Workplace Harassment and UAE Laws
Workplace harassment is a serious offense in the UAE. It is globally recognized as a serious issue that is dealt with strictly. UAE Labour Law has special clauses that protect the employees working at private and public offices. The UAE labour laws become paramount when it comes to employee protection and well-being. The federal decree laws and the local laws at the emirate level primarily guide them.
This offers a strong sense of safety and security to the employees against all types of harassment, abuse, violence, coercion, discrimination, and intimidation at work.
The employer may be involved in harassment in its conduct or behavior. The employer could indulge in hostile, intimidating, offensive behavior, or action in the work environment. This may be in the form of verbal threats, physical abuse, inappropriate comments, excessive work pressure, unfair dismissals, discrimination, wrongful terminations, and demotions. Learn more about unfair dismissals and UAE Labour Law from our top lawyers and legal consultants.
The UAE labor laws are placed to strike the right balance between the employees and employers relationship. Further, it also supports the rights of employers and employers at the workplace. Besides, it also ensures a secure and respectful work environment for everyone.
Landmark Reforms in UAE Labour and Employment Laws
There has been a recent change to the federal decree law no 33 of 2021 on the regulation of labor relations. This illustrates and reinforces further legal protection for the employees. The recent amendments are applicable to all private-sector employees in the UAE. There is exemption free zones. It includes DIFC-free zones and ADGM-free zones. However, the free zones adhere to separate employment regulations. The UAE has also introduced a legal structure for the protection against employer harassment. The nation is committed to enforcing numerous legislative tools to combat workplace harassment and discrimination. They provide lucrative remedies to the victims.
Key Aspects: Federal Law No 33 of 2021
Some of the key aspects of it include federal decree law no 33 of 2021. This emphasizes administering the labor relations in the private sector. It also includes provisions that prevent bullying, discrimination, and harassment in the work environment.
Federal Decree Law 34 of 2021
Federal decree law no 34 of 2021 covers crimes regarding cyber abuse, online harassment, and defamation via digital platforms. Cyber abuse is very common nowadays with technological advancement.
UAE penal Code contains provisions to cater to criminal punishments. It covers physical assault, defamation, verbal abuse, and much more. All of these legal instruments altogether address the employee’s protection. It offers security to the workers against physical, emotional, and verbal abuse and discrimination at the workplace. It also stands against cyber abuse and digital harassment.
Recognition of Employer’s Harassment & UAE Laws
A UAE court firmly recognizes various forms of harassment by employers. It also suggests measures under civil and criminal law. Any verbal abuse and intimidation that intends to humiliate, threaten, coerce, or degrade an employee could lead to legal claims. Victims can easily pursue criminal complaints. The victims can also seek civil compensation. Such matters are taken to criminal courts and civil courts.
Sexual Harassment caters to any sexual advances, comments, gestures, or actions that are morally incorrect. UAE laws promote modesty and maintain strict moral conduct in the workplace. Therefore, sexual harassment is dealt with serious criminal offense. Physical Assault, psychological pressures, or mental stress, are serious criminal offenses. This could lead to criminal prosecution. UAE penal code imposes strict penalties for such offenses. It may result in a jail sentence, imprisonment, immediate termination, and hefty fines.
Legal Guidance
Dubai Law Firms, often represent the affected employees and workers. It ensures justice and fairness. The competent employment lawyers in Dubai will adhere to the procedural requirements and fulfill evidentiary specifications. They make sure there is legal compliance. Labour and Employment Lawyers in Dubai provide guidance to employees as to how to file their suits against workplace harassment. They also inform them about their rights and legal options. You must book the legal appointment with Emirati labour and employment lawyers.
Drafting Documents
They will also draft the documents needed to quantify the damages. It helps the workers to seek financial compensation against discrimination and harassment.
UAE has a zero-tolerance policy towards workplace harassment and discrimination. Therefore, it is inevitable that employees seek the services of a specialist employment lawyer in Dubai.
Legal Consultation
The labour and employment lawyers in Dubai can offer legal consultation to the victims that helps them draft complaints in a legal way. They will assist the clients with court submissions and work on collecting evidence. They also suggest dispute resolution strategies that ensure the business remains within the legal framework and protect employee interests.
Protection Against Employer Harassment
Legislative tools to combat workplace harassment and the remedies available. for victims.
- Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021:
- Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021:
- UAE Penal Code = Federal Law No. 3 of 1987
- Ministerial Resolution No. 46 of 2022:
Procedures to File a Complaint
Employees have several legal avenues available to file harassment complaints.
HR Complaint
Initially, the employee should file a formal complaint with the internal human resources department. If unresolved or not appropriately addressed, legal action can be initiated.
MOHRE Complaint
The employee can file a complaint with MOHRE.
Labour and Employment Court
Matter is proceeded to the labour court, where lawyers in Dubai present evidence and represent the employee.
Criminal Complaint
For physical, or sexual harassment, a separate complaint can be filed at the police station.
