Overtime Calculation in UAE As per UAE Labour Law-Complete Guide

How to Calculate Overtime as per UAE Labour Law

Working hours in UAEOpens in a new tab. is governed by UAE LABOUR LAWOpens in a new tab.. Overtime Calculation in UAE is calculated on the basis of Basic Salary. There are many jobs which often require an employee to work overtime whether an employee is entitled to overtime or not. 

It always depends on the role of the employee and the working hours of the company has in place. Each employee should be aware of the normal working hours and how many additional hours an employee asked to work.

overtime in dubai

The overtime provision will not be applicable to the following positions:

  • Senior Positions;
  • Administrative Supervisory Roles;
  • Crews of naval ships and Marine employees.

As per UAE Labour LawOpens in a new tab. an employee’s normal working day should not exceed 8 hours [update] OR 48 hours per per  week.  An employer is also able to request an employee to perform up to 2 hours of additional work, which will be treated as overtime. However, the working hours may be increased to nine hours per day in case of persons employed in trade, hotels , cafeterias guards.

Following hours are not included in computing over time:

  • The time travelling to and from work.
  • Resting and food break.

How is Overtime Calculated in UAE?

Computation/Calculation of Overtime:

Under UAE Labour LawOpens in a new tab., Article 67, Article 68, Article 68, Article 69, Article 70, Article 71 and Article 72 cover how to calculate overtime. Overtime in all cases is calculated based on Basic Salary. 

 

Computation of Normal Overtime:

  • If the nature of the job requires overtime, the employees shall be paid overtime and the payment shall be equivalent to the wage paid for the ordinary working hours plus and increase of not less than 25% of his wage for the overtime period.

Example:

  1. Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
  2. Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
  3. Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.25
  • However, if the employee’s overtime fall between the hours  9.00 PM to 4.00 AM the employee will be entitled to an overtime equivalent to the normal working hours plus an increase of not less than 50% of his wage for the overtime  period.

Example:

  1. Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
  2. Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
  3. Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5

Computation of Friday Overtime:

  • If the circumstances require the employee to work on a Friday, he must be granted either another day off (compensatory off) or receive his basic salary plus an additional 50 % of his remuneration (i.e, basic salary). However, employee cannot be asked to work more than two consecutive Friday unless they are employed on a daily wage basis.

Example:

  1. Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
  2. Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
  3. Overtime amount is =No of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 or An additional day off.

Computation of overtime during Public holiday:

As per the Article 81 of UAE Labour LawOpens in a new tab., where the circumstances of the work make it necessary for  a worker to work on public holidays or rest day in respect of which he/she is entitled to full or partial pay, he shall be granted compensatory leave in respect of such days, together with a bonus equal to 50 per cent of his remuneration. If he is not compensated for such days by leave, his employer shall pay him a bonus equal to 150 percent of his basic remuneration in respect of the days worked.
 
Example:
  1. Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
  2. Per day Salary/8=per hour salary
  3. Overtime= Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 in addition to one day compensatory off
  • 100 percent of normal daily remuneration basic salary plus allowances plus 150 per cent of basic salary.

OR

Example:

  • Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
  • Per day Salary/8=per hour salary
    Overtime= Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 2.5

Calculation of overtime is very easy and is clearly provided in UAE Labour law.Opens in a new tab.

You may also refer to the below link on the overtime calculation in UAE as per New UAE Labour Law effective from February 2022.

How is Overtime Calculated As Per New UAE Labour Law 2022 effective from February 2022?

 


FAQ-Frequently Asked Questions on Overtime Calculation in UAE

What is normal overtime rate in UAE?

If the work circumstances require that the worker be employed for hours exceeding the ordinary working hours, such extended time shall be deemed overtime for which the Worker shall be paid his basic wage for his normal hours of work plus a supplement of at least 25 per cent of that wage.

For example:
Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.25

It could increase to 50 per cent if overtime is done between 10 pm and 4 am. This rule does not apply on workers who work on basis of shifts.
For example:
Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5

Is overtime calculated on basic or gross salary?

The overtime is calculated based on basic salary.

Can the commuting time be counted as part of working hours?

The time spent by the worker in commuting from his place of residence to his workplace is not included in the working hours, except for certain categories of workers as specified by the ‘Executive Regulations of the Labour Law’.

What can I do if I am not paid overtime compensation?

In case you are not paid your overtime due in accordance with the Labour Law and its executive regulations, you can address your issue to the MOHRE advisory centre on 04 665 9999.

What are the normal working hours for private sector?

Article 17 of the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations in the Private Sector, the ‘UAE Labour Law’ identifies the normal working hours for the private sector as 8 hours per day, or 48 hours per week. However, The daily working hours may increase or decrease for certain economic sectors or certain categories of workers, as specified by the ‘Executive Regulations of the Labour Law’.

