When can employees claim compensation for work-related injuries?

Question: I was recently injured at my workplace and am trying to understand my rights. Could you guide me through the relevant laws and compensation clauses? I work for a mainland company in Dubai.

- Ashish Mehta

Answer: If a worker suffers a job-related injury or occupational illness, the employer must cover the full cost of medical treatment until the worker recovers or their disability is confirmed. During the treatment period, the worker is entitled to full wages for up to six months. If treatment continues beyond that, they receive half wages for an additional six months — or until recovery, permanent disability or death, whichever happens first. This is outlined under Article 37(2) of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Employment Relationships.

“The employer shall, in case the worker has a work injury or an occupational disease:

A. Bear the expenses of the worker’s treatment until he recovers and is able to return to work or proves his disability, in accordance with the conditions, rules and procedures specified by the Implementing Regulation hereof.

B. If the work injury or occupational disease prevents the worker from performing his work, the employer shall pay to the worker an amount equivalent to his full wage throughout the treatment period or for (6) six months, whichever is less. If the treatment period exceeds (6) six months, the worker shall obtain half wage for another (6) six months, or until the worker is cured or his disability or death is proven, whichever is earlier.”