Working women in the UAE entitled to same wage men receive

While the UAE does not have a specific equal pay act, as you might find elsewhere, Article 32 of the Labour Law makes it quite clear that equal pay should apply for equal work.

I work in a company of over 50 people and many of us are doing exactly the same job. This is desk-based and there is nothing physical involved at all. From talking to a few colleagues I have recently discovered that all the men are paid more money than the women. In some cases they are paid up to 50 per cent more, even though they have no additional duties and are no better at the job than the women. In my home country this is illegal but is there any rule about this in the UAE and can I do anything about it? CD, Abu Dhabi

Indeed there are rules about equal pay in the UAE. Article 32 of Labour Law states that: “a working woman shall be entitled to the same wage as that of a working man, if she does the same work”. While the UAE does not have a specific equal pay act, as you might find elsewhere, this legal clause makes it quite clear that equal pay should apply for equal work. Your employer should be made aware of this clause, as it is surprising just how many employers are not familiar with Labour Law and sadly many are willing to disregard it. If the company does not comply, a complaint can be made to the Ministry of Labour and you should find them helpful.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai. Contact her at [e-mail]