The Abu Dhabi labour court has delivered a significant ruling, ordering a company to pay Dh251,461 to a former employee who was dismissed after an extensive 13 years of continuous service. This decision underscores the robust legal framework in the UAE designed to protect employee rights and ensure fair compensation upon termination of employment. The ruling comes as a crucial reminder for employers to adhere strictly to labour laws regarding end-of-service benefits and other entitlements, or face substantial legal penalties. The former employee had initially sought redress through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation before escalating the matter to the Court of First Instance.
The plaintiff, who commenced employment with the company in 2012, held a salaried position with a basic monthly wage of Dh7,500 and a total salary of Dh15,700. His complaint detailed that he was terminated without receiving his full outstanding dues, which included a range of critical entitlements. These entitlements comprised delayed wages that had accrued over time, his deserved end-of-service benefits as mandated by UAE labour law, compensation for unused annual leave, and notice compensation, which is typically stipulated in employment contracts or by law for non-performance-related dismissals. The employee’s initial claim presented to the court exceeded Dh309,000, covering unpaid salaries, notice pay, gratuity, and leave allowance.
The legal process saw the employee first filing a formal complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), a standard initial step for resolving labour disputes in the UAE. When the matter could not be resolved amicably or through the ministry’s mediation, the case proceeded to the Abu Dhabi Court of First Instance. After reviewing all presented evidence, testimonies, and legal arguments from both parties, the court meticulously assessed the validity of the employee’s claims. While the awarded amount of Dh251,461 was slightly less than the employee’s initial request of over Dh309,000, it still represents a substantial victory and a comprehensive settlement for the claimant’s entitlements following his dismissal.
This verdict by the Abu Dhabi labour court reinforces the commitment of the UAE judiciary to uphold the rights of employees and ensure that companies comply with their legal obligations. Such rulings serve as a deterrent against arbitrary dismissals and the withholding of legitimate dues, providing a vital layer of protection for the workforce. It highlights the importance for both employees and employers to be fully aware of the provisions of the UAE Labour Law, particularly concerning termination procedures, notice periods, and the calculation of end-of-service gratuity and other allowances. The case sets a precedent, affirming that employees in the UAE can successfully pursue legal avenues to claim their full entitlements, even after years of service.
