What employment law applies if I work in the DIFC in Dubai?

If you work for an entity registered in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), your employment is generally governed by the DIFC Employment Law, not the UAE's onshore federal labour law. The DIFC is a financial free zone with its own legal and regulatory framework and its own courts, so the rules on contracts, working hours, leave, termination, notice and end-of-service can differ from those that apply to mainland private-sector employees under the federal labour law. The DIFC Employment Law (Law No. 2 of 2019, as amended) sets out employer and employee obligations within the Centre, and disputes are heard by the DIFC Courts, which operate in English under a common-law-based system. This means an employee in the DIFC should read their contract against the DIFC Employment Law specifically, rather than assuming mainland rules apply. Exact entitlements and procedures are defined in that law, so confirm current detail before relying on it. A verified UAE legal professional on LEXAI experienced in DIFC matters can review your contract and advise.