Working from home in the UAE does not mean relaxed rules or flexible obligations. Employees operating remotely are subject to the same working hours, performance standards and legal responsibilities as those working from an office.

A new guide issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) sets out how remote work operates in the private sector, offering clarity on working hours, leave entitlements, employer obligations, monitoring practices and disciplinary action.

What is Remote Work?

Remote work allows employees to perform their duties outside the workplace — either fully or partially — using digital communication tools, as agreed in the employment contract.

Employees working remotely are entitled to the same:

• Salary
• Working hours
• Leave
• Workplace protections
  
  

Employer Obligations

Employers must:

• Issue a clear employment contract covering salary, role, working hours and duration
• Adhere to legal working hours and provide rest days
• Grant annual, sick and other statutory leave
• Provide necessary devices and technical tools
• Pay all dues on time at the end of employment
• Not charge recruitment or hiring fees
• Clearly define tasks and communication systems
• Monitor employee performance and provide records if requested by labour inspectors
  
  

Employee Responsibilities

Employees working from home must:

• Complete tasks themselves and not outsource work
• Work within agreed hours and respond promptly
• Use company equipment responsibly
• Maintain confidentiality of work-related data
• Submit reports and complete assignments on time
• Attend virtual meetings when required
  
  

Working Hhours and Rest Periods

• Maximum 8 hours per day
• Up to 48 hours per week
• Overtime must be paid if limits are exceeded
• Daily rest breaks are mandatory and not counted as work hours
• At least one paid weekly day off is required

for more, visit : https://thelawreporters.com/uae-remote-work-rules-hours-leave-employer-duties