UAE · guide
Gratuity in Dubai and Abu Dhabi: are the rules different?
For most employees the answer is no. Mainland Dubai, Abu Dhabi and all seven emirates follow the same federal MOHRE rules under Federal Decree-Law 33 of 2021, so the gratuity formula is identical wherever you work on the mainland.
The shared formula
Across the emirates, gratuity is 21 days of basic salary for each of the first five years and 30 days for each year beyond, based on your last basic salary, capped at two years' pay. So a "gratuity calculator Dubai" and a "gratuity calculator Abu Dhabi" give the same result for the same salary and service.
Where it does differ: free zones
Two financial free zones run their own schemes. In Dubai, DIFC replaced traditional gratuity with the DEWS savings plan, where employers contribute monthly to a fund. In Abu Dhabi, ADGM offers employees a savings alternative. If your contract is with a DIFC or ADGM entity, your end-of-service benefit follows that scheme rather than the standard formula.
Calculate yours
For mainland Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates, use the UAE gratuity calculator — it applies the MOHRE formula and includes a free Excel download. Free-zone employees should confirm figures with their scheme administrator.
Questions
Is gratuity the same in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes, for mainland employers. Both follow the federal 21/30-day formula. Only DIFC and ADGM free zones use different savings schemes.
What is DEWS?
The DIFC Employee Workplace Savings plan — a funded savings scheme that replaces traditional gratuity for DIFC employees.
Which authority handles gratuity disputes?
MOHRE handles mainland disputes. DIFC and ADGM have their own employment tribunals.