Most UAE employers pay gratuity automatically in the final settlement. Still, putting a short written request on record is a smart move. It confirms your dates and salary, reminds HR of the deadline and gives you evidence if you later need to go to MOHRE. Below you will find what to include, a ready-to-edit letter, a shorter email version and the documents to attach.

Last updated: September 2026. Rewritten for UAE law. An earlier version referred to another country’s gratuity act and tax limits, which do not apply here.

When Should You Send a Gratuity Request?

After your last working day, once your resignation or termination is confirmed
If your final settlement statement leaves out gratuity or the amount looks wrong
If 14 days have passed since your contract ended and nothing has been paid

You qualify once you have completed one year of continuous service under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. The amount is 21 days of basic wage per year for the first five years and 30 days per year after that, capped at two years of wages. Check your figure with our gratuity calculator before you write.

What to Include in the Letter

Your details: full name, job title, employee ID and contact number.
Service dates: start date and last working day, so there is no argument about length of service.
Last basic salary: gratuity is worked out on basic pay only.
Legal basis: a one-line reference to Article 51 (entitlement) and Article 53 (14-day payment).
Payment details: your IBAN, especially if your salary account is being closed.
A request for a breakdown so you can check the numbers.

Sample Gratuity Application Letter

Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]

To,
The HR Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address, Emirate]

Subject: Request for Payment of End-of-Service Gratuity

Dear Sir/Madam,

I worked with [Company Name] as [Job Title] from [Start Date] to [Last Working Day], a total of [X years and Y months] of continuous service. My last basic salary was AED [amount].

Under Article 51 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, I am entitled to end-of-service gratuity, and under Article 53 it is payable within 14 days of the end of my contract. I kindly request that you release my gratuity, together with any unpaid salary and leave balance, and share a written breakdown of the final settlement.

My bank details (IBAN) are: [IBAN]. Please find attached copies of my resignation/termination letter, Emirates ID and latest payslip.

Thank you for your support during my time with the company.

Yours sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Employee ID]
[Mobile Number] | [Personal Email]

Short Email Version

Subject: Gratuity and final settlement – [Full Name], [Employee ID]

Dear [HR Manager’s Name],

My employment with [Company Name] ended on [Date] after [X years] of service. Could you please confirm when my end-of-service gratuity and final settlement will be paid, and send me the calculation? Under the UAE Labour Law this is due within 14 days of the contract ending.

I have attached my Emirates ID and the letter confirming my last working day.

Kind regards,
[Full Name]
[Mobile Number]

Documents to Attach

Resignation acceptance or termination letter
Copy of Emirates ID and passport
Latest payslip or salary certificate
MOHRE employment contract (or offer letter)
Any clearance form HR asked you to complete

If HR Does Not Respond

Give it a few working days after the 14-day deadline, then raise a complaint with MOHRE through its app, website or call centre (600590000). Our guide on filing a complaint for delayed gratuity covers each step. If the company says you are not entitled, read when an employer can deny gratuity first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for gratuity before I resign?

No. Gratuity only becomes payable when the employment ends. You can, however, ask HR for an estimate while you are still working.

How long does the employer have to pay?

14 days from the end of the contract under Article 53.

Is gratuity taxable in the UAE?

No. There is no personal income tax on salary or end-of-service benefits.

Is gratuity deducted from my salary as part of CTC?

No. See is gratuity part of CTC? for how offer letters show it.

What about domestic workers?

Housemaids, nannies and drivers are covered by a separate law. Read our gratuity guide for UAE domestic workers.

This template is for general guidance. For a disputed claim, contact MOHRE or a licensed lawyer.