Are you dealing with a salary delay in UAE? You’re not alone. Many workers especially in construction, hospitality, and retail face this issue. But the good news is: UAE labour law protects you. In 2025, the UAE government has reinforced its rules to ensure salaries are paid on time and penalties are applied to employers who violate the law.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain what you can do in case of a salary delay in UAE, how to file a legal complaint, and what your employer is obligated to do under the 2025 regulations.
Salary Delay in UAE Here’s What the Labour Law Says 2025
UAE Labour Law on Salary Payments (2025)
Under Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, amended in 2024, UAE employers must:
Pay full salaries within 15 days after the due date
Use the Wage Protection System (WPS) for all payments
Maintain a salary record available to MOHRE inspectors
Ensure payment even during notice periods and after resignation
If the salary is delayed beyond 15 days, it’s officially classified as a salary delay in UAE under MOHRE’s monitoring system.
What Is Considered a Salary Delay in UAE?
| Delay Duration | Classification |
|---|---|
| 1–15 days | Grace period (no action) |
| 16–30 days | Salary delay UAE violation |
| 31+ days | Labour complaint escalated |
| 60+ days | Possible visa suspension, worksite ban for employer |
Employers who delay wages repeatedly may face blacklisting or ban from hiring new workers.
Rights of Employees in Salary Delay UAE Cases
If your salary is delayed:
You have the right to file a complaint with MOHRE
Your visa cannot be cancelled or blocked while a case is pending
You can seek labour court compensation for unpaid wages
You may be allowed to change employers without notice
The UAE ensures workers are protected regardless of nationality or job title.
Step-by-Step: What to Do for Salary Delay in UAE (2025)
Step 1: Speak to Your HR or Employer
Start with a formal conversation or letter. Ask:
Why the salary is delayed
When it will be paid
If there is a WPS payment reference
Document the exchange with emails or WhatsApp messages.
Step 2: File a Salary Complaint with MOHRE
You can use:
MOHRE App (iOS and Android)
MOHRE Website: www.mohre.gov.ae
Call Center: 800 60
Tawjeeh Centers (in-person support)
Provide:
Emirates ID
Labour card/contract
Bank statements or salary slips
Screenshots of communication with employer
Step 3: Mediation by MOHRE
MOHRE will:
Contact your employer within 3–5 days
Request evidence of salary payment
Try to resolve the case through mutual agreement
If unresolved, the case moves to the Labour Court.
Step 4: Labour Court (if Necessary)
You don’t need a lawyer unless the case is complex. The court may:
Order the employer to pay salary + fines
Grant permission to transfer jobs without NOC
Award compensation for financial/emotional distress
Judgments are typically issued within 3–6 weeks.
Fines & Penalties for Employers
If salary delay UAE is proven, employers face:
| Violation | Fine/Action |
|---|---|
| Delay over 15 days | AED 1,000 per worker |
| Repeat salary delay (3+ workers) | Worksite suspension |
| Failure to attend MOHRE hearing | Additional AED 5,000 fine |
| Non-payment for 60+ days | Ban from new visa processing |
Preventative Tips for Employees
Always request your official labour contract
Track salary through bank or WPS salary record
Save communication with your employer
Set reminders to monitor salary arrival each month
Use Mahad HRC to find WPS-compliant employers
FAQs About Salary Delay in UAE
Q: Can I change jobs if salary is not paid?
✅ Yes. You can request transfer with MOHRE permission after repeated delays.
Q: Is my visa valid if salary is not paid?
✅ Yes. Your legal status remains valid while the dispute is active.
Q: Can I get compensation for late salary?
🔄 Possibly, through Labour Court ruling.
Q: What if my company closed down?
🚨 MOHRE will arrange your dues through a liquidation fund or employer’s insurance.
Mahad HRC Labour Support Services
At Mahad HRC, we support affected employees by:
Preparing salary complaints
Submitting cases through MOHRE and labour courts
Arranging job transfers with new employers
Translating documents into Arabic/English
Advising on safe, legal job contracts
Contact our legal helpdesk if you’re facing salary delay UAE issues.
Conclusion
No worker should suffer due to salary delay in UAE. In 2025, the labour law is firmly on your side. Use the tools provided by MOHRE and let experts like Mahad HRC help you recover your rights.