United Arab Emirates

• Halal control system Requirement National

  Halal products are governed by a federal system (Cabinet Decree 10 of 2014); certificates come from bodies registered by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

  Source: MOIAT - Halal programme (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Halal National Mark Requirement National

  An optional official mark the Ministry grants after checking products against approved halal standards.

  Applies to: Producers and sellers who choose to apply

  Source: MOIAT - Halal programme (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Food registration and false labels Requirement National

  Food sold must be registered in the ZAD system; misleading labelling carries a fine of AED 10,000 to 100,000.

  AED 100,000 maximum fine, misleading labelling (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Food safety (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-09-08; Government or public body)

• Pork and alcohol Requirement National

  Dealing in pork or alcohol products without permission is an offence under federal law; check local rules before importing food.

  AED 500,000 maximum fine (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Food safety (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-09-08; Government or public body)

• Who inspects food Editorial Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah

  Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority and Sharjah municipalities handle food safety in their emirates.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Food safety (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-09-08; Government or public body)

• Allergen labelling rules (the food-safety page does not address them): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Vegetarian and vegan availability and any labelling scheme: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Kosher availability: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Grocery price levels: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• University or employer canteen provision: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Ejari registration Requirement Dubai

  Tenancy contracts in Dubai must be registered on RERA's Ejari system; authorities may refuse disputes on unregistered leases.

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Tenancy guide (Legal Affairs Department, 2014 edition) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Security deposit Requirement Dubai

  A landlord may take a deposit for the property's condition and must refund it or the remainder when the contract ends.

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Tenancy guide (Legal Affairs Department, 2014 edition) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Renewal notice Requirement Dubai

  Notice to change terms or not renew must be given at least 90 days before expiry.

  90 days notice before expiry (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Tenancy guide (Legal Affairs Department, 2014 edition) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Rent increase cap Requirement Dubai

  Renewal increases are capped by how far rent sits below the official Rent Index average: none up to 10% below, 5% at 11-20%, 10% at 21-30%, 15% at 31-40%, 20% at 41% or more. The guide is the 2014 edition, so confirm the current rule.

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Tenancy guide (Legal Affairs Department, 2014 edition) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Eviction at expiry Requirement Dubai

  A landlord must give reasons 12 months before the eviction date, by notary or registered post.

  12 months notice (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Tenancy guide (Legal Affairs Department, 2014 edition) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Ejari e-service fee Requirement Dubai

  Registering a tenancy contract through the Dubai Now app costs AED 177.75 in total (registration 100, service 55, knowledge 10, innovation 10, VAT 2.75); the page says it is for individuals who own and manage their own properties, so it is a landlord-side service, and it applies to Dubai only, not other emirates.

  AED 177.75 per tenancy registration (as of 2026-11-03)

  Applies to: Landlords registering their own property in Dubai

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Register, renew or terminate a tenancy contract (Dubai Now) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-11-03; Government or public body)

• Dubai utilities (DEWA) Requirement Dubai

  In Dubai the electricity and water connection follows Ejari: once Ejari is issued DEWA emails an account number, security-deposit details and a payment link. The deposit amount was not stated.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Public utilities (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body)

• Abu Dhabi utilities Requirement Abu Dhabi

  Tenants apply to ADDC (Al Ain: AADC) with passport, Emirates ID, tenancy contract registered in Tawtheeq and a closing letter from the previous tenant.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Public utilities (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body)

• Sharjah utilities Requirement Sharjah

  Create an account on the SEWGA portal; tenants need the tenancy contract.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Public utilities (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body)

• Northern emirates utilities Requirement Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah

  Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah use Etihad Water and Electricity: submit an activation request with a copy of the Emirates ID and the tenancy contract.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Public utilities (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body)

• Dubai Rental Index Editorial Dubai

  DLD's online calculator takes contract end date, property type, location and current annual rent in AED; units are looked up by DEWA premise or Ejari contract number. Eligibility and fees are not stated.

  Source: Dubai Land Department - Rental Index calculator (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-11-03; Government or public body)

• Employer-provided housing Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  Permit suspension can follow a failure to provide proper worker accommodation; the government says it is upgrading temporary worker housing.

  Applies to: Workers whose employer supplies accommodation

  Source: UAE Government Portal - MoHRE work permits (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-19; Government or public body) · UAE Government Portal - Protection of workers' rights (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body)

• Tenancy rules outside Dubai (Ejari guide PDF at dubailand.gov.ae/media/rhojzudp was empty/unreadable; not used): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• City rent ranges: the DLD Rental Index is a calculator needing a contract, and the Dubai Statistics Center page redirected to data.dubai (not fetched), so no rent level is verified: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and other emirates tenancy rules (every tenancy fact here is Dubai only): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Student housing and shared-room norms: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• DEWA security-deposit amount (DEWA move-in and refund pages returned an error): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Common rental scams from an official page: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Currency peg Editorial National

  The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since February 2002 at AED 3.6725 per USD.

