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.
- 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 — 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
- 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 in the 2026 salary guide before you negotiate
- Run your CV through the free ATS checker — a strong pipeline is the best negotiating position in any dispute
