The MOHRE UAE is the primary governmental authority. Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation ensures that labor laws are followed. It protects worker’s rights to resolve disputes. They also oversee the relationship between employees and employers. Their role is pivotal in handling complaints related to employment issues. For this, they have introduced a complaint system MOHRE. Employees can file complaints for resolution. In case they believe their rights have been violated.
The guide debunks the process of filing a labor complaint. Learn how to file a complaint with MOHRE in the UAE, including:
- Issue types leading to filing a complaint
- How to go about it, and
- Other important information you need to know.
When Can an Employee File a Complaint in the UAE?
UAE’s Labor Law (Federal Law No. 20 of 2023), outlines the employee’s rights. It guarantees their protection and welfare at the workplace. For instance, UAE workers can file complaints with MOHRE when their employers violate these laws. We penned down some situations where an employee can file a complaint:
Unsafe Working Conditions:
If you do not have a safe and secure environment to work in.
Salary Issues:
If your employer delays payment of wages or does not provide salaries on time.
Leave Violations:
If you are denied annual leave or public holiday leave. On the other hand, if pregnant employees are not granted maternity leave.
Passport Retention:
If your employer is holding onto your passport without your consent.
Excessive Working Hours:
If you are made to work more than the standard working hours. It is 8 or 9 hours per day.
Gratuity Pay:
If you are not paid your gratuity or at the end of your employment contract. Despite fulfilling the required work duration.
Termination Violations:
If you are not given a 30-day grace period after employment contract termination
Visa Costs:
If you are asked to repay the costs associated with your employment visa.
These violations may lead you to seek a resolution through the MOHRE complaint system.
How to Request a MOHRE Complaint?
The MOHRE has made the complaint process simple. The procedure is transparent for both employees and employers. MOHRE will review the issue when a complaint is filed. They contact both and work toward resolving the dispute amicably.
This is how you can file a complaint:
1. MOHRE Call Centre
Contact the MOHRE call center for assistance. For filing a complaint, the number to call is 600-5900-00. A customer care representative will guide you through the process. They help resolve your complaint. Your complaint will be forwarded in case they are unable to solve your issue. It will be forwarded to the Department of Complaints and Advice. The case will be closed if the issue is resolved. However, if not, you will be assisted in filing an official complaint. This may lead to further legal action.
2. Online Complaint System MOHRE
The MOHRE website and mobile app offer a user-friendly platform. Both employees and employers can easily file complaints online. A step-by-step process to file a complaint online:
- Visit the official MOHRE website. You can also download the MOHRE mobile app. Install it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Select the relevant complaint category. It can be either a “Salary Complaint” or a “Labor Complaint.”
- Register as a user using your UAE Pass.
- Fill in the necessary details. Lastly, submit the form.
A legal advisor from the Twa-fouq Centre will contact you when the complaint is submitted. They contact you within 72 hours. By visiting the MOHRE Inquiry Services section, track the status of your complaint. Enter your transaction number to track your complaint.
3. Twa-fouq Service Centres
Twa-fouq service centers are authorized by MOHRE to handle complaints. They will assist you by conducting an initial investigation. These centers also provide recommendations to reach an amicable resolution between both parties. They may arrange a phone discussion or a meeting with a legal advisor if needed. The case is forwarded to the court if no resolution is reached within two weeks.
4. Labour Courts
The case will be sent to the Labour Court if the dispute is not resolved through the Twa-fouq service centers within 14 days. The court will review the case. This may involve a hearing. After this, making a final judgment. MOHRE will assist the court by providing all necessary documentation related to the complaint.
How to Track Your MOHRE Application Status
You can easily track the status of your complaint through the MOHRE website or app:
- Visit the MOHRE Services section.
- Enter your complaint number or labor complaint number.
- Click Submit to check the current status of your complaint.
You can also contact the MOHRE call center for updates.
Amendments to the Complaint System MOHRE
Several updates have been made to the MOHRE complaint process in recent years to make it more efficient:
- Disputes under AED 50,000: For labor disputes involving workers, companies, domestic workers, or recruitment agencies where the claimed amount is less than AED 50,000, MOHRE has the final executive authority to resolve these issues. This streamlines the process and ensures faster resolution.
- Enforcement of Amicable Settlements: In case of an amicable settlement with MOHRE’s facilitation. Regardless of the claimed amount, it will be enforced
- Right to Appeal: Within 15 working days, employees and employers can appeal MOHRE’s decision. The Court of Appeals will schedule a hearing in three working days for a prompt resolution.
- Handling Larger Disputes: MOHRE will continue to facilitate settlement for disputes exceeding AED 50,000. The case will be referred to the relevant court if an agreement cannot be reached in 15 working days. The court then works for a resolution for both parties
(FAQs)
1. What is the Fee for Filing a MOHRE Complaint?
It is free of charge to file a complaint with MOHRE. In case, your complaint is not resolved through MOHRE, fees may apply. It will proceed to a labor dispute case in court. However, these fees vary. It depends on the emirate in which the case is filed. Fees for filing a labor dispute case start at AED 5,000 in Dubai.
2. What is the MOHRE Complaint Contact Number?
For any inquiries regarding the MOHRE complaint process, you can contact:
- Local Number: 600-590-000 (available 24/7)
- International Number: +971-68-027-666 (for foreign nationals)
3. Can I File a Complaint Against Domestic Workers?
Domestic workers also fall under MOHRE’s jurisdiction. You can file a complaint regarding their conduct. To do so:
- Visit the official MOHRE website
- Use the mobile app, or
- Visit a Tasheel service center.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the complaint system MOHRE is a transparent option. It provides workers in the UAE with an accessible and effective mechanism. Great to resolve labor disputes and protect their rights. Assist them in dealing with issues to salary delays and unsafe working conditions. They can also file a complaint for facing violations of the UAE Labor Law. You can receive prompt assistance and file a complaint as MOHRE offers multiple ways for you.
Employees can ensure their concerns are heard by utilizing the MOHRE complaint system. They can address their issues quickly and get a response. It helps to maintain a fair working environment in the UAE.
Get support from the Emiratisation Gate Org for instant help in this regard. We guide you on how to file a complaint with MOHRE immediately to get your issues resolved.