  AED 3.673 1 USD (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Fact sheet (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Basic health package Estimate Private-sector basic package per the federal mandate (Abu Dhabi and Dubai first; free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  The federal basic health-insurance package is AED 320 a year; the employer buys it for staff.

  AED 320 year, basic package (as of 2025-10-28)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-28; Government or public body)

• Monthly household budget by emirate: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Grocery and food prices (FCSC and Dubai Statistics CPI datasets are index numbers and press releases, not shelf prices; no price level read): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Typical entry-level wages (no official wage table opened): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Minimum driving ages Requirement National portal; Dubai RTA detail applies to Dubai only

  National portal: 17 for motorcycles and special-needs vehicles, 18 for cars and light vehicles, 20 for heavy vehicles and tractors, 21 for buses. Dubai RTA (service page for corporate drivers) adds that a traffic file for a light vehicle can be opened at 17 years 6 months, with the licence issued at 18 after the tests; other emirates not yet verified.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body) · RTA Dubai - driving licence service (corporate version) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• New licence steps Requirement National

  Open a traffic file at a driving centre, pass an eye test, take classes, pass the tests, collect the licence.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Licence validity Requirement National

  New licence: 1 year under 21, 2 years at 21 or older; renewals for expatriate residents over 21 last 5 years.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Transfer from another emirate to Dubai Requirement Dubai (RTA), licences from other UAE emirates only

  Fee AED 570 in total (traffic file 200, licence 300, handbook 50, knowledge and innovation 20) for a licence issued by an emirate that accepts transfers; instant for Dubai residents, 3 working days for residents of another emirate; electronic eye test required. This page does not cover foreign licences.

  AED 570 total transfer fee, Dubai (as of 2026-10-20)

  Source: RTA Dubai - Transfer a driving licence to Dubai (from another emirate) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-20; Government or public body)

• Exchanging a foreign licence Requirement National

  Some expatriate residents aged 18+ can exchange a valid home-country licence (Markhoos initiative); the list of countries was not on the page.

  Applies to: Residents holding an eligible foreign licence

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Which countries' licences can be exchanged (India included): the moi.gov.ae Markhoos page returned no text and the RTA transfer page covers other emirates only: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Public transport fares and commute times by city: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Residency requirement to hold a licence: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Documents for residents Requirement National

  Emirates ID, valid residence visa, passport, and a salary certificate or employment letter; proof of address in some cases.

  Applies to: Residents opening a personal account

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Banking in the UAE (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Regulator and complaints Editorial National

  The Central Bank of the UAE regulates banks; banking complaints go through Sanadak.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Banking in the UAE (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Wages Protection System (WPS) Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  Private-sector wages for the previous month are due on the first day of each Gregorian month and are paid through WPS via banks, exchange houses or financial institutions licensed by the Central Bank; at least 85% of total wages must be paid on time.

  85 percent of wages minimum on time (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body)

• Late-pay enforcement timeline Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  Day 5 new work permits suspended; day 11 administrative fine; day 16 labour dispute registered automatically; day 21 asset attachment, travel bans and prosecutor referral for repeat cases, depending on employer size.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body)

• Opening channels Editorial National

  Apply at a branch, online or through a bank app; approval takes a few hours to a few days.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Banking in the UAE (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body)

• Non-resident account rules: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Salary-transfer (WPS) account set-up for new workers: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Credit-card and credit-history rules: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Money-transfer rules: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• SIM registration Requirement National

  The regulator names the Emirates ID as the official identity document for registration; providers may not issue or transfer SIMs without full identity checks.

  Source: TDRA - Registration for mobile consumers (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-08-18; Government or public body)

• Keep details current Requirement National

  Subscribers must report changes to their registered details.

  Source: TDRA - Registration for mobile consumers (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-08-18; Government or public body)

• Tourist SIM rules: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Maximum SIMs per person: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Home internet registration: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Provider prices: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Dubai medical fitness test Requirement Dubai

  Applicants aged 18 and over take a fitness test showing they are free of communicable diseases at one of 23 Dubai medical fitness centres run by Dubai Health; results usually arrive in 24 hours by email and SMS. Fee and validity are not stated on the page; specific tests are not listed.

  Source: Dubai.ae - Medical fitness for residence visa (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-01-10; Government or public body)

• Federal mandate Requirement Private-sector staff; Abu Dhabi and Dubai now, other emirates phased in (dates not stated); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  From 1 January 2025 employers must buy a policy before applying for or renewing residency for private-sector staff and domestic workers; it applies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai now and extends to other emirates.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-28; Government or public body)

• Dubai Health Law scope Requirement Dubai (including Dubai free zones)

  Health insurance in Dubai is mandatory under Dubai Law 11 of 2013; employers must insure staff, including companies in free zones, and sponsors must insure dependents (spouse, children, domestic workers). Minimum benefits and annual limits are not stated on the page.

  Source: Dubai.ae - Health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-04-14; Government or public body)

• Abu Dhabi cover Requirement Abu Dhabi

  Employers and sponsors insure employees and families: one spouse and up to three children under 18.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-28; Government or public body)

• Dubai cover Requirement Dubai

  Employers insure employees; sponsors insure resident dependents.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-28; Government or public body)

• Basic package terms Requirement Private-sector basic package per the federal mandate (Abu Dhabi and Dubai first; free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Two-year policy covering ages 1-64 at AED 320 a year; over-64s need a medical disclosure form.

