New UAE labour law takes effect on Feb 2

The UAE's new labour relations law comes into effect on February 2.

Announced in November last year, the legislation introduces sweeping changes that enshrine equal opportunity in workplaces, including equal pay for equal work.

Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on Regulation of Labour Relations will be effective for all private sector establishments, employers, and workers in the country.

It offers more protection against discrimination, harassment, coercion, bullying or any form of violence by an employer, and also codifies the rights of part-time, temporary and flexi-workers.

All unlimited contracts will be converted to fixed-term no longer than three years, and may be renewed.

The new Labour Law protects the work relationship and keeps pace with its developments and exceptional circumstances through an evolving system that maintains both parties’ rights and promotes investing in local and global talents.#MOHRE #UAE pic.twitter.com/Dor0HCdWEh

— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) February 1, 2022

As of February 2, 2022, Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on Regulation of Labour Relations will be effective for all private sector establishments, employers, and workers in the country, and the Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 on Regulation Labour Relations shall expire. #UAE #MOHRE pic.twitter.com/9SAfrvK8ML

— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) February 1, 2022