UAE Gratuity Application: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

11:47 PM. Phone lights up.

Amina: “They said my gratuity will take 45 days. I need that money for my kids’ school fees.”

Another message: “My employer isn’t responding. It’s been two weeks.”

And another: “They paid me, but the amount looks wrong.”

This is what keeps people up at night.

The money you earned. Sitting somewhere. Unpaid. Delayed. Wrong.

Here’s the truth: Most employers pay. But some don’t. And if you’re one of the people whose employer falls into the “some” category, you need to know your rights.

This guide covers all of it:

• When payment goes smoothly
• When they delay
•  When they refuse
• When the amount is wrong

Amina got her money. Forty-two days later. Right before the deadline.

You will too.

Before You Write Anything, Know Your Number

Most people skip this step.

They resign. They email HR. They wait. Then they get a number that looks… wrong.

Then the panic starts.

Did they calculate correctly? Did I get less than I deserve? Is this even legal?

Here’s how to avoid that panic: Calculate it yourself first.

The Basic Formula

UAE gratuity isn’t complicated. But it has two versions.

For Limited Contracts:

Years Worked	What You Get
Less than 1 year	Nothing
1 to 5 years	21 days basic salary per year
5+ years	30 days basic salary per year

For Unlimited Contracts:

Years Worked	What You Get
Less than 1 year	Nothing
1 to 3 years	1/3 of 21 days per year
3 to 5 years	2/3 of 21 days per year
5+ years	Full 21 days per year

See the difference? Same years. Same salary. Different contract. Different money.

Contract type affects your gratuity; understand the difference between limited and unlimited before you calculate

Let’s Do the Math

Example 1: Limited Contract, 4 Years

Basic salary: 10,000 AED

• 21 days = 10,000 ÷ 30 × 21 = 7,000 AED per year
• 7,000 × 4 years = 28,000 AED

Example 2: Unlimited Contract, 4 Years

Basic salary: 10,000 AED

• Years 1–3: 1/3 of 7,000 = 2,333 × 3 = 7,000
• Year 4: 2/3 of 7,000 = 4,667
• Total: 11,667 AED

Same person. Same salary. Same years.

Limited: 28,000 AED

Unlimited: 11,667 AED

Difference: 16,333 AED.

Use our gratuity calculator to verify your number.

That’s not pocket change. That’s school fees. That’s rent. That’s a flight home.

The “Basic Salary” Trap

Here’s where most people lose money.

Gratuity is calculated on basic salary only. Not housing allowance. Not transport. Not flights.

Example:

Your contract says:

• Basic: 6,000 AED
• Housing: 4,000 AED
• Transport: 1,000 AED
• Total: 11,000 AED

You assume gratuity on 11,000. Most people do.

Wrong. Gratuity on 6,000 only.

After 5 years, that mistake costs you around 25,000 AED.

Always check: What’s your basic? That’s what matters.

Use the MOHRE Calculator

Don’t trust your own math? Fine. Use the official one.

Search: “MOHRE gratuity calculator.”

You’ll need:

• Contract type (limited or unlimited)
• Start date
• End date (or today’s date)
• Basic salary

The calculator does the rest. Screenshot the result. Keep it.

Quick Calculation Cheat Sheet

Years	Limited (21 days)	Limited (30 days)	Unlimited
1	21 days	–	7 days
2	42 days	–	14 days
3	63 days	–	42 days
4	84 days	–	56 days
5	105 days	150 days	105 days
6	–	180 days	126 days

Numbers in “days” of basic salary

What to Do With Your Number

Write it down. Keep it somewhere.

When HR sends you their calculation, compare:

• Same number? Great. Move forward.
• Different number? Now you know to ask why.

You can’t fight for the right amount if you don’t know what it is.

One Thing to Remember: Gratuity isn’t a gift. It’s not a bonus. It’s not “if they feel like it.” It’s your money. You earned it. The law agrees.

So before you apply, know your number. Then apply with confidence.

What to Say and How to Say It

You know your number. Good.

Now you need to ask for it. In writing. The right way.

Here’s the truth about gratuity applications: HR gets dozens of these. Some are clear. Some are messy. Some get processed fast. Some sit in inboxes for weeks.

The difference? A clean, complete application.