How is overtime calculated on Off-Day?

If the circumstances require the worker to work on his off-day, as specified in the labour contract, or work regulations, then the worker will be entitled to a substitute rest day, or to a pay equal to normal working hours’ remuneration (which is based on basic salary) plus 50 per cent of that pay.

Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
Overtime amount is =No of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 or An additional day off.

Is forced overtime legal in UAE?

Employer should not force any of its employees to work for overtime unless it is agreed on the employment contract. However, it is common for a contract of employment to include a clause with wording to the effect that if the employer requests it, the employee will be expected to work additional hours owing to the demands of a business.

Is lunch break included in working hours in UAE?

The worker has the right to have one or more breaks, if he works five consecutive hours. These breaks must not be less than one hour. Breaks are not calculated within the working hours.

How is overtime calculated on Public Holiday?

where the circumstances of the work make it necessary for  a worker to work on public holidays or rest day in respect of which he/she is entitled to full or partial pay, he shall be granted compensatory leave in respect of such days, together with a bonus equal to 50 per cent of his remuneration. If he is not compensated for such days by leave, his employer shall pay him a bonus equal to 150 percent of his basic remuneration in respect of the days worked.

For example:

Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
Per day Salary/8=per hour salary
Overtime= Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 in addition to one day compensatory off
 
Or
Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
Per day Salary/8=per hour salary
Overtime= Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 2.5

How do you calculate hours worked?

1. Determine the start and the end time
2. Convert the time to military time (24 hours)
3. Transform the minutes in decimals
4. Subtract the start time from the end time
4. Subtract the start time from the end time

Is it legal to work 12 hours a day in UAE?

Article 65 of the UAE Labor Law states that maximum normal working hours for employees is 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week. However, for employees of establishments such as hotels and restaurants, there are exceptions. They may be required to work for up to 9 hours per day.

What are the categories exempted from Overtime payment?

As per Clause 4 of Article 15, the following categories shall be exempted from the provisions relating to the maximum working hours:
a. The chairpersons and members of the boards of directors.
b. The persons occupying supervisory positions if such positions vest in them the powers of the employer.

Occupation type:

c. The crews of naval vessels and the seafarers who enjoy special service conditions due to the nature of their work.
d. Those engaged in work which is required by reasons of technical nature
to be carried on continuously by a succession shift, subject to the condition that the average working hours do not exceed (56) hours per week.
e. The preparatory or complementary works that should necessarily be carried out beyond the time limits laid down for the general working of the establishment.

Can you refuse to work overtime?

You cannot say that i dont want to work overtime. An employer is also able to request an employee to perform up to 2 hours of additional work, which will be treated as overtime.

How does the overtime applicable on remote workin agreement?

In case an employee requests to perform their work remotely, the employer must specify their working hours.

What is minimum and maximum overtime hours per day?

There are no such rule on minimum OT hours . I guess the minimum OT hour should at least be 1 hour. However, Employers may ask their employees to work overtime, but the number of extra hours must not exceed 2 hours per day.

Deepak

Deepak is a passionate blogger with interests in bitcoin, online marketing, and writing.

149 thoughts on “Overtime Calculation in UAE As per UAE Labour Law-Complete Guide

  1. hi,
    As mentioned in the start of this article it was written that overtime is only calculated on the basic.

    But also when explaining on overtime being paid on friday has 50% addition on remuneration (i.e, basic salary plus allowances).

    i am a bit confused, pls do explain

    1. Hi, If the circumstances require the worker to work on their off-day, as specified in the labour contract or work regulations, then the worker has two options. They can either choose to take a substitute rest day later, or they can receive additional pay. This additional pay will be their regular payment for the hours worked, based on their basic salary, plus an additional 50%.

  2. For Example : Renny overtime is 1 hour , the below is the calculation.

    3000 x 12 / 365 = 98.630
    98.630 / 8 = 12.328

    15.410 = 1 X 12.328 =1.25

    Mr. Renny , Your per hour overtime amount is AED 15.410
    Further, if you need any help send me an email.

    1. Hello Sir, if I do work for more minutes like on a daily basis 20-40min, how will it be treated when calculating over time.

      1. Hi , as per the Law, If the work circumstances require that the worker be employed for hours exceeding the ordinary working hours, such extended time shall be deemed overtime for which the Worker shall be paid his basic wage for his normal hours of work plus a supplement of at least 25 per cent of that wage.

  3. Can you please help me to calculate the overtime of the below;

    Basic salary -2000
    HRA – 500
    Transportation allowance 250
    Other allowance 250
    What amount should be taken to calculate the overtime? and what is the rule?

