UAE Work Permits for Teenagers: What the Law Allows for Minors Working in the UAE

The UAE permits teenagers to work, but only under regulated conditions. Many families and businesses are not aware that minors cannot simply take up part-time or summer employment without official approval.

Under UAE labour legislation, employment of juveniles is specifically regulated to protect their education, health, and safety. Employers must obtain a work permit for a minor and follow strict working hour and workplace rules.

This article explains when minors can legally work, what employers must do, and the restrictions that apply.

Who Is Considered a Minor (Juvenile Worker)

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on Regulation of Labour Relations, a juvenile is any person between 15 and 18 years of age.

Children below 15 years old cannot be employed at all.

This rule applies to:

• Private sector companies

• Shops and retail establishments

• Restaurants and cafes

• Offices and service businesses

Without a permit, employing a minor is a labour violation.

Work Permit Requirement

Before a minor can work, the employer must obtain a Juvenile Work Permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

The permit is not optional.

The employer must submit:

• Written consent of the parent or guardian

• Copy of passport and Emirates ID

• Proof of age

• Medical fitness certificate confirming the minor can work

The purpose is to ensure the job is safe and suitable for the child’s age.

Working Hours for Teenagers

The law limits working time to protect schooling and health.

Under the Labour Law:

• A minor cannot work more than 6 hours per day

• A break of at least 1 hour must be given

• No continuous working beyond 4 hours

• Overtime is not allowed

Most importantly:

A minor cannot work at night.

Night work means:
Between 7:00 PM and 7:00 AM

This is a strict prohibition.

Prohibited Jobs and Workplaces

The law does not allow minors to work in hazardous or harmful environments.

They cannot be employed in:

• Industrial or heavy machinery operations

• Construction sites

• Chemical handling

• Mining or manufacturing risks

• Any work dangerous to health or safety

The Ministry may also ban specific sectors depending on risk.

Employer Responsibilities

When hiring a minor, the employer must:

• Obtain MOHRE juvenile permit
• Keep parental approval on file
• Ensure safe working conditions
• Limit working hours
• Prevent night work
• Provide supervision

The employer also must maintain a special record for juvenile workers showing:

• Working hours

• Nature of duties

• Age verification

Failure to comply can result in penalties and labour violations.

Why the UAE Allows Teen Employment

The purpose is not to create cheap labour.
The law allows training and early work exposure while protecting education.

Typical permitted jobs include:

• Office assistants

• Retail helpers

• Internships

• Summer work programs

The goal is skill development, not full employment.

Key Legal Protections

Some important protections under the Labour Law:

• Education must not be affected

• Work must suit the minor’s physical ability

• Health and safety takes priority

• Employers carry full responsibility

Parents also retain legal oversight over the employment.

Practical Impact on Businesses

Companies often hire students informally during summer or school holidays. This is where many violations happen.

Even temporary work — including a 2-week summer job — still legally requires a permit.

Businesses that fail to obtain the permit risk:

• Fines

• Labour inspection violations

• Suspension of work permits

Conclusion

Teenagers can legally work in the UAE, but only within a controlled legal system. The law is designed to balance early work experience with protection of minors.

Employers must remember:

A minor employee is not treated like a regular employee under UAE law.

Before hiring any person under 18 years old, the employer must first obtain the official permit and comply with working hour and safety rules.

Following these requirements protects the business from penalties and ensures the minor’s welfare.