If you’ve ever wondered why dubai labour card fees aren’t just a simple one-off expense, you’re not alone. Most newcomers expect a single fixed charge, but the reality is a layered system influenced by your job, company type, and even your employer’s HR savvy. Whether you’re a business owner, employee, or just curious about working in Dubai, it pays (literally!) to know how these fees work—and how to avoid common traps. Let’s break down what makes labour card costs tick, plus how a trusted local partner like GIF Building Maintenance helps businesses stay compliant and stress-free.
Understanding Dubai Labour Card Fees: The Basics
Dubai labour card fees are anything but one-size-fits-all. The government sets different rates based on your qualifications, the skill level required for your job, and what kind of company you work for. Here’s the twist: the company, not the employee, is responsible for paying these fees. But if you’re not careful, hidden mistakes or delays can lead to surprise fines.
What’s a Dubai Labour Card?
- An official work permit and legal proof you’re allowed to work in the UAE.
- Lists your job, employer, and contract details.
- Needed by almost everyone working in Dubai, regardless of sector.
The Real Cost: Labour Card Fee Breakdown
Let’s make this crystal clear—Dubai labour card fees aren’t just a flat ticket price. There are categories, renewals, and even penalties if you blink and miss a deadline.
| Company Category | Skilled Labour (2 yrs) | Unskilled Labour (2 yrs) | Transfer/New Hire Fee | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | AED 150 | AED 300 | AED 250 | AED 150 |
| B | AED 500 | AED 1,200 | AED 1,200 | AED 500 |
| C | AED 750 | AED 2,700 | AED 3,450 | AED 750 |
Actual pricing and service options may vary. Contact GIF Building Maintenance for the latest information.
How Do These Categories Work?
- Category A: Companies with lots of skilled workers and a strong compliance record.
- Category B: Middle-of-the-road—some skilled staff, but not as many as A.
- Category C: Fewer skilled staff, maybe some compliance blips in the past.
If you’re an engineer at a Category A company, your labour card costs way less than a store clerk at a Category C firm. Wild, right?
Navigating Renewals, Fines, and the Not-So-Obvious
Nothing ruins your day faster than a fine for a late labour card renewal. Dubai’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) means business.
Common Fee-Related Headaches
- Late Renewal: AED 500+ penalty per employee
- Incorrect Details: More paperwork, possible re-application fees
- Unregistered or expired company license: Application gets stuck, more costs down the line
Pro Tip: Avoiding Fines
- Set digital reminders for all permit expiry dates.
- Double-check all employee info before submitting to MOHRE—one typo can really mess things up.
- Use a single point of contact (like GIF Maintenance) to coordinate all paperwork and deadlines.
Why Businesses Trust GIF Building Maintenance for Compliance
Let’s be honest—navigating Dubai’s employment rules can feel like running a marathon in desert heat. Here’s where having a facility management partner makes all the difference.
Convenience: We’re Here When You Need Us
- 24/7 Availability: Emergencies don’t wait for business hours, so neither do we.
- One-Stop Service: Plumbing issue at 2am? Labour card renewal coming up? One call covers it all.
- Fast Response: Our average on-site time is measured in hours, not days.
“We had an urgent labour card renewal for a new hire right before Eid. GIF Maintenance handled everything, kept us updated, and even fixed our AC while they were at it. Genuine lifesavers!”
— Reem A., HR Manager, Dubai Marina
Affordability: Transparent and Predictable
- No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you pay. All AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) packages are clear, with no surprise charges.
- Year-Round Support: Fixes, compliance paperwork, and regular check-ups are bundled for maximum value.
- Discounts for Repeat Customers: Loyalty matters, and we reward it.
“I used to dread renewal season because of the unpredictable costs. Since switching to GIF, our expenses are steady, and support is always just a WhatsApp away.”
— Sameer K., Small Business Owner, Al Barsha
Our Service Range: More Than Just Compliance
We’re not just paperwork pros—we keep your business running, inside and out.
Core Trades We Cover
- Handyman Services – Quick fixes and installations
- Electrical Repairs – Certified electricians, safe and speedy
- Plumbing – From leaks to full system overhauls
- HVAC/Air Conditioning – Installations, repairs, and preventive maintenance
- Pest Control – Eco-friendly, effective, and scheduled
- Cleaning Services – Deep cleans, regular maintenance, and disinfection
- Painting & Carpentry – Make your space look brand new
Table: How Regular Maintenance Saves You Money
| Service | Typical DIY Cost (AED) | Annual GIF AMC (AED) | Potential Savings (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Filter Service | 200 x 4 = 800 | Included | 40% |
| Plumbing Repairs | 500 per call | Included | 50% |
| Electrical Checks | 300 per call | Included | 60% |
Disclaimer: Actual costs will vary. Always check with GIF Maintenance for the current AMC details.
Innovation & Expertise: Tech That Works for You
- Smart Building Tech: IoT sensors catch problems before you even notice them.
- Desert-Ready Solutions: Sand, heat, or humidity—our systems are built for Dubai.
- Qualified Technicians: Multilingual, highly trained, and background-checked.
- Mobile Control: Track service calls, renewals, and maintenance through a simple app.
Actionable Tips for Hassle-Free Compliance
Want to avoid headaches and keep your office running smooth? These simple tips go a long way:
Quick Maintenance Moves
- Monthly AC Filter Check: Dirty filters spike your energy bill and could lead to breakdowns.
- Quarterly Labour Card Review: Double-check expiry dates for all staff before it’s too late.
- Biannual Plumbing Inspection: Look for small leaks before they become wallet-busting floods.
When to Reach Out
- If you receive any MOHRE notification, don’t ignore it—contact us for help deciphering next steps.
- Keep digital scans of all labour cards and contracts in one secure folder (cloud or encrypted USB).
- Schedule annual compliance reviews with your facility partner. Better safe than sorry!
“Every time a government update rolls out, GIF explains it in simple terms and keeps us ahead. It’s like having an in-house compliance team.”
— Fatima D., Office Admin, JLT
Why Having a Reliable Partner Matters
In Dubai, rules change fast and the details matter. We get that you want to focus on growing your business—not chasing paperwork or wrestling with surprise fines. That’s why so many local businesses and property owners choose GIF Building Maintenance as their go-to for compliance, repairs, and peace of mind.
When you have a partner who understands the ins and outs of Dubai labour card fees, plus everything else your facility needs, you save time, money, and a whole lot of stress. That’s the real value behind the price tag.
Dubai Labour Card Fees
Dubai labour card fees vary depending on your company’s category and the employee’s role. Typically, costs range from AED 150 to AED 3,450 for issuance and renewal, with companies bearing these expenses.
Key Points:
- Categories: Different fees apply based on company classification (A, B, C).
- Renewals: Usually valid for 2 years; renewal costs vary accordingly.
- Penalties: Late renewals can incur fines of AED 500+.
Comparison Table:
| Company Category | Issuance Fee | Renewal Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | AED 150 | AED 150 | 2 years |
| C | AED 3,450 | AED 3,450 | 2 years |
Why Choose GIF Maintenance?
We ensure compliance and smooth processing of labour card fees, saving you time and avoiding penalties. Trust us for reliable, fast, and affordable services.
Contact us today for hassle-free labour card management!
Get in touch with GIF Maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Labour Card Fees
Who is responsible for paying the Dubai labour card fees?
The employer is responsible for paying the labour card fees, not the employee. However, it is important to verify this in your employment contract to avoid any misunderstandings.
How often do I need to renew my Dubai labour card?
Labour cards in Dubai typically need to be renewed every two years. It’s essential to keep track of the expiry date to avoid penalties and fines.
What are the common penalties for late labour card renewal?
If the renewal is delayed beyond 60 days of expiry, the employer can be fined AED 500 per employee. Additional penalties may apply if the delay causes other legal violations.
Can a company’s category affect the labour card fee?
Yes, the company’s classification (A, B, or C category) influences the labour card fee, with higher categories generally incurring higher costs for issuance and renewal.
