The UAE labor market is governed by strict laws that protect both employers and employees. However, cases of unpaid salaries continue to be a growing concern among expatriate workers. If you’re an employee in the UAE and haven’t received your wages on time, you do have legal rights — and there are clear procedures you can follow to claim what is rightfully yours.
At Al Tawkel Center, we frequently support workers who are struggling with salary delays, helping them file claims and resolve disputes professionally and legally.
Understanding the Legal Framework
The UAE Labor Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) states that employers are obligated to pay wages on time as agreed in the employment contract. Salaries must be paid within 15 days of their due date unless another arrangement is clearly stated.
If the employer fails to pay without a valid reason, the law views it as a breach of contract, and the employee has the right to report the matter to authorities for investigation and action.
What Happens When Salaries Are Delayed?
Salary delays can cause stress, financial hardship, and even affect your visa status. But the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has systems in place to support employees through:
- Wages Protection System (WPS) monitoring
- Complaint filing platforms
- Mediation services
- Legal escalation if needed
Most importantly, the government ensures that workers are not left without support in such cases.
Legal Steps You Can Take if Your Salary Is Unpaid
If your employer hasn’t paid your salary, here’s what you can do legally in the UAE:
- Talk to Your Employer
- Try resolving the matter internally first through polite communication.
- Request written confirmation or explanation for the delay.
- Check WPS Status
- Salaries paid via WPS are tracked. If delayed, you can request MOHRE intervention based on payment history.
- File a Complaint with MOHRE
- File online via the MOHRE website or app.
- You can also call 800-60 or visit a Tasheel center.
- Follow Up on MOHRE Investigation
- MOHRE will attempt to mediate and resolve the issue.
- If unresolved, the case will be forwarded to the labor court.
- File a Labor Court Case
- Submit your case to the labor court with MOHRE documents.
- You may seek backdated wages, end-of-service benefits, and other claims.
- Seek Legal Representation
- Legal support increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Professionals help ensure all paperwork is in order and deadlines are met.
When to Contact a Legal Expert
Unpaid salaries can be part of a larger dispute — especially if there are visa issues, absconding claims, or contract violations. A legal expert can help you navigate:
- False absconding reports filed by employers
- Threats of labor ban or visa cancellation
- End-of-service settlement disputes
- Employment without valid contracts or permits
Legal assistance ensures that your rights are protected and that your employer is held accountable under UAE law.
How Al Tawkel Center Helps
At Al Tawkel Center, we’ve helped hundreds of clients successfully resolve unpaid salary issues across Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and the wider UAE. Our services include:
- Free Consultation & Case Evaluation
- MOHRE Complaint Filing Assistance
- Legal Documentation & Case Drafting
- Labor Court Representation
- Absconding Case Resolution
- End-of-Service Benefit Recovery
Whether your employer has withheld your pay for one month or many, our team is ready to support you from start to finish — with professionalism, confidentiality, and speed.
Final Thoughts
Unpaid salaries can make life in the UAE extremely difficult — but you’re not helpless. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can file complaints, recover your wages, and protect your future employment prospects.
Don’t let unpaid wages go unresolved. Al Tawkel Center is here to assist you legally and confidently.
Book a Free Consultation Today! Let us help you take the next step.