How is end-of-service gratuity calculated in the UAE?

For unlimited service, you earn 21 days basic pay for each of the first five years and 30 days for each year after, based on your last basic salary. Use a gratuity calculator to estimate yours.

What is the standard notice period in the UAE?

Notice periods are set in your contract and are usually 30 days, though they can range from 30 to 90 days. Both employer and employee must honour it.

UAE Labour Law 2026 — Your Rights as a Worker in the UAE

Knowing your rights makes you a safer, more confident worker. UAE labour law — updated under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 — protects employees across the private sector. Here is a clear summary for 2026.

Your employment contract

All private-sector employees work under fixed-term contracts registered with MOHRE (the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation). Your contract must state your job title, salary, working hours and benefits. Always keep a copy.

Working hours and overtime

The standard work week is 48 hours (8 hours a day, 6 days). Hours are reduced during Ramadan. Work beyond your normal hours should be paid as overtime, typically at 125% of your basic wage, or 150% for late-night hours.

Leave and holidays

Annual leave — 30 calendar days per year after one year of service.
Sick leave — up to 90 days per year, paid on a reducing scale.
Public holidays — paid days off for official UAE holidays.
Maternity leave — 60 days, partly paid.

Notice period and ending a contract

Either party can end the contract by giving the notice stated in it — usually 30 days, sometimes up to 90. You must be paid your salary and dues during the notice period. Arbitrary dismissal entitles you to compensation.

End-of-service gratuity

If you complete at least one year, you earn end-of-service gratuity: 21 days of basic pay per year for the first five years, then 30 days per year after. You can estimate yours with our gratuity and WPS calculator.

Wage protection

Salaries must be paid through the Wage Protection System (WPS). If your employer does not pay on time, you can file a complaint with MOHRE.

How to protect yourself

Read your contract before signing, keep copies of every document, and never hand over your passport — it is your property by law. If a dispute arises, MOHRE offers free mediation.

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