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 is obliged to pay to the employee the cost of air ticket back to home country upon his resignation.

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?

Q: Hello, Can an employee request the employer to encash the airfare if he/she is not traveling after completing one year?

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 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.