UAE Probation and Notice Period Rules Explained

By Ammar Aslam · Updated September 29, 2026

Probation and notice periods are common sources of confusion for new employees in the UAE. Here is what the 2021 UAE Labour Law says.

Probation period

• Probation can be up to 6 months.
• It must be stated in the employment contract.
• An employee can be on probation only once with the same employer.

Leaving during probation

If an employee leaves during probation to join another UAE employer, the new employer may have to compensate the old employer for recruitment costs unless agreed otherwise. If an employee leaves the UAE during probation and returns within three months to work for another employer, similar rules can apply.

Notice period after probation

• Either side can end an unlimited contract with written notice.
• The notice period is agreed in the contract, but must be at least 30 days and no more than 90 days.
• You are paid your full wage during the notice period.
• If notice is not served, the party that ends the contract may owe compensation equal to the wage for the notice period (or the unserved part).

Notice and gratuity

The notice period counts as part of your service. If your last working day moves because of notice, use the final date in our UAE gratuity calculator. Remember you need at least one year of continuous service for gratuity.

Tips

• Always give and request notice in writing, and keep a copy.
• Read the notice clause in your MOHRE-registered contract, not just the offer letter.
• If you have a dispute, contact MOHRE.

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