What Are My Rights Regarding Overtime Pay in Dubai?

 Overtime pay is an important issue for many employees working in Dubai, as employees may be required to work beyond their standard working hours. Under UAE Labor Law, there are specific provisions that govern overtime work and the compensation employees are entitled to for extra hours worked. If you’ve worked overtime and are unsure of your rights or feel that you have not been compensated fairly, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Standard Working Hours and Overtime Eligibility: According to UAE Labor Law, the standard working hours are 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. If you work beyond these hours, you are generally entitled to overtime pay. However, there are exceptions, such as certain categories of employees (e.g., those in managerial or executive roles) who may not be eligible for overtime pay. It’s important to check your employment contract to see if it includes specific provisions regarding overtime.

  2. Overtime Pay Calculation: If you are eligible for overtime pay, the UAE Labor Law specifies the rate at which overtime should be compensated. Typically, employees are entitled to receive at least 1.25 times their normal hourly wage for any overtime work conducted during regular working hours. If overtime is worked during a public holiday or outside regular working hours (e.g., at night), the rate increases to 1.5 times the regular hourly wage. The overtime rate should be clearly outlined in your employment contract.

  3. Approval for Overtime: While employees are entitled to overtime pay, employers are required to get their employees’ consent before requiring them to work overtime. If your employer asks you to work overtime, they should get your agreement first. If you have not agreed to the extra hours and have not been paid accordingly, you may have grounds to claim unpaid overtime.

  4. What to Do If You’re Not Paid Overtime: If your employer has not paid you for overtime hours worked, the first step is to raise the issue with your employer or HR department. This could be a simple administrative oversight, and your employer may resolve the issue once you inform them. Make sure to keep a record of the hours worked, and any communication you have with your employer about the issue.

  5. Consult Labour Lawyers in Dubai: If the issue persists or your employer refuses to pay overtime, you may need to seek advice from labour lawyers in Dubai. A lawyer with expertise in labor law can assess your situation, help you calculate the amount of overtime pay owed, and provide advice on the best course of action. They can also assist in negotiations with your employer or take legal action if necessary.

  6. File a Complaint with MOHRE: If you are unable to resolve the dispute with your employer, you can file a formal complaint with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). MOHRE handles labor disputes and can help mediate between you and your employer to ensure that your rights are upheld. If your employer has failed to pay overtime, MOHRE may be able to intervene and facilitate the payment.

  7. Pursue Legal Action: If the matter is still unresolved after filing a complaint with MOHRE, you may need to take the issue to the Dubai Labor Court. Labour lawyers in Dubai will be crucial in guiding you through the process of filing a claim in court. The court will review the evidence, such as your employment contract, pay slips, and any records of overtime hours worked, and may order your employer to pay the unpaid overtime wages.

  8. Avoiding Future Overtime Disputes: To prevent overtime issues in the future, make sure your employment contract clearly states the expectations regarding working hours, overtime pay, and any procedures for approving overtime. Ensure that you have written confirmation of any overtime hours worked and the corresponding pay rates.

In conclusion, overtime pay is a right protected by UAE Labor Law, and if your employer has not compensated you for overtime work, you have several options to address the issue. By reviewing your contract, consulting with labour lawyers in Dubai, and taking appropriate legal action if necessary, you can ensure that you are fairly compensated for any overtime worked

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