Abu Dhabi strengthens employment law enforcement with a dedicated Labour Prosecution

Abu Dhabi has established a dedicated Labour Prosecution under Resolution No. 25 of 2025, marking a significant step in strengthening employment law enforcement in the Emirate.

The Labour Prosecution’s mandate

The new unit will focus on investigating offences under the Federal Law No. 33 of 2021, as amended (the “Labour Law”) and Federal Law No. 9 of 2022, as amended (the “Domestic Workers Law”), ensuring specialised attention to labour-related violations within Abu Dhabi.

The Labour Prosecution’s mandate covers offences arising from employment relationships, including work contracts, workplace rights, and obligations under the Labour Law, as well as matters concerning the protection and regulation of domestic workers. By consolidating these areas within a single prosecutorial body, Abu Dhabi aims to deliver faster, more consistent enforcement and clearer accountability.

The unit will be led by a senior Public Prosecution member and supported by specialised prosecutors and trained legal staff, bringing focused expertise to investigations and case handling. This structure is designed to streamline processes, improve case quality, and enhance the overall efficiency of labour law enforcement in the emirate.

What this means for employers and employees 

Under both the Labour Law and the Domestic Workers Law, penalties for non-compliance in Abu Dhabi can be substantial, reflecting the Emirate’s commitment to strict enforcement. Employers who fail to pay wages on time may face fines of up to AED 50,000 per violation, while those engaging in illegal recruitment or employing domestic workers without proper authorization could incur penalties of AED 1,000,000 or more, along with potential suspension of business licenses. Breaches of health and safety obligations typically attract fines ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000, and repeat offences can lead to doubled fines and even criminal liability. These measures underscore the importance for employers to maintain rigorous compliance with contractual terms, wage payment schedules, and worker protections to avoid severe financial and reputational consequences.

The creation of the Labour Prosecution aligns with Abu Dhabi’s ongoing judicial modernisation and its commitment to a fair, predictable labour market. It supports economic confidence, strengthens protections for workers and employers alike, and reinforces the Emirate’s position as a regional leader in rule of law and rights-based enforcement.

For further information on Abu Dhabi's Labour Prosecution reach out to Ben Brown or David True. 

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