Are Managers Entitled to Compensation for Working During UAE Public Holidays?

Public holidays in the UAE are a time to rest and recharge. However, for some employees, including those in managerial roles, business needs may require them to work during these holidays. This raises an important question:

Are managers eligible for compensation when they work during public holidays?

Employees working during UAE public holidays are entitled to a day off or additional pay, which includes their regular wage for the day plus an extra 50% of their basic wage.

Article 28, Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021

What Does UAE Labour Law Say?

Under Article 28 of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Employment Relations, employees in the UAE are entitled to official public holidays with full pay, as determined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

However, when work circumstances require employees to work during public holidays, employers are legally obligated to compensate them. Here’s how the compensation works:

• ✔️ Compensatory Leave: Employees are entitled to a substitute rest day for each day worked during public holidays.
• ✔️ Additional Salary: Alternatively, employers can pay employees their regular salary for that day plus a supplement of at least 50% of their basic salary.

Does This Apply to Managers?

There’s a common misconception that managerial roles are exempt from these compensations. However, UAE labour law does not explicitly exclude managers from being entitled to compensatory benefits for working during public holidays. As such, managers who are required to work on holidays should receive either compensatory leave or additional pay as stipulated by Article 28.

It is important to note that Article 28 applies universally to all workers, regardless of their role or designation, unless otherwise explicitly stated in the employment contract or company policies.

Steps to Take if You Worked During Public Holidays

If you worked over a public holiday, such as the recent UAE National Day break, and have not been compensated:

• ✔️ Discuss with Your Employer: Talk to your employer about your entitlements under Article 28. Request either compensatory leave or additional pay.
• ✔️ Seek Legal Assistance: If an amicable resolution cannot be reached, you can contact MoHRE for further support.

Why Understanding Your Rights Matters

Employees, including those in managerial roles, should familiarise themselves with their rights under Article 28 to ensure they receive fair compensation for working during public holidays.

Employers must ensure compliance with Article 28 by providing either compensatory leave or additional pay to employees who work during public holidays. Failure to do so can lead to legal repercussions under UAE labour law.

Encouraging Proactive Communication

Employees should proactively communicate with their employers about their entitlements under Article 28 and resolve any discrepancies through mutual understanding or legal channels if necessary.

Whether you’re a manager or an employee in any other role, knowing your entitlements under UAE labour law ensures you can protect your rights and receive fair treatment. Public holidays are meant to provide employees with a well-deserved break or proper compensation if work demands their presence.

For the latest updates, please refer to the official Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) website.

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