The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has rolled out several new regulations in 2025 to improve labour relations, worker protection, and employer accountability in the UAE. Whether you’re a blue-collar worker, skilled professional, or business owner, it’s essential to stay updated with these MOHRE new rules 2025.
In this guide, we break down the key updates, who they affect, and what you need to do to stay compliant and informed.
MOHRE New Rules 2025 What Every Worker Should Know
Summary of MOHRE New Rules 2025
The following changes have come into effect as part of the UAE’s vision to improve job satisfaction, work environment, and legal transparency:
| Category | Key Changes in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Employment Contracts | All contracts must be limited term only |
| Work Permits | Automatic expiry if not activated within 60 days |
| Resignation Notice | Standard notice of 30–90 days mandatory |
| Job Loss Insurance | Now mandatory for all private sector employees |
| Wage Protection System | Faster enforcement for unpaid salaries |
| Labour Complaints | Resolution time reduced to 10 business days |
| Domestic Workers | Must be paid through wage transfer platforms |
| Midday Break | Extended from June 1 to September 15, 12:30 PM–3:00 PM |
1. All Contracts Must Be Limited Term
Under the MOHRE new rules 2025, unlimited contracts are no longer allowed. All workers, whether on probation or full-time, must now sign limited-term contracts of up to 3 years (renewable).
This helps regulate notice periods and reduce disputes during termination or resignation.
2. Work Permit Expiry & Cancellation
Work permits must be activated within 60 days of issue. If not, they are auto-cancelled by MOHRE.
Employers failing to onboard workers after permit issuance may face fines.
Tip: Always ensure your entry permit, medical test, and Emirates ID process are started immediately after arrival.
3. Mandatory Notice Period Enforcement
Employees cannot leave jobs without serving 30 to 90 days’ notice, depending on the contract. Resigning without notice can lead to labour bans and legal action.
Likewise, employers must honour notice periods or pay equivalent compensation.
4. Job Loss Insurance Now Compulsory
Since January 2023, the Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) scheme has been optional, but in 2025, it’s now mandatory.
All private-sector employees (except domestic workers and temporary workers) must register and pay monthly premiums based on salary slabs.
| Monthly Salary | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Below AED 16,000 | AED 5 |
| Above AED 16,000 | AED 10 |
Coverage includes up to 3 months of compensation if job loss occurs due to reasons beyond your control.
5. Salary Delays = Instant Penalties
The Wage Protection System (WPS) is now more aggressive in penalizing late salary payments. Employers have 15 days from the due date to pay salaries.
Failure leads to:
Labour fines
Suspension of new work permits
Legal cases filed automatically
6. Faster Labour Complaint Resolution
MOHRE has introduced a fast-track resolution process. All individual and collective complaints must be resolved within 10 business days via:
Tasheel centers
MOHRE smart app
Online at www.mohre.gov.ae
Unresolved cases move to the UAE Labour Court directly, with no additional filing fee.
7. New Domestic Worker Protections
Employers of domestic workers must now:
Provide bank or digital payment transfers (cash payments are discouraged)
Maintain an official contract through MOHRE or Tadbeer
Give one day off weekly + 30 days of annual leave
Domestic workers can also file complaints directly through MOHRE’s hotline: 80060
8. Midday Break Extended (Summer Rule)
To protect workers from heat stress, MOHRE has extended the midday break rule from
🗓 June 1 to September 15
🕐 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM
During these hours, outdoor work is not permitted, and violators may face fines of AED 5,000 per worker.
Who Is Affected by MOHRE New Rules?
| Worker Type | Affected? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private sector | ✅ | All workers & employers under MOHRE |
| Domestic workers | ✅ | Covered under Tadbeer + MOHRE |
| Free zone workers | ❌ | Governed by respective authority |
| Government employees | ❌ | Follow federal HR laws |
| Golden Visa holders | ✅ | If employed in private firms |
How to Stay Compliant
Regularly check updates on MOHRE portal
Use official channels for filing complaints or checking contract status
Always sign a written contract and retain a copy
Enroll in ILOE scheme before deadlines to avoid penalties
If unsure, consult a licensed PRO or agency like Mahad Manpower UAE
Mahad Manpower UAE—Your Trusted HR Partner
At Mahad Manpower, we ensure all job seekers and employers
Understand and comply with MOHRE new rules 2025
Have contracts verified and updated
Get help with labour complaints, bans, or salary disputes
Receive job placements only with MOHRE-compliant employers
Conclusion
The MOHRE new rules 2025 bring more transparency and legal protection for UAE workers and employers alike. Whether you’re new to the country or have been working here for years, staying updated ensures you remain safe, secure, and employable.
Need expert help? Contact Mahad Manpower UAE today to guide you through MOHRE compliance, employment contracts, and job opportunities.