Moving to UAE for work? Pakistani consulate issues job guidelines

Consul general says under UAE law, everyone is equal regardless of nationality, religion and gender

The Pakistan Consulate in Dubai has released a video aimed at informing Pakistani workers in the UAE about their employment rights and responsibilities, according to Khaleej Times.

The video covers key workplace issues, including leave, salary, gratuity, overtime, and the correct procedure for legally quitting a job. The consulate also advised the South Asian community to begin employment only after receiving their work permits.

Authorities highlighted that employees who leave a job during the probation period without informing their employer could face a one-year employment ban.

“As overseas Pakistanis in the UAE, we represent our country here. This video has been made for Pakistani workers living in the UAE to create awareness about the local laws so that they don’t face any legal issues. I hope this video will be helpful for the Pakistani community here,” said Hussain Muhammad, Consul-General of Pakistan in Dubai, in a video message.

https://www.facebook.com/parepdubai/videos/1315615803372708/

The Pakistani diaspora is the second-largest foreign community in the UAE, with approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis working across various sectors.

The consulate stressed that under UAE law, everyone is equal regardless of colour, nationality, religion, gender, or race. Men and women are entitled to equal pay, and women cannot be dismissed due to pregnancy.

The video provides a detailed guide for Pakistani workers on adhering to UAE labour laws, ensuring legal compliance, and understanding workplace rights.

Work permit, contract and probation

Under UAE law, workers can only start their jobs after their work permit has been issued, making it a mandatory requirement. The consulate emphasised that the cost of the visa and work permit is the responsibility of the sponsor, not the employee.

In the UAE, a standard labour contract typically lasts two years and must be signed by both the employee and employer. Workers are advised to always keep a copy of their contract for reference.

The probation period is a maximum of six months. Employers wishing to terminate a contract must provide the employee with at least 14 days’ notice. Conversely, employees who want to change companies during the probation period must give 30 days’ notice.

Failure to inform the employer before quitting a job may result in a one-year employment ban under UAE labour regulations.

Working hours and overtime

Employees in the UAE are required to work eight hours a day or 48 hours a week, with a break permitted after five hours of work. Workers are entitled to one day off per week.

During Ramadan, working hours are reduced to six hours per day. Overtime is compensated at an additional 25% of the employee’s regular income. Employees who work at night or on holidays are entitled to a 50% higher wage.

Salary and gratuity

Employers in the UAE are required to pay salaries on time, which can be directly transferred to the employee’s bank account. Deductions are not allowed without a valid reason.

Employees who work for one to five years are entitled to 21 days of gratuity per year, calculated based on their basic monthly salary. For those employed for more than five years, gratuity increases to 30 days per year. Employees who work for less than a year are not eligible for gratuity.

Leave entitlements

Under UAE labour law, employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave per year. In cases of serious illness, workers may receive up to 90 days of sick leave, with full salary paid for the first 15 days.

For family-related leave, mothers are entitled to 60 days of maternity leave following the birth of a child, while fathers receive five days of paternity leave. In the event of the death of a close relative, employees may take three to five days of bereavement leave.

Employees are generally required to inform their employer in advance if they intend to quit. However, if the employer fails to pay salaries or if the work environment is unsafe, employees may resign without prior notice.

Employer and employee responsibilities

Employers in the UAE are prohibited from withholding an employee’s passport. They are also responsible for providing medical insurance, residence, and a return air ticket upon termination of a blue-collar worker’s employment.

Employees, in turn, are not allowed to work for another company without the consent of their current employer. They are also expected to maintain honesty and discipline while performing their duties.

How to lodge a complaint

If an employer fails to pay salary or gratuity, withholds an employee’s passport, or if a worker wishes to lodge a labour complaint, they should visit a Tasheel Centre. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation will attempt to mediate and resolve the dispute. If mediation fails, the case is referred to the labour court.

“UAE labour laws protect workers. Know your rights and perform your duties with honesty. In case of any problem or concern, call the helpline at 80084 for assistance. This service is available in 18 languages. Work with respect and sincerity,” the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai said in a video message.