  AED 320 year, basic package (as of 2025-10-28)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Getting a health insurance (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-28; Government or public body)

• Health authority pages for registering with a clinic (DHA, DoH); minimum insured benefits and annual limits (Dubai page states none): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Medical fitness test for residence visas: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Free-zone work permit and insurance regimes (every work, insurance and contract fact here is mainland/MoHRE; free zones have separate authorities, not yet verified): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Coverage limits of the basic package: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Contract registration Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  After arrival both parties sign and MoHRE registers the offer as the contract; submit within 14 days of arrival.

  14 days after arrival (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Expatriates' employment in the private sector (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body)

• Emirates ID Requirement National

  Applying is a legal requirement for all residents; apply via the ICP website or an accredited typing centre, with a possible visit for biometrics. The u.ae page states no deadline; late renewal costs AED 20 a day, capped at AED 1,000.

  AED 20 day late renewal fee, capped at AED 1,000 (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Emirates ID (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-02-17; Government or public body)

• Emirates ID new-card fees (residents) Requirement National (ICP)

  ICP lists AED 100 per year of residence, plus AED 150 if urgent and AED 100 smart service fee (each a separate line; urgent is optional); completion time listed as 5 days; passport valid at least 3 months and an ICAO-standard photo are required. No application deadline is stated beyond biometrics 'within the set period' (length not given); reporting a data change within 30 days carries a listed AED 20 fine. The page body (Dec 2024) conflicts with its footer date (07/11/2026), and a second ICP page shows the same conflict, so confirm current fees with ICP.

  AED 100 year of residence, new resident card (urgent AED 150 and smart service AED 100 are separate lines) (as of 2024-12-11)

  Source: ICP - New identity card issuance (body dated 11 Dec 2024; footer 07/11/2026 conflicts) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2024-12-11; Government or public body)

• Entry permit fee lines (employment and Green) Requirement National (ICP, guide version 4)

  ICP's services guide lists, for an employment or Green Visa entry permit: request AED 100, issuance AED 100, electronic services AED 100 and a financial guarantee of AED 1,000 (a guarantee, not a fee). This guide's latest amendment is December 2023, so it is older than the 2026 pages and current fees must be confirmed with ICP.

  AED 100 entry-permit request fee line (as of 2023-12-01)

  Source: ICP - Services guide 2024 (version 4; latest amendment Dec 2023) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2023-12-01; Government or public body)

• Residence-permit service lines Requirement National (ICP)

  ICP lists these separately by situation, not as one total: application AED 100, issuance AED 100 a year, smart service AED 100, financial security deposit AED 20, status adjustment AED 500, overstay fine AED 50 a day; the listed completion time is 2 days. The page date (Dec 2024) conflicts with its footer, so confirm current fees with ICP.

  AED 100 application fee line (as of 2024-12-11)

  Source: ICP - Issuing residency permit (page date 11 Dec 2024; footer shows 07/11/2026, so currency to be confirmed) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2024-12-11; Government or public body)

• Absence limit Requirement National (residence visas)

  Staying outside the UAE more than 180 days continuously ends a residence visa automatically, with listed exemptions; Golden and Green residents are exempt.

  180 days continuous absence (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body)

• Grace period and overstay Requirement National

  After expiry or cancellation residents get a grace period of up to 6 months depending on category; overstay costs AED 50 a day.

  AED 50 day overstay fine (as of 2026-11-07)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body)

• Offer language Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  Offers must be in Arabic, English and a third language the worker understands, with a MoHRE annex summarising the Labour Law.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Expatriates' employment in the private sector (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body)

• Free-zone employment regime Requirement Free zones (each authority differs)

  Free-zone employees are sponsored by their free zone authority rather than the employer, and each free zone authority sets its own employment rules; free-zone workers are generally not covered by the UAE Labour Law, though the contract must align with it. Free-zone permit steps, insurance and complaint routes were not stated on the page.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Working in free zones (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body)

• Contract term Requirement Mainland private sector under Federal Decree-Law 33 of 2021 (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Contracts are fixed-term and renewable; the duration page states no maximum length (renewals run for a comparable or shorter period), and an expired contract that both sides keep performing counts as renewed on the same terms. An older line on the job-offer page mentioning three years is superseded and not used. Whether free-zone staff are covered is not stated.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Employment contracts: duration and models in the private sector (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body)

• Emirates ID new-card fee and deadline (not on the u.ae page; ICP site): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Personal income tax position (not verified): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Medical fitness fee, validity and test list; Abu Dhabi and other emirates: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Local address registration: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Languages Editorial National

  Arabic is the official language; signs are in Arabic and English; Bengali, Farsi, Malayalam, Turkish and Urdu are widely spoken.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Fact sheet (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Population mix Editorial National

  Expatriates outnumber nationals; the fact sheet lists Indians as the largest foreign community (2020 figures).

