What Is the Maximum Probation Period in UAE and Your Rights?

Key Takeaways

• UAE labour law is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021
• Employees and employers both have specific rights and obligations under the law
• MOHRE handles labour disputes and can be contacted for complaints
• Understanding your rights is essential for a fair working relationship

UAE probation period cannot exceed 6 months and cannot be extended under any circumstances according to Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Employers must provide 14 days written notice before termination during probation, while employees need 14 days notice to leave UAE or 30 days notice to change jobs within UAE.Understanding UAE Probation Period FrameworkThe probation period serves

as an evaluation phase for both employers and employees to assess job suitability and workplace compatibility. Under UAE Labour Law, this period provides structured protection whilst allowing flexibility for employment decisions.The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) enforces probation period regulations to ensure fair treatment of workers while protecting legitimate business interests

during the initial employment phase.Maximum Probation Period LimitsLegal Duration RestrictionsMaximum Duration: 6 months from employment start date Extension Prohibition: Cannot be extended beyond 6 months under any circumstances Single Application: Each employer can only apply probation period once per employee Automatic Conversion: Successful completion makes employment permanentEmployer ObligationsWritten

Contract: Probation terms must be clearly stated in employment contract Duration Specification: Exact probation period length must be documented Legal Compliance: Cannot impose probation periods exceeding legal limits Performance Assessment: Must evaluate employee performance fairly during probationEmployee Rights During Probation PeriodNotice Period RequirementsEmployer Termination: Must provide

14 days written notice before dismissal Employee Resignation (UAE Exit): Must give 14 days written notice to employer Job Change Within UAE: Must provide 30 days written notice to current employer Emergency Situations: Can leave without notice under Article 121 conditionsLeave Entitlements During ProbationSick Leave: Available as unpaid leave with employer approval and medical certificate Annual Leave:

Subject to employer approval, typically unpaid during probation Public Holidays: Entitled to paid time off during official UAE holidays Emergency Leave: Unpaid leave may be granted for urgent family situationsSalary and Benefits ProtectionRegular Salary: Must receive agreed salary throughout probation period Overtime Pay: Entitled to overtime compensation if applicable Public Holiday Pay: Full payment

for work on official holidays Health Insurance: Employer must provide mandatory health coverageTermination Rules During ProbationEmployer-Initiated TerminationWritten Notice: Minimum 14 days advance written notification required Performance Basis: Termination should be based on legitimate performance concerns No Gratuity: Employee not entitled to end-of-service benefits if terminated during probation

Final Settlement: Must receive outstanding salary and unused leave paymentEmployee-Initiated ResignationStandard Notice: 14 days for leaving UAE, 30 days for job cha...

About This Article

This article provides general information about UAE labour law and employment regulations. The information is based on Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and subsequent amendments. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional or contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).