“Unraveling the Legality: Can Your Employer Withhold Your Passport? UAE Legal Insights”

Introduction

The article provides an in-depth analysis of the legalities surrounding the issue of employers withholding passports of their employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It explores the UAE’s laws and regulations on this matter, discussing the circumstances under which such an action may be considered legal or illegal. The article also provides insights into the potential consequences for employers who violate these laws, and the rights and protections available to employees in such situations.

Understanding the Legality: Can Your Employer Withhold Your Passport in UAE?

In the United Arab Emirates, the issue of passport retention by employers has been a subject of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a means of ensuring employee commitment, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. The primary question being, can your employer legally withhold your passport in the UAE?

To understand the legality of this issue, it is essential to first comprehend the significance of a passport. A passport is not just a travel document; it is a personal identification document that affirms your citizenship and identity. It is a personal property that should remain in the possession of the individual to whom it is issued.

The UAE law is clear on this matter. According to the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), it is illegal for employers to withhold employees’ passports. The UAE Labour Law does not authorize the retention of personal documents such as passports, and any such act is considered a violation of the law. The MOHRE has reiterated that the possession of personal documents does not fall within the rights of the employer and is against the principles of human rights.

The UAE government has taken stringent measures to ensure that this law is upheld. Any employer found guilty of withholding an employee’s passport without their consent can face severe penalties, including hefty fines. The government encourages employees to report such incidents to the MOHRE or the police.

However, it is important to note that there are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance, an employer may hold an employee’s passport temporarily for visa processing or renewal. But even in such cases, the passport should be returned to the employee immediately after the completion of the process.

Despite the clear legal stance, the practice of passport retention is still prevalent in some sectors in the UAE. This is often due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights. Many foreign workers, especially those in low-wage jobs, are often unaware of their rights and fear retaliation if they refuse to hand over their passports.

To combat this, the UAE government has been actively working to raise awareness about this issue. They have launched several campaigns to educate workers about their rights and the legal implications of passport retention. The government has also set up hotlines and grievance redressal mechanisms to help workers report such incidents.

In conclusion, the law in the UAE unequivocally states that employers do not have the right to withhold an employee’s passport. It is a violation of the law and can lead to severe penalties. However, the onus is also on the employees to be aware of their rights and to report any violations to the authorities. The UAE government is committed to ensuring the protection of workers’ rights and is taking active measures to eradicate the unlawful practice of passport retention.

Understanding the legality of passport retention is crucial for both employers and employees in the UAE. Employers must respect the law and the rights of their employees, while employees must be aware of their rights and not hesitate to report any violations. The UAE, with its robust legal framework and commitment to workers’ rights, continues to strive towards creating a fair and equitable work environment for all.

Exploring the Rights of Employees: Passport Withholding by Employers in UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, a common concern among expatriate employees is the issue of passport withholding by employers. This practice, while prevalent, raises significant legal and ethical questions. It is crucial to understand the legal landscape surrounding this issue to ensure that employees’ rights are protected and upheld.

The UAE’s legal framework is primarily based on the Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law, which governs the employer-employee relationship. This law, however, does not explicitly address the issue of passport withholding. Nevertheless, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has issued several clarifications on this matter, stating unequivocally that it is illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport without their consent.

The rationale behind this stance is rooted in the principle of personal freedom, a fundamental right enshrined in the UAE Constitution. Article 329 of the UAE Penal Code further reinforces this by criminalizing the unlawful detention of documents, which includes passports. Therefore, any employer who withholds an employee’s passport without their explicit consent is in violation of the law and can be subject to penalties.

However, it is important to note that there are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance, an employer may temporarily hold an employee’s passport for visa processing or renewal. But even in such cases, the passport should be returned to the employee immediately after the completion of the necessary procedures.

Despite these legal protections, the practice of passport withholding persists in some sectors due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights. Many expatriate workers, particularly those in low-wage jobs, are often coerced into surrendering their passports to their employers under the guise of administrative necessity or as a condition of employment.