  9,282,410 total population, 2020 (as of 2020)

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Fact sheet (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Contract language option Requirement Mainland private sector (MoHRE); free zones NOT VERIFIED

  A worker can request a third contract language from nine options including Hindi, Tamil, Urdu and Nepali.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Expatriates' employment in the private sector (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body)

• Worker helpline Editorial National (federal MoHRE channel; free-zone coverage NOT VERIFIED)

  The Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre is toll-free on 80084.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Protection of workers' rights (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body)

• Official integration or language-course resources: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Faith and community-centre listings (not collected): Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Climate type Editorial National

  Warm sunny winters, hot humid summers, cooler eastern mountains.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Fact sheet (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Monthly temperature ranges from the National Centre of Meteorology: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Heat-safety rules for outdoor workers: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Weather alert service: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

• Golden family sponsorship Requirement National

  Spouse, children of any age and parents can be sponsored; domestic workers under the applicable rules.

  Applies to: Golden Residency holders

  Source: ICP - Golden Residency guide (page dates are inconsistent; none recorded) (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Student parent sponsorship ages Requirement National

  Sons up to 25 (older on a course of at least a year); daughters until marriage.

  Applies to: Students sponsored by a resident parent

  Source: UAE Government Portal - Residence visa for studying in the UAE (checked 2026-11-07; Government or public body)

• Family-member residence income line Requirement National (ICP family category)

  For family members the ICP service lists a minimum sponsor income of AED 3,000 a month with employer housing, or AED 4,000 without, plus adequate housing and a valid sponsor residence. These are alternatives, not cumulative.

  AED 3,000 month, with employer housing (alternative to AED 4,000 without) (as of 2024-12-11)

  Source: ICP - Issuing residency permit (page date 11 Dec 2024; footer shows 07/11/2026, so currency to be confirmed) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2024-12-11; Government or public body)

• Dubai school registration Requirement Dubai private schools (KHDA)

  Register through KHDA with a valid Emirates ID, a transfer certificate for Grade 2 / Year 3 and above, and meet the age cut-off of 31 August for September starts; there is no fee for the registration service.

  Source: KHDA - Register a new student (Dubai) (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2025-10-15; Government or public body)

• Dubai school fee rule Requirement Dubai

  For-profit schools raise fees by DSIB inspection grade and the Education Cost Index.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - School fees (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-21; Government or public body)

• Abu Dhabi school fee rule Requirement Abu Dhabi

  Private schools submit fee-increase requests to ADEK each January.

  Source: UAE Government Portal - School fees (checked 2026-11-07; document dated 2026-10-21; Government or public body)

• Childcare and nursery regulation: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• Disability and accessibility services: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.
• School fee levels: Not verified yet: not confirmed from an official source, which does not mean none exists.

Scope: The federal portal pages below are the direct task pages checked for this country; each is in English as read, with the authority and the date the page shows.

• Employment contract end and gratuity

  Authority: UAE Government Portal, republishing Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) rules. The page was read in English and shows an update of 15 Oct 2026.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Labour complaint

  Authority: MoHRE. Direct task page on the UAE Government Portal, English, updated 12 Aug 2026.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Residence visa for family members

  Authority: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). English, updated 28 Sep 2026.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for families of employees (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Student residence visa

  Authority: ICP and the accredited institution. English, updated 28 Sep 2026.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for studying in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Customs clearance for visitors and residents

  Authority: ICP customs. English, updated 27 Oct 2026.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

• Birth and death registration

  Authority: Ministry of Health and Prevention with emirate health authorities, plus ICP. English, both pages updated 4 Nov 2026.

  Where: Federal; emirate authorities apply it

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Having a baby (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Deaths (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Language of the pages checked is recorded; accessibility features of the portals themselves were not tested.

• Language of pages checked

  All UAE Government Portal pages cited for this country were read in English. Where the government publishes a different wording in Arabic, the Arabic text is the one an authority applies; this was not compared.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Offer language in employment contracts

  Offers must be in Arabic, English and a third language the worker understands (nine third languages are listed on the hiring page already cited in the living guide).

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Dietary planning and labelling — bounded addition; remaining scope is listed explicitly.

• Halal National Mark

  The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology describes an optional Halal National Mark granted after it verifies a product, service or system against approved standards.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Producers and service providers

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology — Halal programme (page shows no update date) (checked 2026-11-08; Government or public body; page read)

• Halal control system

  Cabinet Decree 10 of 2014 (UAE System for Control of Halal Products) requires establishments to obtain halal certificates for final products and raw materials from certification bodies registered by the ministry.

  Where: Federal

  Source: Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology — Halal programme (page shows no update date) (checked 2026-11-08; Government or public body; page read)

• Declared allergens and cross-contact warnings

  Abu Dhabi’s published food-labelling code requires a clear reference to specified allergenic ingredients in covered foods. It distinguishes this from precautionary factory cross-contact wording, which the code describes as optional. Absence of a may-contain warning therefore does not establish absence of cross-contact. The code lists exceptions including loose foods and foods packed on the premises for direct sale. No restaurant or product is guaranteed allergen-safe here.

