MoHRE Complaint: How to Report Your Employer
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is the first point of contact for any employment dispute in the UAE. Filing a complaint triggers mandatory mediation, and if that fails, your case is automatically forwarded to the labour court. Here is the complete process.
Online Filing Process
The fastest way to file is through the MoHRE digital channels. You can use the smartphone app or the website.
Log in to the MoHRE app or mohre.gov.ae using UAE Pass
Go to Services > Individual Services > Labour Complaint
Select your complaint category (unpaid wages, termination, contract violation, etc.)
Enter your employer details — these are auto-populated from your work permit
Describe the issue in detail — be specific about dates, amounts, and what happened
Upload supporting documents (contract, salary slips, messages, photos)
Review and submit — you will receive a reference number immediately
Required Documents
- Emirates ID (mandatory for all complaints)
- Employment contract or offer letter
- Salary slips or bank statements showing payment history
- Any written communication related to the dispute
- Medical reports (for workplace injury or health-related complaints)
- Termination letter (if applicable)
Mediation: The First Stage
After filing, MoHRE assigns a mediator and schedules a session. Both you and your employer are required to attend. The mediator will hear both sides and attempt to negotiate a resolution.
Mediation is not optional — it is mandatory under UAE labour law. Neither party can skip directly to court. The mediator has the authority to propose solutions, but cannot force either party to accept.
Labour Court: When Mediation Fails
If mediation does not resolve the issue, MoHRE refers your case to the labour court within 2 working days. The court process is more formal and typically takes 3-6 months.
At the labour court, a judge reviews all evidence and makes a binding decision. Key points to know:
- Court fees may be waived for workers earning below AED 8,000/month
- You can request a temporary work permit to continue working during the case
- The court can order payment of unpaid wages, compensation, and end-of-service benefits
- Appeals are possible within 30 days of the court decision
- Judgments are enforceable — the court can freeze employer assets to ensure payment
Strengthen Your Complaint With a Contract Review
Before filing with MoHRE, understand exactly what your contract says. Upload your employment contract and our AI will identify every clause your employer may have violated.
Check Your ContractFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a MoHRE complaint and going to court?
A MoHRE complaint starts with mandatory mediation — a free process where MoHRE tries to resolve the dispute between you and your employer within 14 days. If mediation fails, MoHRE refers your case to the labour court. You cannot go directly to labour court without first going through MoHRE mediation.
Can I file a MoHRE complaint while still employed?
Yes. You can file a complaint while still working for your employer. Under UAE law, your employer cannot terminate you or take retaliatory action because you filed a complaint. If they do, this becomes an additional violation that strengthens your case.
How long does MoHRE mediation take?
MoHRE aims to complete mediation within 14 days of filing. In practice, it may take 2-3 weeks depending on whether both parties attend. If the employer fails to appear for mediation, the case is referred directly to labour court.
What types of complaints can I file with MoHRE?
You can file complaints about unpaid wages, illegal salary deductions, denied leave entitlements, contract violations, unsafe working conditions, wrongful termination, end-of-service benefit disputes, overtime pay issues, and any other violation of UAE labour law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021).
Do I need a lawyer to file a MoHRE complaint?
No. You can file and attend mediation without a lawyer. The process is designed to be accessible to all workers. However, if the case goes to labour court, having legal representation is advisable. Workers earning below AED 8,000/month may qualify for free legal aid.