UAE: What to do if your salary is unpaid or delayed, how to resolve the issue

TL;DR

• UAE law gives you a 10-day grace period after payday. After 15 days, your employer is in default.
• You can file a confidential complaint through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) platform “My Salary Complaint.”
• Follow clear steps to report and track your complaint without fear of retaliation.

Unpaid salaries and salary delays remain a serious issue for many workers in the UAE, despite clear labor laws designed to protect employees. If your salary isn’t paid on time, it can cause real problems, like money troubles, stress, and uncertainty. This affects workers across all industries, from construction and hospitality to retail and domestic help.

No matter your contract type, you have rights under UAE law. Knowing what steps to take when your salary is late can save you time and trouble. This guide explains how to handle unpaid salaries, your legal protections, and the official ways to get help.

What the Law Says About Salary Payments
The UAE’s labor law allows a 10-day grace period after your payday. If your salary isn’t paid within 15 days, your employer is legally considered in default. This means they have broken the law and you have the right to take action.

How to Report Unpaid Salaries
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) offers an official platform called “My Salary Complaint.” This tool lets you file a confidential complaint if your employer is late or refuses to pay your wages. The best part? Your identity stays private, so you don’t have to worry about backlash.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Complaint

1. Register and Submit Your Complaint

• Provide your personal details: passport number, name, date of birth, nationality.
  
• You can use the MOHRE website, the smart app, or WhatsApp service (600590000).
  
  

2. Verify Your Identity

• After submitting your info, you’ll get a text or email with an OTP (One Time Password) to confirm your identity.
  
• Note: OTP is not needed if you use the smart app.
  
  

3. Investigation and Follow-Up

• The complaint goes to an official investigator.
  
• If the complaint is valid, the Labor Inspection Department will visit your workplace.
  
• The department checks the situation on site to confirm your claim.
  
  

4. Receive Updates

• You will get updates via text messages about the progress and outcome.

Important Conditions to Know: You must be registered in the Ministry’s database. You cannot file a complaint if you already have one pending or if you have a court dispute on the same issue.

How to Check Your Complaint Status

• Visit the MOHRE website.
• Use the MOHRE smart app.
• Contact the Labour Claims and Advisory Center at 80084.

If the employer is found guilty of withholding your salary, they may face penalties under UAE labor law. This often means they have to pay your dues promptly, and sometimes fines or other legal actions.

Why It Matters
Not getting paid on time isn’t just an inconvenience, it can affect your entire life. Knowing your rights and how to report problems safely can help you get what you’re owed without risking your job or safety.

FAQs

1. How long do I have to wait before filing a salary complaint?
You can file a complaint after 15 days from the due date if you still haven’t received your salary.

2. Can my employer find out I filed a complaint?
No. Complaints submitted through the “My Salary Complaint” platform are confidential.

3. What if I’m not registered in the Ministry’s database?
You must register first. You can do this through your employer or by contacting MOHRE directly.