What Every Letter Must Include

Before the templates, know what HR needs:

Required	Why
Your full name	Matches the labour card
Employee ID	Internal tracking
Date of joining	Calculates years
Last working day	When service ends
Basic salary	For calculation
Bank details (IBAN)	Where to send money
Clear request	“I request gratuity payment.”

Missing any of these? Delay. Follow-up emails. Frustration.

Template 1: Standard Resignation

Use this if you resigned and served notice.

text

[Your Name]

[Employee ID]

[Date]

To,

HR Department

[Company Name]

Subject: Application for Gratuity Payment

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hope you’re doing well.

I’m writing to formally request my end-of-service gratuity payment following my resignation.

A quick rundown of my details:

• Employee ID: [ID]
• Passport Number: [Number]
• Date of Joining: [Date]
• Last Working Day: [Date]
• Basic Salary: [Amount]
• Bank Account (IBAN): [Number]

If you need any other documents from my side, please let me know. Happy to send them over right away.

Really appreciate your help with this.

Thanks,

[Your Name]

[Contact Number]

Template 2: End of Limited Contract

Use this if your fixed-term contract finished.

text

[Your Name]

[Employee ID]

[Date]

To,

HR Department

[Company Name]

Subject: Gratuity Claim Upon Contract Completion

Dear Sir/Madam,

Hope you’re having a good week.

My limited contract comes to an end on [Date], and I’ve decided not to renew. Wanted to keep you in the loop and also request my end-of-service gratuity for the completed term.

Here are my details for the process:

• Employee ID: [ID]
• Date of Joining: [Date]
• Contract End Date: [Date]
• Basic Salary: [Amount]
• Bank Account (IBAN): [Number]

I’ve attached my resignation letter as well. Let me know if you need anything else from my side—happy to help however I can.

Really appreciate your support throughout my time here.

Thanks,

[Your Name]

[Contact Number]

Template 3: Termination by Employer

Use this if the company lets you go.

text

[Your Name]

[Employee ID]

[Date]

To,

HR Department

[Company Name]

Subject: Gratuity Claim Following Termination

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hope you’re doing well.

Following up on the termination notice I received on [Date], my last working day is [Date]. I wanted to formally request my end-of-service gratuity payment.

From what I understand, I’m still entitled to it despite the termination (unless it falls under gross misconduct, which I don’t believe applies here). Just wanted to get the process started.

Here are my details:

• Employee ID: [ID]
• Date of Joining: [Date]
• Last Working Day: [Date]
• Basic Salary: [Amount]
• Bank Account (IBAN): [Number]

Could you please confirm when the payment will be processed? Also, let me know if you need any documents from my side.

Appreciate your help with this.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Contact Number]

What to Attach

Don’t just send the letter. Attach:

• Copy of passport
• Copy of visa
• Copy of Emirates ID
• Copy of resignation letter (if applicable)
• Bank confirmation with IBAN

One PDF with everything. HR loves this.

Email vs Hard Copy

Email:

• Send to HR and PRO
• CC your personal email
• Request read receipt
• Subject line: “Gratuity Application – [Your Name] – [Employee ID]”

Hard copy:

• Print two copies
• Submit to HR
• Ask them to stamp one as received
• Keep the stamped copy forever

Which is better? Both. Email for speed. Hard copy for proof.

What Happens After You Send

• Day 1–2: They acknowledge (hopefully)
• Day 3–7: They calculate
• Day 7–14: They process
• Day 14–21: Money arrives

If you don’t hear anything in 3 days? Follow up. Politely.

One Mistake to Avoid

Don’t write: “I need the money urgently because…”

HR doesn’t process based on your needs. They process based on policy. Your personal situation won’t speed things up.

Stick to facts. Clear. Complete. Professional.

Download These Templates

Save them. Customize them. Use them.

Three templates. Three situations. One of them is yours.

Pick the right one, fill in the blanks, and send.

Then wait. Not forever. Just the right amount of time.

You’ve Written the Letter. Now What?

Good news: The hard part is done.

You have your letter. You have your documents. You know your number.

Now you just need to get it into the right hands.

Here’s the thing: Where you submit matters almost as much as what you submit. Send it to the wrong person? Delays. Send it the wrong way? Silence. Send it without proof? Anxiety.

Let’s fix that.

Option A: Submit to HR (In Person)

This is the old-school way. Still works.

Step 1: Print your letter and all attachments.

Step 2: Go to the HR department.