To combat this, the UAE government has taken several measures to raise awareness about this issue and to provide avenues for redress for affected employees. The MOHRE has established a toll-free hotline for workers to report instances of passport withholding. Moreover, the government has also launched several campaigns to educate workers about their rights and the legal recourse available to them.

In conclusion, while the practice of passport withholding by employers is illegal under UAE law, it continues to be a concern for many expatriate employees. It is therefore essential for employees to be aware of their rights and to take appropriate action if they find themselves in such a situation. The UAE government, for its part, remains committed to upholding the rights of workers and has put in place several measures to address this issue.

In the face of such challenges, it is crucial for employees to be proactive in understanding their rights and seeking legal advice when necessary. By doing so, they can ensure that they are not only protected under the law, but also empowered to stand up against any form of exploitation. After all, the right to personal freedom, including the right to hold one’s passport, is a fundamental right that should be respected and upheld at all times.

The Consequences of Employer Withholding Your Passport: A UAE Perspective

In the United Arab Emirates, the practice of employers withholding the passports of their employees has been a contentious issue for many years. This practice, often seen as a security measure by employers, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. It is crucial to understand the legal implications and consequences of such actions from a UAE perspective.

The UAE law stipulates that it is illegal for employers to withhold the passports of their employees without their explicit consent. This is clearly outlined in the UAE Labour Law and the UAE Constitution, which both emphasize the importance of personal freedom and prohibit any form of illegal detention. The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has also issued several circulars and directives, reiterating that the possession of personal documents, such as passports, by employers is considered an illegal practice.

Despite these clear legal provisions, the practice of withholding passports is still prevalent in some sectors. This is often due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights or fear of retaliation from their employers. However, it is important to note that any form of coercion or threat used by an employer to retain an employee’s passport is considered a violation of the law and can lead to severe penalties.

The consequences of such illegal practices can be significant for both parties involved. For the employee, the withholding of their passport can lead to a restriction of their freedom of movement, psychological distress, and potential exploitation. It can also create a power imbalance between the employer and the employee, leading to potential abuse.

On the other hand, employers who engage in this practice expose themselves to legal risks. They can face penalties including fines, imprisonment, and even the revocation of their business license. Moreover, they may also face reputational damage, which can have a long-term impact on their business.

In case an employee finds themselves in a situation where their passport is being withheld by their employer, they have several legal recourses. They can file a complaint with the MOHRE or approach the local police station. The UAE government has also established a toll-free hotline to report such cases and provide support to the victims.

In conclusion, the practice of employers withholding the passports of their employees is not only illegal but also carries severe consequences. It is a violation of the fundamental rights of individuals and goes against the principles of fairness and dignity that the UAE upholds. Therefore, it is essential for both employers and employees to be aware of their rights and obligations under the UAE law. Employers should refrain from such practices, and employees should not hesitate to seek legal help if their rights are violated. The UAE government is committed to ensuring the protection of all individuals within its jurisdiction and will not tolerate any form of exploitation or abuse.

In the United Arab Emirates, the issue of passport retention by employers has been a subject of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a means of exerting control over employees, particularly expatriates, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. This article aims to shed light on the legality of this practice in the UAE, providing insights into the country’s laws and regulations regarding passport withholding.

The UAE is a popular destination for expatriates seeking employment opportunities, with a significant percentage of its population comprising foreign workers. However, the practice of employers retaining employees’ passports has been a contentious issue, often leading to situations where employees feel trapped or exploited.

According to UAE law, it is illegal for an employer to withhold an employee’s passport without their explicit consent. The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has clearly stated that retaining employees’ passports is an infringement of their personal freedom and is considered unlawful. This stance is supported by international law, which recognizes a passport as the personal property of the bearer, and not the employer.

The UAE’s Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law, does not explicitly mention passport retention. However, it does emphasize the importance of mutual consent and fair treatment in all aspects of the employer-employee relationship. This law, in conjunction with the UAE constitution and international human rights standards, forms the basis of the MOHRE’s position against passport retention.

