On February 2nd, 2022, the UAE government made important changes to the UAE labour laws. And thanks to those significant changes, there is now more flexibility for employees and other benefits they can enjoy. In fact, they can also secure multiple jobs in a part-time work model, giving them more job opportunities.
In this article, you will everything you need to know about the new UAE labour laws and their advantages. Plus, if you desire to have a second job, here we will show you how to find and secure it. In addition, here you will also find information about other changes related to part-time workers in the UAE. Let’s observe:
- A brief overview of the new UAE Labour Laws
- How can a part-time employee have more than one job?
- Can a full-time employee get an alternative job?
- What are the most outstanding changes to the Labour Laws in the country?
- What should you do in order to stay compliant with the new Labour Laws?
- Frequently asked questions related to the new UAE Labour Laws
- How can Connect Resources help you get more information about the new Labour Laws?
1. A brief overview of the new UAE Labour Laws
The previous labour laws in the UAE have been updated this year, precisely, on February 2nd, 2022. And, due to those major changes, employees and employers will have to change some of their personal and professional strategies. Especially, employees will need to analyze and understand the new UAE labour laws if they want to have better job opportunities.
In other words, they can get a part-time job as a second job and secure it thanks to these regulations. With the advantages that the 33rd Federal Law of 2021 provides, it is possible for workers to have two jobs at the same time. And that is a revolutionary change that will benefit both UAE employees and businesses significantly.
Besides, these new and flexible laws are focused on improving regulations for many work areas. For example, it makes regulations more flexible, which provides workers with better protection while they carry out their tasks and duties. If you are interested in knowing more about it, make sure to keep reading this text to get more information.
2. How can a part-time employee have more than one job?
Due to the new changes of the UAE labour laws, employees can now have and secure multiple jobs. However, there is a rule that they must follow in order to avoid legal issues (and sometimes, personal issues). And that regulation is that their working hours must not exceed 48 hours. With this model, it is possible for many people to earn an extra income.
The first thing you must know is that the employee must get a part-time work permit from the MOHRE first. Then, they will be able to get a part-time job. Besides, they can also get an independent business permit to work on their own visa without sponsorship. This permit also allows them to work without signing a contract with an employer.
On the other hand, employees can also get a temporary work permit and a “one-mission” permit. This last one allows employers to hire an employee to work on a specific job/project until it is finished. And there are times when companies need more working hands, such as weekends and peak seasons.
During those seasons, companies hire temporary workers, and those workers can secure a second job to boost their earnings. However, the length of the contract will mostly depend on the employer. Another important fact is that the new UAE labour laws allow employees to combine part-time work and remote work.
3. Can a full-time employee get an alternative job?
Yes; a full-time worker can also get a part-time permit to secure a second job. However, they must get the required approvals from their employer and the ministry as well.
Usually, a full-time job takes from 8 to 9 hours per day, so employees can have some additional hours left. And they can use those remaining hours for a part-time job during the evenings or weekends.
If a full-time employee does not get the necessary approvals, there are other legal ways to get an extra income. For instance, they can participate in flea markets, rent out a property, or freelance online. Nonetheless, renting out a property will require them to have a trade license from the Economic Department.
4. What are the most outstanding changes to the Labour Laws in the country?
Since it is the biggest overhaul of the UAE labour laws in decades, there are many changes you must be aware of. Otherwise, you might break the law without noticing it or you may not enjoy the benefits you can have. Therefore, we shall take a look at some of the most remarkable changes made to the new labour laws.
4.1. Protection for employees against harassment and bullying
Both the company and the employer must not force employees to provide their services against their will. The UAE labour laws forbid harassment, bullying, or any verbal, physical, or psychological violence against workers by coworkers or superiors. Additionally, the laws also forbid discrimination based on religion, color, sex, nationality, or disability.
4.2. Permission for any particular leave
There are many types of cases that must be taken into consideration when it comes to leave allowances. Some of the most common are these:
4.2.1. Annual leave
There is no increase in the number of days employees have for annual leave. In fact, they still have only two days per month for their first year. And after their first year, from then onwards they will have 30 days per year.
