The UAE provides defined procedures for resolving private-sector and domestic worker labour disputes through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Understanding these procedures helps workers and employers protect their rights while complying with statutory time limits and work‑permit rules. EGSH helps clients navigate these steps and reach the correct MOHRE channels without procedural errors.
This guide explains who can file a MOHRE complaint, the applicable deadlines, all official complaint channels, and a step‑by‑step example of an online filing. It also covers what MOHRE does after you submit a complaint, how long MOHRE has to attempt settlement, what referral to the labour court means, and the conditions for working with another employer during and after a dispute.
Overview of MOHRE Labour Complaints
Under Ministerial Resolution No. 782 of 2023, an individual labour complaint is a dispute arising from alleged breaches of the employment contract, the labour law, its executive regulations or related decisions. MOHRE is the competent authority for handling such disputes in the UAE private sector and for domestic workers before any case goes to the labour court.
Both workers and employers can use the MOHRE labour dispute resolution process to seek an administrative settlement. MOHRE receives the complaint, contacts both parties, and either resolves the issue amicably or refers it to the competent court if settlement is not possible within the set time frame. The information below summarises current official guidance and procedures and does not replace tailored legal advice for complex cases
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Who Can File a MOHRE Complaint and When?
MOHRE’s rules specify who may start the process and set strict deadlines. Missing these time limits can affect your ability to pursue a labour complaint in the UAE through MOHRE.
Eligible Parties
An individual MOHRE labour complaint may be submitted by an employee, a domestic worker, an employer, or their representative or beneficiary. The complaint must relate to a breach of obligations under the employment contract, the labour law, its executive regulations or MOHRE decisions. This structure allows both sides of the employment relationship to initiate the MOHRE labour dispute resolution procedure.
General Time Limit for Individual Labour Complaints
For private‑sector workers and their employers, the general rule is that a complaint must be filed within 30 days of the alleged breach. This 30‑day MOHRE complaint time limit applies, for example, to disputes over contract terms, benefits or termination where MOHRE has jurisdiction. Parties should therefore act promptly when a dispute arises, rather than waiting until the relationship fully breaks down.
Specific Time Limits for Domestic Workers
For domestic workers, Ministerial Resolution No. 674 of 2022 provides additional timelines. A domestic worker or the employer may submit a MOHRE domestic worker complaint at any time while the contract is in force, and up to three months after its termination. Where a domestic worker leaves the workplace without the employer’s knowledge, the worker must file a complaint within 48 hours of leaving. Observing these shorter deadlines is crucial to ensure MOHRE accepts and processes the complaint.
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MOHRE Channels for Filing Labour Complaints
MOHRE offers several official channels so users can choose the method that best suits their situation and language needs.
Call Centre 600590000
Labour complaints and wage issues can be initiated by calling the 24‑hour MOHRE call centre 600590000. This line handles labour complaints, salary issues, inquiries and general guidance in multiple languages. Call handlers can explain, step by step, how to file labour complaints in the UAE and direct you to the correct e‑service or support centre when needed.
Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre
Labour claims and advisory complaints may also be started by calling the labour complaint hotline 80084. MOHRE guidance on how to file a labour complaint indicates this line is focused on labour claims and related advice, complementing the main call centre number. It can help clarify whether your issue fits the MOHRE labour dispute process and how to proceed.
MOHRE Website Services
On the MOHRE website, you can use several online services:
- “Submission of Comments, Complaints and Inquiries”: an e‑service to submit feedback, service‑related complaints or questions about MOHRE services, with a stated completion time of 5 working days.
- “Register a Labour Complaint (Domestic Workers)”: a dedicated service for domestic worker disputes, with an indicative completion time of around 14 working days.
- “Register labour complaints – UAE National”: a service for UAE nationals working in establishments, which may require supporting documents such as a resignation or dismissal letter, where available.
These MOHRE online complaint services are central for users who prefer to file a MOHRE labour complaint number‑based case electronically.
MOHRE Smart Application
MOHRE’s smart application, available on Apple and Android devices, allows users to file complaints, including domestic worker disputes, directly from their mobile devices. The app mirrors many website services, enabling registration of a MOHRE labour complaint, tracking its status, and receiving notifications in one place. It is particularly useful for workers who have limited access to desktop computers.
Service Centres and Tas’heel Centres
Labour complaints can also be submitted through MOHRE customer happiness centres and Tas’heel centres. These centres use MOHRE’s systems to register complaints on behalf of workers and employers and forward them to the Ministry for action. They are suitable for users who prefer face‑to‑face assistance, require help with language or documentation, or do not have access to digital channels.
| Channel | Main Use | Indicative Timeframe* |
|---|---|---|
| Call centre 600590000 | Complaints, wage issues, inquiries, guidance | Immediate advice; processing varies |
| Hotline 80084 | Labour claims and advisory complaints | Immediate advice; processing varies |
| Website e‑services | Formal labour complaints; service comments/inquiries | 5–14 working days (per service) |
| MOHRE smart application | Mobile filing and tracking of complaints | As per underlying service (e.g. 14 days) |
| Customer happiness / Tas’heel centres | In‑person registration of complaints | As per MOHRE’s standard timeframes |
Step‑by‑Step: Filing Your Labour Complaint
The specific screens vary by service, but the core steps of the MOHRE complaint process are similar across channels.
