In a firm stance to protect employee rights, the United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed that employers are strictly prohibited from deducting visa or recruitment costs from employees’ salaries.
According to Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 – widely known as the UAE Labour Law – all recruitment-related expenses must be fully covered by the employer. This includes the cost of hiring, travel, visa issuance, medical examinations, and the employee’s residency permit.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), through its “Know Your Rights” guide for workers, reiterates that employers must also pay any recruitment fees due to agencies accredited by the employee’s home country. Additionally, they are responsible for all legal formalities required once the worker arrives in the UAE.
Before an employee travels to the UAE, the recruitment agency or employer is obligated to clearly explain the terms of employment, including the job title, responsibilities, salary, benefits, and working conditions. An annex outlining the employee’s rights under UAE law must be provided, and workers are encouraged to keep a copy of the job offer for their records.
As reported by the Gulf News, the article 6 of the UAE Labour Law underlines that no work can be performed without a valid Work Permit issued by MOHRE. Furthermore, only licensed agencies are permitted to handle recruitment or employment mediation. Employers who attempt to recoup hiring costs from workers – either directly or indirectly – are violating the law.
The law reflects the UAE’s commitment to fair labour practices and transparency in employment procedures, with the Minister empowered to issue further decisions to enforce worker protection.
In summary, regardless of circumstances, employees are not liable for any recruitment or visa costs—these remain the sole responsibility of the employer.
