How to File a MOHRE Complaint in UAE: Step-by-Step Guide

If your employer has delayed your salary, terminated you unfairly, or violated your employment contract, you have the legal right to file a complaint with MOHRE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. This process is free, available online, and taken seriously by the UAE government.

Many workers hesitate to file because they do not know the process or worry about retaliation. UAE law protects employees who file legitimate complaints. Here is exactly how to do it in 2026.

When should you file a MOHRE complaint?

You can file a MOHRE complaint for any of these situations:

• Salary delayed more than 15 days beyond the due date
• Unpaid overtime that was worked but not compensated
• Wrongful termination without proper notice or cause
• End-of-service gratuity not paid after leaving the company
• Contract violations where actual conditions differ from your MOHRE-registered contract
• Unsafe working conditions that the employer refuses to fix
• Passport confiscation which is illegal under UAE law

If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, file anyway. MOHRE will assess the complaint and advise you. There is no penalty for filing a complaint that does not proceed.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Before you file, collect the following:

• Copy of your employment contract (the MOHRE-registered version, not any side agreement)
• Salary slips or bank statements showing delayed or missing payments
• Emirates ID number
• Your employer's company name and licence number
• Any written communication (email, WhatsApp messages) related to the dispute

The MOHRE-registered contract is the legally binding document. If there is a difference between your paper offer letter and the MOHRE contract, the MOHRE version wins. Check your contract details on the MOHRE app under My Contracts.

Step 2: File through the MOHRE app or website

The fastest way to file is through the MOHRE mobile app, available on iOS and Android. You can also file through the MOHRE website at mohre.gov.ae or call 800-MOHRE (80060473).

In the app, go to Services, then select Submit a Labour Complaint. Fill in your details, describe the issue, and attach your supporting documents. The system will generate a complaint reference number.

Step 3: Virtual mediation

After filing, MOHRE schedules a virtual mediation session between you and your employer. This usually happens within 2 to 5 working days. A MOHRE mediator reviews both sides and tries to reach a settlement.

During mediation, stay factual. Present your documents calmly. Do not make threats or emotional arguments. The mediator is there to help, not to judge. Many disputes are resolved at this stage. If your employer agrees to pay delayed salary or gratuity, the settlement is recorded and becomes enforceable.

Step 4: Referral to Labour Court

If mediation fails, MOHRE refers your case to the Labour Court. You will receive a referral letter. Labour Court cases are heard by a judge and typically resolve within 2 to 4 months. For claims under AED 100,000, there are no court fees.

You can represent yourself in Labour Court but hiring a lawyer improves your chances for complex cases. Many law firms in UAE offer free initial consultations for labour disputes.

What happens to your visa during a complaint?

Filing a MOHRE complaint does not automatically cancel your visa. If you are still employed, your visa remains active. If you have been terminated, you have a 30-day grace period to find new employment or file the complaint. MOHRE can extend this grace period if your case is active.

Your employer cannot cancel your visa while a complaint is pending. This is a legal protection that many workers do not know about.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long: File within 30 days of the incident for the strongest case
• Not keeping records: Save all salary slips, messages, and contract copies
• Accepting verbal promises: Get any settlement agreement in writing
• Signing a resignation under pressure: If your employer pressures you to resign, file a complaint instead

Know your rights

UAE labour law is more employee-friendly than most workers realize. Read our comprehensive UAE Labour Law Guide to understand your full rights around contracts, notice periods, and termination. Calculate what you are owed with the Gratuity Calculator.

If you are looking for a new job while your case is active, update your CV with our free CV Maker and browse current openings on our jobs page. For salary benchmarks in your industry, check the UAE Salary Guide 2026.