Court Dismisses Dh20,786 Unpaid Wages Claim Over Insufficient Details

The Abu Dhabi Labour Court -- First Instance has dismissed an employee’s claim for more than Dh20,000 in unpaid wages due to insufficient details, while awarding him other entitlements following the termination of his employment by a private company.

 

The worker first approached the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation before filing his lawsuit, stating that he had been employed with the company for over 15 years, from July 1, 2004, to July 9, 2025. According to court documents, his basic salary was Dh1,000 with a total monthly package of Dh2,400. After his dismissal, he sought Dh50,846 in compensation.

 

He demanded the following amounts:

 

• Dh18,860 as end-of-service gratuity

• Dh7,800 for unused annual leave

• Dh20,786 in unpaid wages

• One month’s salary in lieu of notice

• An airfare ticket home

 

During the hearings, the employee argued that the company had withheld a substantial portion of his salary over time and presented translated copies of his termination letter as evidence. The company, through its legal counsel, denied the allegations and filed written submissions with supporting documents.

 

Court Findings

After reviewing the case, the court ruled that the employment relationship began on January 6, 2010, as per the official contract. In its judgment dated August 28, the court awarded the worker:

 

• Dh13,610 in gratuity

• Dh2,000 for unused leave

• Dh2,400 as notice pay, after finding his dismissal occurred without proper notice

• An air ticket in line with Article 13 of the UAE Labour Law

 

However, the court rejected his Dh20,786 unpaid salary claim, noting that he failed to specify the exact periods or amounts allegedly withheld, leaving his claim unsubstantiated.

 

In total, the company was ordered to pay Dh17,010 plus the cost of the air ticket. It was also directed to cover part of the court fees, with the judgment declared immediately enforceable.

 

The ruling highlights the importance of employers and employees maintaining accurate records and ensuring contractual obligations are met. It also reflects the UAE’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights while requiring claims to be supported with clear documentation.

 

 

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