How long does a MOHRE complaint take to resolve?

MOHRE aims to resolve complaints within 14 working days through mediation. If that fails, MOHRE itself issues a binding decision on claims up to AED 50,000, which either side can challenge in court within 15 working days. Larger claims are referred to the labour court, which must hold the first hearing within 3 working days of referral.

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 claims above AED 100,000, court fees apply under the relevant court fee schedule.

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 on time: since 1 June 2026, wages for the previous month are due on the 1st, with no grace period, so a salary is legally delayed from the 2nd
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
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 issues a binding decision on claims up to AED 50,000 (either side can challenge it in court within 15 working days). Larger claims go to the labour court. Key points:

Claims under AED 100,000 are fee-exempt
By law the court must hold the first hearing within 3 working days of the referral
You can represent yourself or hire a lawyer
Court judgments can usually be appealed; for claims up to AED 50,000, the court's ruling on a challenge to MOHRE's decision is final
Average resolution time: 2-4 months

Important Timelines

Salary delay: File as soon as your wage is late. Under Ministerial Resolution 340/2026 (in force from 1 June 2026), wages are due on the 1st of the month with no grace period, so from the 2nd you are entitled to complain. There is no waiting period.
After termination: File within 2 years of your employment ending
Gratuity claim: Must be filed within 2 years of your employment ending

MOHRE Contact Information

Call centre: 600 590000
WhatsApp: Available through the MOHRE app
Email: ask@mohre.gov.ae
Working hours: Monday to Thursday 7:30am to 3:30pm, Friday 7:30am to 12:00pm (check mohre.gov.ae for current hours)