To start or expand a business in the UAE, you must know your rights and protections under labour law. In this blog post, we’ll outline the steps you need to take to check your labour contract and provide tips on protecting yourself from any potential legal issues.
We’ll also discuss some of the most common issues entrepreneurs face in the UAE and provide advice on navigating them successfully. So if you’re planning on starting or expanding your business in the UAE, read this blog post first!
What is a Labour Contract in UAE?
A labour contract is an agreement between an employer and an individual or a company that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for a specific period of time. It can range from a short-term contract to a long-term career opportunity. A labour contract in UAE can be advantageous for both parties, as it provides stability and certainty for the employer while providing the employee with the possibility of growth and development. It is also beneficial for both parties because it helps avoid misunderstandings or issues when hiring new employees.
A labour contract can take various forms, including single- or multi-year agreements, full-time, part-time, or temporary positions, and even be non-standardized with no set work hours. It can also include benefits such as health insurance, retirement savings plans, or stock options. In some cases, contracts may even be referred to as “employment contracts”, “employment agreements”, “work agreements”, “job contracts”, “professional agreements”, “service agreements”, or other similar terms.
How Many Types of Labour Contracts Are There in UAE?
There are several types of labour contracts in the UAE, including fixed-term and unlimited-term contracts. A limited contract has a specific length of time and requires the employer to pay a specific amount for the work performed by the employee.
On the other hand, an unlimited-term contract has no set limits on the time it will be in force and can continue as long as both parties agree to it. Other types of labour contracts include casual, part-time, seasonal, and outsourcing. These cover different areas of employment and can help employers find the right fit for their needs.
How to Check Labour Contract?
1. Visit the Tasheel or MOHRE websites.
2. You will see a ‘Labour Card Information’ option at the bottom of the page.
3. Choose the option if you want to go to the next page.
4. Enter your information, including your labour card number, person code, date of birth, and nationality.
5. Click on the ‘Check Labour Contract’ button.
6. Once the site finds your information, it will take you to the next page, allowing you to view your UAE work contract online.
Where Can I Print my Labour Contract in UAE?
You can download and print your Labour contract at MOHRE’s website. It is the central portal for all employers in the country to register their employment with MOHRE. The contract will legally bind you and your employees, detailing their employment conditions and rights.
What is The Notice Period for Limited Contract in UAE?
In limited contracts, the parties generally do not have to give a specific notice period to the other party. This means that they can enter into the contract on an as-needed basis. They are free to end it anytime, with or without notice. The notice period is usually set by statute in limited contracts and can vary depending on the type of work done under the contract.
For example, suppose a contractor provides construction services to a government agency. In that case, the notice period may be more extended than if a contractor repairs a broken piece of equipment for another company. If you are involved in a limited contract in UAE and have questions about your notice period, consult an attorney to help you determine your legal rights and resolve any issues you may have.
What Works Are Included in UAE Labour Contract?
1. Limited (fixed-term employment contracts): The contract is limited to a specific period of time and can be terminated at any time by either party, with no notice required. Employees are usually given 1 months’ notice before the contract ends. If the employee wants to continue working for an extra month after their contract ends, they must negotiate this with their employer.
2. Unlimited (flexible): Employment can be flexible; employees can work as many or as few hours as they want without having a set minimum hours requirement or a maximum number of shifts per week. Employees usually have to give 2 weeks’ notice before changing their working hours unless there are exceptional circumstances.
3. Part-time: Employees can work part-time, which allows them more time for personal and family responsibilities.
4. Full-time: Employment usually is on a full-time basis, meaning that employees work the same number of hours weekly.
5. Temporary: Employees may be employed temporarily (for a specific period of time), rather than being given a fixed contract or employment agreement which lasts for a specific period of time.
6. Special Employment: Employees may be employed in a special job which does not usually come under the regular category of work, such as working for a company in their spare time (e.g. self-employed).
7. Job-sharing: Some employers offer job-sharing arrangements where employees work part-time and take care of children or elderly relatives simultaneously, sharing equally in household responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, etc.
Conclusion
If you are an employer in the UAE looking to start or renew a labour contract, you must know your rights and obligations under the law. By checking your labour contract carefully, you can ensure that you are adhering to all applicable regulations and that you and your employees are satisfied with the terms of the contract. Additionally, checking your labour contract can help to avoid any potential disputes or misunderstandings down the road.
