The term absconding in the UAE often brings a sense of urgency and confusion, especially for expats working in the country. Whether you’re an employee, employer, or someone considering working in the UAE, understanding what absconding means, how it happens, and what its consequences are is very important.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about absconding cases in the UAE, the laws around them, your rights, responsibilities, and most importantly—how to avoid such a situation or resolve it legally.
What Does Absconding Mean in the UAE?
In simple terms, absconding in UAE refers to a situation where an employee leaves their job and becomes unreachable without formally informing or getting approval from their employer. This is also known as running away from your employer without resignation or legal termination.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) allows employers to file an absconding report if an employee is absent from work for a continuous period of 7 days or more without valid justification.
Common Reasons Employees Abscond in the UAE
While absconding is legally considered a violation, the reasons behind it often vary. Here are some of the most common situations:
- Non-payment of salary or delayed wages
- Poor or abusive working conditions
- Passport withholding by the employer
- Fear of legal issues such as visa expiry or overstaying fines
- False promises during recruitment
- Better job opportunities without going through proper cancellation
While these reasons may seem understandable, absconding in the UAE without following legal procedures leads to serious consequences.
How Employers File an Absconding Case
When an employee disappears from work without notice, the employer has the legal right to file a complaint. This complaint is known as an absconding report, or runaway case.
Steps for Filing an Absconding Report:
- Employer visits the MOHRE portal or a Tasheel center
- Submits evidence of absence (employment contract, last attendance, etc.)
- Pays the required reporting fee
- MOHRE investigates and registers the case
Once accepted, the absconding report in the UAE is officially recorded, and the employee’s status is changed in the system.
Consequences of Absconding in the UAE
Facing an absconding case in the UAE can seriously impact your future. It may lead to visa cancellation, a labor ban, and even deportation. You could lose your job, face entry restrictions, and struggle to work legally again in the country. Resolving the issue quickly is always the best approach.
For the Employee:
- Automatic employment ban for up to 1 year
- Immediate visa cancellation
- Blocked from entering the UAE for work purposes
- Fines and legal actions in some cases
- Deportation may follow if caught after absconding
For the Employer:
- The employer is free from legal responsibility
- Can hire a new worker with a clean record
- May be penalized if the absconding report is misused or false
Absconding in the UAE should never be taken lightly. It creates long-term immigration and employment complications.
How to Check if You Have an Absconding Case in UAE
You can check your status by:
- Visiting a MOHRE service center
- Calling MOHRE hotline
- Using online UAE government portals with your Emirates ID or passport number
If your visa has been cancelled due to absconding, it will be visible in the system, and you may face issues like:
- Inability to get a new job
- Denied visa renewal or transfer
- Travel ban from re-entering the UAE
How to Cancel an Absconding Case in the UAE
In some cases, it is possible to remove or cancel an absconding report under specific conditions.
Legal Ways to Cancel an Absconding Case:
- Employer withdrawal: The employer can visit MOHRE and request cancellation
- Proof of false accusation: If the absconding report is unjustified, the employee can file a legal complaint
- Labour court support: In certain scenarios, a court may dismiss the absconding charge
- Settlement with employer: Sometimes, both parties can reach an agreement to cancel the report
You’ll need strong evidence and possibly legal assistance. If you believe you were reported unfairly, act quickly—delays only make the situation worse.
Time Limit for Filing and Withdrawing Absconding Reports
- Filing Time: Employers must file within 30 days of last contact with the employee
- Withdrawal: Must be done within 90 days of the original filing
After these windows, resolution becomes more complicated.
Can You Work Again After an Absconding Case in the UAE?
Yes, but not immediately. You must first resolve the absconding case, serve any employment ban, and potentially leave the country if deportation was involved.
Once your case is cleared and the ban period is over, you may be able to:
- Apply for a new visa through another employer
- Return to the UAE with a fresh work permit
- Start over legally with proper documentation
Absconding in the UAE doesn’t have to ruin your future—but it can, if not addressed properly.
Is Absconding a Criminal Offense in the UAE?
It is not classified as a criminal act under UAE law. However, it is a labour violation, and treated seriously in immigration and employment systems.
Important: Absconding will not result in jail unless connected to other offenses like fraud, overstaying fines, or illegal activities.
How to Avoid Being Accused of Absconding in UAE
Whether you’re unhappy in your job or planning to resign, here’s how to stay safe:
- Always resign formally through legal channels
- Serve your notice period as per contract
- Maintain communication with your employer
- Cancel your visa properly before leaving
- Keep records of emails, salary, and contracts
- Avoid overstaying after visa expiry
Taking these precautions will keep your record clean and help you avoid being blacklisted in the UAE.
Can Employers Misuse the Absconding Report?
Unfortunately, yes. Some unethical employers misuse absconding reports to threaten workers, especially when there’s a dispute or disagreement.
In such cases:
- The employee has the right to file a complaint at MOHRE
- Seek help from a legal consultant or public service center
- Provide proof of communication, salary slips, and contract terms
The UAE government has been taking steps to reduce abuse by penalizing employers who file false absconding reports.
What Happens If You Leave the Country After Absconding?
If you’ve already left the UAE but were reported for absconding, consequences may still follow:
- A ban will appear in immigration records
- You may be denied entry or new visa applications
- You’ll need to resolve the report or wait out the ban period
Conclusion
Understanding the rules around absconding in the UAE is crucial for both employers and employees. While the UAE offers tremendous opportunities and protections, it also takes employment laws seriously. If you’re currently working in Dubai or planning to move here, knowing your rights and staying compliant with visa and labor regulations can help you avoid major issues.
Whether you’re leaving a job, facing a dispute, or were wrongly accused, always try to resolve issues through legal channels. Seek advice early and act fast to protect your record.
For expats and entrepreneurs building a future here, staying informed is your best asset. And if you’re setting up a new company, working with professionals who understand local compliance makes all the difference.
For smooth, secure company formation and employee management, consider expert Business Setup Services in Dubai, UAE to help you stay fully compliant and focused on growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is absconding in UAE labour law?
Absconding is when an employee leaves their job without notice and becomes unreachable for 7 or more consecutive days, allowing the employer to file a report with MOHRE.
Can I cancel an absconding case filed against me?
Yes, it can be canceled if the employer agrees or if you prove it was falsely reported. Legal assistance may be required.
How long is the ban after absconding in the UAE?
Typically, an employment ban of 1 year is imposed. Some cases may result in a longer ban or re-entry restrictions.
Can I travel back to the UAE after absconding?
Yes, but only after the case is resolved and the ban period is over. Otherwise, you may be stopped at immigration.
Is there a fine for absconding in UAE?
You may incur visa cancellation fines, overstaying charges, and legal fees. However, absconding itself is not a direct fineable offense unless combined with other violations.
