The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a major crackdown on businesses found violating the country’s labour laws. Since the start of the year, around 1,300 establishments linked to 1,800 employers have been penalised for falsely registering employees despite not operating actively.
These firms, which had no genuine employment relationships, were discovered through MoHRE’s smart inspection system. In response, the Ministry has suspended their ability to issue new work permits, imposed more than Dhs 34 million in fines, and downgraded them to the lowest category in the private sector classification system.
Additionally, the owners of these companies have been barred from registering new establishments under their names to prevent future violations.
MoHRE is calling on all employers to cancel business licences and regularise the status of employees if their companies cease operations. This is vital to avoid legal action and protect workers from being left in uncertain situations. This move reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to protect labour rights and ensure transparency in the job market, especially important for many workers who rely on a fair and secure employment system.
Workers are encouraged to report suspicious or illegal labour practices through MoHRE's website,