Despite the clear legal stance, the practice persists in some sectors due to a lack of awareness or deliberate disregard for the law. Employers often justify this practice as a precautionary measure to prevent employees from absconding. However, such justifications do not hold legal ground. If an employee absconds, the employer has the right to report it to the MOHRE, which will then take appropriate action.

In cases where an employer refuses to return an employee’s passport, the employee has the right to file a complaint with the MOHRE or the local police. The UAE government has established several channels for such complaints, including a toll-free hotline and an online portal. The government is committed to protecting the rights of all workers in the country, and any violation of these rights is taken very seriously.

It is important for both employers and employees in the UAE to be aware of these laws and regulations. Employers should understand that withholding an employee’s passport is not only illegal but also detrimental to the working relationship. On the other hand, employees should know their rights and the legal recourse available to them in case their rights are violated.

In conclusion, while the UAE offers numerous employment opportunities for expatriates, it is crucial for both parties in the employment relationship to respect and adhere to the country’s laws. The practice of employers withholding employees’ passports is illegal in the UAE, and any instances of this practice should be reported to the relevant authorities. The UAE government is committed to ensuring a fair and respectful working environment for all, and this includes safeguarding the personal freedom and rights of its workforce.

Decoding UAE Laws: Can Employers Legally Withhold Your Passport?

In the United Arab Emirates, a common question among expatriate employees is whether their employer can legally withhold their passport. This practice, while not uncommon, raises significant legal and ethical questions. To understand the legality of this issue, it is essential to delve into the UAE’s laws and regulations.

The UAE’s legal system is a unique blend of Sharia (Islamic Law), civil law, and customary law. It is a system that has been designed to maintain a balance between the traditional values of the region and the needs of a modern, cosmopolitan society. The laws related to employment and labor rights are no exception. They are designed to protect the rights of both employers and employees, ensuring a fair and balanced working environment.

In the context of passport withholding, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has issued clear directives. According to these, it is illegal for an employer to withhold an employee’s passport without their consent. The MOHRE has stated that retaining workers’ passports amounts to forced labor, which is a violation of the UAE’s labor laws and international human rights standards.

The UAE’s Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law, further supports this stance. It stipulates that any form of forced labor is strictly prohibited. The law also emphasizes that the employer has no right to confiscate the employee’s passport. The passport is considered personal property, and its safekeeping is the sole responsibility of the passport holder.

However, despite these clear legal provisions, the practice of employers withholding passports is not entirely unheard of in the UAE. Some employers argue that they retain passports to ensure that employees do not abscond or violate the terms of their employment contracts. However, such practices are not legally justified and are considered a breach of trust and an infringement of personal freedom.

If an employee finds themselves in a situation where their passport has been withheld by their employer, they have several legal recourses. They can lodge a complaint with the MOHRE or approach the local police station. The UAE authorities take such complaints seriously and act swiftly to ensure the rights of the aggrieved party are protected.

In conclusion, the UAE’s legal framework clearly stipulates that employers do not have the right to withhold an employee’s passport. Such actions are considered a violation of the country’s labor laws and an infringement of personal freedom. Employees who find themselves in such situations are encouraged to seek legal assistance and report the matter to the relevant authorities.

Understanding the legal landscape of the UAE, particularly in relation to employment laws, is crucial for both employers and employees. It ensures a harmonious working environment, protects the rights of all parties involved, and contributes to the overall development of the country’s labor market. Therefore, it is essential for everyone to familiarize themselves with these laws and regulations to avoid any potential legal disputes.

Employee Rights in UAE: Addressing Passport Withholding by Employers

In the United Arab Emirates, the issue of passport withholding by employers has been a subject of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a means of exerting control over an employee, has raised numerous questions about its legality and the rights of employees. This article aims to shed light on this matter, providing insights into the legalities surrounding passport withholding in the UAE.

In the UAE, as in many other countries, a passport is considered the personal property of the individual to whom it is issued. It serves as a critical document for identification and travel purposes. Therefore, any act of withholding or confiscating a passport without the owner’s consent is generally viewed as an infringement on personal freedom.

