Employees’ Rights During Rainy Days in the UAE

Heavy rains disrupt the daily grind in the UAE, leaving employees wondering about their paychecks…

In the wake of recent heavy rains and subsequent floods in the UAE, employees are grappling with concerns over potential salary deductions due to their inability to report to work. Addressing these worries head-on, let’s explore the legal framework and outline the rights of employees during adverse weather conditions.

Key Points:

• Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 and Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 form the backbone of UAE employment law, particularly concerning employee rights in adverse weather conditions.
• The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) may step in during extreme weather events, advising employers on appropriate measures to take. These may include remote work options, paid leaves, or unpaid leaves to alleviate the burden on employees.
• Article 36 of Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 outlines the permissible actions employers can take during such circumstances, emphasizing fairness and ensuring that employees are not unduly penalized for factors beyond their control.
• Article 15(1)(a) of the resolution acknowledges the impact of adverse weather on employees’ commute times, mandating that such delays should be accounted for within their working hours.
• Employers are obligated to maintain employees’ salaries even in the face of force majeure circumstances, such as heavy rain or emergencies, as stipulated by Article 17(2) of the resolution.

Action Steps:

• Employees are encouraged to proactively communicate with employers, providing evidence, such as photographs or official documents, to substantiate their inability to commute to work during extreme weather events.
• Should employees encounter unjust salary deductions, recourse is available through the MoHRE. Filing complaints promptly can ensure swift resolution and uphold employees’ rights.

Armed with a deeper understanding of their rights under UAE employment law, employees can navigate rainy days with confidence, knowing that their entitlements are safeguarded even amidst the stormiest of weather.