Resolving Employment Disputes via MOHRE (2026 Legal Process)
When disagreements arise over unpaid salaries, end-of-service gratuity, arbitrary dismissal, or delayed cancellation, employees and employers must follow the statutory dispute resolution procedure administered by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) before approaching the civil courts.
Step 1: Submitting the MOHRE Complaint
A worker or employer can initiate a dispute through the MOHRE smart app, website portal (mohre.gov.ae), or by calling the ministry hotline (600 590000):
- Provide personal details, Emirates ID, labor contract number, and employer commercial name.
- Specify the precise claims: unpaid wages, end-of-service benefits, accrued leave encashment, or arbitrary termination compensation.
- Upload supporting documentation such as bank statements, salary slips, or termination letters.
Step 2: Ministry Mediation & Conciliation
A designated MOHRE legal researcher contacts both parties to convene an amicable settlement session within 14 calendar days. If a mutual agreement is reached, an amicable settlement agreement having the force of an executive writ is drafted and executed.
Step 3: Direct MOHRE Ruling vs Court Referral
- Claims up to AED 50,000: Under recent statutory amendments, MOHRE can issue a final, binding executive decision without sending the file to court.
- Claims exceeding AED 50,000 (or non-amicable claims): MOHRE formally refers the dispute to the competent Labour Court of First Instance with a comprehensive summary report of the case.