UAE Employment Contracts Guide

Understanding employment contract types, requirements, and registration procedures under UAE labour law.

Understanding UAE Employment Contracts

An employment contract in the UAE is a legally binding agreement between an employer and an employee that establishes the terms and conditions of employment. Under the new UAE labour law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021), all employment contracts must be limited-term (fixed-term) contracts with a maximum duration of three years.

The contract must be written in Arabic (with an optional translation) and registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) within 14 days of the employee starting work. Both parties must retain a copy of the signed contract.

Mandatory Contract Elements

• Employer and Employee Details: Full names, nationalities, and identification numbers
• Job Title and Description: Clear definition of role and responsibilities
• Workplace Location: Address where work will be performed
• Contract Duration: Start date and end date (maximum 3 years)
• Salary and Benefits: Basic salary, allowances, and payment frequency
• Working Hours: Daily and weekly working hour limits
• Leave Entitlements: Annual, sick, and other leave provisions
• Notice Period: Duration required for termination (30-90 days)
• Probation Period: Duration if applicable (maximum 6 months)

Contract Termination

Either party may terminate the contract by providing the agreed notice period (minimum 30 days, maximum 90 days). The terminating party must provide written notice. During the notice period, the employee is entitled to one day off per week to search for new employment while continuing to receive full salary and benefits.

Employers may terminate without notice in cases of gross misconduct as defined by Article 44 of the labour law, while employees may leave immediately if the employer breaches contract terms or workplace safety is compromised.