    1. Hi..
      My Basic Salary 1500
      And Other Allowance 1500
      Can Please send me Friday overtime Details
      For Example Friday is my i am work 5 hours

  4. hello
    i would like to ask if ramadan will the number of hours to be divided to the per day overtime pay changes?
    example for normal calculations it would be OT per day/ 8 hours= OT per hour
    for ramadan would it be
    OT per day / 6 hours= OT per hour
    can it be like that on ramadan?

  5. Mr Depak i am working in a 5 star luxury hotel where they paying my day off cancellation only by one day basic salary please let me know is it fair
    if it is wrong then what should be done to get my right

  6. Hi, I work in a company where I am not given a single day off and a 12hrs duty shift. No Fridays or public holiday for me.
    I was given two contracts to sign, one by my company and a different one from labor that states I am entitled to one day off every week but my company contract states I’m only entitled to 2 days every month.
    Is it legal for my company to issue me a contract that’s different from the one from labor?
    Anyone got any advice can reach me on the following contacts:
    0567323465/ on Whatsapp 0523807850

  7. Hi, i am home care nurse. I am working 12 hours shift. I dont have any chance of having lunch breaks since i do need to supervise my patient all the time but my employer said that she will just pay 11 hours since 1 hour is for break hours. But the worse is our employer said that since break is not less than 1 hour, now she maid it 1.5 hours so basically in our 12 hours shift we are only paid 10.5 hours. Is this what really the law says?

  8. Hi, I’m in a technical sales position which requires me at times to spend an extra evening in a country, due to limited flights. That results with a lose of a full-weekend day until I’m able to get back home. Would that be a sufficient reason to claim for overtime compensation?

  9. Hi,
    I’ve worked at my company for more than 3years now. And during that period they were in total violation of Friday and public holiday pay. I get only normal wage on Friday and one extra day for a public holiday worked.
    I want to claim the Friday overtime as well as the public holiday pay for the entire 3 years. How do I go about doing this?

  10. How about health care workers? Most of them are working 12hours but it was stated in the labor code that working hours is 8hours and can extend up to 2hours overtime. Is that still in line with the labor code? What specific article it was stated?

  11. Hi

    Our company computation is

    Basic salary x 12/365

    And our per hour overtime is 15.64

    But our gross salary is 7000 per month

    Can we complain with this?

  12. Hi

    Can you help me what how to calculate our overtime?

    Basic salary: 3000
    Allowance housing: 2000
    Travel allowance:2000
    Total 7000

    We work for 12 hours per day and we need to complete our working hours 192 hours with 30 days (month) and 204 hours for (31 days)

    Because our company paid us only 150 per day for the overtime.

  13. My salary is 3000 AED and working hrs 11 per day and 2:30 hr break are include in 11 hrs.
    My company calculate overtime this way

    Gross salary x 12 /365 = per day salary
    Per day salary / 9 hr × overtime hrs.

    I want to claim according the calculation in your articles.
    My question is that
    Can I claime this legally or defend on company policy.

  14. Could you please help me.. December 2017 there are 2 public holidays ( December 1 and 2 which is Thursday and Friday) If for example I work on friday and since it is holiday how many percentage do i need to received. could you please show to me the computation

  15. Hi
    i have been working with a company for two years and it’s remaining me just a week to end my contract and two day ago, me and my manager had a quarrel over the phone and he told me to stop working till further notice and threaten to give me a fine.
    Since as am not working anymore can these issues affect my gratuity and does the company has any rights to deduct about 7days of my salary.
    Please Reply
    Thanks.

  16. Good Morning…

    Can anybody guide me How to Calculate the Overtime for the Drivers as per the UAE Labour Laws…???

    Thanks & Regards,

    Hardik J. Sapariya

    1. basic salary X 12 month/365days, than per day/24hrs
      eg: 2200*12/365=73.32 per day, 73.32/24=3.01

  17. Dear sir,

    I joined my company on the 04th of november 2014. Despite the fact that i was supposed to work for 9 hours a day, my company made me work for errand hours . On the contract it was mentioned that i will be paid ot. However i never received any overtime. For safety purpose i have records of the attendance which shows the number of hours worked. This continued for a year and finally i never received any overtime. can i ask for the same this year. should the company fail to give me the overtime money, am i eligible to register a complain against the same in labour court.

    Your valuable feedback is much awaited.

  18. Helo sir i want to know i work 2 year in security company now i finish contract and dont renew and want to go home i dont have any single day leave in 2 year or any fine in ramzan same 12 hours i work but get same salry now i want to know how much i get graudity from my company plz answer me

  19. Good day

    Please i wish to inquiry if the amount of one (1) hour absent deduction = One (1) hour Overtime for the same worker.

  20. Hi,

    My Company obliged us to work daily full working day (8 hours) during full month of Ramadan in 2015.

    What would be the Computation of overtime during Ramadan 2015?

