UAE Gratuity Calculator
✓ DIFC DEWS Scheme Compliant
Exclude allowances. No minimum salary threshold.
Understanding Free Zone vs. Mainland Rules
Operating within the UAE means navigating a unique business landscape divided between Mainland companies and designated Free Zones. While the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) governs most employment contracts, some jurisdictions have distinct rules regarding End of Service (EOS) benefits.
For the vast majority of employees in the UAE, gratuity calculations are standardized under the Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. If you work for a Mainland company, your End of Service benefits are strictly governed by these federal laws, ensuring a unified calculation of 21 days for the first five years and 30 days thereafter.
However, the UAE is home to dozens of Free Zones. While most of these zones (like JAFZA, DMCC, or DAFZA) align their employment laws with the federal MOHRE standards, financial free zones operate under independent frameworks. Understanding which jurisdiction your employment visa falls under is the first step to accurately calculating your final settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Free Zones follow the standard UAE Labour Law for gratuity?▼
Yes, the majority of UAE Free Zones—including JAFZA, DMCC, and DAFZA—apply the standard UAE Federal Labour Law for End of Service benefits. Your gratuity calculation in these zones will perfectly match the standard Mainland formula based on your basic salary.
How is DIFC gratuity different from Mainland UAE?▼
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) operates independently of MOHRE. Instead of a traditional End of Service gratuity, DIFC implemented the DIFC Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) plan. Employers must make mandatory monthly contributions to this managed fund on behalf of the employee, replacing the lump-sum gratuity system.
Does ADGM have its own gratuity system?▼
Similar to the DIFC, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is an independent financial free zone. ADGM has its own specific employment regulations and has also moved towards mandatory workplace savings schemes, differing significantly from the traditional 21-day/30-day Mainland calculation.
Are government and public sector gratuities calculated the same way?▼
No. The Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 applies exclusively to the private sector. UAE public sector employees and government entities operate under separate human resources laws and pension schemes, meaning their end of service calculations follow an entirely different framework.