  Where: Abu Dhabi

  Applies to: Consumers reading labels of foods within ADAFSA code scope; not a nationwide venue certification

  Source: ADAFSA — General Food Labelling Requirements, Code of Practice5/2019 (checked 2026-11-08; Government or public body; page partly read; fact not independently verified)

Scope: The government portal lists the usual account documents and the regulator; it states no minimum balances and recommends no bank.

• Documents commonly asked for

  Emirates ID, a valid residence visa, a passport or family book, a salary certificate or employment letter, and sometimes proof of address; self-employed applicants may need a trade licence. Requirements vary by bank.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Banking (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Regulator and complaints

  The Central Bank of the UAE regulates banks and insurers; banking complaints go through Sanadak (sanadak.gov.ae).

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Banking (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Wage Protection System

  Private-sector wages are paid through the Wage Protection System via banks, exchange houses or institutions authorised by the Central Bank.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: A foreign licence can be exchanged only by some resident nationalities; the portal does not name them, so no passport is assumed eligible.

• Licence exchange

  Some expatriate residents can exchange a valid home-country licence for a UAE licence; the applicant must be at least 18. The page does not say which countries qualify.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Expatriate residents of eligible countries (list NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Visitors

  Some visitors may drive on their national licence; the page names the Ministry of Interior Markhoos initiative for exchange once living in the UAE and gives no further detail.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Getting a driving licence (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-28; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Family schooling pathways — bounded addition; remaining scope is listed explicitly.

• Expatriate entry to government schools

  Expatriate students may enter government schools in grades 2 to 12 if a parent works for a government, semi-government or local entity, the student holds a valid UAE residence visa, scores at least 85% in Arabic, English and Mathematics, and places stay within 20% of a school's capacity. Tuition applies. The page covers public schools only.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Children of parents employed by government or semi-government entities

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Admission to the UAE government schools (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-21; Government or public body; page read)

• Newborn residence visa

  A newborn must be sponsored under the family-member residence visa; the page states the baby cannot exit the country until this is complete after 120 days.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Having a baby (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

• Dubai private-school application and contract

  Dubai’s government guide directs parents to apply to the chosen private school, provide requested identity and medical documents, and complete any interview or placement process. A Parent-School Contract is required. The KHDA school directory and each school’s Fees Fact Sheet are the listed references for school-specific charges; no national flat fee or guaranteed place is implied.

  Where: Dubai

  Applies to: Families seeking private-school admission in Dubai

  Source: Dubai Government — admission to school (checked 2026-11-08; Government or public body; page read; fact not independently verified)

Scope: The midday work ban is set by a federal ministerial resolution; the date and hours below are from the government portal. The ministry's own 2026 notice blocks automated reading.

• Midday break

  Under Ministerial Resolution 44 of 2022, work directly under the sun in open places is not allowed from 12:30 to 15:00 every year from 15 June to 15 September.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Applies to: Workers in open places under direct sun

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Working hours and overtime (private sector) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Health and safety at workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-24; Government or public body; page read)

• Exemptions

  Exemptions cover asphalt laying or concrete pouring that cannot be postponed, urgent work to prevent hazards or repair failures affecting the public, and work needing a government permit because it affects traffic.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Health and safety at workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-24; Government or public body; page read)

• Medical checks and safety duties

  Workers exposed to occupational disease risks must be examined at least every six months; employers must provide protective means, training and awareness materials.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Health and safety at workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-24; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: MoHRE classifies jobs by ISCO-based professional levels; a title is not treated as equivalent to the same title elsewhere.

• Nine professional levels

  MoHRE groups jobs into nine levels based on the ILO International Standard Classification of Occupations, from legislators and managers (level 1) to simple professions (level 9).

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Professional levels of jobs in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Skilled-worker test

  A worker counts as skilled only with all four: level 1 to 5, a certificate above secondary school or equivalent, attestation by competent authorities, and a monthly salary of at least AED 4,000 excluding commission.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Professional levels of jobs in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: A visa or skilled-level salary line is a gross threshold, not take-home pay; no calculator is offered.

• No statutory minimum

  The portal states there is no minimum salary under the UAE Labour Law, but wages must be sufficient to meet basic needs.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

• Payment timing and deductions

  Wages for the previous month are due on the first day of each Gregorian month; at least 85% of wages due must be transferred on time where lawful deductions apply; the page gives no further deduction types.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

• Gratuity base

  End-of-service gratuity is based on basic salary only; housing and transport allowances are excluded.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Overtime

  Overtime is capped at two hours a day and paid at the normal hourly rate plus 25% (50% between 10 pm and 4 am).

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Working hours and overtime (private sector) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The student visa page does not state work rights, so no study-activity work right is assumed.

• Student sponsorship

  A student can stay under a parent who is a UAE resident or under the accredited institution; the page says nothing about work rights.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for studying in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Permit types that exist

  The Ministry lists part-time, temporary, student training and employment (a student aged 15 already in the UAE, three months), juvenile (15 to 18, one year) and freelance permits. The page ties each to its own conditions and does not link them to a student visa.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work permits (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-19; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: After a residence permit is cancelled or expires there is a grace period of up to six months, depending on category; the student page describes no post-graduation stay.

