Employment in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi employers operate under two employment regimes. Onshore, the UAE Labour Law governs contracts, working hours, end-of-service gratuity and termination, with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the Wages Protection System overseeing compliance. Within ADGM, a separate set of Employment Regulations applies, closer in style to common-law employment law. Which regime applies changes notice, gratuity and dispute routes.
Emiratisation is an increasing focus for onshore employers, with Nafis targets and penalties for shortfalls. We advise on contracts and policies, restructurings and redundancies, end-of-service settlements, non-compete and confidentiality protection, and disputes before MOHRE, the labour courts, or the ADGM Courts. We act for both employers and senior executives.
What we do
- Employment contracts and policies
- ADGM vs onshore structuring
- End-of-service and termination
- Emiratisation (Nafis) compliance
- Non-compete and confidentiality
- Employment disputes
Frequently asked
Does the UAE Labour Law apply to my ADGM staff?
No. ADGM has its own Employment Regulations, which differ from onshore law on notice, gratuity and process. Employees onshore are covered by the UAE Labour Law. We advise per entity.
How is end-of-service gratuity calculated?
Onshore, it is based on basic salary and length of service under the Labour Law formula. ADGM has its own rules. We calculate exposure and check it against the contract.
What are my Emiratisation obligations?
Onshore private companies above set thresholds have annual Emirati hiring targets under Nafis, with penalties for shortfalls. We assess your obligations and help structure compliant hiring.
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