Preparing Your Information and Documents
Before you file, collect key identifiers and evidence. For domestic workers, MOHRE requires the worker’s Labour Unified Number for registering a complaint online. For the “Register a Labour Complaint (Domestic Workers)” service, you typically need the worker’s work permit number, and if the employer is filing, the establishment number as well. For UAE nationals using the “Register labour complaints – UAE National” service, supporting documents, such as resignation or dismissal letters, should be attached when available.
Keeping copies of the employment contract, wage slips, and relevant correspondence (emails, messages, written instructions) helps MOHRE understand the dispute. Having up‑to‑date contact details for both parties also facilitates faster communication during the MOHRE labour dispute process.
Online Complaint for Domestic Workers
MOHRE’s domestic worker service provides a clear model for registering a labour complaint online in the UAE. The main steps are:
- On mohre.gov.ae, select “Register a Labour Complaint (Domestic Workers)” from the services list.
- Choose the applicant type (worker or employer).
- Enter the worker’s work permit number; if the employer is filing, enter the establishment number as requested.
- Fill in the complaint details, describing the alleged breach of contract or legal obligations.
- Upload any supporting attachments (optional but recommended), such as copies of contracts or correspondence.
- Submit the application and keep the generated MOHRE labour complaint number for tracking.
Filing Through Other Channels
When you call 600590000 or 80084, you will usually be asked for basic information such as your name, Emirates ID or passport details, employer’s name, and a brief description of the dispute. The call centre may then register a case or guide you to the appropriate e‑service or service centre. At a MOHRE customer happiness centre or Tas’heel centre, staff will enter your information into MOHRE’s system, help you select the right complaint category, and provide a reference number.
For more general issues, such as concerns about MOHRE services or system access, you can use the “Submission of Comments, Complaints and Inquiries” form, which has a published completion time of 5 working days. This channel is distinct from the formal individual labour complaint procedure but can resolve many service‑related problems that might otherwise delay your case.
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After You File: MOHRE Resolution and Tracking
Once your complaint is accepted, MOHRE starts its resolution process and keeps you informed through the contact details you provided.
MOHRE Communication and Dispute Resolution Period
MOHRE guidance confirms that when a labour complaint is registered, the Ministry will contact both the employer and the worker to attempt an amicable resolution. MOHRE must take the necessary measures to resolve individual labour complaints within 14 days from the date of submission. If no settlement is reached within this period, MOHRE refers the dispute to the competent labour court.
Service descriptions, such as the “Register a Labour Complaint (Domestic Workers)” service, align with this by listing a completion time of 14 working days. During this period, both parties may be asked to provide additional information or attend calls or meetings arranged by MOHRE.
Status Updates and Tracking Tools
Customers are notified once their complaint request has been completed, whether by settlement or referral. You can track the status of your MOHRE complaint UAE‑wide through:
- The MOHRE website (using your case or complaint reference).
- The MOHRE smart application, which shows status updates and notifications.
- The call centre 600590000, where agents can check your file.
- MOHRE’s chatbot, accessible via the website and app.
Keeping your MOHRE labour complaint number accessible speeds up these checks and reduces the risk of missed updates.
Salary and Wage Complaints
For unpaid or delayed salaries, the UAE wage payment guidance refers to specific MOHRE wage complaint tools, including eComplaint and “My Salary” services. These channels allow workers to file a MOHRE salary complaint while MOHRE maintains confidentiality in handling wage information. Wage complaints still follow the general principles of MOHRE labour complaint handling, including investigation, contact with the employer and possible referral to court if not resolved.
Practical Scenarios: 6 Months vs 1 Year In Real Cases
Consider a worker in skill level 2 (post‑secondary diploma) who has worked for four months and, together with the employer, wishes to end the contract and move to another job. The six‑month minimum service condition may be waived for skill levels 1–3 if contractual obligations have been fulfilled, allowing the worker to obtain a new work permit despite having less than six months’ service.
Now, take an unskilled worker below level 3 who has completed seven months with the employer, and both parties agree to terminate the contract. In this case, because the six‑month threshold has been met and mutual consent exists, MOHRE may grant a new work permit during the contract term so the worker can move to a new employer.
By contrast, a worker who resigns without giving the required contractual notice and stops attending work during the notice period may be subject to a one-year work-permit ban starting from the date they leave the UAE. MOHRE states that this ban may be lifted if the original employer provides approval, making it essential, in many cases, to reach an agreement with the employer.
When MOHRE Refers Your Case to Court and Work Status Rules
If a dispute cannot be resolved administratively, MOHRE issues a formal referral to the judiciary, and additional rules apply to deadlines and work permits.
