Generally, as per the UAE Labour Law, the employer cannot terminate an employee without providing a justified reason. But as per the recent Ministerial Resolution 279/2020 dated 26 March 2020 (till it’s valid); establishments affected by such precautionary measures may register details of their surplus non-national workers having permits to work with them before the Virtual Labour Market provided that the establishment remains committed towards their workers in terms of accommodation and payment of all entitlements (except for basic salary) until they leave the UAE or obtain a work permit from...
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Can an employer compel to take unpaid leave or impose a salary reduction during the Covid-19?
No, an employer is not permitted to compel its employees to take unpaid leave or salary reduction unless it is agreed between the parties in writing.
But the employer has the right to request the employee to consume their paid leave allowance during such situation. This feel also help the employee in a way in such situation to be financially stable. This is in line with Article 76 of the UAE Labour Law.
Read MoreDo we have to pay an employee if they self-isolate during the Covid-19 situation in the UAE?
This depends on the mutual understanding between the employer and employee. If the employee is unwell and this is supported by a sick leave certificate issued by the relevant authority, then the employer needs to pay the employee as per Article 83 of the UAE Labour Law.
Read MoreTaking time off work or requests flexible working arrangements due to closure of nursery or school?
This depends on the mutual agreement between the employer and employee accordingly.
Read MoreIf Member of staff has contracted Covid-19 in the UAE, and has recently been in the workplace?
The relevant health authority covering your jurisdiction needs to be immediately informed; and if not this could potentially be a punishable offence accordingly.
It is the duty of not only a company but also for an individual to report anyone suspected of suffering from a communicable disease. Failure to do so may impose a three years jail sentence or fine of not more than AED 10,000/- to the violators, as per Federal Law No. 14 of 2014 on Combating Communicable Diseases.
Read MoreCompany’s obligations from a health and safety perspective towards their staff during Covid-19?
To provide a safe environment at the place of work and to report to the relevant authority on an immediate basis of any employees which show some seri symptomS of Covid-19.
Read MorePeople with severe symptoms of Covid-19; but still go to work being worried about not paid?
Federal Law No. 14 of 2014 on Combating Communicable Diseases states a punishment of up to five years in jail and/or a fine between AED 50,000/- to AED 100,000/- for any person who knows that he or she suffers from a communicable disease and yet intentionally indulges in behavior that exposes others to transmission. In the case of repeated offences, such individuals shall be imprisoned for a period twice that of the five years stipulated by law.
Read MoreCan an employer dismiss an employee while on leave?
No, an employer cannot terminate an employee while he/she is on leave as per Article 90 of the UAE Labour Law.
Read MoreCan I demand for my rent to be waived during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Yes, a request can be put forth to the landlord by providing sufficient reasons indicating loss of income which would potentially make it difficult to adhere to the agreed payment plan. If there is no mutual agreement between the parties in this; then the aggrieved party can accordingly approach the relevant legal forum for relief.
Read MoreWill I be paid if my employer asked me to work from home?
An employee will be paid in this scenario based on the steps taken by the employer to enable the employees to work remotely at home, unless otherwise to be reflected between the parties in writing accordingly.
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