Anti-Discrimination & Equal Pay in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
UAE law prohibits workplace discrimination and mandates equal pay for equal work:
- Equal pay: Women must receive the same pay as men for the same work or work of equal value. This was strengthened by Federal Decree-Law No. 6 of 2020.
- Non-discrimination: Employers cannot discriminate based on race, colour, sex, religion, national origin, social origin, or disability.
- Harassment: Sexual harassment, bullying, and any form of verbal, physical, or psychological violence in the workplace are prohibited.
- Retaliation: Employers cannot fire or punish a worker for filing a discrimination or harassment complaint.
- Hiring: Job advertisements cannot specify a preferred gender, nationality, or religion unless the nature of the job requires it.
When does it apply?
- You work in the private sector in the UAE.
- These protections apply to all workers, regardless of nationality, during hiring, employment, and termination.
- The equal pay mandate applies to all private-sector employers.
What to Do If You Face Workplace Discrimination or Unequal Pay in the UAE
- If you experience discrimination or harassment, document everything — save emails, messages, and write down dates, times, and witnesses.
- Report the issue to your company's HR department first, in writing.
- If the company does not act, file a complaint with MOHRE through the MOHRE app, the 600-590000 hotline, or at a Tasheel centre.
- For serious cases (assault, sexual harassment), you can also file a criminal complaint with the police (999) or through the Dubai Police smart app or Abu Dhabi Police app.
- Workers in DIFC or ADGM should use the respective free zone's own dispute channels — DIFC has a dedicated employment tribunal process.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not stay silent — discrimination and harassment are illegal, and you are protected from retaliation for reporting them.
- Do not accept a lower salary based on gender or nationality — if you suspect unequal pay, request a salary review or file a complaint.
- Do not delete evidence — keep all messages, emails, and records related to the incident.
Common Questions
When does it apply — anti-discrimination & equal pay?
You work in the private sector in the UAE.These protections apply to all workers, regardless of nationality, during hiring, employment, and termination.The equal pay mandate applies to all private-sector employers.
What should I do if I am being discriminated against or paid less than colleagues in the UAE?
If you experience discrimination or harassment, document everything — save emails, messages, and write down dates, times, and witnesses.Report the issue to your company's HR department first, in writing.If the company does not act, file a complaint with MOHRE through the MOHRE app, the 600-590000 hotline, or at a Tasheel centre.For serious cases (assault, sexual harassment), you can also file a criminal complaint with the police (999) or through the Dubai Police smart app or Abu Dhabi Police app.Workers in DIFC or ADGM should use the respective free zone's own dispute channels — DIFC has a ded...
What should you NOT do — anti-discrimination & equal pay?
Do not stay silent — discrimination and harassment are illegal, and you are protected from retaliation for reporting them.Do not accept a lower salary based on gender or nationality — if you suspect unequal pay, request a salary review or file a complaint.Do not delete evidence — keep all messages, emails, and records related to the incident.