[co-author: Sara Watar]
The United Arab Emirates recently announced the first major reform in the country’s labor laws since they were first promulgated, partly in response to the global pandemic and the rapidly changing workplace model. The reforms, which will take effect on February 2, 2022, will likely be significant to all parties in the employment sector, granting employees greater flexibility and protections while also providing employers a stimulating and attractive working environment.
The legislative development, Federal Law No. 33 of 2021, will replace the existing Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 and will continue to apply to all employers and employees in the private sector, including the free zones. The exceptions remain in the Dubai International Finance Centre and the Abu Dhabi Global Market. While many of the new law’s provisions mirror those under the current law, the reformed legislation introduces substantial changes to the country’s labor laws. Some of the notable changes include:
Shorter Work Weeks
The new law provides for a condensed working week. Employees are free to finish their 40 hours in three days as long as the parties have stipulated to do so in the employment contract.
Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment, and Prejudice
The new law expands employee rights and specifically prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ethnic origin, or disability and defends employees against disparate treatment and...
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