UAE outlines action against employers for late salaries

Dubai: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) announced new actions against employers who fail to pay their employees on time, under the Wage Protection System. The ministry explained that this decision aims to prevent issues early, protect workers' rights, and maintain business stability.

Employers will receive notifications about delayed wages before any administrative actions occur, giving them a chance to correct their status and resolve late payments. MOHRE emphasized that this move does not add new obligations but rather improves existing procedures, clarifies wage payment requirements, and standardizes the ministry's monitoring of compliance.

The process begins with electronic monitoring, followed by notifications and alerts to establishments, and then administrative measures are taken according to approved timelines. This encourages businesses to meet their obligations and address problems early, improving oversight and supporting stable employment relationships.

Certain compliance monitoring measures apply to labour-intensive sectors, such as construction, transportation, security services, and cleaning services. The ministry emphasized that these measures are applied based on the level of risk associated with each sector, focusing on activities with the greatest impact on labour market stability.

The Wage Protection System processes wage payments exceeding Dh37 billion every month. MOHRE highlighted that this decision is part of the ongoing development of the system’s regulatory and procedural framework, aiming to strengthen worker protection, maintain a transparent work environment, and enhance the UAE's attractiveness to global talent.