Filing a MOHRE complaint is the formal way employees in the UAE can raise workplace issues when discussions with an employer do not lead to a resolution. Whether it is delayed salaries, contract violations, or end-of-service disputes, understanding how the complaint process works can help protect your rights under UAE labour regulations in 2026 and beyond.
In this guide, know everything about:
- What is MOHRE, and when should you file a complaint?
- Grounds, and before you file a MOHRE complaint
- How to file a MOHRE complaint
- How to track MOHRE complaint status
- Timelines, outcomes, and legal path
- Key numbers and contact points
- What to prepare and tips
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
What is MOHRE, and when should you file a complaint?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, commonly known as MOHRE, regulates employment relations across the UAE mainland. It enforces labour laws, monitors employer compliance, and handles disputes between employers and employees. These responsibilities fall under UAE employment regulations and worker protections, which outline the rights and obligations of both parties.
A labour complaint should be filed when an employer breaches legal obligations and attempts at amicable resolution have failed. Common triggers include unpaid wages, illegal passport retention, denial of overtime pay, or failure to release end-of-service benefits.
There is also a legal deadline. Complaints must be submitted within two years of the date the violation occurred. Claims raised after this period may not be accepted by MOHRE, even if the grievance is genuine.
Grounds, and before you file a MOHRE complaint
Before submitting a complaint, it is important to confirm that the issue falls under MOHRE’s jurisdiction. MOHRE covers mainland employers, while most free zone entities follow their respective authority’s dispute resolution process before escalation.
Typical grounds for filing include:
- Delayed or unpaid salary
- Breach of employment terms
- Unpaid overtime
- Contract substitution
- Disputes over final settlements
Salary-related disputes are often linked to the salary payment system monitored under UAE wage protection rules, which requires employers to pay wages through approved channels.
Preparation is critical. Gather all relevant documents such as your Emirates ID, passport copy, employment contract, salary slips, bank statements, and written communication with your employer. Accessing a digital copy of your contract through online access to registered labour contracts can be especially useful if you no longer have physical paperwork.
How to file a MOHRE complaint
Filing a MOHRE complaint is designed to be accessible and can be done through multiple official channels.
Service channels
- Website: Employees can submit complaints through the MOHRE website by registering or logging into their account and selecting the labour complaint service.
- App: The MOHRE mobile application follows a similar process and allows complaints to be submitted under employee services.
- In-person: For those who prefer in-person assistance, Tasheel service centres accept labour complaints with original documents.
- Centres:
- Domestic workers have a dedicated option titled “Register a labour complaint for domestic workers” available through approved centres and digital platforms.
- MOHRE also operates a call centre. By calling 80084, workers can register complaints, seek guidance, or follow up on existing cases. The general enquiry number 600 590 000 remains available around the clock.
What happens after submission
Once a complaint is filed, MOHRE initiates a mediation process. Both employer and employee are contacted, usually within 14 days, to attempt a settlement. Many disputes are resolved at this stage without further escalation.
If mediation fails, the next step depends on the claim value. For claims of AED 50,000 or less, MOHRE may issue a binding decision. For claims exceeding AED 50,000, MOHRE issues a referral allowing the employee to proceed to the labour court.
Disputes related to final settlements often reference gratuity and final dues under UAE end-of-service rules, which are clearly defined under the current labour law.
How to track MOHRE complaint status
Tracking a MOHRE complaint is straightforward once a reference number is issued.
Methods to check status
- The MOHRE website includes a service inquiry feature where users can enter their complaint reference or transaction number to view updates.
- The MOHRE mobile app also allows status checks under the service inquiry section after logging in.
- For direct assistance, employees can call the MOHRE helpline at 600 590 000 or the labour complaints hotline at 80084.
Providing the reference number helps the support team retrieve accurate case details quickly.
Timelines, outcomes, and legal path
Most complaints move through the mediation phase within 14 working days. If a settlement is reached, the complaint is formally closed and documented by MOHRE.
When mediation fails, and a court referral is required, employees must file the court case within 14 days of receiving MOHRE’s referral. Labour courts then review evidence, conduct hearings, and issue legally binding judgments.
Throughout this period, workers are still expected to comply with visa and employment regulations. In some cases, a temporary work permit may be issued while proceedings continue, subject to approval and eligibility under the updated UAE work permit framework.
Key numbers and contact points
MOHRE provides multiple official contact options for labour-related concerns.
- The primary hotline for labour complaints is 80084.
- For general enquiries, employees can contact 600 590 000 at any time.
- Email support is also available through ask@mohre.gov.ae for non-urgent queries or documentation follow-ups.
These channels ensure employees can access guidance regardless of location or working hours.
What to prepare and tips
Having the right documents ready significantly improves the efficiency of your complaint and reduces delays during mediation or referral.
- Essential documents: Keep copies of your passport, Emirates ID, employment contract, salary slips, and written proof of the grievance, such as emails or messages exchanged with your employer.
- Employment identification details: Note your work permit number or Unified Number, as this helps MOHRE quickly retrieve your employment records.
- Language and translation requirements: Arrange certified translations if any documents are not in Arabic or English, as courts require officially translated paperwork.
- Official guidance and support: Seek early guidance from government-authorised employee support centres in Dubai to better understand your rights, obligations, and available resolution paths without incurring legal costs.
Key takeaways
MOHRE enforces the UAE labour law and requires complaints to be filed within two years of the violation. Complaints can be submitted digitally, through service centres, or via helplines, with dedicated options for domestic workers. Mediation typically begins within 14 days, after which cases may close, receive binding decisions, or proceed to court. Tracking is available through reference numbers, and proper documentation remains essential throughout the process.
FAQs
Yes. Free zone employees must first follow their free zone authority’s mediation process. If unresolved, escalation through MOHRE may be possible depending on the case and jurisdiction.
MOHRE does not charge a fee for filing a labour complaint. Court fees may apply if the case proceeds to court and exceeds AED 100,000.
MOHRE aims to complete mediation within 14 days. Court cases take longer depending on complexity and hearing schedules.
For court proceedings, documents in other languages must be translated by an approved legal translator in the UAE.
In certain cases, employees may be eligible for a temporary work permit while the complaint or court case is under review, subject to MOHRE approval and legal conditions.
