Are you working extra hours in Dubai and wondering about your overtime pay? Understanding overtime calculation in Dubai is essential for expat workers to ensure they receive fair compensation. This comprehensive guide breaks down the UAE labor laws regarding overtime pay in simple, easy-to-follow terms.
What is Overtime Pay According to UAE Labor Law?
Overtime in Dubai follows specific rules under UAE Labor Law. According to these regulations, overtime refers to any hours worked beyond your standard working hours as stated in your employment contract. The standard working hours in Dubai are 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week.
How Overtime Pay Works for Different Worker Categories
The overtime calculation varies depending on your employment category:
- Regular employees: Most workers are entitled to overtime pay based on specific formulas
- Supervisors and managers: Generally exempt from overtime compensation
- Domestic workers: Follow different payment structures under separate regulations
The Basic Formula for Calculating Overtime Pay
Here’s the standard overtime calculation method in Dubai:
- Calculate your basic hourly rate:
- Monthly salary ÷ (8 hours × number of working days in a month)
- For regular working days:
- Basic hourly rate × 1.25 × number of overtime hours
- For days off and holidays:
- Basic hourly rate × 1.5 × number of overtime hours
Practical Example of Overtime Pay Calculation
Let’s see how overtime works with a real example:
Assume you earn 3,000 AED monthly, working 26 days a month, 8 hours daily. If you work 2 extra hours on a regular day:
Basic hourly rate = 3,000 ÷ (8 × 26) = 14.42 AED per hour
Overtime rate = 14.42 × 1.25 = 18.03 AED per hour
Overtime pay = 18.03 × 2 = 36.06 AED
For 5 hours worked on your day off, the calculation would be:
Overtime rate = 14.42 × 1.5 = 21.63 AED per hour
Overtime pay = 21.63 × 5 = 108.15 AED
Legal Limits on Overtime Hours in Dubai
The UAE Labor Law places restrictions on overtime to protect workers:
- Maximum 2 hours of overtime per day
- No more than 144 hours of overtime in 3 weeks
Common Violations in Overtime Pay Practices
Be aware of these frequent issues with overtime in Dubai:
- Working extra hours without proper compensation
- Incorrect overtime rates
- Position misclassification to avoid payments
- Unofficial time-off arrangements instead of correct compensation
How to Claim Unpaid Overtime in Dubai
If you face problems with your overtime payment:
- Document all your working hours carefully
- Address the issue with your employer
- File a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) if necessary
- Submit your case through the MOHRE website or office
2025 Updates to UAE Labor Laws
Recent changes to UAE labor laws have impacted overtime calculations. Key updates include:
- More flexible working arrangements
- Enhanced protections against workplace discrimination
- Updated employment termination rules
- Digital documentation requirements for overtime claims
Essential Tips for Managing Your Overtime
- Review your employment contract thoroughly
- Track your daily working hours using dedicated apps
- Request overtime payment documentation after each pay period
- Preserve all payslips and schedules
- Remember that Ramadan reduces working hours by 2 hours daily without salary reduction
Understanding proper overtime calculation ensures you receive fair compensation for your additional work hours. While Dubai provides excellent opportunities for international workers, knowing the local labor laws regarding overtime helps protect your rights and prevents potential exploitation.
For specific guidance on your situation, consider consulting with MOHRE or seeking advice from a legal professional specializing in UAE labor law.