Referral to the Competent Labour Court
When MOHRE cannot achieve an amicable settlement within the 14‑day period, it issues a referral of the labour dispute to the competent court. This document confirms that the administrative settlement has failed and allows the parties to file a case before the labour judiciary. The referral usually includes basic details of the dispute and the steps MOHRE has taken.
Deadline to Register the Case in Court
Workers whose complaints are referred to court must act quickly. A worker must register the case with the competent labour court within 14 days of MOHRE approving the referral to the judiciary. The same 14‑day requirement applies to domestic workers. If the case is not lodged in time, the referral may lapse, and the worker may need new legal advice on available options.
Work Status and Permits – Private Sector Workers
Workers sometimes ask, “Can I work for another employer after a MOHRE complaint referral?” Guidance on tasheel.mohre.gov.ae explains that once a labour complaint is referred to court, the worker may not lawfully work for another employer without obtaining a work permit from MOHRE. If the employment relationship ends, the worker must request cancellation of the original work permit within 14 days of the final judgment. Observing these rules is essential to avoid immigration or labour‑law violations while the dispute is ongoing.
Work Status and Permits – Domestic Workers
For domestic workers, Resolution 674 of 2022 sets specific conditions. When a domestic worker’s complaint is referred to the judiciary, the worker must register the court case within 14 days of MOHRE’s approval of the referral. Before joining another employer, the worker must obtain a temporary work permit from MOHRE. If the original employment relationship is terminated, the domestic worker must request cancellation of the original work permit within 14 days of the final judgment.
The same resolution provides that a domestic worker may request a temporary work permit within 30 days of referral to a new employer, except in cases of absconding. These time limits are strict and should be closely monitored by both workers and the recruitment offices involved.
FAQ
How to file a labour complaint with MOHRE in the UAE?
You can start by calling MOHRE’s call centre on 600590000 or the labour claims hotline 80084, or by using the complaint e‑services on mohre.gov.ae or the MOHRE smart app. Prepare your Labour Unified Number or work permit number, employer details and a brief description of the breach, then follow the prompts to register your complaint and obtain a reference number.
What is the time limit for labour complaints in the UAE through MOHRE?
For general individual complaints in the private sector, a worker or employer must file the complaint with MOHRE within 30 days of the alleged breach. Domestic workers have additional timelines: they may complain during the contract and up to three months after termination, with a 48‑hour limit if they leave work without the employer’s knowledge.
How to file a MOHRE salary complaint for unpaid wages?
For salary delays or non‑payment, workers can use MOHRE’s wage‑related services such as eComplaint and “My Salary”, as described on the u.ae wage payment page. You can access these via the MOHRE website or smart app, or call 600590000 for guidance. MOHRE will handle your wage complaint confidentially while contacting the employer to verify and resolve the issue.
What happens after a MOHRE labour complaint is registered?
Once the complaint is registered, MOHRE contacts both the worker and the employer to try to reach an amicable settlement within a maximum of 14 days of submission. If the dispute is resolved, the complaint is closed; if not, MOHRE issues a referral to the competent labour court so that the parties can pursue the matter through the judiciary.
Can I work for another employer after a MOHRE complaint is transferred to court?
Guidance on tasheel.mohre.gov.ae indicates that when a labour complaint is referred to court, a worker cannot lawfully work for another employer without a work permit issued by MOHRE. If the employment relationship ends following the judgment, the worker must arrange cancellation of the original work permit within 14 days of the final decision, so work‑status changes should always be coordinated with MOHRE.
How long does MOHRE take to resolve labour complaint cases?
MOHRE must take necessary measures to resolve individual labour complaints within 14 days of submission. Specific services, such as the domestic worker complaint service, also show a completion time of around 14 working days, although complex cases or subsequent court proceedings naturally take longer.
How to file MOHRE domestic worker complaints correctly?
For domestic workers, you can use the “Register a Labour Complaint (Domestic Workers)” service on mohre.gov.ae or via the smart app, or visit a customer happiness or Tas’heel centre. You will need, at a minimum, the worker’s Labour Unified Number and work permit number, must observe the time limits set in Resolution 674 of 2022, and should attach any supporting documents to clarify the breach.
What to do if MOHRE transfers a labour complaint to court?
If MOHRE issues a referral to the labour court, you must register the case with the competent court within 14 days of MOHRE’s approval of the referral. During this period, consider obtaining legal advice on how to frame your claim, keep a copy of the MOHRE referral document, and ensure any required work‑permit or temporary‑permit applications are submitted to MOHRE in line with the rules for private‑sector or domestic workers.
Explained by
Amira Ali Al Hammadi
Labour & Tasheel Services Consultant at EGSH
Amira Ali Al Hammadi is a specialised service provider with nine years of experience delivering MOHRE-related Labour and Tasheel services. Her professional expertise covers establishment and employee procedures, including renewals, cancellations, amendments, fine payments, employment contracts, and compliance support for companies of all sizes.
This article is intended to provide general information based on official UAE sources, and does not constitute personalised legal advice. Before acting, applicants should verify the current rules and fees directly with the relevant authority or an authorised service centre.