Step 3: Ask for the PRO or HR officer handling final settlements.

Step 4: Hand them the package.

Step 5: Here’s the crucial part: ask for a stamped copy.

Say: “Can you please stamp one copy as received?”

If they hesitate: “Just for my records. So I know it’s submitted.”

Why this matters: A stamped copy is proof. If they later say “we never got it,” you have evidence.

Option B: Submit via Email

Faster. Trackable. Used by most companies now.

Step 1: Scan all documents into one PDF.

Step 2: Address it to:

• HR manager
• PRO officer
• Your reporting manager (optional)

Step 3: Subject line format:

“Gratuity Application – [Your Name] – [Employee ID] – Last Working Day [Date]”

Step 4: Request read receipt.

Step 5: CC your personal email.

Step 6: Send.

Sample email:

text

Subject: Gratuity Application – Ahmed Khan – ID 4521 – LWD 15 April 2026

Dear HR Team,

Just sent through my gratuity application and all the supporting documents attached here for you.

Included in the attachment:

• Gratuity application letter
• Passport copy
• Visa copy
• Emirates ID copy
• Resignation letter
• Bank IBAN confirmation

Could you please confirm once you’ve received them? Also, if anything else is needed from my side, just let me know, and I’ll get it to you right away.

Appreciate your help with this.

Regards,

Ahmed Khan

[Contact Number]

Option C: Submit via MOHRE Portal

This is the power move.

When you submit through MOHRE, the government knows. Your employer knows the government knows. Things move faster.

Step 1: Go to the MOHRE website or open the app.

Step 2: Log in with UAE Pass.

Step 3: Select “End of Service Benefits.”

Step 4: Choose “File Gratuity Claim.”

Step 5: Enter:

• Employer details
• Your details
• Last working day
• Basic salary

Step 6: Upload all documents.

Step 7: Submit.

Step 8: Save the reference number.

What happens next: MOHRE notifies your employer. They have a timeline to respond. If they don’t, you win automatically.

When to use this: If you don’t trust your employer. If they’ve been difficult. If you want everything on record.

Option D: Submit via MOHRE App

Same as the portal, but on your phone.

Step 1: Download “MOHRE” from app store.

Step 2: Log in with UAE Pass.

Step 3: Click “File a Complaint” (gratuity counts as a complaint request).

Step 4: Follow the prompts.

Step 5: Upload documents (take photos with your phone).

Step 6: Submit.

Takes 10 minutes. Works from anywhere.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Situation	Best Method
Good relationship with HR	Email + follow-up
Want proof of submission	In-person with stamped copy
Employer is difficult	MOHRE portal directly
You’ve already left the UAE	MOHRE app
You want the fastest processing	MOHRE portal (government pressure)

Our advice: Start with email. If no response in 3 days, switch to MOHRE.

What If They Say “We Don’t Accept Applications Like That”?

Sometimes HR pushes back.

“We have our own form.”
“You need to submit through the PRO.”
“We don’t accept emails.”

Don’t argue. Just adapt.

Say: “No problem. Please tell me exactly how you’d like me to submit, and I’ll do that right away.”

Get it in writing if possible. Then follow their process.

The goal isn’t to be right. The goal is to get paid.

Always Get Proof of Submission

This is non-negotiable.

Method	Proof
In-person	Stamped copy
Email	Sent folder + read receipt
MOHRE portal	Reference number
MOHRE app	Screenshot of submission

Keep this proof forever. Until the money is in your bank account.

---

One Thing to Do Right Now

Before you submit anything, check:

• Is my basic salary correct in the letter?
• Did I include all attachments?
• Do I have the right email addresses?
• Is my IBAN correct? (One wrong digit = money lost)

Double-check the IBAN. Seriously. Read it three times.

You’ve Submitted. Now What?

That feeling after clicking “send” or walking out of HR?

Relief. Mixed with anxiety. Mixed with “how long will this take?”

Good news: Most gratuity payments follow a predictable timeline. Not always fast. But predictable.

Here’s what actually happens behind the scenes, and how long each step usually takes.

The Ideal Timeline (When Things Go Smoothly)

Day	What Happens
Day 1–3	HR acknowledges receipt
Day 4–7	HR verifies your service years and checks for loans
Day 8–12	Finance calculates the amount and prepares the payment
Day 13–16	Management approves (sign-off)
Day 17–21	Bank transfer initiated
Day 22–24	Money hits your account

Total: 3–4 weeks from submission to money in hand.

