UAE overtime calculator
Under UAE labour law, overtime is paid at the normal hourly wage plus at least 25%. Overtime between 10pm and 4am, or work on the weekly rest day without a substitute day off, is paid at the hourly wage plus at least 50%. The hourly wage is the monthly wage ÷ 30 ÷ 8.
Reviewed by Countify's ACCA/FCCA chartered certified accountants · Updated
Usually basic salary, unless the contract says otherwise.
- Normal hourly wage
- AED 25.00
- Daytime overtime (+25%)
- AED 312.50
- Night overtime (+50%)
- AED 150.00
- Total overtime pay
- AED 462.50
Overtime may not exceed 2 hours a day (and total hours 144 every 3 weeks) except in emergencies. Shift workers on night shifts are paid the +25% rate.
Results are estimates for general information, not tailored advice.
Overtime pay for 10 daytime hours
Hourly wage = monthly wage ÷ 30 ÷ 8.
| Monthly wage | Normal hourly wage | Total overtime pay |
|---|---|---|
| AED 3,000 | AED 12.50 | AED 156.25 |
| AED 6,000 | AED 25.00 | AED 312.50 |
| AED 12,000 | AED 50.00 | AED 625.00 |
Senior management and some roles are excluded from overtime rules.
Limits on overtime
Normal working hours are 8 a day and 48 a week. Overtime may not exceed 2 hours a day, and total working hours may not exceed 144 every 3 weeks, except where needed to prevent serious loss or an accident. Overtime rules do not apply to senior management and some supervisory roles.
Which wage to use
The law refers to the worker's wage; most employers and courts use basic salary unless the contract defines a different base. Agree it in writing and run it through payroll consistently. Our daily wage calculator shows the hourly rate.
Legal basis
We review this calculator whenever the FTA or Ministry of Finance issues a new decision or clarification.
Frequently asked questions
How is overtime calculated in the UAE?
Hourly wage (monthly ÷ 30 ÷ 8) × hours × 1.25, or × 1.5 for overtime between 10pm and 4am and work on rest days.
What is the maximum overtime in the UAE?
2 hours a day, with total working hours capped at 144 every 3 weeks.
Payroll and WPS services
We run monthly WPS payroll, track leave and gratuity, and prepare final settlements correctly, so HR questions do not become labour complaints.