Probation period in the UAE: length, notice and resigning early

In the UAE, a probation period can last up to 6 months from your first day. An employer can put you on probation only once. During probation, your employer can end your job with at least 14 days’ written notice. You can resign with at least 1 month’s notice if you are moving to another UAE employer, or at least 14 days’ notice if you are leaving the UAE.

These rules are in Article 9 of the UAE labour law, Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. For your other rights, see our UAE labour law guide.

How long is probation in the UAE?

Probation can be up to 6 months. Your contract says how long yours is. It can be shorter, but not longer.

Two more rules protect you:

• Only once: an employer cannot put the same worker on probation twice.
• It counts as service: probation is part of your time with the company. It counts toward your gratuity once you reach one year.

When you pass probation, your contract simply carries on under its agreed terms.

Can probation be extended beyond 6 months?

No. The law sets a 6-month maximum in total. If your employer wants to change the length set in your contract, it needs your agreement, and it still cannot go past 6 months.

Notice during probation

Who ends the job	Notice needed
Your employer	At least 14 days, in writing
You, to join another employer in the UAE	At least 1 month, in writing
You, to leave the UAE	At least 14 days, in writing

After probation, the normal notice of 30 to 90 days applies. See resignation and notice period in the UAE.

Resigning during probation to join another company

If you leave during probation to work for another UAE employer, the new employer must pay your old employer back for your recruitment or hiring costs, unless they agree otherwise.

If you leave the UAE during probation and then come back to work for a new employer within 3 months, the new employer may have to pay your old employer’s recruitment costs too.

If you leave without giving the required notice, you may be blocked from getting a new work permit for a period. Give notice in writing and keep a copy.

Leave during probation

Annual leave: you start earning 2 days a month once you pass 6 months of service. Your employer can still agree to give you leave earlier. See annual leave in the UAE.

Sick leave: the law gives no paid sick leave during probation. If you are ill, tell your employer and give a medical report. Your employer can give you unpaid sick leave. See sick leave in the UAE.

Your pay and rights during probation

You get the full salary in your contract. You also have the same basic rights as any other worker: a MOHRE work permit, the legal limits on working hours, and payment within the Wage Protection System.

Your employer cannot charge you for your visa or work permit, during probation or after. See UAE labour card.

What if you are let go during probation?

Your employer must give you 14 days’ written notice and pay your salary for that time. You are owed any salary for days worked and pay for any leave you earned. You do not get gratuity, because it needs at least one year of service.

Your visa will be cancelled. Check your grace period so you avoid overstay fines.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum probation period in the UAE?

6 months from your first day of work.

Can I resign during probation in the UAE?

Yes. Give at least 1 month’s written notice if you are joining another UAE employer, or 14 days if you are leaving the UAE.

Can my employer extend my probation?

Only up to the 6-month limit. It cannot go longer, and you cannot be put on probation twice by the same employer.

Do I get sick leave during probation?

Not paid sick leave. Your employer can give unpaid sick leave if you give a medical report.

Does probation count for gratuity?

Yes. Probation counts as service. Once you complete one year, it is included.

Can my employer fire me without notice during probation?

No. Your employer must give at least 14 days’ written notice, unless you did something that allows dismissal without notice under Article 44.