No, child labor under 14 is illegal in the United Arab Emirates under the Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2019 on Juveniles, which aligns with ILO Convention 138. Exceptions exist only for light work in family businesses with Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) approval, strictly regulated to ensure educational continuity and safety.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in United Arab Emirates
- Age Restriction: Employment under 14 is prohibited, with the legal working age set at 15 under MOHRE oversight.
- Light Work Permits: Minors aged 12–14 may engage in light work (e.g., family trade) only with MOHRE-issued permits, capped at 2 hours daily and 16 hours weekly during school terms.
- Educational Safeguards: Employers must provide written consent from guardians, ensure no hazardous conditions, and guarantee school attendance verification by the Ministry of Education.
The UAE’s 2026 National Agenda prioritizes child welfare, reinforcing these protections through the National Committee for Child Rights (NCCR). Violations trigger penalties under Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 on Penal Code, including fines up to AED 50,000 and license revocation. The UAE’s ratification of ILO Convention 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labor further criminalizes trafficking or forced labor involving minors.