    Thank you in advance, your prompt reply is highly appreciated.

    Alexander

  21. Hi,

    Can we claim previous years’ overtime? Company is not paying OT since my employment in the Company.

    Is there any expiration of claiming the OT pay?

  22. Mr. Deepak

    Normal OT 25 % ie 25/100 = .25

    how come it 1.25?

    Example:

    Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
    Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
    Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.25

    Reply

    Read more: http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law#ixzz470CtoIbZ
    Follow us: @deepakmachado on Twitter | emiratesdiaryuae on Facebook

    1. Dear Khan,
      1.25 is correct as you will multiply with your extra hours worked in normal working day (means from 1.25, 1 for normal salary of extra hours and .25 for extra bonus of for extra hours(i.e 25%))
      Example:
      If Basic salary =800
      Allowances=200
      Total=1,000

      Total working hours in a day 10 hrs.
      One Day Salary= 1000*12/365=32.88+
      Overtime salary= 32.88/8*2(hrs)*1.25=10.27
      Total that day salary =32.88+10.27=43.15

      Hope you are clear with this calculation.

      The problem is with public holiday calculation last point.That 2.5 is wrong.

      “OR
      Example:

      Gross Salary/30= per day salary
      Per day Salary/8=per hour salary
      Overtime= Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 2.5”

      As we consider full day(eg. if worked 10 hrs) working hours as 1 + pay 150%(i.e 1.5) from basic for 10 hours. so total 2.5 should pay. No extra hours concept (hrs more than than normal hrs) in public holidays.

  23. Hi,

    Saturday is off for me and sometime I have to work 4 or 5 hours only. What will be mine overtime hours.???
    if it is only 4 or 5 hrs then I m engaging my whole day for this few hours. i cant utilize my other remaining hours for my personal use. i hope u understand my question.
    Please suggest,

  24. Good Morning Mr.Deepak,

    Please confirm whether Basic Salary or Gross Salary to be computed for Overtime due to your advice mentioned as basic salary.

  25. Mr. Deepak,
    First of all I would like to appreciate your efforts as i think its very helpful and authentic way to find the lawful way of our queries / problems.
    If one employee work from 6 pm to 2 pm. So how we will calculate his over time. i mean first three hour from 6 to 9 will be paid as hours x per hour salary x 1.25 and the remaining 5 hours will be paid as hours x per hour salary x 1.5
    Or
    I in this case we will paid 8 hours overtime with 1.5
    Thanks.

  26. Hello Deepak.
    I would like to know :
    1) my salary has been increased 2 times since I started working 3 years ago… But there no written changes in my contract knowing that it is a unlimited one.
    2) I’m working 9hours and half during 6 days… But not receiving any overtime compensation… What am I entitled to as per law (I’m sales man in a trading company)

  27. Hi Deepak,

    I was working for a company recently I resigned finished my two years in an unlimited contract, I do not understand exactly how do they calculate 12 hours duty per day and 1 hour break as in 2 Morning and 2 Evening and 2 off sometimes they give extra duty for 5 days meaning 2 morning 3 night and 1 off and 18 days for month of 30 days calendar and 19 days working for 31 calendar days, monthly as normal pay the rest is overtime, as per contract daily working hours is 8 hours only, and shall not exceed 48 hours per week, Is this legal, I was working in the airport. Plus when I checked my overtime in my salary slips they are not tallying correctly of how many hours overtime I should receive.

    I would greatly appreciate if this is correct the way the company is doing this I will not put my full details just my second name Lance

  28. Dear Deepak Please note that as per MOL the overtime to be calculated upon the gross salary (basic salary + the agreed allowances) and the worker entitle for overtime an increase of not less than 25% of that wage. Not ass per the basic wage, as mentioned.Ref: http://www.mol.gov.ae/newmolgateway/english/faq.aspx

  29. Hi Deepak,

    I have 02 questions for you. your information in this regard will be highly appreciated… I am working in security company since 2009.
    1- we are working 12 hrs daily even on weekends. the contract says that for some professions like guards working hours are 09. it means 8 hrs normal according to labor law and 1 hr break. remaining 03 hrs will be counted as overtime or 02 hrs will be counted as overtime?

    02- if the company did not give me any compensation in the form of alternate holiday or 2.5% of salary for the public holidays, can I claim these benefits from company for last 06 years that I worked on public holidays?

    waiting for your kind information in this regard. thanks

    1. You can complain to MOL but i have not come across anyone who has been dues for the last several years but yes for the last year or future it will out the system in place ! I have been associated with some International security organisations and aware of the short cuts some take to avoid paying the dues to employees and pocket it !

  30. hi

    i have a question according to my Labor contract my duty is 8 hour per day but my office timings are 8 AM to 5 Pm

    which is 9 hours am i entitled to claim over time.

