UAE Labour Law 2025: 7 Major Reforms Explained
TL;DR: UAE made big changes to work laws in 2025. All contracts are now fixed term for up to three years. You can work part-time or from home. There are stronger rules against unfair treatment. You have two years to file a complaint. MOHRE can now settle small disputes fast.
The UAE updated work laws in 2025. These changes help workers and make things fair. Here are the seven most important changes.
1. All Contracts Are Now Fixed-Term
Every job contract must have an end date. The max is three years. You can renew it if both sides agree. Old contracts had to change by February 2025.
Source: Payroll Middle East
2. Flexible Work Is Now Official
You can now work in new ways. MOHRE allows these options:
- Part-time jobs
- Temp work
- Remote jobs
- Freelance work
- Job sharing
Source: Times of India
3. No Unfair Treatment Allowed
Bosses cannot treat you badly for these reasons:
- Race
- Color
- Religion
- Sex
- Where you are from
- Disability
Harassment at work is now a crime. You can go to jail for it.
Source: ZenHR Blog
4. Easier to Solve Work Problems
You now have two years after you leave a job to file a complaint.
MOHRE can settle small cases (under AED 50,000) on its own. You do not need to go to court. This saves time.
Sources:
5. Better Leave Rules
Time off from work got better:
- Maternity leave: 60 days with full pay
- Sick leave: Up to 45 days per year
- Other leave: More options for family needs and study
Source: Bayzat
6. Clear Rules for Layoffs
Companies can now let you go if they cut jobs. This is called redundancy. It is legal now. Notice times and trial periods are now standard for everyone.
Source: ZenHR
7. MOHRE Checks Work Permits
All workers must have valid work permits. MOHRE makes sure companies pay on time.
Breaking the rules can cost AED 10,000. You might also go to jail.
Source: UAE Government
Summary
The 2025 changes make UAE work laws modern and fair. They match global rules. They help workers and give more job options.
For a quick check of your end-of-service pay, use our online gratuity calculator UAE.
For the full law text, visit the MOHRE website.
