Claims and evidence

How to document an unpaid salary claim in the UAE

An unpaid salary claim is easier to understand when each pay period and payment is listed. Separate salary arrears from gratuity, leave and other final-settlement items.

Reviewed: 26 July 2026Educational guidance, not legal advice

Create a wage schedule

For each month, record salary due, amount received, payment date and shortfall. Include any partial payment or cash payment.

Collect payroll evidence

Use the employment contract, payslips, WPS or payroll records, bank statements and written salary promises.

Avoid combining every dispute

Present unpaid salary as one clear schedule and final settlement as a separate reconciliation. This helps the authority and employer identify the claim.

Use official channels

MOHRE provides a salary complaint service and a general labour complaint service for private-sector employees. Select the appropriate route for the circumstances.

Questions to ask HR or payroll

  1. Which wage periods are unpaid?
  2. What amount was received for each period?
  3. Are cash payments documented?
  4. Does WPS show a different amount?
  5. Is final salary included in the same claim?

Frequently asked questions

Can I complain confidentially about unpaid salary?

MOHRE provides an official salary-complaint service. Review its current process and eligibility.

Should allowances be included in the schedule?

Use the contractual wage components due for each pay period and show them clearly.

What if the employer paid in cash?

Record the date and amount and keep any receipt or message so the claimed shortfall remains accurate.

Official sources used

Rules can change and facts can be disputed. Review the source that applies to your jurisdiction and current circumstances.

UAE GovernmentPayment of salaries and wagesMinistry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)My Salary Complaint – private-sector employeesMinistry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)Register labour complaints – private-sector employees