The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has explicitly stated that it is against the law for employers to withhold an employee’s passport. According to Article 34 of the UAE Labour Law, “No employer may keep an employee’s passport except with the employee’s consent.” This provision underscores the importance of personal consent in matters involving personal documents such as passports.

However, despite this clear legal stance, the practice of employers withholding passports is not uncommon in the UAE. This is often done under the guise of safekeeping or administrative convenience. Some employers argue that holding onto passports prevents employees from absconding or leaving the country without settling their debts.

While these concerns may be valid, it is essential to note that the law does not support such practices. The MOHRE has reiterated that employers do not have the right to confiscate an employee’s passport as a form of security. The only exception to this rule is when the passport is required for a legitimate purpose, such as visa processing, and must be returned immediately after.

In cases where an employer refuses to return a passport, employees have several legal avenues to explore. They can lodge a complaint with the MOHRE, which has the power to impose penalties on employers who violate the law. Alternatively, they can seek legal redress through the courts.

It is also worth noting that the UAE has been making concerted efforts to protect the rights of workers, particularly expatriates who make up a significant portion of the country’s workforce. The government has introduced several reforms aimed at curbing exploitative practices and ensuring fair treatment of all workers. These include stricter regulations on recruitment agencies, improved dispute resolution mechanisms, and enhanced awareness campaigns about workers’ rights.

In conclusion, while passport withholding by employers is a contentious issue in the UAE, the law is clear: it is illegal without the employee’s consent. Employees who find themselves in such situations should not hesitate to seek help from the relevant authorities. The UAE’s legal framework provides robust protections for workers, and the government is committed to enforcing these laws to ensure that all employees are treated fairly and with respect.

Understanding your rights as an employee is crucial in any work environment. In the UAE, this includes knowing that your passport is your personal property and that no one, including your employer, has the right to withhold it without your consent. By staying informed and vigilant, you can help ensure that your rights are respected and upheld.

In the United Arab Emirates, the issue of employers withholding passports from their employees has been a topic of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a security measure by employers, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. It is crucial to understand the legalities surrounding this issue to protect your rights as an employee in the UAE.

The UAE law, as per the UAE Labour Law and the UAE Constitution, clearly states that it is illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport without their explicit consent. The passport, being a personal belonging, is considered the property of the individual and not the company. Therefore, any act of withholding it without the owner’s consent is deemed as an unlawful possession.

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has reiterated this stance, stating that retaining employees’ passports is against the UAE’s laws. The MOHRE has also established a helpline for employees to report such incidents. This move is part of the UAE government’s efforts to safeguard the rights of workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.

However, despite these clear legal provisions, the practice of employers withholding passports is not uncommon in the UAE. This is often due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights. Many workers, particularly expatriates, are unaware that they can refuse to hand over their passports to their employers.

In some cases, employers may argue that they retain passports to ensure that employees do not abscond or violate the terms of their contracts. However, it is important to note that there are other legal avenues available for employers to ensure contract compliance. For instance, employers can seek legal recourse through the UAE courts if an employee violates the terms of their contract.

If you find yourself in a situation where your employer is withholding your passport, it is advisable to approach the situation diplomatically. You can remind your employer about the UAE laws prohibiting this practice and express your discomfort. If your employer continues to withhold your passport, you can report the matter to the MOHRE or seek legal advice.

It is also worth noting that the UAE government has been taking significant steps to curb this practice. The government has been conducting awareness campaigns to educate both employers and employees about the illegality of withholding passports. Moreover, the government has been enforcing stricter penalties for employers who violate this law.

In conclusion, while the practice of employers withholding passports is illegal in the UAE, it continues due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights. Therefore, it is crucial for employees, particularly expatriates, to be aware of their rights and the legal provisions in place to protect them. Remember, your passport is your personal property, and no one, including your employer, has the right to withhold it without your consent. If you find yourself in such a situation, do not hesitate to seek legal help and report the matter to the relevant authorities.

