Questions & Answers
Questions & Answers
5 available 5 • View allStarting a business while being an employee in a government organization

2
Q: Hi,
I and my friend agreed to start a business and be partners. As I'm working in a government organization, (and also my wife), we don't want our names in the trade license.
Is there any way of being a partner without our names in a trade license?


Aug 12, 2020
316
Requirements for starting a business while being employed


2
Q: Hi,
I'm currently trying to create a company in the mainland while I'm being employed by a company which sponsored my residency.
I've been only been in the UAE for 3 months.
Is there a minimum period I need to spend in the country before I'm allowed to start a business?
Thank you



Apr 22, 2020
512
How to obtain a NOC from employer if you want to be a partner in another business?

6
Q: I am currently working in an organization on an unlimited contract, however, I would like to enter into a business partnership and put my name on the trade license of the new company.
I will, however, still be working in my current company. Can I enter into a business partnership directly or do I need to get a NOC?
My current employer has no restriction on doing business in our contract neither does the new business violate the non-compete clause.
If I need to get a NOC, then how do I do it? Do I simply request my current company to give a NOC?
Your help is much appreciated.
Thank you in advance


Jun 30, 2021
4204
Can the school refuse to give the teacher NOC to do private tutoring?


0
Q: Hello,
I am a teacher, working full-time with a school in Abu Dhabi.
I have students and I do tutoring, now, tutors must obtain a tutor permit from MOHRE and MOE. However, an NOC is needed from the employer/sponsor.
I emailed HR and being unhelpful they refused to give me an NOC knowing very well that I oblige to the conditions and do not tutor my own students or any student from the same school and my work is during my own personal time.
Any advice? Is this within my right to get the NOC?



Apr 28, 2024
103
Can I run social media ads promoting private tutoring services without a license?




0
Q: I am seeking advice on an issue involving a shady friend. She has been pressuring me to run social media ads promoting private tutoring services in the UAE, despite not holding the necessary license to offer such classes.
She insisted that I use my personal information for these ads and avoid sharing any of her details, claiming it was due to concerns about harassment. However, I suspect her true motive is to avoid legal consequences as she knows this activity is illegal.
She wanted me to advertise these services using my social media accounts, and in the event of inquiries, I was to pass on the students to her. My sole evidence is a phone call we had of her directing me to engage in these actions.
I need to understand if her requests are legal and if they expose me to any liability, as well as what actions I can take to protect myself given the evidence I have.





Sep 27, 2024
62
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An Overview of the Legal Framework for Entrepreneurs in the UAE 4
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The New Law of E-commerce in the UAE 7
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Dec 13, 2023
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Laws & Regulations
3 available 3 • View allFederal Law No. (2) of 2015 On Commercial Companies 15
The provisions of this Law apply to the commercial companies established in the UAE and the foreign companies that have established in the UAE a base to conduct any activity therein or established a branch or representative office. The Law abrogates Federal Law No. (8) of 1984 Concerning Commercial Companies.
Mar 25, 2015
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Federal Decree-Law No. (46) of 2021 on Electronic Transactions and Trust Services 2
The provisions of this Decree-Law, known as the "New E-commerce Law", govern E-commerce regulations in the United Arab Emirates. The New E-commerce Law repeals the previous UAE E-commerce Law (Federal Law No. (1) of 2006 Concerning Electronic Transactions & Commerce).
Sep 20, 2021
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Cabinet Resolution No. (28) of 2023 on the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. (46) of 2021 on Electronic Transactions and Trust Services 1
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Mar 28, 2023
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Is overtime applicable on work-from-home days under company’s policy? 0
Hello,
The company has a policy allowing employees to work from home once per week.
Now, employees are asking if overtime is applicable for those who work from home as well.
Could you please clarify?
Thank you!
May 2, 2025
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Can the employer force the housmaid to work for unlimited hours without rest? 0
Hi
I'm a nanny, and at the same time, I work as a housemaid (khadama) here in the house. I work, but as I know, the nannies and housemaids have different rights, and my employer doesn't give me rest.
My work starts at 7:30 am and then finishes at 10 pm or less. It depends on whether the baby is asleep or what time they will take on me if not yet asleep. Is this right?
Also, at the time of eating, I'm still working because the baby is with me, so I just let her sit in her chair. That's how I eat.
Please answer me. I want to know my rights.
Because if I can leave during the 6-month probation, I want to take it if the employer is this kind. I don't know.
They are also expats, but they don't follow the rules of the UAE regarding a housemaid.
May 1, 2025
23
My previous organization has not yet released EOSB because I contacted a client. Is this legal? 0
I recently joined a new organization in the Hamriyah Free Zone, and my previous organization has not released my end-of-service benefits.
The HR has instructed the finance team not to do so because I had contacted one of their clients.
In my DMCC contract, there is no Non-Compete clause, but the offer letter has one, and now they are not releasing the end-of-service.
Is this legal? What are my rights?
Apr 30, 2025
17
Can I renew my trade license and visa if I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me? 0
Hello,
I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me due to financial strains last year.
My trade license and visa will expire next month, along with my Emirates ID.
Is it possible for me to renew my license and visa along with EID prior to settling the execution cases?
The trade license and visa were issued by the free zone authority.
I look forward to your response.
Thanks.
May 1, 2025
42
How to file a case against my former company for unpaid salary I was not on their visa? 0
Dear Legal Advice Middle East,
I hope you are well.
I am seeking legal advice regarding an unpaid salary issue with my former employer, [-----]2 LLC. I was employed with them from December 4, 2024, to January 7, 2025, on a monthly salary of 5,000 AED.
However, I only received a partial payment of 2,473 AED on February 24, 2025. The remaining 2,527 AED is still unpaid.
I submitted a complaint to MOHRE on March 2, 2025, but I am unable to proceed further through their official channels.
This is because I was working under the visa of my previous employer, [---] LLC, and not under [----]’s sponsorship.
As a result, I do not meet the criteria to file a labor complaint via the MOHRE app or hotline.
Given this situation, I would appreciate your guidance on how I can legally pursue the recovery of my remaining salary, considering the complications related to my visa status during the employment.
Apr 30, 2025
23