• Grace period

  Residents get grace periods that reach up to six months after cancellation or expiry, depending on category.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Student page

  The student visa page describes no post-graduation transition and mentions only that outstanding students may be issued a Golden visa, with no detail.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for studying in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The Tax Residency Certificate has its own residence test, set by the Federal Tax Authority, which is separate from holding a residence visa.

• Tax Residency Certificate test

  For a natural person the page states the applicant must have resided in the UAE for at least 180 days; documents listed include passport, valid residence permit, Emirates ID, lease, proof of income, six months of local bank statements and an ICP entry and exit report.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Individuals applying for a certificate; the page is dated 15 Sep 2022

  Source: Federal Tax Authority — Issuance of a Tax Residency Certificate (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2022-09-15; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The federal pension scheme read covers nationals of the UAE and other GCC states, so no coordination for other expatriates is stated.

• GCC Insurance Protection Extension

  A GCC citizen working in another GCC country can receive pension as if working at home, under the home country's law; the General Pension and Social Security Authority registers GCC nationals in the programme.

  Where: Federal; GCC nationals

  Applies to: GCC nationals; non-GCC expatriates are not mentioned

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Pensions and social security for UAE citizens (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Private-sector expatriates receive an end-of-service gratuity or an employer savings scheme payout, not a state pension, on the official pages checked.

• Gratuity

  Gratuity needs at least one year of continuous service: 21 days of basic pay per year for the first five years and 30 days per later year, capped at two years' basic pay; outstanding sums are due within 14 days of termination. Emiratis follow the pension law instead.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Applies to: Private-sector workers on a gratuity contract

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Optional savings scheme

  An employer may opt in to an approved investment-fund savings scheme in place of gratuity: monthly employer contributions of 5.83% (under five years) or 8.33% (over five years) of basic salary; the employee receives contributions plus returns within 14 days of leaving.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Applies to: Workers whose employer joined the scheme

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The employment page covers Emirati nationals; it does not say whether residents are covered. Support eligibility is separate from visa assessment.

• Right to work

  Federal Law 29 of 2006, Article 16, states that UAE nationals with special needs have the right to work; private employers are encouraged to hire people of determination and may receive exemptions.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: UAE nationals; residents not mentioned

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Employment of people of determination (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-24; Government or public body; page read)

• Education support

  Government schools provide support services for students of determination at no cost, including accessibility features and specialists; the page says people of determination are entitled to enrol in any school without exception.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Education for people of determination (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-22; Government or public body; page read)

• Anti-discrimination in employment

  Resolution 43 of 2018 protects people of determination in employment (government entities); Article 4 of the Labour Law covers disability among protected grounds.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Anti-discrimination laws and policies (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-02; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: No UAE government page checked states the legal position, so none is stated; no safety guarantee is made.

• Protected grounds listed by the government

  The anti-discrimination page lists caste, race, religion and ethnic origin, gender, colour, national or social origin and disability; it does not mention sexual orientation.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Anti-discrimination laws and policies (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-02; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Equal pay is stated in the Labour Law; the portal page gives no maternity length or harassment channel.

• Equal pay

  Article 4 of Federal Decree-Law 33 of 2021 gives women the same wage as men for the same work or work of equal value; Decree-Law 27 of 2018 covers federal entities.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Gender equality in the workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-03; Government or public body; page read)

• Contact channel

  The page lists general government contact Tawasul 171 and does not say it handles workplace harassment.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Gender equality in the workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-03; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: A legal rule and a respectful recommendation are separated below.

• Places of worship

  The government states non-Muslims may build and run their places of worship; the page lists no legal requirements and the statements about celebrations are descriptive.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Other religions and religious festivals (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body; page read)

• Mosque dress (recommendation)

  A tip for non-Muslims entering a mosque: dress conservatively, covering shoulders, arms and knees, and women cover their heads. The page does not present this as a legal requirement.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Visitors entering a mosque

  Source: UAE Government Portal — The UAE's heritage (mosque visit tip) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2024-12-30; Government or public body; page read)

• Prohibited and restricted items (legal)

  Controlled drugs, pirated content, items used in witchcraft, publications and artwork that contradict Islamic values and gambling tools are prohibited at entry.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Prior permission may be needed; this row gives no medication-specific advice.

• Personal-use medicines

  Prescribed medicines for personal use in a normal quantity may be carried; some medicines need a permit from the Ministry of Health and Prevention, and the page does not list which. Narcotic, psychotropic and Class A or B controlled drugs cannot be freely imported and need a separate authorisation.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Drugs and controlled medicines (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-08; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

• Customs rule

  Medicines, drugs and medical equipment are restricted items needing Ministry of Health and Prevention approval; personal-use medication is duty-free if it complies with the regulations.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Personal effects are separated from commercial imports; no duty exemption is guessed beyond the pages.

