When must a worker leave company accommodation in the UAE?
Within 30 days of the end of service. Article 16 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 lists vacating employer-provided accommodation within that period as a worker obligation. The worker can stay longer if the employer approves, paying the cost or on terms agreed in writing.
Why it matters on construction projects
Labour camps house large numbers of workers who leave at different times. The 30 days gives the worker time to arrange a transfer or departure, and gives the contractor a clear date to free the bed for a replacement.
Final settlement timing
The employer must pay wages and entitlements within 14 days of the contract ending under Article 53. That falls inside the 30-day accommodation period, so the worker should normally be paid before having to move out.
How SupaJack Construct helps
The employee's end-of-service date is recorded with the final settlement, so HR can see the 30-day date and the 14-day payment date for each leaver.
Related tools and guides
See the UAE labour law guide for contractors, the final settlement calculator, the gratuity calculator, the annual leave calculator, the unpaid leave deduction calculator, payroll and WPS in SupaJack Construct, time and attendance and the meaning of basic salary.
Worked example
A mason's service ends on 15 April. He may stay in the camp until 15 May. If he needs to stay until 31 May to wait for a new visa, he can, with the contractor's approval, paying the agreed cost for the extra 16 days.
Questions people ask
Can the employer evict a worker the day service ends?
Article 16 gives the worker up to 30 days.
Who pays for a longer stay?
The worker, or as agreed in writing.
Is final pay due before the 30 days end?
Yes. Article 53 requires payment within 14 days.