  31. Hi, i would like to know i am about to sign a contract i work for a salon. they are asking me to do 10hours per day 6 days a week. According to labour law is it ok if they can make me work for that long

  32. Mr. Deepak

    Normal OT 25 % ie 25/100 = .25

    how come it 1.25?

    Example:

    Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
    Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
    Overtime amount is =Number of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.25

  33. Hi Deepak!
    Good morning. I’m a nurse working in a big hospital. My concern is that they are not paying our public holiday which is in the contract and UAE labor law. Our in charge nurse is telling us that we will not be paid cash but only time back. The problem is that the time back is ONLY equivalent to the normal hrs duty which is 12 hours. I think that is violating our right and the UAE law… Correct me if I’m wrong…. but I’m 100% sure that public holiday should be paid and not be calculated as normal duty hours. Where can I complain regarding this issue sir?

  34. hi deepak,
    My contract says that i work 10 hours a day and not eligible for overtime. for the last 3 years the company is giving me a 2 hour overtime everyday. Now the company is asking me to pay them back due to i am not eligible for overtime. another thing is that when i compared my previous payslip that i recieved 3 years ago to the payslip that they printed. the 2 hours overtime was already removed. need your advice on this. thank you in advance.

    1. Camila,
      I am not sure where your company is referring to the laws.
      Overtime has to be paid as per the UAE labour law, if the employee works more than 48 hours a week.

      1. if a person work 12 hrs daily and company give only 2 hrs daily ,its allowed a company to detect overtime in UAE labour law.what is legel state of over time,suggest me plz

        Thanks

        MUHAMMAD ALI

        1. Muhammad,
          Guess, you should read the article again: http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law

  35. Thanks Mr. Deepak for the Article…
    I am having a doubt regarding basis for OT computation. SInce Article 67 of UAE Labour Law specifically says “payment shall be equivalent to the wage paid for the ordinary working hours”, than OT computation shall be based on Gross Pay (i.e. Basic+Allowance). Where exactly Law stating about Paying OT based on BASIC Pay only. Except Article 70, which governs OT for Friday workings.
    Any clarifications on above query will be usefull for me to finalise OT policy in our organisation.

    Thanks in Advance,
    Avi

  36. our office is working Saturday to Thursday. i would like to know i . am eligible for paid weekly off or not if i am taking leave on thursday

  37. Hai Deepak,

    If i take a leave, how much amount will be deducted. For eg my salary is 5000 and my basic is 3000

    5000/30 = 166.67 or
    3000/30 = 100

  38. Hi Deepak,

    First of all appreciating your efforts and your patience. Deepak i have the following doubts please clarify
    1) I joined a Trading company in June 2015 with 2 years unlimited contract. My Manager said he can terminate any employee within 6 month without intimating or without signature of the employee. Is it right?.
    2) If an employer wants to terminate an employee whats the procedure?
    3)If an employee is terminated ( not for any illegal or criminal activities),whether he is entitled for any payments ? ( for eg: Incentives or so)
    4) Is there any time period to approach MOL , if we have complaints regarding termination or any other?

    1. Drizzlinh,
      1. Yes, that is right. Probation period.
      2. There is no procedure. A termination letter should be provided, then labour card and visa should be cancelled.
      3. Not under probation period.
      4. I am not aware of this. But should be reported immediately of any violations.

  39. Good Morning,

    I have some questions regarding my contract legality and overtime payment.

    I’m a Portuguese citizen working in Angola for an Angolan company that pays me through an UAE company with whom I have a contract that states:

    “1.21. The normal working hours shall be 54 (fifty four) hours per week, beginning on Monday and ending on Saturday.”
    “1.22. The work schedule starts at 08 am and ending at 18 pm hours, and the worker is entitled to a daily rest break and meal of a duration not less than one nor more than two hours.”

    “1.32. Any dispute or controversy on this Agreement will be resolved by the laws of United Arab Emirates.”

    I work in rotation, 28 days on / 28 days off, and my schedule is from Monday to Sunday ( 7 days per week) from 6am until 6pm including 1,5 hour lunch break ( 10,5 hours day).

    I have some questions regarding my contract legality, if its legal or not, and overtime payment rights, if any.

    Could someone please answer those questions or advise me were to get them?
    Thank you very much.
    Nelson.

    1. Nelson,
      If you are placed in Angola, the labour rules of that country are applicable.

  40. Hi.

    Can you give me some clarification.
    For some companies specially in the health industry free transportation is included.
    Is there any minimum or maximum hours for the transportation.
    Example. we have 12 hrs work a day but we are travelling 3-4hours a day as well which is not included in the 12 hours. Should the company pay for that number of hours?

