Petrofac Employees Face Uncertain Future

Uncertain Future for Petrofac's Former Employees: 19 Days' Salary Received, Final Settlement Still Questionable

Many employees of the UAE-based company Petrofac were laid off on November 19th. Although they have now received partial payment for 19 days in November, questions regarding the final settlement remain unanswered. The affected employees are living in significant uncertainty and are facing legal, financial, and personal consequences while they await the company's next move.

Only Partial Payment Made

Employees were previously informed that November 19th would be their last working day. Accordingly, they were paid for these 19 days. This partial amount provided temporary relief for some, but their salary for a three-month notice period, to which they believe they are entitled under UAE labor regulations, is still in question. Most feel the current payment is only partial and does not reflect the full compensation they deserve.

What Are They Entitled To?

According to employees, the company should pay for a three-month notice period in case of termination, the same as if they had resigned themselves. This three-month period is particularly important for long-term residents in the UAE who have regular expenses such as rent, school fees, loans, and other household costs.

Several former employees stated that the current situation has created an increased level of stress for their families. The uncertainty of whether the remaining two months and 11 days' salary will arrive makes financial planning impossible.

Promise of the Final Settlement

The company informed those affected that a complete settlement—including conversion of leave, non-returnable benefits, any potential severance, airfare costs, and all other obligations—would be made within 14 days. They are promised an official settlement document by December 3rd.

However, the dismissed workers emphasize that as long as they do not see an official statement or contract-based settlement, they can only speculate. Without clear, written communication, they are unable to plan for the coming months or how to cover their expenses during the transition period.

Employees Ask for Patience, but Legal Action Might Be Considered

While many still hope that Petrofac will meet all its commitments, some are already seeking legal advice. UAE labor regulations are quite strict about termination and settlement. Long-term employees believe that payment for the three-month notice period is not only an ethical but a legal obligation.

Many have lived in the country for years, have their children in local schools, live in leased homes, and have various financial commitments, such as car loans or health insurance subscriptions. In such a situation, partial salary is not a real help, only temporary relief.

Waiting Quietly – Communication Gaps

The employees say the biggest issue is the lack of communication. Central phone lines of the company are not responding, and no official statement has been issued so far. Several former employees have tried to contact the company but have been left without answers.

This only increases uncertainty and concern. People miss not only the overdue sums but also the basic fair treatment expected during a reorganization or dismissal.

Petrofac's Situation

Petrofac has made headlines several times recently. The company has faced several structural and financial challenges, leading to reorganizations and layoffs. This case is particularly sensitive because it is not just about the rationality behind business decisions but about the livelihoods of thousands of people.

Employees do not dispute the company's right to reorganize or cut costs, but they expect compliance with the laws and contractual terms that apply to them.

What Might Happen in the Coming Days?

If the final settlement promised by December 3rd will indeed be detailed and satisfactory, it could alleviate the severity of the situation. Most employees hope that the company will at least retrospectively settle the outstanding obligations and close the employment relationships fairly despite the delays.

However, if payments do not occur or fail to comply with regulations, it is likely that some employees will take legal action—especially those who have been with the company for a long time and who are entitled to significant severance or accumulated leave conversion.

Summary

The situation of Petrofac's former employees shows how closely financial and human factors are intertwined during a corporate reorganization. The payment for 19 days brought only temporary relief to the employees, while the lack of a final settlement represents a significant financial and mental burden. The coming days could be decisive in how the company handles the situation and how much it respects UAE labor regulations.

(Source of the article based on Petrofac layoffs.)