Working Public Holidays in the UAE
With the important religious occasion of Eid al-Adha; the Feast of Sacrifice almost upon us, it is a timely reminder for those whose work here in the UAE may dictate that they might have to work over the public holidays.
What is the law, what are the requirements to ensure that employers adhere to the law and ensure that their employees get fully compensated and also important for the Employees to understand their rights.
UNDER FEDERAL LAW NO. (8) OF 1980 REGARDING THE ORGANIZATION OF LABOUR RELATIONS
ARTICLE (81)
If exigencies of work necessitate that the employee work on holidays or rest days against which he receives full or partial pay he shall be compensated in lieu thereof with increase in pay by 50% of his wage, but if he has not been compensated for the same with a leave, the employer shall pay him an increase to his basic wage equivalent to 150% of the days of work.
So in summary, If an employee works on UAE public holidays declared for the private sector, the employer can elect one of the following compensation structures:
- 100% of normal daily remuneration (basic salary plus allowances) + one day’s leave in lieu plus 50% of remuneration; or
- 100% of normal daily remuneration (basic salary plus allowances) + 150% of basic salary.
Everyone at Sovereign PPG wishes everyone Happy Eid Al-Adha festival and if you require any information regarding setting up a company in the UAE, assistance with visas, WPS please do not hesitate to let us know and contact our offices on +971 (0)4 456 1761 or email us at SovPPG@SovereignGroup.com
