To ensure businesses run smoothly and to avoid any disruptions in workflow, many employees work normal hours.
Before the start of Ramadan, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the UAE announced a reduction of two working hours per day for employees in the private sector. Additionally, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) also implemented reduced official working hours in the public sector.
However, many companies urge employees to work normal hours to ensure that businesses run smoothly and avoid any disruptions in the workflow. Several companies need staff in the office around the clock.
But according to Article 19(2) of the Employment Law, any additional hours of work may be considered overtime and employees are entitled to get compensated. As per the law:
"If the work circumstances require that the employee be employed for hours exceeding the ordinary working hours, such extended time shall be deemed overtime for which the employee shall be paid his basic salary for his normal hours of work plus a supplement of at least 25 percent of that salary."
Hence, the pay for the extra time is hourly wage (basic) plus 25 percent of that amount. This could increase to 50 percent if overtime is done between 10 pm and 4 am. This rule does not apply to employees who work in shifts.
In a recent social media post, MoHRE also confirmed that employees working more than the stipulated work hours are entitled to compensation.
"Your employer may request that you work 2 hours of overtime per day maximum, however, you'd be entitled to compensation based on the law."
The ministry also added:
"In all cases, the total number of working hours shall not exceed 144 in 3 weeks." But the authority clarified that "Work required to prevent a massive loss, a serious accident, or the removal or mitigation of an accident is exempt from the maximum overtime hours."
During the Eid Al Fitr holidays, the UAE government announced a four-day-long break to celebrate the Islamic holiday. If an employee had to work during the public holidays, they are entitled to a compensatory leave or a full day’s salary.
News Source: Khaleej Times
