The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE has strict regulations in place regarding the employment of juveniles in the workforce. It is important to note that children under the age of 15 are prohibited from being employed in any capacity. However, Emiratis and expats aged 15 to 18 can work with written approval from the person who has guardianship or custody of the juvenile, as outlined in Article 5 of the Labour Law.
One of the key conditions for employing juveniles is that their working hours must not exceed six hours per day. Additionally, there must be one or more rest periods included in the work schedule, totaling at least one hour. These rest periods are essential to ensure that the juvenile does not work more than four hours continuously. It is also crucial that employers do not assign additional working hours or keep juveniles in the workplace after their designated work timings. Furthermore, juveniles should not be made to work on their rest days or official holidays.
The executive regulations of the Decree Law provide further details on the system for employing juveniles, the procedures that employers must follow, and the types of work that are prohibited for juveniles. Additionally, there are specific controls in place for entities that aim to train and qualify juveniles professionally, including charitable, educational, and training institutions.
Emirati students and resident expatriates have the opportunity to join projects for a renewable period of six months. There are also work permits available for students who wish to work part-time throughout the year. These permits can be obtained from customer service centers and through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s smart applications.
It is important to adhere to the following guidelines when employing juveniles in the UAE:
– Juveniles may not be employed at night, in industrial projects, or in work that is dangerous or harmful to health.
– The work assigned to juveniles must align with the activities of the establishment.
– The establishment’s license must be valid, with no violations leading to the suspension of activities in accordance with legal regulations.
– Required documents for obtaining a work permit for juveniles include a color photo with a white background, written consent from the juvenile’s guardian or custodian, a certificate of fitness for the required work issued by a medical authority, a copy of a valid residence permit, an employment contract approved by the ministry, and an application submitted by the legally authorized signatory on behalf of the establishment.
By following these regulations and guidelines, employers can ensure the safety and well-being of juveniles in the workforce while providing them with valuable work experience and opportunities for professional development. It is essential to prioritize the protection and rights of juveniles in the workplace to create a safe and supportive environment for their growth and development.