This is the happy path. It happens for most people.

What Actually Happens at Each Step

Days 1–3: Acknowledgment

Someone in HR opens your email or finds your paper application. They might:

• Reply “Received, under process.”
• Stay silent (annoying but common)
• Ask for more documents

Your move: If no response in 3 days, send a polite follow-up.

Days 4–7: Verification

HR checks:

• Your joining date (are the years correct?)
• Any outstanding loans or advances
• Any unpaid leave (doesn’t count toward service)
• Your contract type (limited vs unlimited)

Why does this take time? They have to pull your file. Maybe dig through old records. Maybe ask finance.

Days 8–12: Finance Does the Math

Finance calculates your gratuity based on:

• Basic salary (not total package)
• Years of service
• Contract type

Here’s where mistakes happen. If your basic salary changed over the years, which one do they use? (Answer: Last basic salary.)

Days 13–16: Management Approval

Someone signs off. Could be your manager. Could be the finance head. Could be the GM.

This step is the biggest delay. If the signatory is on leave? Busy? Avoiding work? You wait.

Days 17–21: Bank Transfer

The company initiates the transfer. Banks take 1–3 working days.

Day 22–24: Money Arrives

You check your phone. Notification from the bank. It’s there.

That feeling? Worth the wait.

The Realistic Timeline (With Small Delays)

Most people aren’t on the ideal timeline. Real life happens.

Delay	New Timeline
HR takes 5 days to acknowledge	Add 2–3 days
Finance is busy with the month-end	Add 5–7 days
Manager on leave	Add 5–10 days
Bank holiday weekend	Add 2–3 days
You forgot a document	Add 5–7 days

Realistic total: 4–6 weeks.

When to Follow Up

Don’t be that person who emails every day. But don’t be silent either.

Day	Action
Day 3	Polite check-in if no acknowledgment
Day 10	Status update request
Day 18	Gentle reminder
Day 25	Formal follow-up
Day 35+	Final notice + MOHRE warning

Follow-Up Email Templates

Day 3: Polite Check-In:

text

Subject: Following Up – Gratuity Application – [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name],

Hope you’re doing well!

Just circling back on the gratuity application I sent over on [Date]. Wanted to check if everything reached you okay, and if there’s anything else you need from my end.

No rush at all, just wanted to make sure nothing got missed.

Thanks,

[Your Name]

Day 10: Status Update:

text

Subject: Status Update Request – Gratuity Application – [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name],

Hope you’re having a good week!

Just wanted to gently check in on my gratuity application. Any update on where things stand at the moment?

Would be really helpful to know if it’s still with HR, has moved to finance, or is awaiting approval just so I have a rough idea of the timeline.

Really appreciate you taking a moment to update me when you can.

Thank you,

[Your Name]

Day 18: Gentle Reminder:

text

Subject: Quick Follow-Up – Gratuity Payment – [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name],

Following up again on my gratuity payment. It’s been about 2.5 weeks since submission. Could you share the expected timeline?

I’d really appreciate an update.

Regards,

[Your Name]

Day 25: Formal Follow-Up:

text

Subject: URGENT – Gratuity Payment Request – [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name],

Hope you’re doing well.

It’s been just about four weeks since I submitted my gratuity application, and I’ve followed up a couple of times without a clear update, so I wanted to check in once more.

At this point, it would really help if you could share:

1. Confirmation that my file is actually being processed
2. Expected payment date (even a rough estimate helps)
3. Who I should follow up with if needed, just so I’m not bothering the wrong person

I’d much rather sort this out directly with you than have to escalate things elsewhere.

Really appreciate you looking into this for me. Let me know if you need anything from my end.

Regards,

[Your Name]

Red Flags: When to Worry

Situation	What It Means
No response after 3 follow-ups	They’re avoiding you
“We’ll get back to you” for 3+ weeks	No real progress
Different person each time	No one owns your file
“Finance is reviewing” for 2+ weeks	Cash flow issues
They ask for the same documents twice	Disorganized (or stalling)

If you see these, skip to Section 8 (If Your Employer Refuses).

