Workers at an unnamed construction company in Abu Dhabi have been repeatedly protesting against months of unpaid wages. In July 2019 it was reported that hundreds workers were downing tools and refusing to work in protest.

By December 2019, reporting stated that workers from other companies were involved; subcontracted employees were being encouraged to protest alongside unpaid workers in solidarity. Subcontractors have reportedly told their employees not to work until the issue of payment from the main contractor is resolved.

Witnesses allege that there have been violent altercations between unpaid workers and paid employees who have continued to work for other subcontractors. Police have been dispersing the protests and fights.