    Thanks

  41. I’m working as a security guard for the last 1 year & 9 months. I have unlimited contract. Now, our company decided to terminate more than 95 staff due to not renew a client. Even they don’t have other any clients also. So, will I get my leave salary, gratuity, ticket & 3 months compensation? Please let me know the correct answer. Thank You

    1. Mohamed,
      I am not sure about the 3 month compensation but other facilities, you will get.

  42. Dear Deepak,

    Thanks for your reply but can you elaborate more what is the mean as per company policy and UAE labour law. As per law work should not exceed 48 hours if exceeding than overtime should be paid whereas company is asking for 60hrs regular time plus OT.Is there anyway to put complaint agianst this without revealing my name as everyone willing to complaint but no one wants to give their name.

    Looking forward to hear from you.

    Thanks.

      1. my restaurant open 12 hours so my staff working 9 hours as per labor and some of them they take 2 hours break and other take 3 hours break as split chift to complete the 12 hours duties my question is how i calculate the over time

  43. Dear Deepak,

    I need you suggestion, I working in garment factory as coordinator company is asking all employees to work 8:30 am to 7:30pm which is our regular shift and sometimes for OT we need to work till 10:30pm is it legal as per law.

    I have checked with Hr and got the answer that this is management decision they can’t do anything. What should we do.

    Thanks

  44. hi deepak,
    i am working in construction site,

    My company is paying overtime as per law. so no problem on that.

    |If i am willing to work 14 to 16 hours per day, i can work or not? is there any law to restrict the hours?? pls advise.

      1. As per UAE Labour Law you are not supposed to work more than 2 hrs per day. If they find out, you will be penalized as it is considered as violation of human rights.

  45. Hi Deepak,

    Does this computation apply even if you are working on a 12 hour shift (48 hrs per week) like nurses in hospitals? Do they also get paid Friday and night OT rate?

    Thank you

  46. I would like to know about the hours a day worked it mentions 8 hours or 48 hours a week. You get a lunch break if you work over 5 hours. We start at 9 and finish at 6, which is 9 hours a day. We work 5 days which gives us 45 hours. Do I deduct the lunch break from this giving me 8 hours a day or does it remain at 9 hours regardless. Reason I ask, our CEO is taking this into consideration when finalizing Ramadan hours and says 48 hour week is applicable to people working 6 days a week so the reduced Ramadan hours are not applicable to us. Thanks

    1. Jasmine,
      As per the DIFC Employment Law, during Ramadan, reduced hours are applicable to only fasting(muslim) employees. It is reduced by 2 hours of the normal working hours.
      Whereas working hours is 48 hours per week, it could be fit into any number of days(max 7).
      The 8 hour period does not include lunch break and you can have a break of 1 hour after 6 hours of continuous work.

  47. I got salary regularly. .
    but I want to claim for overtime I worked for past 2 years. As per law weekly working hours is 48, but I worked 77 hours weekly.
    so I can claim for past 2 years ?

  48. hi deepak ..am 1year now in my company just want to ask about annual leave. in my contract my basic salary is 1500 accommodation is 2000 and transportation is 300 total amount 3800..how much the annual payment i will take from my company. ?i confused bcoz when i went to labor and ask about that they said it will only base from basic salary only but now just i read it will be basic plus other allowance which one its true..which one i need to based? plz thank u

    1. Almira,
      This will depend on company whether they are providing annual air ticket directly or air fare as per their policy.
      Companies have different ways to calculate the air fare allowance and is not guided by UAE Labour Law.

  49. I signed a contract in one architectural consulting company here in abu dhabi which states that i will be entitled to work 40 hours per week…But in reality, I am sometimes working 51 hours per week and the company will consider 3 hours overtime only instead of 11 hours since according to them, the uae law states that 48 hours is the legal regular working hours…I don’t think it is fair!!!
    Then what will happen to my 8 extra hours (40 in my contract but 48 as per uae law).

    Is that correct?

  50. Hi Deepak,

    My job requires me to frequently travel outside UAE for company work. Most of the cases my flights are on a weekend (Fri or Sat). Am I supposed to receive any Overtime compensation for this travel time spent on a weekend?

    Thanks,
    Zahid

    1. Zahid,
      In your contract you would have agreed that the job requires you to travel.
      In such case, you would not be eligible for overtime as this is part of your work.
      On lighter note, Bro, I would love a job that gives me a chance to travel!

  51. hi.Its my first job in UAE.I am just 2 months here in an employment visa.Now am on probation period. If I request to cancel my visa,then will I get labour ban automatically….if yes,how can I lift the ban?

    1. Ahamed,
      yes, you will have a 6 month labour ban.
      To avoid ban, read: http://emiratesdiary.com/jobs-in-uae-2/how-to-avoid-6-months-labour-ban-in-dubai-uae

  52. Hi. I just want to ask, if my employer doesn’t like to give for me day off, what should I do? I hope you can help or give me an advise. Thank you.

