Absconding Case UAE: What to Do If Reported
Being reported as absconding is serious — it suspends your work permit and can lead to an immigration ban. But the 2022 labour reforms gave workers real protections. If you have been falsely reported, you have the right to contest it. Here is exactly what to do.
What Happens When You Are Reported as Absconding
Your Rights Under the 2022 Law Changes
The 2022 labour reforms (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and Ministerial Resolution No. 47 of 2022) significantly strengthened worker protections against false absconding reports:
- You can contest any absconding report within 60 days of it being filed
- If you left because your employer violated your contract (unpaid wages, abuse, unsafe conditions), the absconding report can be cancelled
- Employers who file false absconding reports face financial penalties and MoHRE sanctions
- You can apply for a temporary work permit while your case is being investigated
- If the report is cancelled, your employer must pay any outstanding wages and benefits
- You are not required to leave the UAE while the contest is pending
How to Contest an Absconding Report
Act immediately — you have 60 days from the report date to file a counter-complaint
Gather all evidence: attendance records, salary transfers, WhatsApp messages, emails, photos of your workplace
File a counter-complaint through the MoHRE app or visit a Tasheel center
Select 'Contest Absconding Report' and explain why the report is false
Upload all supporting documents — be thorough, more evidence is always better
Attend the mediation session when scheduled — bring all original documents
If MoHRE finds in your favor, the absconding report is cancelled and your record is cleared
Evidence That Helps Your Case
- Bank statements showing salary was being paid (proves you were working)
- WhatsApp or email messages with your employer about work matters
- Attendance records or access card logs
- Medical certificates if you were on sick leave when reported
- Your MoHRE complaint reference number (if you filed before being reported)
- Testimony from colleagues who can confirm you were working
- Photos or videos from the workplace with dates
Common Scenarios and What to Do
Employer reported you after you filed a complaint
This is retaliatory and illegal. Your original complaint serves as evidence. MoHRE takes this seriously — mention your complaint reference number when contesting.
You left because wages were unpaid
Under Article 45 of the labour law, if your employer fails to pay wages for more than 60 days, you have the right to terminate the contract. Show bank statements proving non-payment.
You were on approved leave
If you were on annual leave, sick leave, or any approved absence, the absconding report is invalid. Provide your leave approval documentation or medical certificates.
Know Your Contract Rights
Your employment contract defines your obligations. Upload it and we will identify whether your employer had valid grounds for an absconding report — or whether it was filed illegally.
Check Your ContractFrequently Asked Questions
What does absconding mean in UAE labour law?
Absconding means an employee has left their workplace without authorization and without informing their employer. When an employer reports an employee as absconding through MoHRE, the employee's work permit is suspended and they may face an immigration ban. However, the 2022 labour reforms introduced protections against false absconding reports.
Can my employer falsely report me as absconding?
Yes, and it happens frequently. Some employers file false absconding reports to avoid paying end-of-service benefits or to retaliate against workers who file complaints. Under the 2022 reforms, you can contest a false absconding report through MoHRE. If proven false, the employer faces penalties and you can claim compensation.
How do I contest an absconding report?
File a counter-complaint with MoHRE within 60 days of the absconding report. Provide evidence that you were working, on approved leave, or that the report was retaliatory. Evidence can include attendance records, messages, salary transfers, and any communication with your employer. MoHRE will investigate and can cancel the absconding report.
What are my rights if reported as absconding?
You have the right to: (1) contest the report within 60 days, (2) remain in the UAE during the investigation, (3) file a counter-complaint for unpaid wages or violations, (4) request a temporary work permit if your case is pending. The 2022 law changes gave workers significantly more protection against false absconding claims.
What changed about absconding laws in 2022?
The 2022 reforms (Ministerial Resolution No. 47 of 2022) introduced key changes: employers must report absconding within 14 days, workers can contest reports, penalties for false reports were increased, and workers who leave due to employer violations (unpaid wages, abuse) are protected from absconding claims.