Q: I have a question about the repatriation ticket and costs. As per the Labor Law, the employee is entitled to an air ticket. But our company has put another line that I will get this benefit only if I leave the country and don't stay in the UAE. Can this be enforced? "Repatriation Cargo Note: Please note that you will NOT be eligible for Repatriation Benefits, if you transfer your employment visa or if you shift jobs in the UAE or continue to stay in the country post cancellation of your employment visa. You need to secure approval on your repatriation cargo, and avail it within three (3) months from the last date of service. Repatriation Tickets The value of repatriation tickets which is 50% of your annual airfare for you will be added to your Final Settlement payment as per policy. Note: Please note that you will NOT be eligible for Repatriation Benefits, if you transfer your employment visa or if you shift jobs in the UAE or continue to stay in the country post cancellation of your employment visa."

Q: Kindly advise if the company (Dubai based) is obliged to pay the employee the cost of an air ticket back home country upon resignation. It's a limited contract and the notice period was served, but the employee didn't finish the contract (worked for 11 months & 20 days only).

Q: As per labor UAE law, is it correct that an employer is bound to pay for an exit ticket even if the employee has transferred his visa within the UAE as it is mentioned in F&F?

The UAE has adopted a major reform in its legislative system that brought about 40 new laws and amendments to the company law, criminal law, personal status, among others. The amendments aim to develop the legislative structure in various sectors, the labor law being one of these, was the most recent. We try in this article to shed light on the changes introduced with the new labor law and their significance on both, the employer and employee.

The provisions of this Law, known as "UAE Labour Law", govern the relationship between employers and employees and other labour matters in the United Arab Emirates. There are special labour related regulations applicable in some of the free zones in the UAE.

The provisions of this Decree-Law, known as "New UAE Labor Law", govern labour relations in the private sector of the United Arab Emirates. The New Labor Law repeals the previous UAE Labor Law (Federal Law No. (8) of 1980).

This Decree sets the rules and conditions for the termination of fixed-term (limited) or unlimited (not term-bound) employment contract between employer and worker in the United Arab Emirates.