Juvenile Work Permits in the UAE: What Employers and Parents Need to Know

The UAE’s updated employment rules for juveniles, announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in March 2025, reflect the nation’s growing focus on youth empowerment and legal safeguards in the workplace. The changes are embedded within Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021, with updated compliance guidance now in effect.

Who Can Work?

A juvenile is defined as any individual aged 15 to 18 years. To work legally, the following conditions must be met:

• Valid work permit from MoHRE

• Parental or guardian consent

• Medical certificate proving fitness for employment

• Work must fall within the company’s licensed activities

Key Legal Restrictions

Juveniles may:

• Work up to 6 hours/day (with mandatory break)

• Not work between 7 PM to 7 AM

• Not be employed in hazardous, harmful, or unethical industries

Application Process

Employers must submit the juvenile work permit application via the MoHRE portal:

• Use UAE Pass for login

• Upload passport, Emirates ID, medical fitness certificate, and parental consent

• Pay AED 50 permit fee

• Await contract verification and final permit issuance

Penalties and Employer Obligations

Failure to comply with the guidelines under Article 60 of the Labour Law may result in fines from AED 100,000 to AED 1,000,000.

Additionally, Ministerial Decree No. 519 of 2018 allows student internships and part-time training, provided:

• The student is at least 15 years old

• A written training contract is signed

• Approval is obtained from the educational institution

Conclusion

The UAE’s approach to juvenile employment provides a regulated, safe pathway for youth to gain experience while prioritizing health and safety. Employers, parents, and institutions must follow the legal framework closely to support meaningful early workforce exposure.