UAE employers who recruit labour-category workers (construction, factory workers, domestic workers) have specific accommodation obligations under UAE labour law. Here is a complete guide.
Employer Accommodation Obligations
Under UAE Labour Law and MOHRE regulations, employers must provide suitable accommodation for labour workers (workers earning less than AED 3,000/month) OR pay a housing allowance that allows the worker to rent accommodation independently. MOHRE Ministerial Decree No. 44 of 2022: workers must not be housed in overcrowded or substandard accommodation. Minimum standards: 4.5 sqm per person in living/sleeping areas, adequate ventilation, clean water and sanitation, kitchen facilities, access to transportation to the workplace. Violation: employers who house workers in substandard accommodation face MOHRE fines (AED 5,000-100,000+) and potential licence suspension.
Labour Accommodation Requirements
MOHRE-approved accommodation buildings: must be registered with MOHRE (for buildings housing 100+ workers). Regular inspection: MOHRE and municipality inspectors conduct periodic inspections. Fire safety: Civil Defence approval for all accommodation buildings. Transport: employers must provide transport between accommodation and the worksite OR allow workers to use public transport at employer expense. Dubai Municipality Camp Accommodation Standards: specific rules for construction worker camps in Dubai, enforced by Dubai Municipality in coordination with MOHRE.
Staff Housing for White-Collar Employees
For professional employees (engineers, managers, office staff): no legal obligation for the employer to provide physical accommodation. The standard practice: include a housing allowance in the employee’s package (typically 20-30% of total salary, paid monthly with the salary). Some UAE employers (particularly in construction and hospitality) provide accommodation directly, especially for expat employees brought from outside the UAE who need an initial landing pad.