MOHRE: What Every UAE Employee Needs to Know in 2026

Contract Types You Will See in 2026

MOHRE recognises two main contract types: limited and unlimited. A limited contract runs for a fixed period, usually one to three years, and ends automatically unless renewed. An unlimited contract continues until either party gives notice. Both must be registered through MOHRE’s digital system within 30 days of joining. Check your contract number on the MOHRE app before you start work.

Standard Working Hours

Private-sector employees work a maximum of 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. During Ramadan this drops to 6 hours per day. Overtime must be paid at 125 percent of your basic salary for weekdays and 150 percent on rest days. Your payslip must show the breakdown; ask HR for a copy if it is missing.

Annual Leave and Public Holidays

Full-time staff receive 30 calendar days of paid annual leave after one year of service. You accrue 2.5 days per month in the first year. Public holidays are additional and paid. If a holiday falls on your scheduled day off, you receive a replacement day. Keep leave records in the MOHRE app so you can prove balances if disputes arise.

Sick Leave and Other Entitlements

After three months of service you qualify for 15 days of fully paid sick leave and 30 days at half pay in any 12-month period. Maternity leave is 70 calendar days fully paid. Paternity leave is 5 working days. Submit medical reports through the MOHRE portal within the required timelines to avoid delays in payment.

How to Raise a Complaint

If wages are late, leave is refused or contract terms are broken, open a case on the MOHRE website or app. You need your Emirates ID and contract number. MOHRE aims to resolve disputes within 14 working days through mediation. If mediation fails, the case moves to the labour court at no cost to the employee. Keep digital copies of all payslips, contracts and messages with HR.

End-of-Service Gratuity

Gratuity is calculated on your basic salary only. For the first five years you receive 21 days per year; after five years the rate rises to 30 days per year. Unlimited contracts that end without cause still qualify for full gratuity. Your final settlement must be paid within 14 days of your last working day.

Documents to Keep

• Signed MOHRE-registered contract
• Monthly payslips for the last 12 months
• Leave balance statements from the MOHRE app
• Medical certificates for any sick leave taken

Store these in a secure cloud folder and on your phone so you can access them quickly during any dispute.

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