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UAE Labour Law Article 51 Cap Analysis

UAE Gratuity Cap & 2-Year Maximum Rule

Under Article 51 of UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, the maximum total end-of-service gratuity payable to any worker shall not exceed two years' basic wage (24 months of basic salary).

How the 2-Year Basic Salary Cap Works

Article 51 Cap

The cap protects employers from unlimited liability for long-serving employees while ensuring senior workers receive substantial severance:

  • Cap Formula: Maximum Gratuity = Last Monthly Basic Salary × 24.
  • When Does an Employee Hit the Cap? An employee reaches the 2-year cap after approximately 25 to 26 continuous years of service.
  • Exclusions from the Cap: Accrued annual leave encashment and notice period pay in lieu are not subject to the 2-year gratuity cap and must be paid in full on top of the maximum gratuity.

Test Your Service Duration Against the Cap

Our universal calculation engine includes an automatic real-time Cap Warning Badge that alerts you the exact moment your continuous service approaches or exceeds the 24-month basic salary ceiling.

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