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Legal Matters

It is crucial that any professional with a job in Dubai or a job in the UAE elsewhere, is familiar with the UAE laws and regulations pertaining to jobs and employment in Dubai and the UAE

Immigration law

With respect to the customs and laws in the UAE, companies and certified representatives are required to oversee sponsorship and conduct of expatriate employees and visitors as well as adhere to various regulations. It is the responsibility of professionals and employees working in Dubai to fully respect the customs and laws of the UAE while taking heed of renewal and cancellation of visas and labor cards.

Labour Law

Protective of employees, UAE Labour Law can overrule conflicting contracts made under other jurisdictions given that they are beneficial to the said employee and is directed by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. According to www.sagroupuae.com/uae-labourlaw.aspUAE, Law No. 8 of 1980, as amended by Law No. 12 of 1986 (the Labour Law), governs most aspects of employer/employee relations, such as hours of work, leave, termination rights, medical benefits and repatriation.

Severance pay is equal to 21 days pay for every year of the first five years of service and 30 days for every year thereafter not exceed two years' wages. For employment in Dubai for less than one full year, employees are entitled to pro-rated amounts of severance pay given that they have completed one year of continuous service.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs will act as an arbitrator if a conflict arises between an employer and the employee over a contract or in the interpretation of the Labour Law. Appeals of final decisions can be made in the UAE court system. Workers unions are prohibited in the UAE.

For more information go to www.mol.gov.ae.