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My husband sold the house we bought jointlyand took a cheque plus 1-year instalments from me. What can I do? 0
Hi,
I am a non-Muslim indian expatriate, residing in Dubai since 2015. The first 5 years, I was on a working visa, and after the delivery of my first baby, I left my job and became dependent on my husband.
In 2018, we bought a house together where I invested AED 2 hundred thousand from my income (I have proof in the form of a cheque). I also paid AED 3300 monthly installment for 1 year, for a personal loan taken out for the house.
But in spite of my resistance, my husband tactfully put the house in his name, so the title deed was in his name. In 2024, when my kids and I were in India for vacation, he cancelled our visas and residency. He also filed for a divorce in India.
The divorce is not yet finalised, and we are still married. Since August 2024, he hasn't let me access my house in Dubai, so I filed a case, which eventually went in my favor in January 2025.
Since I used to travel on a visit visa, I left for India and returned in March, to find out that my husband had already sold the house. The new owner is residing there.
What can I do now?
Help!
May 1, 2025
17
Can the employer force the housmaid to work for unlimited hours without rest? 0
Hi
I'm a nanny, and at the same time, I work as a housemaid (khadama) here in the house. I work, but as I know, the nannies and housemaids have different rights, and my employer doesn't give me rest.
My work starts at 7:30 am and then finishes at 10 pm or less. It depends on whether the baby is asleep or what time they will take on me if not yet asleep. Is this right?
Also, at the time of eating, I'm still working because the baby is with me, so I just let her sit in her chair. That's how I eat.
Please answer me. I want to know my rights.
Because if I can leave during the 6-month probation, I want to take it if the employer is this kind. I don't know.
They are also expats, but they don't follow the rules of the UAE regarding a housemaid.
May 1, 2025
23
My previous organization has not yet released EOSB because I contacted a client. Is this legal? 0
I recently joined a new organization in the Hamriyah Free Zone, and my previous organization has not released my end-of-service benefits.
The HR has instructed the finance team not to do so because I had contacted one of their clients.
In my DMCC contract, there is no Non-Compete clause, but the offer letter has one, and now they are not releasing the end-of-service.
Is this legal? What are my rights?
Apr 30, 2025
17
Can I renew my trade license and visa if I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me? 0
Hello,
I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me due to financial strains last year.
My trade license and visa will expire next month, along with my Emirates ID.
Is it possible for me to renew my license and visa along with EID prior to settling the execution cases?
The trade license and visa were issued by the free zone authority.
I look forward to your response.
Thanks.
May 1, 2025
42
Can I return to Dubai after 12 years away on a new employment visa? 0
Hello,
I came from Dubai to India on emergency leave, but unfortunately, I did not return. It has now been 12 years. Can I go to Dubai on a new visa?
I have already received a new employment visa from another employer.
Can I return to Dubai, or will there be any problems with UAE immigration?
Please advise!
Apr 30, 2025
18

