Labour Complaint UAE: In 2025, the UAE has reinforced its labour regulations to ensure fairness for both workers and employers. With increased awareness among workers, the number of labour complaint cases in the UAE has risen, especially regarding unpaid salaries, contract violations, and wrongful terminations.
For employers, it’s essential to know how to respond to or file a labour complaint in the UAE through proper legal channels. Mishandling complaints can lead to heavy fines, bans on hiring, or even company blacklisting by MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation).
This guide from Mahad Manpower will walk you through every legal step you must follow in case of a labour complaint in the UAE.
How to Report Labour Complaints in UAE—Employer’s Legal Steps (2025 Guide)
Common Types of Labour Complaints Filed by Workers
Labour Complaint UAE: As per MOHRE records, most complaints fall into these categories:
Salary delays or underpayment
Unlawful termination
Non-payment of end-of-service benefits
Failure to provide legal employment contract
Unsafe work conditions
Absconding disputes (filed falsely or in retaliation)
Harassment or mistreatment
Even if the worker files a complaint falsely, you as the employer must respond professionally and legally.
Legal Steps for Employers to Handle a Labour Complaint UAE
1. Receive MOHRE Notification or Worker Email
When a worker files a labournt in the UAE, you will receive:
A direct call or SMS from MOHRE
An email with complaint details
A formal notice to appear at the MOHRE office
Don’t ignore it. Failing to respond can escalate the complaint to labor court automatically.
2. Review the Complaint Details Carefully
Access the complaint via
MORE Smart App
Tasheel centers
MOHRE customer service line: 80060
Employer login at www.mohre.gov.ae
Note the exact claim type, worker name, and supporting evidence attached.
3. Prepare Your Response & Documents
Before the MOHRE appointment, gather these key documents:
Labour contract (from MOHRE system)
Salary slips or WPS records
Attendance and warning letters
Termination notice or resignation letter (if applicable)
Emirates ID and visa copy of worker
Any WhatsApp chats, emails, or signed agreements
This helps you present a complete legal defence in case of false or incomplete complaints.
4. Attend the MOHRE Hearing (Within 7 Days)
Employers must attend the hearing at the designated MOHRE office, usually within 7 working days. If you’re unable to attend, your company PRO or legal representative may appear with a power of attorney.
The MOHRE officer will mediate and give both parties a chance to:
Present evidence
Offer clarifications
Reach a mutual settlement
Many labour complaint UAE cases are resolved at this stage without going to court.
5. Settlement or Escalation to Labour Court
If mediation fails:
MOHRE issues a referral letter to labor court
Case is registered, and both parties must appear before a judge
Legal ruling is based on documents and UAE Labour Law 2025
Important: As an employer, you must continue to pay the worker until the court decision is final, unless they are proven to be absconding or have already resigned.
Penalties for Mishandling Labour Complaint UAE Cases
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Not responding to complaint | AED 5,000 – AED 10,000 |
| Retaliating or terminating a worker | Legal action and blacklist |
| No proper documentation | Fine and ban from new visas |
| Repeated complaints from workers | Company downgraded in MOHRE |
Mahad Manpower Role in Protecting Employers
Labour Complaint UAE: At Mahad Manpower, we specialise in helping businesses avoid and resolve labour complaint UAE cases through:
Document audit and case preparation
Legal consultation with our in-house HR law experts
Settlement negotiation with workers
Representation at MOHRE hearings
Contract, salary, and compliance recordkeeping
Preventive HR policy planning
Whether you’re running a manpower supply company, cleaning agency, or transport service, our team ensures you’re protected from legal disruptions.
How to Report a Complaint as an Employer (Against Worker)
Labour Complaint UAE: Sometimes, employers also need to report workers who:
Abandon work without notice
Engage in fraud or misconduct
Breach the labour contract
File false claims
Here’s how to file a complaint against an employee:
Log in to MOHRE employer portal
Go to “Labour Disputes” → “File a Complaint”.
Select type: Absconding / Contract Breach / Other
Attach required evidence and statements
Submit and await hearing date
Mahad Manpower can file and follow up on employer-side cases on your behalf, including absconding report filing and worker legal notices.
Tips to Avoid Labour Complaints Altogether
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Issue valid MOHRE labour contracts | Avoid disputes on job roles and salary |
| Pay via WPS on time | No salary delay complaints |
| Maintain written warnings | Protect against wrongful termination claims |
| Conduct proper onboarding | Workers understand their rights |
| Provide written leave approvals | Prevent misunderstanding over absence |
Tools to Track Complaints and Resolutions
Employers should use
MOHRE Smart App (for alerts & status updates)
Internal HR complaint tracker
WhatsApp chat logs (screenshots are admissible)
WPS reports for payment disputes
Mahad Manpower dashboard for active client employers
Final Word
Labour Complaint UAE: The best protection against a labour complaint in the UAE is preparation and legal compliance. As an employer in the UAE, you must treat every complaint seriously, even if you believe it is false. With the right documents, legal support, and prompt action, you can resolve most cases quickly.
Let Mahad Manpower be your HR compliance partner so you can focus on growth while we handle the legal side.