The Truth about Passport Withholding by Employers in UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, a common concern among expatriate employees is the practice of passport withholding by employers. This issue has been a subject of debate and confusion, with many employees unsure of their rights and legal protections. This article aims to shed light on the truth about passport withholding by employers in the UAE, providing legal insights based on the country’s laws and regulations.

In the UAE, as in many other countries, a passport is considered the personal property of the individual to whom it is issued. It serves as a critical identification document and is a fundamental symbol of personal freedom and mobility. Therefore, any act that infringes upon an individual’s right to possess and control their passport can be seen as a violation of their personal liberty.

The UAE’s legal framework is clear on this matter. According to Federal Law No. 6 of 1973 concerning immigration and residence, as amended by Federal Law No. 7 of 1985 and Ministerial Decision No. 360 of 1997, the unauthorized possession of another person’s passport is a punishable offense. This means that employers who withhold their employees’ passports without their explicit consent are in violation of UAE law.

However, it is important to note that there are certain circumstances where an employer may temporarily hold an employee’s passport. For instance, during the visa application or renewal process, an employer may need to take possession of an employee’s passport. This is a legal and accepted practice, provided that the passport is promptly returned to the employee once the process is completed.

Despite the clarity of the law, the practice of passport withholding persists in some sectors. This is often due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights, or fear of reprisals if they refuse to hand over their passports. To combat this, the UAE government has taken steps to raise awareness about the issue and has established channels through which employees can report instances of passport withholding.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has a dedicated helpline for labor complaints, and the Dubai Police also have a human rights department where such issues can be reported. In addition, the UAE government has been working to strengthen labor laws and improve enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of all workers in the country.

In conclusion, while the practice of passport withholding by employers is illegal under UAE law, it is unfortunately still a reality for some workers. It is crucial for employees to be aware of their rights and to know that they can seek help from the authorities if their passports are being withheld without their consent. The UAE government is committed to ensuring the fair treatment of all workers and continues to take steps to eradicate unlawful practices such as passport withholding.

Remember, your passport is your personal property and a symbol of your freedom. Do not allow anyone to take it from you without a valid and legal reason. If you find yourself in a situation where your passport is being withheld, do not hesitate to seek help from the relevant authorities. Your rights are protected under UAE law, and there are resources available to assist you.

UAE Employment Laws: Can Your Employer Withhold Your Passport?

In the United Arab Emirates, the issue of passport retention by employers has been a subject of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a means of exerting control over employees, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. The UAE’s employment laws, however, provide clear guidelines on this matter, which are essential for both employers and employees to understand.

In the UAE, as per the Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law, it is illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport without their explicit consent. This law is based on the principle that a passport is a personal document that belongs to the bearer and should remain in their possession. The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has reiterated this stance, stating that retaining employees’ passports amounts to forced labour.

Despite the clarity of the law, some employers may still attempt to retain passports under the guise of administrative convenience or security. They may argue that holding onto passports prevents employees from absconding or ensures visa compliance. However, these justifications do not hold legal weight. The UAE courts have consistently held that an employer’s right to protect their business interests does not extend to withholding passports.

In fact, the UAE government has taken steps to discourage this practice. The MOHRE has established a toll-free hotline for employees to report instances of passport retention. Moreover, employers found guilty of this offence can face severe penalties, including fines and potential blacklisting from future hiring.

However, it is important to note that there are certain circumstances where an employer may temporarily hold an employee’s passport. These include visa processing, renewal, or cancellation procedures. In such cases, the employer is required to return the passport immediately after completing the necessary formalities. Any delay or refusal to return the passport can be reported to the MOHRE or the local police.

For employees who find themselves in a situation where their passport has been withheld, it is crucial to know their rights. They should not hesitate to report the matter to the authorities. The UAE government has made it clear that it is committed to protecting the rights and welfare of all workers in the country, regardless of their nationality or job status.

