The new MOHRE rule aims to strengthen wage protection and ensure more consistent salary payments across the UAE private sector
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has introduced a new rule requiring private sector companies in the UAE to pay employee salaries on the first day of every month, starting June 1, 2026. The move aims to strengthen wage protection and improve compliance.
Under Ministerial Resolution No. 340 of 2026, salaries for the previous month must be paid via the approved Wage Protection System (WPS) or any other payment channels authorised by the ministry.
Any payments made after the due date will be classified as delayed.
All establishments must also submit documentation and data confirming that salary payments have been made.
The new rule also requires companies to transfer at least 85 per cent of total wages on time. Any payment below this threshold will mean the employee is considered unpaid.
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What does this mean for you?
In short, you’ll receive your salary on the first day of every month, with no uncertainty over when it will land in your account.
This makes it easier to plan and manage monthly expenses, helping you stay on top of bills and avoid falling behind on payments. It also brings greater financial stability and transparency, with salaries processed on a consistent schedule across the private sector.
For employees, it means better budgeting control, reduced financial stress, and more confidence when planning long-term commitments like rent, loans, and savings.
If wages are delayed
If companies fail to pay salaries on the first day of the month, MOHRE will take a series of measures until payments are made.
These include suspending the issuance of new work permits for the establishment, imposing fines, and placing travel bans on the person in charge of the company. Affected workers may also have individual or collective labour complaints registered on their behalf.
The ministry added that tougher penalties will apply from the 21st day of delay, with companies employing 50 or more workers facing referral to the Public Prosecution in cases of repeated violations.
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