Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Employment Law

Course Overview:

This DIFC Employment Law 1 day course provides participants with a practical and comprehensive understanding of the key provisions under DIFC Law No. 2 of 2019, as amended. This law governs employment relationships within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a common law jurisdiction distinct from the UAE Labour Law. This course is designed for HR professionals, legal advisors, business owners, and managers who operate within or engage with entities based in the DIFC. Through real-world examples, practical scenarios, and expert insights, participants will learn how to navigate employment contracts, employee rights, leave entitlements, termination procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms specific to the DIFC framework. The training also highlights the differences between DIFC Employment Law and the UAE Federal Labour Law, ensuring that participants are equipped to manage workforce compliance effectively and minimize legal risks. Participants will walk away with actionable knowledge, useful templates, and a clear understanding of how to remain compliant within the DIFC’s regulatory environment.

Course Objectives:

• Understand the legal framework governing employment in the DIFC.
• Apply key provisions of the DIFC Employment Law (Law No. 2 of 2019, as amended).
• Ensure compliance with employment obligations and manage risks.
• Handle employment contracts, terminations, leaves, and dispute resolution within
  DIFC jurisdiction.

Course Outline:

Introduction to DIFC and Legal Framework

• Overview of DIFC as a common law jurisdiction
• Differences between UAE Labour Law and DIFC Employment Law
• Structure of the DIFC Courts and regulatory environment

Employment Contracts in DIFC

• Types of contracts (limited, unlimited, fixed-term)
• Probation period rules
• Written terms and mandatory clauses
• Amendment and renewal of contracts

Wages, Working Hours & Benefits

• Minimum wage (if applicable)
• Payment frequency and methods
• Working hours, rest breaks, and overtime rules
• Benefits and allowances

Leave Entitlements

• Annual leave and carry-forward rules
• Sick leave and pay structure
• Maternity, paternity, and other family-related leave
• Public holidays in DIFC

Termination & End of Service Benefits

• Lawful grounds for termination
• Notice periods and payment in lieu
• Gratuity calculation and DIFC’s Qualifying Scheme (DEWS)
• Unfair dismissal and redundancy provisions

Employee Rights & Employer Obligations

• Discrimination, harassment, and victimization protections
• Health and safety obligations
• Data protection and employee privacy
• Dispute resolution channels within DIFC

Compliance & Risk Management

• Record keeping and audits
• Handling employment disputes through the DIFC Courts and Arbitration
• Avoiding common pitfalls and legal non-compliance

Case Studies & Practical Scenarios

• Real-life examples of DIFC employment disputes
• Group discussions and compliance checklist
• Q&A and expert insights