Most UAE jobs start with probation. Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 sets out how long it can last and how either side can end the contract during it.
How long
Probation can be up to 6 months from your first day of work and cannot be extended beyond that.
Ending the contract during probation
| Who and why | Minimum written notice |
|---|---|
| Employer ends the contract | 14 days |
| You resign to join another UAE employer | 1 month |
| You resign to leave the UAE | 14 days |
Recruitment costs
If you move to another UAE employer during probation, the new employer compensates your first employer for recruitment costs, unless agreed otherwise. If you leave the UAE and come back to join a new employer within 3 months, the same applies.
Leave and gratuity
- No paid sick leave during probation; unpaid sick leave may be approved.
- If you stay on after probation, the probation months count towards your service for gratuity and annual leave.
Worked example
Joined 1 July 2026 with 6 months' probation: it ends on 31 December 2026. Resigning on 1 October to join another UAE company means your earliest last day is 1 November 2026.
Not following the rules
A worker who leaves without following these notice rules can face a one-year ban on a new work permit. Some workers, such as those on family or Golden Visas, are exempt.
Sources
- Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations
- Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 (Executive Regulations)
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
Want the exact figure for your case?
Check your probation dates