• Personal effects and used household goods

  Dubai Customs states personal-use and used household items are exempt from customs tax and duties after inspection; goods found in commercial quantities incur a 5% customs tax. Documents: passport copy, residency visa copy and a written list of goods.

  Where: Dubai only

  Applies to: Passengers bringing personal-use goods into Dubai

  Source: Dubai Customs — Clearance of personal effects (Dubai only; page shows no update date) (checked 2026-11-08; Government or public body; page read)

• Cash declaration

  Travellers carrying more than AED 60,000 in cash or equivalent must declare it to the federal authority.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

• Prohibited items

  The federal list includes controlled drugs, counterfeit currency, pirated content, witchcraft items and gambling tools.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Government entry permission is separate from airline or carrier rules; the ministry page could not be read.

• Live animals need approval

  Live animals, plants, fertilisers and pesticides require approval from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; the customs page does not mention pets.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Customs clearance (visitors and residents) (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-27; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Birth registration is a civil record and is not represented as a citizenship entitlement.

• Birth registration

  Residents have a maximum of 30 days to register a child's birth in the UAE, through the hospital or the emirate health authority; formal documents (certificate, passport, Emirates ID, visa) must be arranged within 120 days. The birth certificate must be attested by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

  Where: Federal; emirate authorities apply it

  Applies to: Resident parents

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Having a baby (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

• Nationality statement on the page

  The page states that where parents have different nationalities the child takes the father's nationality. This is printed as the page states it and is not a statement about the UAE conferring citizenship.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Having a baby (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Official contacts and authority steps are separated; no fees or timelines are stated.

• Death outside a hospital

  Call the police on 999; the police file the initial report and move the body to the government morgue. In a hospital, the authorities file the report and issue a death-certificate declaration.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Deaths (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

• Certificates and permissions

  The police issue a no objection certificate; separate certificates may be needed for release of the body, embalming and transport to the home country; the death certificate is issued by Emirates Health Services after the certificate is presented; body transport needs permission from the Ministry of Interior.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Deaths (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

• Embassy role

  For foreign nationals, contact the embassy or consulate of the deceased's country so it can handle further formalities.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Deaths (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-11-04; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The process is described below with its time limits; recovery is not guaranteed and status questions go to the authority.

• Stages

  MoHRE tries to settle the complaint; if no settlement within 14 days it is referred to court with a summary. MoHRE can decide finally where the claim is under AED 50,000, or where the parties settle at any value; larger unresolved claims go to court.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Time limits

  Claims are not heard if filed more than one year after the violation; workers are exempt from court fees for claims under AED 100,000; the worker must register the case with the court within 14 days of referral approval.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Status during the case

  The worker must not work for another employer without a temporary permit; if the complaint leads to stopping work, the work permit is cancelled six months after referral. Ask MoHRE about permission and residence questions.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Helpline

  The Labour Claims and Advisory Call Centre is toll-free on 80084.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Contract category and law are stated; amounts are statutory rules, not estimates of what any worker will receive.

• Notice

  Written notice of at least 30 and no more than 90 days; the worker keeps full pay in the notice period; a party that fails to give notice owes a notice-period allowance. The page's summary and body text differ on whether a fixed-term contract can be ended unilaterally, so the exact rule is NOT VERIFIED.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Applies to: Contracts under Federal Decree-Law 33 of 2021

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Terminating employment contracts and arbitrary dismissal (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Arbitrary dismissal

  Dismissal is unlawful if it results from a valid, serious complaint to MoHRE or a proven-valid lawsuit; the court sets compensation up to three months of last wage and the worker can also claim gratuity and notice dues.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Terminating employment contracts and arbitrary dismissal (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read)

• Gratuity

  At least one year of service: 21 days of basic pay per year for five years then 30 days, capped at two years' basic pay; pay due within 14 days.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Residence consequences

  After termination there is a grace period to find a job or leave; under Ministerial Resolution 47 of 2022 a worker can be barred from a new permit for one year in listed cases such as quitting during probation without employer breach.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Terminating employment contracts and arbitrary dismissal (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Medical response is separate from the compensation claim; no benefit is guaranteed.

• Reporting

  Employers must report a work injury or occupational illness to MoHRE within 48 hours; establishments with 50 or more workers must keep an injury tracking system.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work injury compensation in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Health and safety at workplace (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-24; Government or public body; page read)

• Treatment and pay

  Employers cover the full cost of medical treatment until recovery or confirmed disability; full pay for up to six months, then half pay for a further six months.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work injury compensation in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Compensation

  For disability or death, compensation is based on 24 months of basic salary within a range of AED 18,000 to AED 200,000; payable within 10 days of the medical report. Rights can be lost for self-inflicted injury, injury under alcohol or drugs, or deliberate breach of safety instructions.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work injury compensation in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The residence pages checked mention no exit permit; absence abroad can cancel residence.

• Absence abroad

  If a resident lives outside the UAE for more than 180 continuous days the visa is cancelled automatically and a new entry permit is needed; exemptions include Golden and Green residence holders, among others.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Residence visa holders; exemptions listed on the page

  Source: UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• No exit-permit statement

  The page covers entry permits only and does not mention an exit permit or employer consent for travel.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Tourist entry is never assumed to allow remote work; the routes below are separate permissions.

