UAE Cracks Down on 5,400 Firms for Labour Law Breaches

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has stepped up enforcement of labour laws, penalising over 5,400 companies in the first half of 2025 for non-compliance.
Authorities confirmed that legal and administrative measures were taken against violators, with serious offences referred directly to the Public Prosecution.
Key Details:
- Total establishments penalised: 5,400+
- Timeframe: January – June 2025
- Action taken: Administrative fines, legal action, prosecution referrals
- Target: Companies breaching UAE labour regulations
MoHRE reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fair treatment of workers, emphasising that businesses operating outside the law face strict consequences.
Breakdown of MoHRE Action (H1 2025)
| Action Taken | Number of Establishments |
|---|---|
| Administrative penalties (fines, warnings) | Majority of cases |
| Referred to Public Prosecution | Most serious violations |
Officials highlighted that inspections and enforcement will continue throughout 2025, with a strong focus on protecting employee rights and promoting workplace compliance.
Why Companies Should Pay Attention Now
This crackdown reflects the UAE’s zero-tolerance approach to labour violations, aiming to create a transparent, fair, and safe environment for both employers and employees.
MoHRE urged businesses to review compliance policies to avoid penalties and safeguard their workforce.