Factors That Speed Things Up

Want faster payment? Do these:

Submit through the MOHRE portal (not just email)

 Include all documents in one PDF

Confirm IBAN is correct (triple-check)

 Follow up weekly, not daily

 Be polite (people help people they like)

Factors That Slow Things Down

Missing documents

Wrong bank details

 Emailing the wrong person

 Being aggressive or rude

 Resigning during the month-end or holiday season

One Thing to Remember

The timeline feels long when you’re waiting.

Three weeks feels like forever when the money is yours and you need it.

But here’s the truth: Four weeks is normal. Six weeks have passed. Eight weeks means something’s wrong.

If you’re past six weeks with no payment and no clear answer, stop waiting. Start acting.

Section 7 covers delays. Section 8 covers refusal. You’ll know exactly what to do.

What to Do While You Wait

Don’t just stare at your phone.

• Save all emails
• Keep your stamped copy safe
• Note down who you spoke to and when
• Check your bank account (but not 15 times a day)

The money will come. For most people, it does.

And if it doesn’t? You have options.

The Email You’ve Been Waiting For

Subject line: “Gratuity Approval – [Your Name].”

You open it. Heart beats a little faster.

*”Your gratuity has been approved. Payment will be processed within 7-10 working days.”*

That feeling? Pure relief.

But don’t close the email and celebrate just yet. A few more steps matter.

What Approval Looks Like

Approval comes in different forms:

Type	What It Means
Email from HR	Most common. Save it.
Letter to sign	They want your confirmation
Verbal from PRO	Ask them to confirm in writing
SMS from the company	Some companies use this

Whatever form it takes, get it in writing. Even a short email is proof.

Before You Sign Anything

Sometimes they’ll ask you to sign a release or acknowledgment.

Read it first.

Look for:

• Is the amount correct?
• Are there any deductions you didn’t agree to?
• Does it say “full and final settlement”?
• Does it waive any other rights?

If something looks wrong, don’t sign.

Instead, write: “I acknowledge receipt, but the amount appears incorrect. Please clarify.”

Check the Amount (Again)

You calculated your gratuity back in Section 2. Remember that number?

Pull it out. Compare with their number.

Your Calculation	Their Calculation	What To Do
Same amount	Great. Proceed.
Slightly different	Ask why. Maybe leave days?
Very different	Don’t sign. Dispute now.

Small differences could be:

• Unpaid leave deducted
• Different basic salary used
• Rounding

Big differences need explanation. Get it in writing.

When Money Actually Arrives

Approval doesn’t mean instant money.

Typical timeline after approval:

Day	What Happens
Day 1–2	Paperwork processed
Day 3–5	Finance prepares the transfer
Day 6–8	Bank processes
Day 8–10	Money in your account

Total: 7–10 working days is normal.

What If They Say “Approved” But Payment Doesn’t Come?

This happens. Approval email. Nothing in the bank.

Step 1: Wait 10 working days. Don’t panic early.

Step 2: After 10 days, send a gentle reminder:

“Hi [HR Name], hope you’re well. Just checking on the gratuity payment approved on [Date]. 

My bank hasn’t received it yet. Can you confirm when it was sent?”

Step 3: If there is no response in 3 days, escalate to the finance department.

Step 4: If still nothing, move to Section 7 (Delays).

Once Money Hits Your Account

Check three things:

1. Amount matches what they promised
2. No unexpected deductions
3. Bank details were correct (IBAN wrong = money lost)

If everything looks good? Done.

You can finally close that chapter.

One Last Thing

Keep all documents for at least one year.

• Approval email
• Bank statement showing payment
• Final settlement letter
• Any correspondence

Why? Sometimes banks reverse transactions. Sometimes companies claim they overpaid. Sometimes tax questions come up.

A folder on your desktop takes two minutes to create. Future you will be grateful.

The Smooth Path Summary

Step	What To Do
1	Receive approval
2	Check the amount against your calculation
3	Read before signing anything
4	Wait 7–10 days for payment
5	Verify the money in the bank
6	Save all documents

That’s it. For most people, this is how it goes.

But if your path isn’t smooth, if they delay, refuse, or pay incorrectly, the next sections are for you.

If Your Employer Delays (The Frustration Zone)

You did everything right.

Submitted on time. Included all documents. Followed up politely.

And now? Silence. Or worse: “It’s in process” for the fifth time.

This is the frustration zone where hope turns to doubt. Where patience runs thin. Where do 

Do you start checking your bank account at 2 AM?

