The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE has strict regulations in place when it comes to employing juveniles in the workforce. While it is prohibited to employ children under the age of 15, juveniles – both Emiratis and expats aged 15 to 18 – can work in the UAE with the written approval from the person who has guardianship or custody of the juvenile, as outlined in Article 5 of the Labour Law.
One of the key conditions for employing juveniles is that their working hours must not exceed six hours per day. These hours must also include one or more rest periods, totaling at least one hour. Additionally, the employer must ensure that the juvenile does not work more than four hours continuously. It is also important to note that the employer cannot assign the juvenile additional working hours or keep them in the workplace after the designated work timings. Furthermore, juveniles are not allowed to work on their rest days or official holidays.
The executive regulations of the Decree Law provide further details on the system for employing juveniles, the procedures that employers must follow, the types of work that are prohibited for juveniles, and the regulations for entities looking to train and qualify juveniles professionally. This includes charitable, educational, and training institutions that aim to provide opportunities for juveniles to develop their skills and knowledge.
Emirati students and resident expatriates have the opportunity to join projects for a renewable period of six months. Additionally, there are work permits available for students who wish to work part-time throughout the year. These permits can be obtained from customer service centers and through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s smart applications.
It is important to adhere to the following guidelines when employing juveniles in the UAE:
– Juveniles may not be employed at night, in industrial projects, or in work that is dangerous or harmful to health.
– The work assigned to the juvenile must align with the activities of the establishment.
– The establishment must have a valid license with no violations leading to the suspension of its activities.
– The application for a work permit must include a color photo with a white background, written consent from the juvenile’s guardian or custodian, a certificate of fitness for the required work issued by a medical authority, a copy of a valid residence permit, an employment contract approved by the ministry, and must be submitted by the legally authorized signatory on behalf of the establishment.
By following these regulations and guidelines, employers in the UAE can provide valuable work opportunities for juveniles while ensuring their safety and well-being in the workplace. It is essential to prioritize the development and protection of young workers to create a positive and supportive work environment for all.
