UAE Probation Period Rules: Complete Employer Guide

Maximum Length

• Maximum: 6 months from date of commencement
• Cannot be extended beyond 6 months
• Cannot be renewed with same employer
• Must be specified in employment contract

Illegal Practices

The following are not permitted:

• Probation longer than 6 months
• Extending probation beyond initial period
• Multiple probation periods with same employer
• Probation without written contract specification

Termination by Employer

Key Change: The 2021 law increased employer notice from 1 day to 14 days.

Termination by Employee (Leaving UAE)

Termination by Employee (Changing Jobs in UAE)

Compensation for Non-Compliance

If either party terminates without proper notice:

Compensation = Employee's wage for notice period not served

Example: Employee leaves without giving 14-day notice

• Daily wage: AED 500
• Compensation owed: AED 500 x 14 = AED 7,000

Recruitment Cost Compensation

When employee changes jobs within UAE during probation:

• New employer compensates previous employer
• Covers recruitment costs incurred
• Amount based on actual documented costs
• Unless waived by agreement

2021 Law Changes

Entitled To

Not Entitled To (or Limited)

Current Rule

Employees are not entitled to paid sick leave during probation period.

What Employer May Offer

• Unpaid sick leave (at employer's discretion)
• Must be based on medical report from authorized facility
• Employer can grant paid sick leave voluntarily

Documentation Required

If sick during probation:

• Obtain medical certificate
• Inform employer within 3 days
• Leave may be unpaid unless employer agrees otherwise

Annual Leave During Probation

• Annual leave begins accruing from day one
• Generally not taken during probation
• Employer may grant leave at discretion
• Accrued leave carries forward if employment continues

Confirmation Process

1. Evaluation: Employer assesses employee performance
2. Decision: Confirm, extend role, or terminate
3. Communication: Written confirmation recommended
4. Effective date: Day after probation ends

If No Communication

If employer takes no action at end of probation:

• Employee is deemed confirmed
• Full employment rights apply
• Notice period as per contract (30-90 days)

Termination at End of Probation

During Probation

1. Document performance: Keep records of feedback and issues
2. Provide feedback: Regular check-ins with employee
3. Set expectations: Clear goals and metrics
4. Prepare early: Decide before probation ends

For Termination

1. Give proper notice: Always 14 days written
2. Document reasons: Even though not legally required
3. Process settlement promptly: Within 14 days
4. Assist with visa: Ensure proper cancellation

Contract Clause Example

The Employee shall be on probation for a period of six (6) months
commencing from [Start Date]. During this period, either party may
terminate this contract by providing fourteen (14) days written notice,
or thirty (30) days written notice if the Employee intends to join
another employer in the UAE.