Let’s get you out of it.

First, Know What’s Normal vs. What’s Not

Timeline	Status
1–3 weeks	Normal processing
4–5 weeks	Annoying but happens
6–7 weeks	Something’s wrong
8+ weeks	Red alert

If you’re past 4 weeks with no payment and no clear answer, stop being patient. Start acting.

Why Employers Delay

Reason	Truth
Cash flow problems	Most common real reason
Disorganized HR	They lost your file
Key person on leave	Signatory unavailable
Disputing amount	They should tell you this
Hoping you’ll give up	Some employers play this game

Which one is yours? Their response (or silence) usually tells you.

What Delays Look Like (Real Stories)

Omar’s Story:

Omar waited 45 days. Every week: “Next week.” He sent the final notice. No response. Filed MOHRE complaint. Employer paid within 10 days.

Lesson: Some employers only respond to pressure.

Layla’s Story:

Layla’s HR kept saying, “Finance is reviewing.” After 5 weeks, she emailed the CFO directly. Payment arrived in 3 days.

Lesson: Find the right person. Skip the blockers.

Ahmed’s Story:

Ahmed’s employer said they needed “one more document” for the third time. He realized they were stalling. Filed MOHRE complaint. Paid in full.

Lesson: Document requests can be delayed in disguise.

What Not to Do

•  Don’t go to the office every day. Harassment backfires.
• Don’t threaten without following through. Empty threats weaken you.
• Don’t accept vague promises. Always ask: “By what specific date?”
• Don’t give up. This is your money.

The MOHRE Option

If you’ve reached Week 6–7 with no payment, stop negotiating. Start filing.

MOHRE complaints are free. Fast. Effective.

We cover this in detail in Section 8. But know this now:

• File through the app (10 minutes)
• Upload your evidence
• Get a reference number
• Employer must respond within 14 days
• No response means you win automatically

One Thing to Remember:

Delays feel personal. They’re not.

Most delays are disorganization, not malice. Cash flow, not cruelty.

But either way, the result is the same: Your money, stuck somewhere it shouldn’t be.

You’ve been patient. You’ve been polite. You’ve played by the rules.

Now it’s time to change tactics.

If Your Employer Refuses to Pay (The Fight)

You’ve tried patience. You’ve tried follow-ups. You’ve tried escalation.

And still, the answer is no.

“Company policy doesn’t pay gratuity.”

“You resigned, so you get nothing.”

“We’re not paying. Take it or leave it.”

This is the wall. The moment when politeness stops working and something else has to take over.

Good news: The law is on your side. And the law has teeth.

First, Know If They CAN Refuse

Some refusals are legal. Most aren’t.

Employer Says	True?
“You didn’t complete 1 year.”	Legal. No gratuity under 1 year.
“You were terminated for gross misconduct.”	Legal IF proven in court.
“You resigned, so no gratuity.”	False. Resignation still entitles you.
“Company policy doesn’t pay.”	False. Law overrides policy.
“We’re adjusting for something.”	False without your consent.
“You owe us money.”	They must prove and get consent.

If your situation falls in the left column, you have a fight. A winnable one.

Why Employers Refuse (The Real Reasons)

Reason 1: Cash flow problems

They don’t have the money. Easier to refuse than admit.

Reason 2: They think you won’t fight

Many employees give up. Employers know this.

Reason 3: Revenge

You left. They’re angry. This is their payback.

Reason 4: Genuine (but wrong) belief

Some HR people actually believe myths about gratuity.

Reason 5: Stalling until you leave the UAE

Once you’re gone, they think you won’t pursue it.

None of these are legal reason. But they’re real reasons. And you need to deal with them.

Step 1: Send the Final Notice (7 Days)

Before any legal action, one last chance.

Subject: FINAL NOTICE BEFORE LEGAL ACTION – Gratuity Claim – [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name/Manager Name],

I write regarding my unpaid gratuity of [Amount] following my resignation on [Date].

Despite multiple follow-ups over [X] weeks, you have refused to pay or provide a valid legal reason for non-payment.

UAE Labour Law clearly states that employees are entitled to end-of-service gratuity upon meeting the qualifying period. Your refusal violates Article [X] of the law.

