Question: As someone constantly on the move for work, I’m paying for fuel and Salik fees out of my pocket. Shouldn’t my company be covering these expenses? What are my rights in this situation?
Answer: If you're employed by a mainland company in Dubai, the provisions of UAE employment law are directly applicable to your situation. Before signing an employment contract, it’s crucial to thoroughly review the document, particularly concerning salary and allowances, to ensure all job-related expenses are covered.
Under Article 8(2) of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, employees are entitled to the rights specified in their employment contracts, which include salary and allowances. The law clarifies that employees or their representatives can use various methods to prove these entitlements.
Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 further elaborates on this, specifying that employment contracts must include key details such as the employer's name, employee’s position, salary, allowances, working hours, and benefits. This means that if your contract doesn’t specifically mention the provision of fuel and Salik allowances, it might not be a given right.
That being said, many UAE employers include travel allowances in their contracts, which could cover fuel and Salik fees. If your contract doesn’t clearly state this, it’s advisable to discuss the matter with your employer to potentially adjust your terms or agree on a solution.
Key Legal References:
- Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Employment Relations
- Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 on the Implementation of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 Regarding the Regulation of Employment Relations
It’s always a good practice to clarify these details upfront to avoid misunderstandings later on.
News Source: Khaleej Times
