks your contract or the Labour Law, you can file a labour complaint. Examples are unpaid wages, unpaid gratuity, unfair dismissal, and too many working hours. You file with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). You can use its website or app. You can also call the Labour Claims and Advisory Centre on 80084. MOHRE first tries to settle the case in a friendly way. If that does not work, MOHRE can decide claims up to AED 50,000 itself. It sends bigger disputes to the Labour Court. Do not wait. MOHRE guidance says to file within 30 days of the breach.
At a glance
- Cost:
- No fee (MOHRE complaint service)
- Total time:
- About 14 working days for MOHRE handling
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- mohre.gov.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked every 6 months · next review due April 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Confirm the right authority
Employees of mainland private-sector companies complain to MOHRE. If you work in a free zone, go first to the mediation department of your free-zone authority. DIFC and ADGM have their own employment rules and their own complaint routes.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min
Gather your evidence
Collect your contract, payslips, and bank statements. The statements show what you were actually paid. Also collect any written proof, such as messages and HR emails. Write down the exact amounts you are owed and the dates of the breach.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Same day No fee
File the complaint
File on the MOHRE website, using the Register Labour Complaints — Private Sector Employees service. You can also file in the MOHRE app. Or call the Labour Claims and Advisory Centre on 80084 for help. Confirm who you are with the OTP code. Select Employee. Enter your job details. Choose your complaint type and claim amount, then submit. The service is free.
Click to mark as done
- Wait About 14 working days
MOHRE tries to settle your case
MOHRE checks your complaint. They contact you to confirm the details. Then they speak to your employer and try to settle the case in a friendly way. They may contact both sides more than once. MOHRE takes about 14 working days to handle a complaint.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up Varies
MOHRE decision or court referral
If you do not reach a settlement, MOHRE can make a decision. For claims up to AED 50,000, the decision has the force of an executable instrument. For bigger disputes, MOHRE sends the case to the Labour Court that handles your area. Either side can challenge a MOHRE decision in court. You must do this within 15 working days of being told about the decision.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up Varies
Escalate to court if needed
If your case is sent to court, or if you challenge a MOHRE decision, file with the Labour Court that handles your area. Do not wait. Court claims have time limits. File quickly, and keep your MOHRE reference number.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file a labour complaint?
Nothing. The MOHRE labour complaint service is free.
How long do I have to complain?
MOHRE guidance says to complain within 30 days of the breach by your employer. Court claims have their own, longer limits. Still, do not wait.
Can my employer retaliate for complaining?
No, your employer cannot punish you for using your labour rights. That is against the law. Keep records of anything bad that happens to you after you file. Report it to MOHRE.
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