How do I use the overtime calculator UAE?
- Enter your basic monthly salary.
- Enter normal, night (10pm–4am) and rest-day overtime hours.
- Press Calculate overtime to see the pay for each type and the total.
What are the overtime rules under the UAE Labour Law?
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and its regulations set the main rules for private-sector employees:
- Normal working hours are generally up to 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week.
- Overtime should not exceed 2 hours a day, and total hours should not exceed 144 hours every three weeks, except in specific cases.
- Overtime is paid at the basic hourly wage plus at least 25%.
- Overtime between 10pm and 4am is paid at the basic hourly wage plus at least 50% (shift workers are treated differently).
- Work on the weekly rest day entitles the employee to another day off or the basic wage plus at least 50%.
How to calculate your hourly basic wage
Overtime is based on basic salary. A common method is basic monthly salary ÷ 30 ÷ 8 hours. For a basic salary of AED 6,000 that is 6,000 ÷ 30 ÷ 8 = AED 25 per hour.
| Overtime type | Rate | Pay per hour on AED 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Normal overtime | +25% | AED 31.25 |
| Night overtime (10pm–4am) | +50% | AED 37.50 |
| Rest-day work (if no substitute day) | +50% | AED 37.50 |
Who is not entitled to overtime pay?
Senior managers and supervisory staff with authority over other employees are generally excluded from the overtime rules. Some sectors and shift patterns have specific arrangements, and free zones may have their own regulations. Your employment contract cannot give you less than the law, but it can give you more.
What to do if overtime is not paid
Keep records of the hours you worked — timesheets, emails or access logs. Raise the issue with HR in writing first. If it is not resolved, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or your free zone authority.
Overtime calculator UAE: frequently asked questions
How is overtime calculated in the UAE?
Your basic hourly wage (basic salary ÷ 30 ÷ 8) is paid plus at least 25% for normal overtime, and plus at least 50% for overtime between 10pm and 4am.
What is the maximum overtime allowed?
Overtime should not exceed two hours a day, and total working hours should not exceed 144 hours every three weeks, except in specific cases set by law.
How is overtime paid in the UAE?
Under UAE Labour Law, overtime is generally paid at basic hourly wage plus at least 25%, and at least 50% for night work, with exceptions for shift workers.
What are normal working hours in the UAE?
Up to 8 hours a day or 48 a week, reduced during Ramadan for private-sector employees.
Is overtime based on basic or total salary?
On basic wage for most purposes. Check your contract.
How much overtime can an employee work?
The law caps overtime at a set number of hours per day, with limited exceptions.
What about working on a rest day?
Employees working on their rest day are entitled to a substitute day or additional pay.
Do managers receive overtime?
Senior and supervisory roles may be excluded. Check your contract and role.
How do I calculate the hourly wage?
Basic monthly salary × 12 ÷ 365 ÷ normal daily hours, or as your contract defines.
Is the result official?
It is an estimate. Confirm with HR or MOHRE for disputes.