title_atlas__doing-business__2-entreprise_travail.html

The Active Population in Figures

Working Conditions

Legal Weekly Duration

8 hours per day, 9 hours for employees of hotels and restaurants. During the month of Ramadan, the daily work duration is reduced by two hours for Muslim employees.

Retirement Age

60 years old.

Working Contracts

Work contracts are framed by the law and if desired by individual negotiation.
Labour contract formalities are extremely rigid. Procedures for hiring and dismissals are easy. Contract duration should not exceed 4 years, and is renewable by mutual consent.

Labour Laws

Consult Doing Business Website, to obtain a summary of the labour regulations that apply to local entreprises.

Cost of Labour

Minimum Wage

There is no universal minimum wage for all workers, but the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has set a minimum wage of AED 6,000 (approx. USD 1,633) per month for UAE nationals in the private sector effective 1 January 2026.

Average Wage

In UAE, the average monthly salary is around AED 15,000 in 2026 (approx. USD 4,084).

Social Contributions

Social Security Contributions Paid By Employers: Please note that social security contributions are applicable in the UAE only for UAE nationals, and nationals of the GCC. If UAE/ GCC nationals are employed, then both the employer and the employee will be required to make social security contributions to the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA). A payment of 12.5% by the employer (15% if the employer is a public entity). Emirati nationals have free access to healthcare.
Social Security Contributions Paid By Employees: Employees who are UAE nationals pay a 5% contribution which is deducted from their salary. Emirati nationals have free access to healthcare. Foreign employees are recommended to subscribe to an additional insurance.

Social Partners

Social Dialogue and Involvement of Social Partners

Trade unions are banned in the UAE.

Labour Unions

Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation

Labour Regulation Bodies

Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation