Working extra hours in the UAE? Your employer is legally required to pay you overtime at a premium rate. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, Overtime Pay in UAE rules are clearly defined and enforceable.
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Standard Working Hours in UAE
The standard working week in the UAE is 48 hours, or 8 hours per day (reduced to 6 hours/day during Ramadan for Muslim employees). Any hours worked beyond this are classified as overtime.
📋 Official source: UAE Government Portal – Working Hours & Overtime
Overtime Pay Rates
| Overtime Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Regular overtime (weekdays) | 125% of normal hourly rate |
| Evening overtime (9pm–4am) | 150% of normal hourly rate |
| Rest day/Friday work (with day off) | Substitute day off |
| Rest day work (no day off given) | 150% of normal hourly rate |
How to Calculate Your Hourly Rate
Hourly rate = Basic monthly salary ÷ 26 working days ÷ 8 hours
Example: Basic salary AED 9,000/month
Hourly rate: 9,000 ÷ 26 ÷ 8 = AED 43.27/hour
Overtime at 125%: AED 43.27 × 1.25 = AED 54.08/hour
Maximum Overtime Hours
Employees cannot be required to work more than 2 additional hours per day of overtime, except in cases of necessity to prevent significant loss or danger. Total daily working time including overtime should not exceed 10 hours.
Who Is Exempt from Overtime?
- Managerial or supervisory employees with authority to hire/fire
- Employees whose nature of work requires flexibility (as defined in contract)
FAQs
Can my employer make me work overtime without extra pay?
No. Mandatory unpaid overtime is a labour violation. File a complaint with MOHRE at mohre.gov.ae or call 800-60.
Is overtime calculated on basic salary or total package?
Overtime is calculated on basic salary only by default, unless your contract states otherwise.
Understanding your salary structure is the first step to knowing your full entitlements. Use our UAE Gratuity Calculator to plan ahead.