×
Saturday, October 24, 2026

New federal labour laws for UAE from 2 February - Out-Law.com

Ruth Stephen tells HRNews about wide ranging new laws coming to the UAE from 2 February 2022 and their likely impact

  • Significant changes are being made to UAE’s labour laws. Federal Decree Law No.33 of 2021 deals with the regulation of employment laws in the in the private sector and is the first substantial update of the region’s labour laws since 1980. It will take effect on 2 February 2022 and will apply to all employees and employers in the private sector. There are only two current exceptions to the overarching application of the new law. The first is in the Dubai International Financial Centre, which is a separate jurisdiction with its own employment legislation. The second is the Abu Dhabi Global Market which also has its own employment legislation.

    Gulf News reported on this with the announcement by the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation during a media briefing in Dubai. In a statement the Minister explained the aim of the new law which he said was ‘to enhance the elasticity, resilience and sustainability of the labour market nationwide, as well as ensure protection of workers' rights’.

    Our own team in Dubai has been commenting on this development. In his article for Outlaw Luke Tapp says’ how it’s positive and exciting development for both international and regional businesses operating within the UAE and will be a welcome development for all stakeholders within the UAE private sector.’ He says it will help the region to attract and retain world...



Read Full Story: https://www.pinsentmasons.com/out-law/news/new-federal-labour-laws-for-uae