Dispute Resolution
UAE MOHRE Complaint Guide: Filing Labor Disputes 2025
Complete guide to filing a MOHRE complaint in UAE. Learn the labor dispute process, mediation stages, required documents, and court referral procedures.
Published: January 23, 2026
12 min read read
8 topics covered
Quick Summary: Complete guide to filing a MOHRE complaint in UAE. Learn the labor dispute process, mediation stages, required documents, and court referral procedures.
Filing a MOHRE complaint is the first step in resolving employment disputes in the UAE. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation provides free mediation services to help employees and employers resolve workplace issues before escalating to court. Understanding the process, required documents, and timelines is essential for a successful outcome.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Authority | Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) |
| Filing Methods | App, Website, Service Centers |
| Initial Stage | Free mediation |
| Mediation Period | 14 working days |
| Statute of Limitations | 1 year from entitlement |
What is a MOHRE Complaint?
A formal labor dispute filed with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation for resolution.
Key Features
A MOHRE complaint is the first step in resolving employment disputes in the UAE. It provides free mediation services and covers mainland employees. Note that DIFC, ADGM, and some free zones have their own dispute resolution systems.
Common Employee Complaints
Employees typically file complaints for unpaid wages, end of service gratuity not paid, arbitrary dismissal, annual leave balance not paid, contract violations, illegal salary deductions, and working condition violations.
Common Employer Complaints
Employers may file complaints for employee absconding, breach of contract, failure to serve notice period, and company property not returned.
Who Can File a Complaint?
Understanding eligibility for filing MOHRE complaints.
Eligible Parties
Mainland employees can file directly with MOHRE. Some free zone employees may also file depending on their zone. Former employees can file within 1 year of their last working day. Employers can file against employees, and heirs of deceased employees can file on their behalf.
Not Through MOHRE
DIFC employees should use DIFC-LCIA or DIFC Courts. ADGM employees should use ADGM Courts. JAFZA employees should contact JAFZA authority first. Government employees have separate federal or local authority processes.
Filing a Complaint
Multiple methods available for filing your labor complaint with MOHRE.
Online via MOHRE Website
Visit mohre.gov.ae, navigate to Services then Individual Complaints, login or register, fill out the complaint form, attach supporting documents, and submit. You will receive a case number immediately.
MOHRE Mobile App
Download the MOHRE UAE app from your app store, create an account or log in, select Labour Complaint, complete the form with all required details, upload supporting documents, and submit. Track your case status through the app.
In-Person Filing
Visit any MOHRE Service Center for full assistance with your complaint. Tasheel Centers can help with application preparation. MOHRE offices accept direct filing with staff support.
Mediation Process
MOHRE provides free mediation as the first step in dispute resolution.
Stage 1: Filing
Submit your complaint online or in-person. You receive a case number immediately. MOHRE reviews your submission and documents. Both parties are notified of the complaint.
Stage 2: Mediation (Amicable Settlement)
Mediation takes place within 14 working days. This is a free service provided by MOHRE. Both parties must attend either in person or through authorized representatives. The mediator reviews the case and proposes solutions.
How Mediation Works
Both parties are summoned to the MOHRE office. The mediator reviews all submitted documents. Each side presents their position. The mediator proposes potential solutions. Parties negotiate toward a settlement. If no agreement, the case is referred to court.
Possible Outcomes
Full agreement results in a signed settlement and case closure. Partial agreement means remaining issues go to court. No agreement results in full case referral to Labor Court.
Court Referral Process
When mediation fails, cases are referred to Labor Court for resolution.
Labor Court Process
MOHRE transfers the case file to Labor Court. The court registers the case and schedules the first hearing within 2-4 weeks. Both parties present evidence. The court issues a judgment, which can be appealed.
Court Fees
For claims up to AED 100,000, fees are approximately AED 500. Claims above AED 100,000 are calculated as a percentage of the claim. Employees are often exempt from court fees.
Legal Representation
Self-representation is allowed in Labor Court. However, hiring a lawyer is recommended for complex cases. Legal aid is available for some workers who qualify.
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Filing to first MOHRE hearing | 3-5 working days |
| Mediation period | Up to 14 working days |
| Court referral (if needed) | Immediate after mediation |
| Court hearing | 2-4 weeks after referral |
| Total with court process | 1-3 months |
What You Can Claim
Understanding the types of claims you can make through MOHRE.
Monetary Claims
Employees can claim unpaid salary for all unpaid wages, gratuity for end of service benefits, leave balance for unused annual leave, notice period pay if not served or paid, arbitrary dismissal compensation up to 3 months salary, unpaid overtime, and any unpaid allowances.
Non-Monetary Claims
You can also request an experience letter or employment certificate, a copy of your employment contract, and visa cancellation if the employer is delaying the process.
Arbitrary Dismissal Compensation
If termination was for reasons unrelated to work performance, discriminatory, retaliatory for filing a complaint, or during protected leave, you may be entitled to up to 3 months gross salary as compensation. The court has discretion based on circumstances, service length, and evidence provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prevent Workplace Disputes
NeuralHR helps maintain compliant employment records, proper documentation, and clear communication to prevent disputes before they happen.
Was this guide helpful?
NeuralHR Team
VerifiedUAE HR Compliance Experts
Our team of HR professionals and legal experts specializes in UAE labor law compliance, with extensive experience helping businesses navigate MOHRE regulations, Emiratisation requirements, and workforce management in the UAE and GCC region.
Related Guides
Dispute Resolution
UAE Wrongful Dismissal Guide: Employee Rights and Remedies 2025
Complete guide to wrongful dismissal in UAE. Understand arbitrary termination under Article 47, compensation up to 3 months salary, and how to file claims.
Read more
Dispute Resolution
UAE Labor Disputes Guide: Resolution Process and Options 2025
Complete guide to labor dispute resolution in UAE. Understand MOHRE mediation, Labor Court process, evidence requirements, and timeline expectations.
Read more
Dispute Resolution
UAE Labor Ban Guide: Rules, Removal and Prevention 2025
Complete guide to UAE labor bans. Understand the 2022 law changes, absconding consequences, how to check your status, and remove false bans.
Read more