File Labour Complaint in UAE: The UAE has become a preferred destination for millions of expatriate workers, offering promising career opportunities across industries. However, not every employment story has a smooth ending. Salary delays, contract violations, illegal visa holds, and even harassment can happen especially to low-income workers unaware of their legal rights. That’s why knowing how to file labour complaint in UAE is essential in 2025.
Whether you are a cleaner, driver, salesperson, or even an office professional, this guide will help you file your complaint the right way legally, quickly, and without fear.
File Labour Complaint in UAE Complete Guide 2025
Who Can File a Labour Complaint in UAE?
File Labour Complaint in UAE: You can file labour complaint in UAE if you are:
An employee working under a UAE-registered company or sponsor
A worker with a valid or recently expired labour contract
An employee experiencing salary non-payment, visa abuse, unsafe working conditions, harassment, or unfair termination
This applies to both mainland and free zone employees, though the procedure may vary slightly.
Common Reasons for Filing Labour Complaint in UAE
File Labour Complaint in UAE: Here are the most frequent complaints handled by MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation):
Delayed or unpaid salary
No employment contract or job change fraud
Confiscation of passport or Emirates ID
Unsafe or unhygienic accommodation or worksite
Verbal, physical, or sexual harassment
Illegal visa charges or job offer scams
Forced overtime without pay
Wrongful termination or end-of-service denial
In all cases, the UAE government provides a clear, accessible channel for employees to get justice.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Labour Complaint in UAE (2025)
Step 1: Try to Resolve It Internally
Before going to MOHRE, try to speak directly with your HR or employer. Many issues, especially salary delays, can be resolved with internal communication.
But if your employer refuses to cooperate or delays the process beyond 7 days, it’s time to act.
Step 2: Collect All Evidence
Prepare the following:
Copy of your Emirates ID and passport
UAE Labour contract (from MOHRE or company)
Salary slips or bank statements (WPS)
WhatsApp chats, emails, or voice recordings as proof
Visa or medical insurance documents if relevant
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case.
Step 3: Use the MOHRE Smart App or Website
You can file labour complaint in UAE using any of the following channels:
✅ MOHRE Smart App
Available on Android and iOS – go to “Submit Complaint” and follow the steps.
✅ MOHRE Website
Visit https://mohre.gov.ae
Go to Services → Labour Complaints
Select Worker and fill out the complaint form
Upload supporting documents and submit
✅ Call 800 60 – MOHRE Hotline
For those who don’t have internet access or prefer speaking in Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, Tagalog, or Arabic.
✅ Visit a Typing Center or Tasheel Office
Typing centers can help submit the complaint electronically on your behalf.
Step 4: Wait for MOHRE Investigation
Once submitted, MOHRE will:
Call both parties (employer and employee) within 3–7 working days
Try to mediate and resolve the issue amicably
Issue a warning or fine if the employer is at fault
If not resolved, they will forward the case to Labour Court.
Step 5: Labour Court Proceedings (If Required)
If MOHRE cannot resolve your complaint, they will issue a referral letter. You can then go to the Labour Court:
File your case in person or through a legal consultant
No court fees for cases under AED 100,000
Final judgment issued within 2–3 months
Once the court decides, MOHRE will help enforce the verdict, including forcing the employer to pay.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision?
MOHRE Complaint Resolution: 7–14 days
Labour Court Process: 1–3 months (depending on complexity)
Salary Recovery: May take up to 30 days after verdict
If your employer still refuses to pay, the government can block their license and ban them from hiring.
Free Legal Support & Helplines
MOHRE Labour Helpline: 800 60 (Toll-free)
Twa-fouq Centers: Free legal consultation services in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi
Human Rights Hotline: 800 22 111
Dubai Police Human Rights Dept: Available on the Dubai Police App
Your Rights as a Worker in UAE
Even as an expatriate, you are protected by the UAE Labour Law. Here are some rights you should never give up:
Right to receive full salary on time
Right to live in proper housing if company-provided
Right to medical insurance and visa sponsorship
Right to be free from harassment and abuse
Right to leave or change your job after notice period
If any of these are violated, you have full authority to file labour complaint in UAE and protect yourself.
Tips to Avoid Labour Disputes
Never accept a job without a written contract
Always verify your job offer on the MOHRE portal
Do not surrender your passport to anyone
Get salary through WPS (bank transfer), not cash
Know your basic rights under UAE Labour Law 2023–2025
Conclusion
File Labour Complaint in UAE: Filing a labour complaint in the UAE can be stressful, but it’s your legal right and the system is designed to help workers fairly. Whether you’re facing salary issues, workplace abuse, or contract violations, this guide provides everything you need to protect yourself.