Dubai Work Permit & Labor Laws - What Expats Need to Know in 2025

Dubai is a top destination for expats looking to work in a safe, tax free, and opportunity rich environment. However, understanding the work permit process and UAE labour laws is essential to avoid issues and ensure your rights are protected as an employee or employer.

In this 2025 guide, we cover:

• Types of work permits in Dubai
• Step by step process to get a work permit
• Key UAE labour laws for expats
• Work hours, contracts, and termination rules
• Workers’ rights, leave, and salary protection
• Common questions answered
  
  

📝 What is a Dubai Work Permit?

A work permit (also called a labour card) is an official document issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or a Free Zone authority that legally allows a foreigner to work in the UAE.

✅ Who Needs a Work Permit in Dubai?

Anyone who is:

• Not a UAE / GCC citizen
• Planning to work full time, part time, or as a freelancer
• Working in the mainland or Free Zone
  
  

🛂 Types of Work Permits in UAE (2025)

🪪 How to Get a Dubai Work Permit – Step by Step

1️⃣ Find a Job & Get Offer Letter

• Secure a job in Dubai (mainland or Free Zone)
• Your employer must apply for your work permit
  
  

2️⃣ Entry Permit Processing

• Issued by GDRFA
• Allows you to legally enter UAE for employment
  
  

3️⃣ Medical Fitness Test

• Must pass a government-approved medical test
• Tests include X-ray and blood test (for infectious diseases)
  
  

4️⃣ Emirates ID Registration

• Biometric data collection (photo + fingerprints)
  
  

5️⃣ Labour Contract Signing

• Sign your UAE labour contract (in English + Arabic)
  
  

6️⃣ Receive Work Permit & Visa Stamping

• MOHRE issues the labour card (work permit)
• Residency visa stamped in your passport

⏳ Processing Time: 7 – 20 working days
💰 Cost: Usually covered by the employer; can range from AED 3,000 – AED 7,000 depending on company category
⚠️ Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check with MOHRE or Free Zone authority.

📜 Key UAE Labour Laws Expats Should Know (2025)

1. 📄 Employment Contract Types

• Limited (Fixed Term): Specific start and end dates
• Unlimited (Open Term): Allowed since 2022 reforms, but all contracts must now have a duration (max 3 years, renewable)
  
  

2. ⏱️ Working Hours

• Standard: 8 hours / day or 48 hours / week
• During Ramadan: 6 hours / day
• Overtime: Paid at 25 – 50% extra depending on hours
  
  

3. 🧳 Annual Leave

• Minimum 30 calendar days per year (after 1 year of service)
  
  

4. 🤒 Sick Leave

• Up to 90 days / year
  
  • First 15 days: Full pay
  • Next 30 days: Half pay
  • Remaining 45 days: Unpaid
    
    

5. 👶 Maternity & Paternity Leave

• Maternity Leave: 60 days (45 full pay + 15 half pay)
• Paternity Leave: 5 days (within 6 months of birth)
  
  

6. 📅 Probation Period

• Maximum 6 months
• 14 days’ notice required if resigning during probation
  
  

7. 🛑 Termination & Notice

• Notice period: Minimum 30 days, maximum 90 days
• Unlawful termination entitles employees to compensation
  
  

💸 Salary, Pay Protection & Gratuity

1. Wage Protection System (WPS)

• Ensures salaries are paid on time via registered banks
• Non payment can result in fines and visa suspensions
  
  

2. End of Service Benefits (Gratuity Pay)

• Based on basic salary and years of service
• For expats:
  • 21 days’ pay per year (1 – 5 years)
  • 30 days’ pay per year (5+ years)
    
    

🧑‍⚖️ Employee Rights & Protections

✔️ Equal pay for men and women
✔️ No forced labour or passport retention
✔️ Dispute resolution via MOHRE & Labour Court
✔️ Health insurance is mandatory and must be provided by the employer
✔️ Right to receive end of service certificate upon leaving a job

📞 Where to File Complaints?

If you face issues with salary, contract, or employer violations:

MOHRE Contact

• 📞 800 60 (UAE)
• 🌐 mohre.gov.ae
• 📱 MOHRE Smart App
  
  

Dubai Labour Court

• Located in Al Qusais
• Accepts disputes for workers in the mainland
  
  

🛡️ Common Labour Violations to Avoid

• Working without a valid work permit
• Accepting cash salary (outside WPS)
• Overstaying on a cancelled visa
• Absconding without resignation/notice
• Signing contract without reading both Arabic and English sections
  
  

💬 FAQs – Dubai Work Permit & Labour Laws

Q: Can I switch jobs in Dubai?
Yes, but you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or follow legal notice period during contract transfer.

Q: Can I work for more than one company?
Yes, but you need a part time work permit from MOHRE.

Q: What happens if I work on a tourist visa?
It’s illegal. You risk fines, deportation, and bans.

Dubai’s labour market is modern, safe, and regulated. As an expat, understanding your rights, obligations, and visa process helps you stay compliant and protected under UAE law.

Always ensure:

• Your employer is MOHRE registered
• You receive a legal contract and WPS salary
• You maintain valid visa and Emirates ID