Hidden rights of Indian expats in UAE; Don't just quit your job, file a complaint and get compensation

ABU DHABI: UAE is a popular destination for many Indians, including a significant number of Keralites, who arrive daily with dreams of a better expatriate life. However, many of these dreams are shattered as they face the harsh reality of not securing the desired job and enduring harassment in the workplace. Despite this, how many expatriates are aware that they have the right to sue their employers for unfair harassment, potentially resulting in substantial fines?

Cases can be filed against the employer for hiring an employee without obtaining a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, recruiting and not providing employment to an employee, illegal use of work permits, terminating the operation of an establishment without following relevant procedures, not paying retiring employees their final salary, not providing service benefits, recruiting minors, etc.

Under Article 60 of the UAE Labour Law, the employer may be fined between AED 50,000 (approximately Rs 12 lakh) and AED 200,000 (approximately Rs 46 lakh) for the above.

If the Human Resources and Emiratization Inspector finds any violations of the above rules while inspecting an establishment in the UAE, a report can be submitted to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.

Under the provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2023, the employee can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization if he/she faces unfair measures from the employer.