The UAE new labour law brings equality and equal pay for men and women. The Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the regulation of Labour Relations will be replacing Federal Law No. 8 of 1980 and its amendments.

The new law will take effect on February 2, 2022, and one of its first few sections focuses on ensuring that employees are not subjected to any form of discrimination at work, with Article 4 emphasising the right to non-discrimination and equality.

The article 4 explains that:

1. It shall be prohibited to discriminate against persons on the ground of race, colour, sex religion, national origin, ethnic origin or disability, in such a way as to weaken equal opportunities or impair equal access to, or continuation of, or enjoyment of rights associated with, employment. An Employer shall not discriminate in respect of works involving the same job duties.

2. Rules and procedures that would enhance the contribution of UAE citizens in the labour market shall not be regarded as discrimination.

3. Without prejudice to the rights prescribed for female Workers under this Decree Law, female Workers shall be subject to all provisions regulating employment of Workers without any discrimination.

4. Women shall receive the same wage as men for the same work, or for a work of equal value. Procedures, controls and standards for assessment of Work of equal value shall be established by decision of the Cabinet, upon the proposal of the Minister.

According to the clause, comprehensive methods, controls, and standards for evaluating work of comparable value shall be developed by Cabinet decision, based on a proposal from the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation.