What can I do if my employer doesn't pay overtime in the UAE?

If your employer fails to pay overtime you are owed under the UAE Labour Law, you can pursue it through the official channels. The first step is usually to raise the issue internally and keep records of the additional hours you worked. If that does not resolve it, you can file a labour complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, which handles private-sector employment disputes and attempts to settle them; unresolved matters can then be referred onward to the courts. To support your claim it helps to gather evidence — your contract showing your normal hours, attendance or timesheet records, schedules, messages instructing you to work the extra hours, and payslips showing what was paid. Overtime is calculated on your basic wage at the statutory premium, so having your wage details ready is useful. Because time limits and procedures apply to labour claims, act without unnecessary delay and confirm the current process with MOHRE. You can also compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI to get help preparing and pursuing an unpaid-overtime claim.