UAE’s workforce witnessed a 12.5% increase in 2025 compared to 10.9% in 2024. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) reveals that this trend continues into the first quarter of 2026. The growth percentage? 2.5%. Along with the workforce, the number of establishments has increased, too, a positive sign of business expansion.
The government knows exactly how to shape the working conditions here for both employees and employers to retain existing talent and invite more.
The MoHRE revises and updates its labor laws regularly to stay ahead and adapt to global shifts. One important aspect of these labor laws is the probation period. If you’re someone who wishes to work in the UAE, already has an offer in hand, or is currently on probation, knowing your rights and rules will help you navigate your career better.
This guide breaks down the meaning, rules, and rights of an employee during probation in the UAE.
Quick Glance
- The probation period cannot exceed 6 months.
- Your employer can terminate you during probation with a 14-day notice period in writing.
- Employees can terminate with 14 days’ notice if they’re leaving the UAE.
- You will have to serve a 30-day notice in writing if you want to leave your current employer and join another company in the UAE during your probation.
- Employees cannot take “paid” sick leave on probation.
- Some employees are exempted from a 1 year work permit ban upon resignation.
What Is the Probation Period?
Probation period is a “trial” employment period at the beginning of a new role. It allows the employer and employee to see if they can work together. The employer has the chance to assess the employee’s skills, performance, and fit. The employee, on the other hand, has the chance to see if the role meets their expectation.
Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 oversees various aspects of the probation period, like the duration, restriction, and termination.
Duration of Probation
The maximum duration of probation allowed by law is 6 months. Although there is no minimum period specified, it is usually 1 to 3 months. Your employer cannot extend your probation beyond 6 months because it is prohibited by law. The same employer cannot ask you for a second probation.
Once you successfully complete your probation, your employer will have to count these 6 months as part of your service towards the company.
| Term | Law |
| Maximum probation | 6 months |
| Minimum probation | Not specified (1-3 months) |
| Extension of probation period | Not allowed |
| Second probation by the same employer | Not allowed |
Employer’s Rights During Probation
The employer has the right to:
- Assess the employee’s skills.
- Terminate the employee with a written notice.
- Comply with necessary labor laws.
The employer also has to give necessary training to the employee and supervise their work to help them perform better.
Employee’s Rights During Probation
Employees have the right to:
- Receive basic salary
- Be treated equally
- Enjoy legal protection from unfair termination and exploitation
If your employer fails to comply with the rules, you can file a complaint against them.
Termination Rules During Probation
Termination during probation is very simple.
For Employers
The employer requires no specific reason to terminate an employee. However, they do need to give a notice 14 days in advance. If the employee feels they have been wrongfully terminated, they can go to the MoHRE for support.
For Employees
As an employee, you too have to give a 14-day notice period if you’re leaving the country. If you happen to come back within 3 months and join a new employer, your new employer will have to reimburse the original employer’s hiring costs.
What if you want to resign and join another company “without” leaving the UAE?
In this case, you’ll have to serve a 30-day notice period (in writing). Your new employer will have to compensate for the visa and recruitment costs paid by the old employee, unless agreed otherwise.
There’s the catch! If an employee signs a contract stating they’ll bear the cost of hiring and visa upon resignation during probation, their old employer has the right to request compensation.
Important: According to the recent changes, if you do not give a written notice, you can face a one-year ban on your new work permit.
| Termination by | Condition | Notice Period
(notice served in writing) |
| Employer | On fair grounds | 14 days |
| Employee | Wants to leave the UAE | 14 days |
| Employee | Resign and work for new company | 30 days |
Who Will Not Receive a Permit Ban?
Certain categories of employees are exempted from a one-year ban on the new work permit if they fail to serve the notice period. These are:
- People who are on a family-sponsored residency visa
- Golden visa holders
- Employees who have a UAE national as a sponsor
- Employees who apply to the same employer for a new work permit
- Employees whose skills and qualifications are in demand by the government
Leaves During Probation
Can you take a leave during your probation? Yes, you can. Will you get paid for it? Maybe not.
Sick Leaves
As per the UAE law, employees who are on probation do not get any sick leave. You can call in sick, but these leaves will be considered “unpaid” and lead to a loss of pay.
Your employer may still give you partially paid leave, depending on their internal policy. However, you will need to show a valid medical certificate for approval.
Annual Leaves
By law, you can use some of your annual leave during the probation period as per the contract. However, your employer has to “approve” it. They can choose to deny it.
Gratuity
Employees are eligible for gratuity or end-of-service benefits only after they complete 1 year of service. You can use a gratuity calculator to calculate the same. Your probation is considered in your service term if you complete it successfully.
If you resign during probation, you will be eligible for compensation for the time you’ve worked. You can also receive payment for any unused annual leave earned during the probation period.
Final Word
UAE’s probation laws ensure fair practice by both the employees and the employers. Your employer is responsible for clearly stating all the terms in your contract, complying with payroll and wage systems (Wage Protection System), and being transparent.
As an employee, it is your duty to check the contract thoroughly before signing, understand all terms, and follow the protocols. If you feel you’ve been wronged by your employer, you can approach the MoHRE to resolve the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave a company during the probation period in the UAE?
Yes, you can resign during probation. If you’re leaving the UAE, you need to give a 14-day notice. A 30-day notice is necessary if you’re leaving the company to join another company in the UAE.
How much is the probation period in the UAE?
The probation period in the UAE should not exceed 6 months. Your employer cannot extend the probation period or ask you to serve a second probation.
Can I resign immediately after the probation period?
Yes, you can resign immediately after the probation period. You will have to serve a 30-90-day notice period as mentioned in your contract.
