What Should I Do If I Am Facing Workplace Harassment in Dubai?

 Workplace harassment is a serious issue that can affect your well-being, productivity, and mental health. In Dubai, both the UAE Labor Law and international standards protect employees from harassment, including discrimination, bullying, and any form of abuse. If you are facing harassment at work, it’s important to know your rights and understand the steps you can take to address the issue. Here's a guide on what to do if you are experiencing workplace harassment in Dubai:

1. Identify the Harassment

Workplace harassment can take many forms, including:

  • Verbal Harassment: Offensive language, derogatory comments, or unwanted jokes.
  • Physical Harassment: Unwanted physical contact, intimidation, or threats.
  • Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate behavior, or suggestive comments.
  • Psychological Harassment: Bullying, humiliation, exclusion, or persistent unfair treatment.
  • Discriminatory Harassment: Harassment based on race, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

It’s important to recognize that harassment can occur from a supervisor, colleague, or even a client or customer. The key element is that the behavior is unwanted, makes you feel uncomfortable, or creates a hostile work environment.

2. Document the Harassment

If you are facing harassment at work, it’s essential to document the incidents. Keep a detailed record of every instance of harassment, including:

  • Date, time, and location of the incident
  • A description of what occurred
  • Any witnesses to the incident
  • Any responses or actions you took to address the situation
  • Any communications, such as emails or messages, that support your claims

This documentation will be crucial if you decide to report the harassment or take legal action.

3. Report the Harassment Internally

Before taking external action, it’s often recommended to address the issue internally if possible. Here are the steps you can take:

  • Speak to Your Manager or HR: If the harassment is coming from a colleague or supervisor, report the issue to your manager or human resources (HR) department. Employers are legally required to investigate claims of harassment and take appropriate action. Be clear, professional, and provide all documentation of the harassment.
  • Use Your Company’s Complaint Procedure: Many companies have formal grievance or complaints procedures. Follow these procedures and ensure that you submit a formal complaint in writing if necessary.

4. Know Your Legal Rights

UAE Labor Law prohibits harassment in the workplace, and employees are entitled to work in an environment free from discrimination, bullying, and abuse. Harassment can violate the employee's dignity, affect their well-being, and impact their performance. The law includes protections against harassment based on gender, race, religion, nationality, and other personal characteristics.

Additionally, the UAE Penal Code also addresses criminal acts of harassment, particularly in cases of sexual harassment. If the harassment involves a criminal act, such as sexual harassment or physical assault, the offender may face criminal charges, including fines or imprisonment.

5. File a Complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)

If the issue is not resolved through internal reporting, you have the option to file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). MOHRE is responsible for protecting employees' rights and resolving labor disputes in the UAE. You can file a complaint through the MOHRE website or mobile app.

When filing a complaint, be sure to provide all relevant evidence, including your documentation of the harassment, any internal reports, and the actions taken by your employer (if any). MOHRE will investigate the complaint, and if the case involves workplace harassment, they may mediate between you and your employer, and issue penalties or corrective actions if necessary.

6. Seek Legal Advice from Labour Lawyers in Dubai

If the harassment persists or you are not satisfied with the response from your employer or MOHRE, you may want to seek legal advice from labour lawyers in Dubai. A lawyer specializing in employment law can help you understand your options, whether that involves filing a lawsuit or pursuing further legal action. Labour lawyers can also assist in navigating the complex legal system and protect your interests in a workplace harassment case.

7. Potential Legal Consequences for the Employer

Under UAE Labor Law, if your employer fails to take appropriate action to stop workplace harassment or retaliation, they could be held liable for the harassment. This includes instances where the employer fails to investigate complaints, allows the harassment to continue, or even participates in discriminatory behavior.

In the case of severe harassment, your employer may be required to compensate you for any emotional distress or loss of income resulting from the harassment. If the harassment is criminal in nature (e.g., sexual assault), the perpetrator may face criminal charges, and your employer could also face legal consequences for failing to take action.

8. Taking Legal Action for Workplace Harassment

If all other avenues fail, you may choose to take legal action. The UAE has strict laws regarding workplace misconduct, including harassment. Depending on the severity of the harassment, the case could proceed in one of the following ways:

  • Civil Case: If the harassment caused emotional distress or damages, you could file a civil case against the perpetrator or the employer for compensation.
  • Criminal Case: If the harassment involves a criminal offense (such as sexual harassment or assault), you may file a criminal case with the police. The offender could face fines or imprisonment if convicted.

Labour lawyers in Dubai can help you navigate both civil and criminal proceedings, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you are compensated for the harm you’ve suffered.

9. Retaliation and Protection Against Victimization

It’s important to know that retaliation for reporting harassment is illegal. If your employer terminates your contract, demotes you, or otherwise punishes you for reporting harassment or filing a complaint, this is considered unlawful retaliation under UAE Labor Law. In such cases, you may have grounds for a claim of unfair dismissal or constructive dismissal, and you can take legal action against your employer.

10. Preventing Future Harassment

Workplace harassment can have long-term effects, so it's important for employers to create a culture of respect and inclusion. As an employee, you have the right to request that your employer implement measures to prevent future harassment, such as:

  • Conducting training on appropriate workplace behavior
  • Establishing clear anti-harassment policies
  • Creating a safe reporting mechanism for employees

If you are in a leadership or HR position, it's vital to actively work toward fostering a respectful, inclusive environment to minimize the chances of harassment occurring.

In Conclusion:

If you are facing workplace harassment in Dubai, you have legal protections and several options for seeking redress. From documenting incidents and reporting them internally to filing a formal complaint with MOHRE or pursuing legal action, it’s essential to act promptly to protect your rights. If necessary, consult with labour lawyers in Dubai who can guide you through the process and help ensure that you receive the support and compensation you deserve. No one should have to endure harassment at work, and the law provides effective means to address and resolve such issues

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