An amendment to the UAE labor law will deter employers from hiring visit visa holders, as fines for violations have increased significantly. Previously, fines ranged from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000, but now they range from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million, showing the government’s seriousness in protecting workers’ rights. Legal experts believe that these amendments will ensure the legality of employment practices and curb malpractices such as hiring workers without permits or not providing them with jobs.
Some employers exploit visit visa holders by making them work without proper permits, promising residency and work permits after their tourist permits expire. Many workers do not get paid for their work during this period and are mistreated. The new fines will significantly reduce these practices and ensure that labor laws are followed. The UAE government has made it clear that working under a visit or tourist permit/visa is illegal and that expats can only work after receiving an offer letter from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
One such case is that of South African expat Kieran Foury, who worked for a company in Dubai on a visit visa. Despite promises of an employment visa, he was asked to leave the company after his visit visa expired, resulting in penalties and financial difficulties. Employers are strongly advised to refrain from allowing visitors to work illegally, as they could face high risks and legal consequences. The amendments to the labor law create a stricter regulatory environment for employers, increasing compliance and accountability.
According to legal advisors, the increased fines and potential criminal penalties serve as a deterrent against non-compliance with labor regulations. For employees, the changes offer enhanced protection and security, with higher penalties imposed on employers to prevent violations of employee rights. The involvement of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in mediating disputes and issuing enforceable decisions ensures a more efficient and equitable legal process for both employees and employers.
Overall, the amendments to the UAE labor law aim to protect workers’ rights, create a stricter regulatory environment for employers, and increase compliance with labor regulations. Employers are urged to refrain from allowing visitors to work illegally and face potential high risks and legal consequences. The changes offer enhanced protection and security for employees, with increased penalties for employers who violate employee rights. The involvement of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in mediating disputes ensures a more efficient and streamlined legal process for both parties.