• Virtual work residence

  A one-year visa lets someone live in the UAE while working for a company outside the UAE, under self-sponsorship; it requires a salary certificate showing at least USD 3,500, health insurance, a medical test and proof of work outside the UAE. The page states no tax or work-permit position.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for working outside the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-07; Government or public body; page read)

• Freelance permit

  The Ministry lists a freelance permit for independent work, including foreign nationals on self-sponsored visas, without an employer or employment contract. The page does not mention a remote work permit.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work permits (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-19; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Long residence products and nationality are separate.

• Nationality by nomination

  Foreigners acquire Emirati nationality only through nominations by listed bodies (Rulers' and Crown Princes' Courts, Executive Councils offices or the Cabinet) for categories such as investors, doctors, specialists, inventors and talents; citizenship can be withdrawn on breach of conditions.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Emirati nationality (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Age limits are visa-category-specific; no universal child cut-off applies.

• Family visa limits

  Sons are eligible if under 25; unmarried daughters have no age limit; children with special needs have no age limit stated; dependants aged 18 and over need a medical fitness test.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Dependants of an expatriate resident sponsor

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for families of employees (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Status tied to sponsor

  Family permits are tied to the sponsor's permit; if the sponsor's visa is cancelled, dependants get a six-month grace period to obtain a new permit.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for families of employees (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Student route

  A male student over 25 may stay on a parent's sponsorship by showing higher-education enrolment; female children can be sponsored for study regardless of age until marriage.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Residence visa for studying in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: The page does not describe an appeal route, so no appeal eligibility is promised.

• Complaints platform

  ICP runs a complaints management system and an Inquiries and Complaints Platform (cc.icp.gov.ae); the policy page describes no stages, time limits or appeal rights.

  Where: Federal

  Source: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security — Complaints policy (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-07; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: One passport input cannot describe every case; no strongest-passport assumption is made.

• Naturalised citizens

  A 2021 amendment allows a naturalised Emirati citizen to retain the original nationality, and the citizen must notify the government on acquiring or losing another citizenship.

  Where: Federal

  Applies to: Naturalised Emirati citizens only

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Emirati nationality (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-29; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: No page is copied. Original URLs, retrieval dates and the date each page shows are retained.

• Retained evidence

  Each source in this country's topic list keeps its original URL, a retrieval date of 8 Nov 2026 and the document date where the page states one (for example 15 Oct 2026 for end of service, 12 Aug 2026 for the labour dispute page).

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Resolving labour disputes (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-08-12; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — Work injury compensation in the UAE (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

Scope: Terms are explained by what the page says, without replacing the authority text.

• Gratuity

  A lump sum calculated on basic pay and years of service, paid at the end of a private-sector contract; it is separate from the optional savings scheme.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — End of service benefits for workers in the private sector (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-15; Government or public body; page read)

• Work permit and residence visa

  A MoHRE work permit authorises the job; the residence visa is issued by ICP and tied to the sponsor. Cancelling one has separate steps: the employer must cancel the labour contract and permit before the residence visa.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Work permits (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-19; Government or public body; page read) · UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

• Wage Protection System

  The Central Bank approved channel through which private-sector wages must be paid.

  Where: Federal; mainland private sector (free zones NOT VERIFIED)

  Source: UAE Government Portal — Payment of salaries and wages (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-10-14; Government or public body; page read)

• Grace period

  Time after a permit is cancelled or expires during which a person may stay to find a new job or leave; length depends on category.

  Where: Federal

  Source: UAE Government Portal — General provisions for the residence visa (checked 2026-11-08; document dated 2026-09-28; Government or public body; page read)

Some guidance is incomplete or has not been confirmed. Missing information does not mean a rule, service or route is unavailable. Check the relevant authority for your circumstances.

• Official task directory
• Directory language and accessibility details
• Dietary planning and labelling
• Newcomer banking and accounts
• Transport and licence eligibility by status
• Family schooling pathways
• Weather and heat-work protection
• Local integration and language resources
• Occupation titles and levels
• Gross pay and take-home uncertainty
• Study-related work categories
• Post-study transition
• Tax residence versus immigration residence
• Social-security coordination
• Pension portability and withdrawal
• Disability and reasonable-adjustment resources
• LGBTQ traveller legal context
• Women-specific workplace and travel resources
• Local conduct and religious-site rules
• Personal medicine import
• Vaccination and public-health entry evidence
• Customs for household goods
• Companion-animal relocation
• Registering births, marriages and civil changes
• Death and repatriation procedures
• Unpaid-wage dispute process
• Termination, notice and end-of-service rights
• Occupational injury claim pathways
• Exit and re-entry permission
• Travel to neighbouring jurisdictions
• Lawful remote work and self-employment
• Permanent residence versus citizenship
• Dependants ageing out or changing status
• Refusal, review and appeal options
• Dual-national and multiple-passport cases
• Evidence snapshots
• Plain-language terminology