4.2.2. Maternity leave
In this case, there has been a change for the better. Female workers who are pregnant will have protection from termination due to their pregnancy. Besides, these workers will also have 45 days at full pay and other 15 days with half pay. And there will be no reduction in pay for maternity leave.
4.2.3. Paternity leave
In the case of new fathers, they can take five working days with pay. Also, they choose whether they want to take those days continuously or intermittently within the first six months after the birth of their child.
4.2.4. Compassionate leave
Employees can also claim compassionate leave in the case of bereavement. And they can take three or five days, which will depend on the degree of the relative concerned.
4.3. Resignations and final pay
In the case of resignation terms during the probation period, they have been improved. Both parties in the contract must give at least two weeks’ notice within the new term contracts. If the worker does not comply with these regulations, they will have a ban of one year for work permits.
4.4. Changes on gratuities
These have also changed for the better. If workers resign from their contracts, their gratuities will not be forfeited or reduced. Besides, their gratuities are not forfeit in case they are terminated through gross misconduct.
4.5. Other important changes
Besides the previously mentioned aspects, there are many other changes to the UAE labour laws that you should know about. For example, workers can choose the work models they want to use to earn their incomes and even secure multiple jobs.
Another example is related to termination under probation. If employers want to terminate employees’ contracts during the probation period, they must notify the employees 14 days in advance.
On the other hand, the new labour law no longer permits unlimited contracts. In other words, contracts are now only valid for up to three years. If both parties desire it, they can renew or extend their contracts.
5. What should you do in order to stay compliant with the new Labour Laws?
The best option you can take to understand and comply with the UAE labour laws is getting professional assistance. A company that specializes in government services and consultancy can provide you with the guidance you need.
And if you are a company owner, you should get specialized HR services to update your employees’ contracts. This way, you will make sure that your company complies perfectly with all new labour laws.
6. Frequently asked questions related to the new UAE Labour Laws
As we mentioned before, the new UAE labour laws mean a lot of changes for the companies and the employees. Therefore, professionals like you must have a lot of questions related to the recent changes in these regulations. And here you will be able to find some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the most important changes.
6.1. When did the government first announce the new UAE labour laws?
Although it was on February 2nd, 2022, when the new UAE labour laws came into effect, there was a previous announcement. In fact, the first time the UAE government documented these new regulations was on September 20th, 2021. And then, the new labour laws were announced to the public on November 15th, 2021.
6.2. How do these new regulations impact the minimum wage for UAE employees?
So far, the only news related to the employees’ salaries is that the government will set a new minimum wage. More specifically, following a proposal by the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) and in collaboration with relevant authorities. Furthermore, it is also important to mention that the new minimum wage will be applicable to private sector employees too.
6.3. Are there any other protections for the employees?
Companies must provide equal pay to both male and female employees. Otherwise, there will be penalties for those companies that do not comply with the current UAE labour laws. On the other hand, employers are not allowed to confiscate any official documents that belong to their employees.
In addition, the new laws also state that employees should not work more than two extra hours. And if they work overtime, they should receive their wage plus an increase of 25% or 50%. In case you desire to know more, make sure to contact a professional legal advisor like Connect Resources to get more information.
7. How can Connect Resources help you get more information about the new Labour Laws?
Do you need to get a second job and secure it? The new UAE labour laws allow you to do it. However, it is important to comply with these laws before committing yourself to get an alternative part-time job. Therefore, you will need to get professional assistance from a specialized agency in order to understand the new labour laws.
With our team, you can get the guidance you require to find the job you need without breaking the law. Besides, we can provide you with many services in case you are a business owner looking to succeed in Dubai. This way, you will achieve your goals while complying with the new UAE labour laws at the same time.
Would you like to contact our team to obtain more information? In case you have any questions, please write us an email at contact@connectresources.ae. Right after that, you will talk to one of our representatives who will gladly answer all of your questions.
Additionally, if you are searching for the most convenient job opportunities, make sure to visit thetalentpoint.com. All you need to do is submit your CV or resume to search for your dream job easily. Besides, feel free to send an email at contact@thetalentpoint.com, so we can receive your application and review it.
