Company's penalty exceeds the limits of UAE Labour Law

On your side: An employer is not legally permitted to suspend a worker for three months. According to UAE Labour Law, Article 102 an employee may be suspended from work with reduced pay for a period not exceeding 10 days.

I am a Mexican national living in Dubai and have been here a while. I have been suspended from work for nearly three months. Is my employer allowed to do this or is there a maximum time permitted? I do not know the law and do not know what to do. What are my rights? RC, Dubai

Your employer is not legally permitted to suspend you for three months. According to UAE Labour Law, Article 102 an employee may be suspended from work with reduced pay for a period not exceeding 10 days. In the first instance you should contact the Ministry of Labour (helpline number 800 665) and if you get nowhere I can refer you to a lawyer who specialises in labour law, although you would have to pay for the professional advice.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai. Contact her at [e-mail]