UAE Worker Rights for Overtime: Working overtime in the UAE? You’re not alone. With extended shifts becoming common in sectors like logistics, hospitality, and retail, it’s vital to know UAE worker rights for overtime in 2025. This guide breaks down everything you need to understand: how much overtime is allowed, how you’re paid, and what legal protections you have.
UAE Worker Rights for Overtime in 2025
What Is Considered Overtime in the UAE?
According to UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) and its 2025 amendments:
Normal working hours: 8 hours/day or 48 hours/week
Overtime: Any hours beyond the above, with employer approval
Overtime is regulated, meaning employers must compensate you fairly unless your job falls into exempt categories (like certain managerial or supervisory roles).
UAE Overtime Pay Rules (Updated 2025)
As per the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE):
| Type of Overtime | Compensation Rate |
|---|---|
| Overtime during regular days | Basic salary + 25% minimum extra pay |
| Overtime after 9 PM (night shift) | Basic salary + 50% extra pay |
| Overtime on weekends/holidays | Compensatory rest day or 150% salary |
So if you’re earning AED 1,000/month and work extra hours past 9 PM, you should earn AED 1,500 (150%) for that time.
Who Is Entitled to Overtime?
You’re entitled if:
You are under a limited or unlimited contract
You’re not in a managerial or decision-making role
You’re requested by your employer to stay beyond official hours
Always document your overtime using timesheets, emails, or biometric logs.
How Many Hours of Overtime Are Allowed?
UAE labour law caps total overtime:
2 hours per day maximum unless it’s an emergency
No more than 144 total working hours in any 3-week period
This means even if your employer offers more, it’s illegal to force overtime beyond this limit.
Common Industries Where Overtime Applies
Industries known for regular overtime include:
Logistics and Warehouse
Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants)
Security Services
Retail and Supermarkets
Cleaning and Domestic Services
If you’re working in these sectors, you should receive written confirmation of any additional hours.
Rights You Should Know in 2025
- Written Employment Contract must define working hours clearly
- Employers cannot force overtime without your consent
- Rest Periods: After 5 consecutive work hours, a 1-hour break is required
- You must receive weekly rest of at least one day
- Overtime beyond legal limits can be reported to MOHRE
Filing a Complaint for Unpaid Overtime
UAE Worker Rights for Overtime: If your employer refuses to pay for approved overtime:
Talk to HR – Many companies solve it internally
File a complaint via MOHRE app/website
Visit the MOHRE Service Center nearest to you
Use WhatsApp MOHRE Chatbot (600590000)
You will need your contract copy, Emirates ID, and overtime proof.
Penalties for Employers Violating Overtime Law
The UAE government enforces penalties such as:
AED 20,000 – AED 50,000 fines
Suspension of company’s hiring privileges
Reputational damage and court proceedings
This is why most registered companies try to comply strictly with UAE worker rights for overtime.
Know the Exceptions
UAE Worker Rights for Overtime: Some professionals are exempt from overtime payments under Article 15 of the Executive Regulations, including:
C-Level executives and department heads
Field Sales professionals without fixed working hours
Employees paid monthly high wages with no overtime clause
Still, these roles should have detailed job offers clarifying the exemption.
Tips to Protect Yourself
Ask your company for written policies on overtime
Record your clock-in and clock-out using personal notes or time tracking apps
Never accept verbal promises only—ask for confirmation via email or SMS
If you’re denied payment repeatedly, document everything and consult MOHRE
Final Word
UAE worker rights for overtime are protected by strong labour laws. Whether you’re in construction, cleaning, retail, or food delivery, you are entitled to fair compensation for extra work. Don’t be afraid to speak up, track your hours, and stand up for what the law guarantees you.
You work hard make sure you’re paid for every minute.