If you’ve been treated unfairly at work whether through unpaid salary, wrongful termination, or contract violation you have the legal right to file a case against employer in UAE. In 2025, the UAE Labour Law provides strong protection for employees and a structured process to resolve disputes.
This guide explains how to file a case against employer in UAE legally through MOHRE and labour courts, what documents you need, and how long the process usually takes.
When Can You File a Case Against Employer in UAE?
You can file a case against employer in UAE for issues such as:
Salary delay or non-payment
Termination without reason
Denial of gratuity or leave benefits
Contract violations
Harassment or unsafe working conditions
Refusal to cancel visa or provide end-of-service certificate
You must file the case within 1 year of the incident.
Step-by-Step Process to File a Case Against Employer in UAE
Step 1: Attempt Internal Resolution
Start by speaking to your employer or HR department. Many cases are resolved internally when addressed respectfully and with documentation.
If unresolved within a reasonable time, proceed to file a complaint.
Step 2: File a Complaint via MOHRE
You can initiate a case against employer in UAE through:
MOHRE App (iOS / Android)
MOHRE Website: www.mohre.gov.ae
Call MOHRE helpline: 800 60
Visit a Tawjeeh or Tasheel center
You will need:
Emirates ID
Labour contract copy
Salary records or bank statements
Any supporting documents (e.g., messages, emails)
Your complaint will be assigned a case number for tracking.
Step 3: MOHRE Mediation (3–5 Days)
A labour officer will:
Call you and your employer
Attempt to resolve the dispute by phone
Request further documentation if needed
If an agreement is reached, MOHRE will close the case.
If no resolution, your case will be escalated to the Labour Court.
Step 4: Labour Court Filing
Using the referral letter from MOHRE, proceed to the local Labour Court. Here’s what happens:
File the case officially at the court clerk’s office
Pay court fees (waived for small claims under AED 100,000)
Attend hearings as scheduled
Provide evidence and witness statements (if any)
You’ll receive a court ruling within 2 to 8 weeks depending on the case complexity.
Required Documents to File a Case
| Document | Required |
|---|---|
| Emirates ID | ✅ |
| Passport with visa copy | ✅ |
| Labour contract | ✅ |
| Salary slips or bank proof | ✅ |
| Communication with employer | Optional |
| Medical report (if harassment/injury involved) | Optional |
What the Court Can Order
If you win the case against employer in UAE, the court can:
Order full salary payment
Award unpaid gratuity, leave, or overtime
Authorize job transfer to another company
Cancel your visa and allow grace period
Impose fines on the employer
Grant compensation (in AED) for emotional distress
Legal Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| MOHRE Mediation | 3–5 working days |
| Referral to Court | 1–2 days after mediation |
| Court Hearing & Judgment | 2–8 weeks |
| Payment Enforcement (if needed) | Additional 2–4 weeks |
Important Tips for Filing a Strong Case
Document everything emails, WhatsApp chats, pay records
Remain professional in communication
Don’t sign resignation or documents under pressure
Get advice from legal advisors like Mahad HRC
FAQs
Q: Can I stay in the UAE while the case is ongoing?
✅ Yes, you’re allowed to stay legally under case status.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to file a case against employer UAE?
🔄 Not mandatory for MOHRE or small court cases. You can represent yourself.
Q: What if my employer threatens me?
🚨 Report immediately to MOHRE. Threats are criminal offenses in UAE.
Q: Can I work during the case process?
⚠️ Not unless you transfer your visa legally or get court approval.
Mahad HRC Legal Assistance
At Mahad HRC, we offer:
Case evaluation and document preparation
Help filing complaints through MOHRE
Legal referrals for court representation
Job search assistance post-resolution
Visa protection and cancellation support
Let us protect your rights and help you win your case against employer in UAE with full legal backing.
Conclusion
Filing a case against employer in UAE is a legal and secure way to claim your rights. Thanks to UAE’s structured dispute system and 2025 legal reforms, employees now have more protection and quicker resolution channels than ever.