A recent amendment to the UAE labor law will discourage employers from hiring individuals on visit visas, according to legal experts. The changes introduce stricter penalties, with fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million for hiring workers without proper permits or bringing them to the UAE without providing a job.
Ali Saeed Al Kaabi, director at ECH Digital, noted that the increased fines—previously Dh50,000 to Dh200,000—underscore the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring lawful employment practices. Some employers have exploited visit visa holders, promising them residency and work permits after their tourist visas expire, often without paying them for work done during this period. The new amendment is expected to curb these illegal practices and enforce compliance with labor laws.
The case of South African expat Kieran Foury highlights the risks of working on a visit visa. After arriving in Dubai in December 2023, he was asked by a company to work until his visit visa expired. Despite repeated assurances that his employment visa would be issued, Foury was eventually dismissed and had to pay Dh5,500 in overstay fines before leaving the country.
The UAE government clearly states that working under a visit or tourist visa is illegal. Employment is only permitted after the issuance of an offer letter by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Legal advisors strongly urge employers to avoid allowing visitors to work illegally, warning of severe legal consequences for non-compliance.
Hadiel Hussein, senior associate at BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates, emphasized that the amendments create a stricter regulatory environment for employers, with the substantial increase in fines serving as a strong deterrent. The changes also provide enhanced protection and security for employees, making it less likely they will face illegal or unfair treatment. Additionally, the involvement of MoHRE in mediating disputes and issuing enforceable decisions on small claims is expected to streamline the legal process, benefiting both employees and employers.
Via: Khaleej Times