The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in UAE has reminded all employers of their duties according to the new UAE Labour Law, stating that they are responsible for the well being and just treatment of all workers.
The updated regulations, outlined in Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, aim to ensure that workers are treated with dignity and provided with the necessary resources for their well-being.
Accommodation and Financial Obligations
One of the main responsibilities that the Ministry points out is that the employers must provide housing for their workers, or at least pay for their housing. That order comes as part of a larger movement to upgrade the standard of living for laborers in the UAE, providing them with decent and secure housing.
Record-Keeping and Workers’ Rights
Employers must also keep very detailed records of their employees for a period of two years after employment has ended. That way there is some honesty and responsibility in hiring. Also, companies are not allowed to keep the employees’ official papers or force them to go back to their countries after their contracts are up.
Also, the revised statute has tough provisions regarding fair labor standards. All employers should set strict guidelines about penalties, promotions, and rewards, and above all they should be willing to put money and time into training and developing their employees. Which involves periodic health and safety evaluations and informing the employees of their rights and obligations.
Insurance and Job Security
Under the law, employers are responsible for providing insurance coverage for their workers, including subscriptions and guarantees. They should also give out a certificate of experience at the end of a workers contract it should include job title, length of service, last wage, reason for termination of contract, and it should be free. But the most important thing is that this certificate cannot have any bad comments on it or it may effect the workers ability to get a job in the future.
Return Travel and Safe Work Environment
The company also has to pay for the round trip back home for the worker when the contract is up, unless the worker has found another job or is at fault for breaking the contract. Not only that, but employers must also provide a safe and appropriate working environment, and comply with all health and safety regulations that the law imposes upon them.
Contractual Clarity
Ministry has really emphasized how clear the contracts at work have to be. Employers are required to use a form of contract approved by the Ministry that matches the original offer of work when applying for a work permit. Other advantages can be added, but not against the law.
Labour Complaints and Legal Proceedings
If any worker in UAE thinks that their rights are being violated, they can get advice or submit complaints through the Labour Consultation and Claims Centre at 80084. The Ministry aims to resolve complaints within 14 days. If a resolution cannot be reached, the case may be referred to the judiciary.
All workers who have court cases have to follow certain guidelines such as filing complaints within 14 days of a referral and not working for another employer with out permission. Plus they could get a work permit while their court case is going on if they are not being charged with skipping work.