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Is it mandatory to visit the CID in person to update my records? 2
Respected Advisors,
I have been involved in a few criminal cases since 2017, but all of them were cleared by this year. I have obtained release letters for all the cases from the public prosecution office through an online portal.
Recently, I also received my residence visa. After the visa process was completed, I applied for a PCC online. However, the request was rejected.
I contacted the 901 office, and they advised me to visit the CID. I arranged for a power of attorney to be granted along with all the necessary documents to update the system.
Twice I was told to come in person, but I am hesitant to do so because of my previous negative experience.
Could someone please advise me whether I must go in person or if the person holding the power of attorney can handle the process?
Thank you!
Nov 15, 2023
710
How can the heirs of a deceased person distribute his shares if there is a minor? 1
My father died recently. We are Muslim residents in Dubai. I have siblings including a minor who is 16 years old. My father has land and vehicles under his name.
If I am applying for inheritance, does the minor need to have a share in ALL the properties and vehicles or can she be given a particular property/vehicle?
Secondly, if we want the land to be in her name, and she manages it (like renting and bank), does it require an adult?
Can the vehicles be transferred to someone else’s name without including her?
Your guidance will be very much appreciated.
Oct 26, 2023
139
Senior executive unfairly dismissed: How much compensation to claim? 2
Dear Sir/Madam,
I have been unfairly dismissed (it's personal on their end) and have been given only two months' salary apart from the compulsory gratuity and notice pay.
I would like to claim more than two months as I am a senior executive (Director).
Up to how much should I claim, and would this be a realistic amount for me to "win"?
Oct 16, 2023
151
Can we file a claim against an employee if he caused a financial loss to the company? 2
There was a legal action against an employee who failed to participate in an international event in Saudi Arabia due to a family issue that resulted in a travel ban, which in turn led to the non-signing of an AED 100,000 deal resulting in a loss to the company.
- What legal grounds exist for the employer to pursue legal action against the employee in this scenario?
- Does UAE labor law provide any specific guidance or remedies for such situations?
- What are the desired outcomes or remedies the employer can seek through legal action?
- Are there any potential legal consequences or liabilities for the employer in pursuing this case?
- What documentation and evidence are needed to support the employer's case?
Sep 14, 2023
965
What are my options if my husband is refusing to pay child support? 1
Dear Sir/Madam,
What are the charges to open an execution file in Sharjah for a divorce case and how much time will it take to execute the court order?
My husband told the court that he does not have money to pay for me and my daughter's expenses because he is earning a minimum amount in which he can only survive.
In that case, what can I do?
He closed all his bank accounts and sent money to his parents in India. He also told me that he will show in court that he does not have a job or money, so the court or police cannot do anything to him.
Can you please guide me on what I can do in this case? I do not have any proof of his salary or bank account because he was not informing me about anything related to his financial matters.
In fact, he was forcing me to ask my parents to send money to us. Because of no proof, the court agreed with him and rejected my appeal. I do not have a job and I am struggling for basic expenses.
Can I request the court to inquire about his gratuity and end of service?
Or can the court ask him to submit proof of the money that he received from his company, as he was working for 30 years in the same company?
Sep 13, 2023
348

