Dubai Labour Law for People Working in 2021

Dubai has once again proved itself as the vanguard for egalitarian laws and equal justice. Not only has the government approved but also implemented crucial amendments and major changes to its laws, including the labour law.

This includes equal remuneration laws that aim to reduce the gender pay gap and set a precedent for the whole world to follow. Moreover, there have been systematic changes in how traditions and customs are perceived. Examples of these are apparent in the amendments made to divorce laws and letting expats own 100% of LLCs in the country. It’s clear that the country is progressing at a rapid pace, paving the way for more egalitarian norms to be presented in years to come.

When it comes to Dubai labour law, although most laws remain the same, there have been few changes that are noteworthy:

Parental Leaves

Addressing various situations pertaining to the same issue of parental and maternal leaves, the Federal Decree announced the addition of 5 paid leaves. The best part about this decree is that it’s not just a privilege limited for mothers of a newly born child. Even fathers can apply for the 5-day leaves during the period starting from the child’s birth to the day the child turns 6 months old.

Before this, maternal leaves allowed mothers to go on a 45-day leave. With the recent additions, they can now have 50 paid leaves, making it even easier for parents to spend time with their new family member.

Equal Pay

This is perhaps the most revolutionary change we are witnessing throughout the history of the Middle East. Promoting the country’s progressive stance, steps to bridge the gap between gender pays are getting international attention.

Article 32 states,

“The female worker shall be granted a wage equal to that of the male worker should she be performing the same work, or another one of equal value. By virtue of a Cabinet Decision – based on the proposal of the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation – the procedures, controls and standards necessary to evaluate the work of equal value.”

Annual Leaves

It’s crucial to note that your employer can’t make you give up your annual leaves. They have no right over them since they’re yours to do with as you please. You will have 2 paid leaves per month if you’ve served at least 6 months but not a year. After the first year is completed, you’ll have a total of 30 annual leaves.

Other than your paid leaves, here’s a list of the national holidays that are off for everyone:

• New Year: 1st January
• 3 days of Eid-ul-Azha
• 4 days of Eid-ul-Fitr
• Hijri New Year 
• Commemoration Day on 1st December
• 2 National Day Holidays
• Hajj Day 

Aside from this, the country’s laws regarding sick leaves are clear with regards to termination of employment. If an employee is sick, they’re entitled to 90 days of leave without any risk of termination. First 15 days of this leave period will be paid in full. 30 days after the first 15 will be with half pay; whereas, the rest of the 45-day period will be without pay. the employer terminate employment only after this period is over. Moreover, the context implies that the employee should also have failed to respond to calls of duty. 

Harassment Laws

Whether it’s in public or in a professional setting, the country’s laws about harassment are strict and egalitarian. The recent legislative changes state that any person found engaging in offensive, obscene or disturbing forms of expression will face penalties ranging from 2-year imprisonment to AED 100,000 fines or even a combination of both.

The law makes no reference to the gender that is committing the offence. Thereby it takes away any gender discrimination from the context. However, the law ensures the safety of women as well as men from any and every form of harassment. Be it vocal, physical, sexual, or even in a professional capacity.  

Takeaway

The laws of any country are mandatory for all to follow. Regardless of what you believe or where you come from, you have to abide by them. While we’ve covered some recent labour law changes, it’s best that you read up yourself. You can do this by researching the legislation before starting work in the emirate.  Or you can go for a consultancy from a law firm.

For any questions or queries, make sure to contact lawyers such as those found in firms like Davidson Co. Law. Needless to say, you’ll appreciate the necessary help that comes in the most professional and subtle manner.