How long does a MOHRE complaint take to resolve?

MOHRE aims to resolve complaints within 14 working days through mediation. If mediation fails, the case is referred to the labour court, which can take 2-4 months for a final ruling.

Is there a fee to file a MOHRE complaint?

Filing a MOHRE complaint is free. If the case goes to labour court, claims under AED 100,000 are also fee-exempt. For larger claims, court fees apply but are typically 5% of the claimed amount.

Can I file a MOHRE complaint after leaving the UAE?

Yes, you can file a complaint online through the MOHRE website or app even after leaving the UAE. You can also appoint a legal representative to handle the case on your behalf.

How to File a MOHRE Complaint in the UAE [Step-by-Step Guide]

If your employer has violated your rights — unpaid wages, denied leave, wrongful termination, or withheld documents — the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is your first point of contact. Here's exactly how to file a complaint.

When to File a MOHRE Complaint

You should file a complaint if your employer:

Has not paid your salary (or paid it late by more than 15 days)
Terminated you without proper notice or valid reason
Refuses to pay your end-of-service gratuity
Withholds your passport or personal documents
Refuses to cancel your work permit after termination
Violates working hour limits or denies entitled leave
Has not provided the terms agreed in your employment contract

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before filing, prepare:

Copy of your Emirates ID
Copy of your employment contract (in Arabic or English)
Recent pay slips or bank statements showing salary history
Any relevant communications (emails, WhatsApp messages, letters)
Your MOHRE labour card number (if available)

Step 2: File the Complaint

You have three options:

Option A: MOHRE App (Recommended)

Download the MOHRE app (iOS or Android)
Log in with UAE PASS
Go to "Services" → "Labour Complaints"
Select the complaint category
Fill in the details and attach documents
Submit — you'll receive a reference number

Option B: MOHRE Website

Visit mohre.gov.ae
Navigate to "Services" → "File a Complaint"
Log in with UAE PASS and follow the same steps

Option C: Walk-in (Tasheel Centres)

Visit any Tasheel service centre with your documents. The staff will help you file the complaint in person.

Step 3: Mediation (Amicable Settlement)

After filing, MOHRE will:

Contact your employer within 2 working days
Schedule a mediation session (usually within 14 working days)
Attempt to reach an amicable settlement between you and your employer

If both parties agree, a settlement document is issued and becomes legally binding.

Step 4: Escalation to Labour Court

If mediation fails, MOHRE refers the case to the labour court. Key points:

Claims under AED 100,000 are fee-exempt
The court typically schedules hearings within 2-3 weeks
You can represent yourself or hire a lawyer
Court decisions are final and enforceable
Average resolution time: 2-4 months

How to File a MOHRE Complaint in the UAE [Step-by-Step Guide]

When to File a MOHRE Complaint

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Step 2: File the Complaint

Option A: MOHRE App (Recommended)

Option B: MOHRE Website

Option C: Walk-in (Tasheel Centres)

Step 3: Mediation (Amicable Settlement)

Step 4: Escalation to Labour Court

Important Timelines

MOHRE Contact Information

Related Resources

Know Your Employment Rights

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