Unless I receive full payment or a confirmed payment date within 7 days, I will:

1. File a formal complaint with MOHRE
2. Pursue the case through the labour court
3. Claim additional compensation for delays

I prefer to resolve this directly. Please confirm by [date] how you intend to settle this.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Contact Number]

Send to: HR + Finance + General Manager + CC your personal email

Step 2: File the MOHRE Complaint

No response in 7 days? Time to make it official.

What you’ll need:

• Your contract
• Resignation letter
• Gratuity application
• All follow-up emails
• Final notice, you just sent
• Any employer responses

Via MOHRE App (10 minutes):

1. Download “MOHRE” from app store
2. Login with UAE Pass
3. Click “File a Complaint”
4. Select “End of Service Benefits”
5. Enter employer details
6. Upload all documents
7. Write: “Employer refuses to pay gratuity despite [X] weeks of follow-up. Amount owed: [Amount].”
8. Submit
9. Save the reference number

You’ll need your e-signature card for all MOHRE services, here’s how to get it.

Via Website:

Same process at www.mohre.gov.ae

What Happens After Filing

Day	What Happens
Day 1–2	MOHRE acknowledges your complaint
Day 2–3	MOHRE notifies your employer
Day 3–14	Employer must respond
Day 15	If no response, you win automatically
Day 15–21	Mediation scheduled (if employer responds)

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Step 3: MOHRE Mediation

If the employer responds, both sides are called for mediation.

What happens:

• You attend (online or in person)
• Employer attends
• MOHRE officer reviews evidence
• They propose a settlement

Most cases settle here. Employers realize the government is watching. They want it over.

What to bring:

• Original contract
• All emails
• Bank statements (if relevant)
• Passport copy
• Visa copy

What to say:

• State facts calmly
• Show your evidence
• Explain why you’re owed the money
• Don’t get emotional (even if you’re angry)

Step 4: Labour Court (If Mediation Fails)

If the employer still refuses after mediation, MOHRE refers the case to court.

Sounds scary. It’s not.

Step	Cost	Time
File a labour case	50–100 AED	30–60 minutes
First hearing	Free	2–4 weeks after filing
Judge decision	Free	Usually, the same day
Appeal (if any)	Low cost	Employer rarely wins

What the judge looks at:

• Your contract
• Proof of employment
• Proof of resignation/termination
• Employer’s refusal reason
• MOHRE’s recommendation

Outcome: If you win, the judge orders the employer to pay. If they still don’t, you can enforce through the courts.

Real Stories of People Who Fought

Maria’s Story:

Refused 28,000 AED. Employer said, “You resigned, no gratuity.” Filed MOHRE complaint. The employer didn’t respond. Won automatically. Paid in 10 days.

Lesson: Some employers don’t even fight. They just hope you won’t file.

Yusuf’s Story:

Employer claimed “gross misconduct.” No evidence. MOHRE mediation failed. The Labour Court saw the truth. Ordered full payment plus 3 months’ salary as a penalty.

Lesson: False claims backfire. Courts don’t like employers lying.

Fatima’s Story:

Employer refused because “company policy changed.” She filed an MOHRE complaint. The employer tried to argue. MOHRE explained that law overrides policy. Paid within a week.

Lesson: Policy doesn’t beat law. Ever.

How Long Does This Takes

Path	Timeline
MOHRE complaint (employer’s no response)	2–3 weeks
MOHRE complaint (employer responds)	3–5 weeks
MOHRE + Labour court	2–4 months

Yes, it takes time. But would you rather lose your money forever or wait a few months to get it?

One Thing to Remember

Refusal is not the end. It’s the beginning of a different process.

A process where the government gets involved. Where employers have to explain themselves. Where the law actually works.

You didn’t come this far to give up now.

File that complaint. Show up to that mediation. Let them explain to a judge why your money isn’t yours.

Spoiler: They can’t.

If the Amount Is Wrong (The Dispute)

You waited. You hoped. Finally, the money arrived.

And it’s wrong.

Maybe a little off. Maybe half of what you expected. Maybe deductions you never agreed to.

That feeling? Completely justified.

But here’s the thing: Wrong amounts can be fixed. Here’s how.

Common Underpayment Mistakes

Mistake	What Happened
The wrong basic salary was used	They used the total package instead
Wrong contract type	Treated as limited or unlimited
Missing years	They “forgot” your first year
Wrong method	Used 21 days for 6+ years (should be 30)
Illegal deductions	Took money without consent

Step 1: Compare Numbers

Pull out your calculation.

