In a recent update, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) outlined the conditions under which students aged 15 to 18 can work in private companies in the UAE, in accordance with the Federal Decree Law on the Regulation of Labour Relations.
This development provides a legal framework for juveniles, both Emiratis and expatriates, to gain work experience while ensuring their rights and safety are protected.
Employment Guidelines for Juveniles
Under the updated regulations, juveniles—defined as individuals aged 15 to 18—are permitted to work in the UAE with written consent from their guardian or custodian. The Labour Law strictly prohibits the employment of children under the age of 15.
Working Hours and Conditions
The law specifies that juveniles can work a maximum of six hours per day, with mandatory rest periods totaling at least one hour. These rest breaks are scheduled to ensure that no juvenile works for more than four consecutive hours. Employers are not allowed to require juveniles to work overtime or during rest days and official holidays.
Legal Framework
The executive regulations of the Decree Law detail the procedures and conditions that employers must follow when hiring juveniles. These include the types of work that are prohibited for juveniles, particularly those that are hazardous or detrimental to health. Additionally, the regulations provide guidelines for organizations involved in the professional training and qualification of juveniles.
Work Permits and Employment Terms
Juveniles can be employed under temporary work permits, valid for a renewable period of six months. For students wishing to work part-time throughout the year, specific work permits are available. These permits can be obtained through customer service centers or via MoHRE’s smart applications.
Prohibited Employment Areas
The law prohibits employing juveniles at night, in industrial projects, or in any work considered dangerous or harmful to health. Additionally, the work assigned to the juvenile must align with the activities of the employing establishment, which must have a valid license and no violations leading to suspension of operations.
Requirements for Employment
To obtain a work permit for a juvenile, the following documents are required:
- A recent color photograph with a white background.
- Written consent from the juvenile’s guardian or custodian.
- A certificate of fitness for the required work issued by a medical authority.
- A copy of the juvenile’s passport.
- A valid residence permit.
- An employment contract signed by both the employer and the juvenile.
The application for a permit must be submitted by the legally authorized representative of the establishment.
This framework aims to balance the benefits of early work experience with the need to protect the well-being and rights of young workers, ensuring they can contribute to and benefit from the UAE’s growing economy.
