In the United Arab Emirates, the labor law explicitly protects employees against unfair terminations known as arbitrary dismissals.
This protection is particularly relevant when an employee is dismissed after filing a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) or initiating legal proceedings against their employer.
This article is an overview of arbitrary dismissal under UAE labor law as of 2025.
It explains what qualifies as an unlawful termination, outlines the employee’s legal rights, and describes the recourse available through MoHRE and the labor courts.
Whether you’re an employee facing wrongful termination or simply seeking to understand your rights under UAE employment law, this article clarifies your legal standing and options.
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Arbitrary Dismissal UAE Regulations
According to Article 47 of the UAE Labor Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), an employer cannot terminate an employee simply for filing a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
This protection applies as long as the complaint or legal case is justified.
If an employer proceeds with such a termination, it is classified as arbitrary and unlawful.
Employees who believe they have been wrongfully terminated can formally complain to MoHRE. The Ministry will initially attempt to mediate a resolution between the parties.
The matter is escalated to the labor courts if no amicable settlement is achieved. If the court determines the dismissal was arbitrary, the employer may be ordered to pay compensation.
The court will consider factors such as the type and nature of the employee’s work, the extent of harm suffered due to the dismissal, and the total duration of employment.
However, the compensation awarded cannot exceed three months’ salary, calculated based on the employee’s most recent wage.
Employees who have been arbitrarily dismissed may be entitled to several types of compensation.
This includes payments for the dismissal, end-of-service benefits, compensation for the notice period if the employer did not provide adequate notice, and any outstanding wages or unpaid dues.
To better understand how arbitrary dismissal claims unfold, consider some practical cases.
For instance, if an employee reports delayed salary payments and hazardous working conditions to MoHRE and is dismissed soon after, the court may find the dismissal retaliatory.
In this case, the court would likely award the employee compensation equivalent to three months’ salary and unpaid wages.
If a worker files a lawsuit for unfulfilled contractual benefits, and the employer retaliates by terminating the worker, the court may rule in favor of the employee.
The court could grant compensation and offer reinstatement as a remedy in such a case.
If an employee files a harassment complaint and is unjustly dismissed, the court may rule the dismissal arbitrary and enforce maximum legal compensation.
These real-world cases emphasize the importance of understanding legal rights and seeking justice through formal legal channels when faced with unjust termination.
Legal Support for Wrongful Dismissal in UAE
Arbitrary dismissal UAE claims require a clear understanding of UAE labor laws and the procedures involved in dispute resolution.
Our specialized law firm in UAE offers end-to-end support for employees dealing with wrongful termination.
We begin by providing personalized legal consultation, helping you understand your legal rights and assess the strength of your case before taking any formal action.
Our lawyers assist in drafting and submitting complaints to MoHRE and engage in mediation to resolve disputes amicably when possible.
If mediation fails, we provide full legal representation in labor court to ensure your case is presented effectively and your rights are protected.
We also help employees recover compensation for unfair dismissal, unpaid dues, and other outstanding payments, including end-of-service benefits and notice period compensation.
Whether you are facing retaliatory termination or seeking to understand your options under UAE labor regulations, our firm is committed to helping you secure fair treatment and rightful compensation.
Learn more about Termination of Employment in UAE.
FAQs about Illegal Employment Termination in UAE
Arbitrary dismissal UAE is not just unfair—it’s illegal. Article 47 of the labor law offers clear protections to employees who assert their rights through legal or regulatory channels.
If you believe you were let go for raising a valid complaint or pursuing justice, you are entitled to seek compensation and legal remedy.
Our legal team is ready to support you every step of the way—from filing a MoHRE complaint to representing you in court—to ensure that your rights are upheld and justice is served.
Contact our law firm in UAE for expert help. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
A law graduate and legal writer focusing on UAE law, he became known for his ability to clarify complex legal concepts through his writings. His work simplifies the intricacies of the legal landscape in the Emirates, helping both locals and expatriates navigate their legal concerns.