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Filing a complaint against a shipping company due to delivery delay 5
Greetings,
I sent a shipment of around 40k of value to France from Dubai on the 25th of August. During the communication with the shipping company, I was informed that it will take 6-7 days.
It is the 7th of September today and until now they are unable to give me an update on where my shipment is. Moreover, this delay has cost me extra money on having to postpone the ticket of the receiver in France and his extra stay expenses.
Is there any official complaint, or any actions that I can take against such an unprofessional company?
Appreciate your reply!
Sep 7, 2022
2308
A new partner is delaying the payment of his share. What to do? 2
Dear Lawyers,
I have a company in Sharjah FZ. I hold 51% shares and my partner holds 49% shares. I am the director, manager, and the sole beneficiary of the company bank account. We are both now under the company visa.
I, as the business owner, demand a few things for him to provide before he can benefit from the company. The point of the agreement is:
- The new shareholder needs to provide business development capital for AED 145,000, payment will be on several terms.
Since I made the change on the license and put him under the company visa, he has been delaying paying the capital.
I have been chasing him through messages and phone calls, but he is still not responding. This made the cash flow of the company a mess.
1. What legal step can I take to take him out of the company and seek compensation for the mess he made with the company?
2. Will it be better for me to file bankruptcy or to fight the legal action against him?
Thank you so much, appreciate your answer!
Aug 24, 2022
346
Filing a case against a customer for nonpayment of outstanding dues 2
Dear sir/madam,
One of my customers is not clearing his outstanding payment and is giving false promises.
The provided cheque has bounced twice. Their license is inactive. Can we file a case against them in court according to Dubai Law?
The amount is AED 28000.
Aug 17, 2022
1115
The company reduces the EOSB after calculating it. What to do? 2
Dear sir/madam,
I have an issue with my end of service. The company made calculations on one amount and sent me the form, signed by the finance director.
Now they say that there was a miscount and the amount has been reduced significantly.
I need advice and assistance from a lawyer.
Aug 17, 2022
246
What can you do in case you got terminated for doing a side job? 1
My husband was working in a private retail company before. While he was working with them, he helped a friend sell his friend's own designs of t-shirts through Facebook.
His previous employer saw that and terminated him and they are accusing him that he is copying their designs and stealing customers by selling his friend's items while working which is not true.
He threatened my husband that they will sue him and to avoid that, they're gonna remove him from work and will pay him only the days of his work (15 days) which my husband agreed because he doesn't want any trouble.
That's what they did. They didn't pay him his gratuity for staying almost 3 yrs with them as well as airline ticket, vacation leave and public holidays.
Now it's been a year since it happened and my husband is already working with another company and suddenly his previous employer saw him in a restaurant and asked him why he is there and threatened him that they are gonna sue him still. What do we need to do? Thank you.
Aug 26, 2022
307

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Other answers by
Can I renew my trade license and visa if I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me? 0
Hello,
I have multiple cheque execution cases filed against me due to financial strains last year.
My trade license and visa will expire next month, along with my Emirates ID.
Is it possible for me to renew my license and visa along with EID prior to settling the execution cases?
The trade license and visa were issued by the free zone authority.
I look forward to your response.
Thanks.
May 1, 2025
42
How to file a case against my former company for unpaid salary I was not on their visa? 0
Dear Legal Advice Middle East,
I hope you are well.
I am seeking legal advice regarding an unpaid salary issue with my former employer, [-----]2 LLC. I was employed with them from December 4, 2024, to January 7, 2025, on a monthly salary of 5,000 AED.
However, I only received a partial payment of 2,473 AED on February 24, 2025. The remaining 2,527 AED is still unpaid.
I submitted a complaint to MOHRE on March 2, 2025, but I am unable to proceed further through their official channels.
This is because I was working under the visa of my previous employer, [---] LLC, and not under [----]’s sponsorship.
As a result, I do not meet the criteria to file a labor complaint via the MOHRE app or hotline.
Given this situation, I would appreciate your guidance on how I can legally pursue the recovery of my remaining salary, considering the complications related to my visa status during the employment.
Apr 30, 2025
23
After closing the company, can an investor stay in the UAE until the residence visa expires? 0
Hello,
An investor has a residence visa valid until February 2027; however, he wishes to close the company before the current license expires in December 2025.
Can the investor still legally reside in the UAE until the residence visa expires?
May 2, 2025
21
Can I return to Dubai after 12 years away on a new employment visa? 0
Hello,
I came from Dubai to India on emergency leave, but unfortunately, I did not return. It has now been 12 years. Can I go to Dubai on a new visa?
I have already received a new employment visa from another employer.
Can I return to Dubai, or will there be any problems with UAE immigration?
Please advise!
Apr 30, 2025
18
Employer agreed to settle before MOHRE. What if they don’t pay the promised amount? 0
Hello,
I already have a dispute order with MOHRE. Then my employer became willing to settle the case.
What should I do in case they do not follow through with the promised amount to pay?
Apr 29, 2025
41
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