JobXDubai

In the UAE, maintaining a secure and conducive work environment is a cornerstone of employment relations, as outlined by the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021. This law, coupled with Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, sheds light on the measures in place to safeguard employees against workplace harassment, including verbal abuse.

Creating a Safe Workplace Environment

Per Article 13(13) of the Employment Law, employers are tasked with ensuring a safe working atmosphere for all employees. This commitment to workplace safety extends to the strict prohibition of any form of harassment, whether sexual, physical, or verbal. Article 14(2) starkly outlines this by stating, “Exercise of sexual harassment, bullying or any verbal, physical or mental violence against an employee by his employer, manager, or colleagues is strictly forbidden.”

Addressing Workplace Harassment

In response to any allegations of verbal abuse or similar misconduct, employers are obligated to conduct thorough internal investigations. As stipulated by Articles 39 and 24 of the Employment Law and Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 respectively, if an investigation confirms such allegations, appropriate disciplinary actions must be taken against the perpetrator. These can range from warnings and salary deductions to suspension and even termination.

Specifically, Article 44(7) empowers employers to terminate employees found guilty of verbal abuse without prior notice, post a written investigation, reinforcing the legal stance against workplace violence.

Reporting Workplace Harassment

For employees who find themselves on the receiving end of verbal abuse or yelling from coworkers, the path forward involves lodging a complaint with the employer, urging them to take disciplinary measures against the offending party. Conversely, if the abuse comes from the employer, affected individuals have the right to file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. Importantly, Article 45(2) protects employees who experience assault, violence, or harassment, allowing them to resign without notice while retaining their entitlements, provided they report the incident within five days.

This legal framework underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering respectful and secure workplaces. Employees faced with harassment have avenues for recourse, ensuring that workplace misconduct is addressed and penalized appropriately.