Unified UAE Legislation Database

FAQ: Employee leaves abusive employer; employer files absconding case to prevent employee from switching jobs or leaving UAE.

Status

In force

Issuing Authority

Effective date

XX.XX.XXXX

Official Link

https://

Answer:

 

An absconding case (work abandonment report) is a formal complaint filed by an employer with MoHRE stating that an employee has left work without notice. If accepted, it can result in a work ban, travel restrictions, and difficulties changing employers. Employers sometimes file such cases in bad faith — to prevent an employee from resigning or switching jobs.

 

LEGAL BASIS

 

Governed by: UAE Labour Law Executive Regulations, Article 28 — Rules for Reporting Unexpected Work Abandonment

Condition for a legitimate absconding case: The employee must have been absent for more than 7 consecutive days, AND the employer must have had no knowledge of the employee's location and no means to contact them.

 

If these conditions are not met, the case can be challenged and overturned.

 

EMPLOYEE RIGHTS

 

An employee who did not actually abandon work has the right to dispute the absconding case. Filing a false absconding report does not automatically result in a ban: the employee can file a counter-complaint with MoHRE.

 

REQUIRED EVIDENCE

The emp...