Abu Dhabi, January 7, 2026: The Abu Dhabi Labour Court has ordered a private company to pay Dh159,800 (approx $43,540) to an employee for unpaid salary and end-of-service benefits. The worker had served the company for over 11 years and resigned in December 2024. Despite his long service, the company did not pay his last month’s salary or his gratuity. The employee's contract began in September 2013 with a monthly salary package of Dh29,000 (approx $7,900), including a Dh16,000 (approx $4,360) basic salary. The court ruled these payments were legally due. The gratuity was calculated based on his basic salary and length of service, amounting to Dh130,800 (approx $35,640). The employer did not attend the court hearing. The judge ruled in absentia, ordering immediate payment without requiring a guarantee from the employee. The company must also pay legal costs. Under UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), workers completing at least one year are entitled to end-of-service benefits. Employers must settle all dues once employment ends. Legal experts say this ruling is part of a trend in UAE courts to enforce employee rights firmly. Previous cases have involved payments ranging from Dh48,559 to Dh195,000 for unpaid wages, gratuities, and leave. These cases send a strong message to employers across the UAE: contracts and legal entitlements must be honored. Workers are encouraged to keep documents like contracts and payslips and seek legal help if dues are withheld. Such rulings strengthen trust in the labour market and highlight that salary, gratuity, and leave pay cannot be withheld or waived by employers without cause. This decision illustrates the UAE’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and the readiness of courts to act against non-compliant employers. For workers ending employment, knowing these rights can ensure they receive what they legally deserve.