Dubai employees reporting financial violations can seek workplace protection

Dubai employees who detect financial or administrative irregularities within organisations subject to Dubai’s Financial Audit Authority (FAA) can apply for employment protection when they report the wrongdoing. The FAA provides safeguards such as confidentiality, protection from workplace discrimination and intervention in certain disciplinary actions taken against the reporting employee.

Upon approval of an application, the FAA may keep the whistleblower’s identity confidential, request the audited entity not to take action against the employee and ensure the employee does not face discrimination or unfair treatment due to the report while it is being reviewed. The Authority may also withdraw an administrative decision or disciplinary action imposed on the employee as a result of reporting the violation.

Majed Al Ansari, Executive Director of Operation, Compliance and Performance Audit Sector at the FAA, explains that employees of entities under FAA audit may apply for such protection if they meet the eligibility requirements. Applications are evaluated per the program’s approved procedures. The FAA oversees government departments, public agencies, special development zones, free zones, companies owned by the Dubai government or its entities, and those where the government holds 25% or more of the share capital.

The FAA’s audit scope includes verifying compliance with laws, regulations and budgets, evaluating internal controls to prevent fraud and misuse, and checking financial reporting accuracy. After an audit finds an issue, the FAA does not stop there; it examines the root causes, implements corrective measures, and monitors their effectiveness.

The FAA’s work contributes to Dubai’s investment environment by fostering public trust through transparency, accountability and robust governance, thus reinforcing the city’s reputation as a stable, efficient and trustworthy hub.