  53. Dear Deepak

    please advice me I am working two hour overtime so how it should calculated

    for eg if my salary is 1000 dhrams 25% from the basic salary for per hour or per two hours and how its calculated for a month ( 26 days per month work)

    Thank you very much in advance

    Suresh

    1. Suresh,
      It is well documented in the article. I don’t want to repeat.
      Please read the article again.
      http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law

  54. Hello. Good Evening, I need your guide line i am over stay here in UAE Dubai. my visa was cancelled on 17 June and i suppose to leave or change status before 17 July. My company didn’t pay me any single AED. now what i have to please guide me. I am searching job even just because of Over stay i am not getting any offers as well.

    1. Eric,
      This is not good.
      It is better to make your status legal as this has considerable fines already.

  55. hai deepak
    Iam a doctor from sharjah practicing in a hospital as GP. I am supposed to take a night duty from 11 pm on 31.12.14 to 7am 1.1.15 which is a public holiday. please let me know if i am eligible for a compensatory off for that duty……
    Please help….

  56. Dear Deepak,

    Can you please confirm if a person who works for service (e.g. like cleaning worker, hotel) is entitled for wages for public holidays?

    Is there an official website I can show to my employer that I am entitled to get paid as per the UAE Labour Law.

    1. April,
      Yes.
      Read the UAE Labour law. This is called overtime.
      Unless you have signed the contract that says you are not entitled for extra pay on holidays.

  57. Mr. Deepak i am working in a company as a contractor and i worked i year and my contract period is 2 year so can i change my visa to the current company in which i am working or if they offer me 5000 grass salary can i change

  58. Hi Deepak ,

    Person From MOL Told me in UAE calculation of monthly salary is 30 days every month but From Last 3 years I am using formula salary X 12/365=Per day Salary.

    If Employee is present full month complete salary is given but in case of any deduction I am using formula salary X 12 /365 =One day salary X No. Of Days Absent.

    so please Confirm its 360 days or 365 days . Or I am using correct method or not.

    What is UAE Labour rule to calculate Monthly salary.

  59. Hi,

    I was on annual leave from 6th October to 6th November which was on Thursday i Join the office on Sunday because friday and saturday is off
    so for coming month i will get salary from 7th which was friday or from 9th which was Sunday (But i have submit the leave application till 6th November)

    kindly advice
    Ali

  60. Sir,

    For Overtime Calculation, If one employee works full night as overtime and after his normal rest of six or eight hours and join for duty at evening and again work full night until next day morning 8 am. In this case how we will calculate the OT hours…i think it is calculated as – the normal working hours (8 hrs) deducted and the balance will treat as overtime hours. can you please let me know the actual overtime hours in this case.

  61. My company hired a driver salary 4000Dirham. According to contract, his working time was 48 hours a week, but acturally, he followed up our staff time schedule working only 35 hours a week(5 days) . more than 80% working time he sitted in the office. but sometimes we need him to do overtime job. My question is , he works only 35 hours a week, if he does overtime work, is his claim for overtime salary reasonable?

    1. William,
      This overtime tracking is upto companies.
      I am not sure whether labour law mentions anything like this.

  62. Hi deepak.
    I work at airport for a private airline compamy having free zone visa.
    Due outstation we are limited number of staff.
    I work 9 hours daily and get 2 day offs.
    During flight delays or cancellation i work till the flight departs most of the time working 18 to 20 hours.
    Also i work on all public holidays due shortage of staff and not componsated.
    Is there any provision for maximum number of working hours a day.
    Can my company refuse my overtime legally.

    1. Shakeer,
      I think the nature of your work entails that you work overtime. This is allowed under the law.
      It is better to request your employer to look into your situation and grant extra pay.

  63. Sir, i am working in a driving institute as a customer service representative and my timing is from morning 8 AM to 8 PM with one hour break and also my colleagues working 14 hours straight duties with same package and also one friday off and the next friday On mean only two friday off in a month but my sallary is 2500 without over time

    1. You have the right to claim overtime. Better to speak to you manager and explain him your work sitution

  64. I wanted to know what is the pay, during the annual vacation. is it the pay with all allowances for the month, or is it just basic plus HRA.

  65. What is the normal hrs of work for a office boy in UAE, As i m working from morning 7 to 6 pm with 1 hr break how extra hrs i will get

      1. Good Morning, Hope you are doing fine.
        Can you please clear the following confusion.
        If an employee did over time like 45 mints then does he entitled to get 1 hour Overtime. Vice versa, if he worked OT 20 mint extra then how much OT he will be entitled.
        Please clear this in with reference to UAE labour law.