Put it next to their payment.

Your Calc	Their Payment	Difference
28,000	22,000	6,000 short
11,667	11,667	Correct

If different, figure out why before contacting them.

Step 2: Identify the Cause

Check basic salary first:

• Contract basic vs what they used?

Check contract type:

• Limited or unlimited? Did they use the right one?

Check years counted:

• Join date to leave date. Any gaps?

Check deductions:

• Any loans? You must have signed.
• Flight tickets? Must be in contract.

Step 3: Write the Dispute Letter

Subject: Dispute of Gratuity Calculation  [Your Name]

Dear [HR Name],

I received my gratuity payment of [Amount] on [Date]. Thank you.

However, the amount appears incorrect.

My calculation:

• Basic salary: [Amount]
• Contract type: [Limited/Unlimited]
• Years: [X] years
• Expected: [Amount]

Your payment: [Amount]

Difference: [Amount]

Please provide:

1. Basic salary used
2. Contract type applied
3. Years counted
4. Details of any deductions

Regards,
[Your Name]

Step 4: Their Response

Response	Your Move
“We see the error.”	Ask when the correction is paid
“Here’s the breakdown: you’re wrong.”	Check their math
No response	Follow up in 5 days
“We’re right,” but you disagree	Escalate to MOHRE

Step 5: If They Admit Mistake

Ask: “When will the correction be paid?”

Get a date. Follow up if it passes.

Step 6: If They Insist They’re Right (But You Know They’re Wrong)

Internal escalation:

Forward to the finance manager or the GM.

“I’ve tried resolving with HR. Can you please review?”

MOHRE escalation:

File a MOHRE complaint. Upload:

• Your calculation
• Their payment
• Dispute letter
• Their response
• Contract

MOHRE will review and decide.

Real Stories

Nadia: Paid 18,000. Expected 26,000. HR used the wrong basis. Sent contract. Corrected in 2 weeks.

Karim: They used unlimited calculation. He had a limited contract. MOHRE reviewed. Ruled in his favor. Received 14,000 extra.

Aisha: They deducted 5,000 for “training.” Never signed. Refunded within a week.

One Thing to Remember

Wrong amounts are fixable. Most employers correct honest mistakes.

But some hope you won’t notice or won’t fight.

You noticed. Now fight.

Not with anger. With evidence. With facts.

Bring the right numbers. You’ll win.

Questions Everyone Asks (FAQ)

Can I apply for gratuity before my last working day?

No. Submit after your last day or during the notice period for processing after exit.

What if I resigned but haven’t served full notice?

Wait until the notice period is completed. Gratuity processes after the final working day.

Do I get gratuity if I was terminated?

Yes, unless terminated for gross misconduct proven in court.

Can an employer deduct loans from gratuity?

Yes, but only with your written consent. They cannot deduct without permission.

What if the company is closing?

File a claim with MOHRE against the company’s license. A protection fund exists for this.

Can I apply if I already left the UAE?

Yes. Use the MOHRE app or website from anywhere. Upload documents digitally.

What if the employer says, “Company policy doesn’t pay”?

UAE Labour Law overrides company policy. They must pay.

How is gratuity calculated for an unlimited contract after 2 years?

1/3 of 21 days’ basic salary for years 1-3.

Do I get gratuity for part-time work?

Yes, if you have a valid labour contract. Pro-rated based on hours.

What if my employer didn’t register me with MOHRE?

You can still claim. MOHRE verifies employment through other documents.

Can I get gratuity on a visit visa?

No. You need a valid UAE labour contract.

What if the employer goes bankrupt?

Claim through MOHRE’s insolvency fund.

How long do I have to file a complaint?

1 year from the last working day. Don’t wait too long.

Can I check my gratuity online?

Yes. Use the MOHRE app or website with the UAE Pass.

Is gratuity calculated on my total salary or just basic?

Gratuity is calculated on basic salary only, here’s how your CTC structure determines that number.

Conclusion

Remember Amina from the beginning?

She got her money. Forty-two days later. Right before the school deadline.

The guy whose employer wasn’t responding? Filed a complaint. Paid within two weeks.

The woman whose amount was wrong? Disputed it. Got the correction.

They’re all fine. You will be too if you follow the steps of this guide.