What Are the Rules for Working Hours and Overtime in Dubai?

 In Dubai, like the rest of the UAE, working hours and overtime are regulated by the UAE Labor Law. Employers are required to follow certain guidelines regarding the maximum number of working hours per day and week, as well as how overtime should be compensated. As an employee, it’s important to know your rights concerning working hours and overtime pay to ensure that you are not exploited and that your employer is complying with labor regulations.

Here’s everything you need to know about working hours and overtime in Dubai:

1. Standard Working Hours

Under UAE Labor Law, the standard working hours are set at 8 hours per day, or 48 hours per week. This typically translates to a 6-day workweek, with a one-day weekend (usually Friday). However, depending on the employer and industry, some companies may operate on different schedules, such as a 5-day workweek with longer hours per day.

  • Workday Duration: If you are working for more than 6 hours per day, you are entitled to at least 1 hour of rest. This rest period should not be counted as part of your working hours.
  • Maximum Weekly Hours: In general, you should not work more than 48 hours per week. However, there are certain exceptions depending on the nature of the work.

2. Overtime Regulations

Overtime work occurs when an employee is asked to work beyond the standard 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. If you are asked to work overtime, the employer is required to compensate you accordingly.

  • Overtime Pay: The UAE Labor Law mandates that overtime work must be paid at 1.25 times your regular hourly rate for the first two extra hours worked per day. For any overtime beyond two hours, the rate increases to 1.5 times the regular hourly rate.
  • Overtime Hours: Overtime can be requested by an employer, but it should not exceed 2 hours per day, except in emergencies, as stipulated by the law. Employees should not be forced to work excessive overtime without proper compensation.
  • Exemptions from Overtime Pay: Certain categories of employees, such as those in managerial or executive roles, may be exempt from overtime pay if their contract specifically states this or if their position involves a higher level of responsibility.

3. Holiday Pay

Employees in Dubai are also entitled to pay for public holidays as per UAE Labor Law. The government of the UAE declares official public holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, National Day, and others. If you are asked to work on a public holiday, you are entitled to either:

  • A paid day off in lieu of the public holiday, or
  • 1.5 times your regular daily wage for working on a holiday.

4. Night Work

Employees who work between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM are considered to be working during "night hours." For these hours, employers must pay employees at least 25% more than their regular wage.

  • Night Work Exceptions: Some exceptions may apply based on the industry or type of work. For example, employees in hospitality, healthcare, or transportation sectors may be required to work at night, but they are still entitled to extra compensation.

5. Rest Days and Weekly Off

As per the UAE Labor Law, employees are entitled to at least 1 full day off per week, usually on Friday. However, depending on your employer’s policy or industry, the day of rest may vary, and some employees may work on weekends and get their rest day on another day.

  • Work on Rest Days: If you are asked to work on your weekly rest day (e.g., Friday), you are entitled to either:
    • A paid day off in lieu, or
    • Overtime pay at the rate of 1.25 times your regular pay.

6. Exceptions to Working Hour Limits

Some sectors and types of employment have specific exemptions to the standard working hours. These include:

  • Transport Workers: Drivers, truckers, or those working in transportation may have different working hours based on their role.
  • Security Guards: Security workers often have long shifts but should still receive proper compensation for hours worked beyond the legal limit.
  • Domestic Workers: Domestic workers, including nannies and housekeepers, have separate rules under the UAE Labor Law, and their working hours may differ from those of other employees.

7. How to Calculate Overtime Pay

Overtime is calculated based on your regular wage. For instance, if you are paid AED 5,000 per month, your daily wage can be calculated by dividing your monthly salary by the number of days you work in a month (usually 30 days):

  • Daily wage: AED 5,000 / 30 = AED 166.67 per day.
  • Hourly rate: AED 166.67 / 8 = AED 20.83 per hour.
  • If you work overtime, you are entitled to pay at 1.25 times your hourly rate for the first two hours, and 1.5 times for any additional hours beyond that.

8. Record Keeping and Employer’s Obligations

Employers are required to keep accurate records of working hours, including overtime, for all employees. These records should clearly indicate:

  • The number of hours worked each day
  • Any overtime hours worked
  • The rate of overtime pay

If your employer fails to maintain such records or does not pay you for overtime work, you may file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

9. What to Do If You Are Not Paid Overtime

If you believe that you have worked overtime and have not been paid according to the legal guidelines, the first step is to raise the issue with your employer or HR department. It’s possible that there was a misunderstanding or error in the payroll process.

If your employer refuses to pay or ignores your concerns, you can file a formal complaint with MOHRE. MOHRE will investigate your complaint and work to resolve the issue. If the case is not resolved through mediation, you can pursue legal action through the labor courts in Dubai.

10. Workplace Policies on Overtime

Some companies have their own internal policies regarding overtime, including setting limits on how much overtime can be worked or establishing compensation policies that are above the statutory minimums. Always check your employment contract and company policies to ensure that you are aware of any additional benefits or conditions regarding overtime work.

In Conclusion:

As an employee in Dubai, you have a right to fair working hours and overtime pay. The UAE Labor Law sets clear guidelines for maximum working hours, the payment of overtime, and compensating employees for work during public holidays and night shifts. If you find yourself working beyond the standard hours or not being paid correctly for overtime, it’s important to document your hours, raise the issue with your employer, and if necessary, seek legal advice or file a complaint with MOHRE. Labour lawyers in Dubai can assist you if you need help navigating any disputes related to working hours or overtime compensation. Being informed about your rights will help ensure that you are fairly compensated for the work you perform

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