        1. I don’t think this is possible. I guess the minimum OT hour should at least be 1 hour. Read: http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law

  66. Hi I was ask by my employer to work on friday and saturday and both days are my days off i work from sunday to thursday from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm my salary for month is 2500 how should i compute this for over time cause both days are my day off for me??

      1. Good Morning, Hope you are doing fine.

        Can you please clear the following confusion.
        If an employee did over time like 45 mints then does he entitled to get 1 hour Overtime. Vice versa, if he worked OT 20 mint extra then how much OT he will be entitled.
        Please clear this in with reference to UAE labour law.

  67. As per UAE law, how to calculate daily salary? If total salary is aed 4000, then divided by 30 and multiply by number days worked? Or monthly salary of aed 4000 multiply with 12 months and divided by 365 and multiply with number of days worked? Please reply at the earliest
    Thanks & Regards
    Jagannath
    ([email protected])

  68. It is mentioned in the above Article:
    However, the working hours may be increased to nine hours per day in case of persons employed in trade, hotels , cafeterias guards.
    Which are covered under”Trade”? Does a firm or LLC having General Trading Licence 9 hours working will be applicable?
    Kindly clarify. Thanks
    Krishnan

  69. I am working marine company salary 5000/-
    1.I am working 8 am to 3 am {19 h } what is my OT?
    company asking must come 8 am office?
    2 Friday work 8 am to 8 pm
    They give 100/- only over time starting after 9 pm only
    pls give correct over time?

    1. Hai sir ,my basic salary is 1000 aed but my gross salary is 2000 aed how to get in my hand

  70. hi,my name is hari i am woking in gas company, in my company we are coming to office 6am and we are reaching the site at 8am and then we are stoping the work at 4pm and reaching the room at 8pm but in our company giving only (2 hours overtime) only .according to uae law workers want to work for 8 hours ,but we are working for 14hours but we are getting only 2hours .they are also cutting the time for travelling also and if we are working in friday 6hours they are giving only 6hours only .tell me whether these calculations are correct reply me please

  71. Hi Deepak,

    With reference to your OT calculation as per below:-

    Computation of Public holiday Over Time:

    Where an employee works on UAE Public Holidays declared for private sector, the employer can elect one of the following payment structures:

    1st Example:
    Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary
    Per day Salary/8=Per hour salary
    Overtime is =No of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 Or An Additional day off.

    Kindly reconfirm the below mention in ur structure 1st Example:-
    a) No of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 Or An Additional day off” – IS THAT CORRECT?
    OR
    b) No of overtime hours X Per hour salary X 1.5 PLUS An Additional day off” – IS THIS CORRECT?

    Secondly, Is this hourly OT calculation as per basic salary or including allowance because you have mention both as per below:-

    100 per cent of normal remuneration (basic salary plus allowances)
    BUT in ur examples you taken only basic as per below:-
    Basic Salary X 12/365= per day salary (Is this basic or plus allowance)

    Pl clarify the above two points..

    Tnx & Rgds..
    Renji

  72. I am on a senior position. My company wants me to work 12hrs daily, 7 days a week. And as per labor law, their is no overtime to be paid to senior positions, and my company is taking full advantage of this law. What can I do ?

    1. You can address this issue to MOL – http://emiratesdiary.com/uae-tips/how-to-check-your-labour-contract-online-on-www-mol-gov-ae

  73. If an employee is working 40 hours a Week (Sunday – Thursday), will any extra hours put during the working days or saturday be considered as overtime?

    You have mentioned that as per the UAE labour law “an employee’s normal working day should not exceed 8 hours and 48 hours per per week.”

    where as in the labour law it is mentioned “an employee’s normal working day should not exceed 8 hours or 48 hours per per week”

    1. Read here:http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law

      1. I have read the article and that is why I had posted the question.

        If an employee is working 40 hours a Week (Sunday – Thursday), will any extra hours put during the working days or Saturday be considered as overtime?

        You have mentioned that as per the UAE labour law “an employee’s normal working day should not exceed 8 hours and 48 hours per per week.” where as in the UAE Labour law the word “or” is used “…8 hours or 48 hours per per week…” Please clarify.

    1. You cannot say that i dont want to work overtime.http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law

    1. Can i say know to overtime even if the manager asked me to do so?

      Read more: http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law#ixzz1LositsVo

    2. Can i say no to overtime even if the manager asked me to do so?

      Read more: http://emiratesdiary.com/job-tips/calculate-overtime-per-uae-labour-law#ixzz1LositsVo

      1. You cannot say no because when there is a need to work overtime you need to obey and get the work to be done on time.

        1. hi deepak hope you will be fine? would you like to tell me that me working on first employment visa with company. if i find a job in another company after six months then i can leave the job with the first company? i have done M.Sc in economics

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