In conclusion, the UAE’s employment laws unequivocally state that employers do not have the right to withhold an employee’s passport. This practice is not only illegal but also infringes on the personal freedom of the employee. While there may be temporary instances where an employer needs to hold a passport for administrative purposes, these are strictly regulated, and the passport must be promptly returned. Employees should be aware of their rights and not hesitate to seek help if they find themselves in a situation where their passport is being unlawfully retained. The UAE’s legal framework is designed to protect employees and ensure fair and equitable treatment in the workplace.

Passport Withholding by Employers: A Comprehensive Guide to UAE Laws

In the United Arab Emirates, the practice of employers withholding the passports of their employees has been a topic of considerable debate and concern. This practice, often seen as a security measure by employers, has raised numerous legal and ethical questions. It is crucial to understand the legal implications of this practice in the UAE, as it directly impacts the rights and freedoms of individuals.

The UAE law is clear on this matter. According to Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, also known as the UAE Labour Law, it is illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport without their explicit consent. The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has reiterated this stance, stating that retaining employees’ passports amounts to forced labour.

The UAE courts have consistently upheld this principle. In a landmark ruling, the Dubai Court of Cassation stated that retaining an employee’s passport without their consent is an infringement of their personal freedom, as the passport is a personal belonging and its holder has the exclusive right to keep it. The court further emphasized that any agreement between an employer and an employee allowing the employer to retain the passport is considered null and void, as it contradicts the principles of personal freedom enshrined in the UAE constitution.

However, despite the clear legal stance, the practice of employers withholding passports is still prevalent in the UAE. This is largely due to a lack of awareness among employees about their rights and the fear of losing their jobs. It is important to note that the UAE law provides protection to employees against any form of retaliation or termination of employment due to their refusal to surrender their passports.

In case an employer refuses to return the passport, the employee can file a complaint with the MOHRE or approach the local police. The authorities take such complaints seriously and swift action is usually taken against the offending employers. Penalties for violating this law can include fines, imprisonment, and even the cancellation of the employer’s trade license.

However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance, an employer can retain an employee’s passport for visa processing or renewal. But even in such cases, the passport should be returned to the employee as soon as the process is completed.

In conclusion, the UAE law unequivocally states that an employer does not have the right to withhold an employee’s passport. This practice is considered a violation of personal freedom and is punishable by law. Employees are encouraged to be aware of their rights and to report any violations to the relevant authorities. The UAE government is committed to ensuring the protection of personal freedoms and the upholding of the rule of law. Therefore, it is essential for both employers and employees to understand and respect these legal provisions to maintain a harmonious and legally compliant working environment.

Q&A

1. Q: Can an employer in the UAE legally withhold an employee’s passport?
A: No, it is illegal for an employer in the UAE to withhold an employee’s passport.

2. Q: What law in the UAE prohibits employers from withholding passports?
A: The UAE Ministry of Interior has issued a statement clarifying that it is against the UAE’s laws for employers to withhold employee passports.

3. Q: What can an employee do if their employer withholds their passport?
A: The employee can file a complaint with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation or the police.

4. Q: What are the consequences for employers who withhold passports?
A: Employers who withhold passports can face legal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.

5. Q: Can an employer keep a passport as a condition of employment?
A: No, it is illegal to keep a passport as a condition of employment in the UAE.

6. Q: Can an employer withhold a passport for visa processing?
A: While passports may be required for visa processing, they should be returned to the employee immediately after the process is completed.

7. Q: What if the employee consents to the employer holding their passport?
A: Even with consent, it is still illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport in the UAE.

8. Q: Can an employer withhold a passport to guarantee the return of company property?
A: No, withholding a passport for any reason is considered illegal in the UAE.

9. Q: What can an employee do if they are afraid to confront their employer about their withheld passport?
A: They can seek assistance from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the police, or a legal professional.

10. Q: Are there exceptions to the law prohibiting employers from withholding passports?
A: No, there are no exceptions. It is always illegal for employers to withhold an employee’s passport in the UAE.

Conclusion

In conclusion, according to UAE law, it is illegal for an employer to withhold an employee’s passport. The passport is the personal property of its holder and unauthorized possession can be considered as an illegal act. Any employer found guilty of this can face serious legal consequences.