In the UAE, the Federal law on the Regulation of Employment Relations and subsequent ministerial resolutions do not specify a retirement age for employees. However, the current employment law permits the application of provisions from the previous employment law, specifically Federal Law No 8 of 1980, and other ministerial resolutions, as stated in Article 73 (3) of the current law. This article allows the continuation of existing decisions, regulations, and rules that do not conflict with the current Decree-Law until they are replaced.
Ministerial Resolution No 52 of 1989 outlines the rules for recruiting non-national employees, setting a retirement age of 60 years for expatriates in the private sector. This is detailed in Article 3 (c) of the resolution, which also allows exceptions for employees with extensive and rare experience, subject to ministerial approval.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has been issuing work permits to individuals aged up to 65, effectively raising the retirement age to 65 years for private sector employees on the mainland. This age limit can be further extended based on the employee's credentials, expertise, and contribution to the UAE economy.
Upon retirement from your current employer, you may continue working in the UAE if granted a work permit by an entity based on your experience and skills. The decision to grant a work permit rests with the MoHRE, contingent on the application submitted by your prospective employer.
