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1. Employment Contracts
- All employees must have a written employment contract specifying job details, salary, and other conditions.
- Contracts are now limited-term (fixed), with a maximum duration of three years, renewable upon mutual agreement.
2. Working Hours & Overtime
- The standard workweek is 48 hours, with a maximum of 8 hours per day.
- Overtime pay is:
- 25% extra for regular overtime
- 50% extra for overtime between 10 PM – 4 AM (except for shift workers)
3. Wages & Salary Protection
- The Wages Protection System (WPS) ensures that salaries are paid on time.
- Employers must pay salaries through banks or financial institutions.
- Minimum wage: No fixed minimum wage, but employees must receive fair compensation as per the contract.
4. Leave & Holidays
- Annual Leave:
- 30 days after one year of service.
- 2 days per month if the service period is between 6 months and 1 year.
- Sick Leave: 90 days per year (first 15 days paid, next 30 half-paid, last 45 unpaid).
- Maternity Leave:
- 60 days (45 days fully paid + 15 days half-paid).
- Additional 45 unpaid days in case of medical complications.
- Paternity Leave: 5 paid days within 6 months of childbirth.
- Public Holidays: Employees are entitled to UAE national holidays with full pay.
5. End of Service Benefits & Gratuity
- Gratuity pay for employees completing 1+ years of service:
- 21 days of basic salary per year for the first 5 years.
- 30 days per year for each additional year.
- If an employee resigns before completing one year, they are not entitled to gratuity.
6. Termination & Resignation
- Employers must provide a notice period of 30–90 days for termination.
- Employees who resign must also serve a notice period as per the contract.
7. Visa & Work Permit Rules
- Expats must have a work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- The employer is responsible for visa processing.
- Golden Visa options exist for skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs.