The United Arab Emirates remains one of the top destinations for workers from diverse skill and cultural backgrounds due to its tax-free for personal income, modern infrastructure, and job opportunities in sectors like construction, domestic work, hospitality, and healthcare.
But behind the tall buildings and impressive skyline, many migrant workers face a different reality, one that is filled with workplace challenges that impact not only their livelihoods but also their physical and emotional wellbeing.
This listicle outlines the most common workplace issues encountered by OFWs and other migrants in the UAE. We also highlight real-life incidents to give context and offer suggestions for better awareness and support.
Contract substitution and false promises
One of the most common complaints is contract substitution. Migrants are often promised a certain salary, job role, or working condition back home, only to arrive in the UAE and discover a completely different reality.
For example, a Filipina who was recruited as a hotel receptionist found herself working as a cleaner, with a lower salary and longer hours. Her original contract was replaced the moment she arrived, and because she didn’t fully understand her rights, she accepted the situation out of fear of deportation.
This practice is sadly not uncommon and is illegal under UAE and Philippine law. However, enforcement is inconsistent, and many workers remain silent due to fear of retaliation or job loss.
Tip: Always keep copies of your original job offer and employment contract. Know your rights under the UAE Labour Law, and report discrepancies to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in the UAE.
Delayed or unpaid wages
Wage-related issues are another significant concern. Some employers delay salary payments or fail to pay them at all, especially in the construction and domestic work sectors.
A group of South Asian and Filipino construction workers went on strike in Dubai due to six months of unpaid wages. While authorities eventually intervened, many of the workers had already accumulated debt and struggled to send remittances to their families.
The UAE has introduced a Wage Protection System (WPS) that requires companies to pay salaries through approved banks, but not all employers comply, especially smaller or unregistered ones.
Tip: If your salary is delayed beyond the legally allowed period, you can file a complaint with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Keeping records of pay slips and bank transfers is essential.
Confiscation of passports and mobility restrictions
Despite being illegal, many employers still confiscate passports and restrict workers from leaving the premises. This is especially common among domestic workers.
A Filipina nanny in Sharjah reported being unable to leave the home for over a year. Her employer held her passport, denied her days off, and controlled all her communications. With no freedom of movement and limited contact with the outside world, she felt like a prisoner.
Such conditions often go unnoticed because the workplace is a private home, making inspections difficult.
Tip: Your passport is your personal property. Employers are not legally allowed to withhold it. Report passport confiscation to POLO, the Philippine Embassy, or UAE authorities.
Long hours and lack of rest days
Working excessive hours without adequate rest is another widespread issue. Domestic workers are particularly vulnerable, as they often have no fixed schedules.
An Indian caregiver shared that she worked from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day, with no weekly rest day. Exhaustion led to poor health, and she was unable to seek help without her employer’s permission.
Although the UAE passed a Domestic Workers Law in 2017 mandating 8-hour workdays and one day off per week, enforcement remains a challenge.
Tip: Know your entitlements. Domestic workers in the UAE are legally entitled to at least one day off per week and paid overtime.
Bullying, discrimination, and abuse
Many migrants face verbal abuse, discrimination, or even physical harm. Discrimination based on nationality or skin colour persists, particularly in lower-paid sectors.
A group of Southeast Asian workers reported that they were often insulted, compared unfavourably to workers from other regions, or threatened with dismissal if they spoke up. In more serious cases, physical or sexual abuse occurs, especially among domestic workers.
Mental health deteriorates under such treatment, yet many migrants are afraid to come forward due to fear of retaliation or shame.
Tip: Abuse should never be tolerated. The UAE has hotlines and agencies to help victims, and you can also contact your country’s embassy. The UAE now has stricter penalties for abuse and harassment in the workplace.
Limited access to healthcare and insurance
While the UAE has good healthcare facilities, access is often limited by cost or lack of insurance coverage. Some employers do not provide adequate health insurance, or they delay covering medical bills, leaving workers vulnerable.
In one case, a Bangladeshi labourer sustained an injury on site and was told to “rest at home” instead of being taken to the hospital. He later developed complications, and by the time help arrived, the injury had worsened significantly.
Tip: All employers are required by law to provide health insurance to their employees. If you’re not covered, report it to MOHRE or your consulate.
Homesickness and mental health struggles
The emotional toll of working abroad can be as heavy as the physical challenges. Many OFWs and migrants suffer from loneliness, depression, or anxiety.
A Filipino nurse in Abu Dhabi admitted to struggling silently for years due to pressure to support her family, long shifts, and isolation. Without counselling or a strong support network, many endure their pain quietly.
Mental health awareness is growing in the UAE, but stigma remains strong in some communities. Fortunately, there are now more accessible helplines and community support groups.
Tip: Stay connected with loved ones back home and join local Filipino or migrant community groups for emotional support. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help—there are hotlines and clinics available in major cities.
Final thoughts
Despite the challenges, many OFWs and migrants succeed in building better futures in the UAE. However, it’s important to raise awareness about workplace issues and push for stronger protections.
Migrant workers fuel much of the UAE’s economy, yet many are vulnerable to abuse and neglect. By knowing your rights, connecting with your embassy, and supporting one another, we can ensure that the dream of working abroad doesn’t turn into a nightmare.
Let’s work together to make every OFW and migrant’s experience safer, fairer, and more dignified.