Late, short, or unpaid salary is the most common employment dispute in the UAE, and also the one with the clearest resolution path. The process is free, doesn't require a lawyer at the first stage, and mostly favours documented employees. Here's exactly how it works.
Before you file: three quick checks
- Check your contract. The registered MOHRE contract (not a side letter) defines your basic salary and allowances. Disputes are judged against this document, and the entitlements behind it are set out in our UAE labour law 2026 overview.
- Gather evidence. Bank statements showing missing/short transfers, payslips, the employment contract, and any written communication about pay. Screenshots of WhatsApp messages count.
- Raise it internally once, in writing. A short email to HR creates a paper trail and sometimes resolves it outright.
Filing the complaint (private sector)
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) handles private-sector disputes:
- Call 80060, use the MOHRE app, or file at mohre.gov.ae → "Labour Complaints"
- Provide your Emirates ID, labour card details, and the complaint specifics
- MOHRE opens a mediation case and both sides are called in, usually within two weeks
- Most salary cases settle at mediation: the employer is directed to pay, and non-compliance blocks their ability to issue new work permits
If mediation fails within 14 days, MOHRE refers the case to the labour court with a referral letter. Claims under AED 50,000 are handled by expedited process, and court fees for workers are waived in most salary claims.
Free-zone employees: DIFC and ADGM have their own employment tribunals; most other free zones route through their authority first, then MOHRE/courts.
Your protections while the case runs
- Filing a complaint cannot legally be grounds for dismissal. Retaliatory termination strengthens your case and adds compensation; see your rights if you are terminated
- Your visa remains valid during proceedings
- If salary is 60+ days unpaid, you generally qualify to switch employers without a ban
- The Wage Protection System (WPS) means MOHRE can already see your employer's payment record. Persistent non-payers face company-wide sanctions
Timelines and outcomes
Straightforward documented cases typically resolve in 2-8 weeks through mediation. Court adds months, which is why the overwhelming majority settle. Successful claims cover the unpaid salary, and often end-of-service benefits and compensation if the employment ended.
Protect the next chapter
Whatever the outcome, most people in a salary dispute end up job hunting in parallel, quietly and smartly:
- Browse live UAE jobs with salary estimates shown up front, so the next contract starts from an informed number
- Check your market rate before you negotiate; our salary negotiation guide covers how to counter with data
- Get your CV screened before you apply. A strong pipeline is the best negotiating position in any dispute
