The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation reported that its Labour Claims and Advisory Centre fielded over 3.4 million calls in the first half of 2026. These interactions contributed to the amicable resolution of 185,793 labour disputes, which accounted for 98.6 percent of total cases according to ministry figures. Only 2,481 disputes, equivalent to 1.4 percent, were referred to the courts. The outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of the updated dispute settlement mechanisms now in place.
Recent reforms have given MoHRE the power to adjudicate labour claims valued at up to 50,000 dirhams without court involvement. This authority has streamlined processes for smaller cases and reduced the judicial caseload, the ministry explained. The Labour Market Services Sector continues to refine its systems to deliver timely resolutions that balance the needs of workers and employers alike.
MoHRE has credited the upgraded Wage Protection System with helping to prevent many potential disputes through better oversight of salary disbursements. Digital integration across regulatory platforms has further improved monitoring and compliance throughout the labour market. Employers and workers alike benefit from these proactive measures that promote stability in employment relationships.
Ahmed Al Qara, director of the Labour Relations Department at the ministry, said, “The ministry continues to enhance the efficiency of its labour dispute resolution system through an integrated approach based on proactive solutions and effective resolution mechanisms that protect the rights of all parties to the employment relationship.” He noted the focus on specialised legal professionals to handle complaints within designated periods. Such dedication has sustained high rates of non-judicial settlements.
Calls and complaints can be lodged with the Labour Claims and Advisory Centre by dialling the toll-free number 80084, according to the ministry. Additional options include the official website and dedicated smart application for convenient access. These channels have seen substantial usage as the UAE labour force navigates evolving regulations and market conditions.
Legal amendments introduced in recent years have doubled the limitation period for labour claims to two years from the termination of employment, a development outlined in a Mayer Brown review of UAE employment law. Fines for breaches have also increased significantly, reaching as high as one million dirhams in some instances. The combination of stricter penalties and extended filing windows has shaped the environment in which the centre operates.
The UAE Labour Market Observatory has tracked consistent improvements in complaint resolution, with a high proportion of cases settled without escalation. Data from the observatory places the amicable resolution rate at 98 percent in line with the latest ministry tallies. This performance aligns with broader goals of maintaining a fair and efficient labour market.
