Skip to main content

Employee's Entitlements in the event of Death: Where do they go?

/
Content updates

Article (15) of the UAE Labour Code stipulates that in the event of the employee's death, the employer should hand over the entitlements and the end of service gratuity to the employee's family. The hand over should happen within a period not exceeding (10) days from the death date or the date on which the Employer became aware of it.

The Law further stipulates that the employee shall designate the concerned family member to receive the said entitlements. But what happens if such designation did not exist?

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) issued a resolution affirming the employer's obligation and adding further rules to be followed concerning the employee's entitlements in the event of his death.

 

Pursuant to the new resolution (Ministerial Resolution No. 720 of 2023), in the event of an employee's death, the employer shall:

  • Submit a request to the MoHRE to cancel the deceased employee's work permit.
  • Hand over the deceased employee's entitlements to the family member designated in writing by the employee before his death.
  • If such family person was not determined, the employer shall deposit the entitlements in a Trust Account at MoHRE.

If the employer fails to comply with these rules, the Ministry may administratively suspend the establishment file. The suspension remains applicable until the employer presents a proof of payment of the entitlements.

 

The new rules are applicable and in force as of 22 November 2023 AD.

Nadim Al Jisr
By Nadim Al Jisr
Editorial Lead

Nadim Al Jisr joined Thomson Reuters in 2014 as a Content Specialist, then moved to oversee the Westlaw Middle East platform and manage its growth. Nadim holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and has more than 10 years of experience as a legal consultant and litigator in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and UAE. Nadim is native Arabic speaker and proficient in English and French. Nadim is currently completing his Master’s Degree in Law. Nadim is currently the Editorial Lead heading the MENA Content Team.

Speak to a consultant

Can't find an answer to your question?
Contact our support team.

Request training

Contact our team to arrange training.

Tell us what you think

We'd love to hear what you think
of our products and support.