UAE Probation Review Guide
Complete guide to employee probation reviews in the UAE. Learn about legal requirements, review templates, assessment criteria, extension and termination procedures under UAE Labor Law.
Quick Summary: Complete guide to employee probation reviews in the UAE. Learn about legal requirements, review templates, assessment criteria, extension and termination procedures under UAE Labor Law.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Basis | Article 9, Federal Decree-Law 33/2021 |
| Maximum Duration | 6 months |
| Extension | Once, for same period |
| Notice (Employee) | 14 days minimum |
| Notice (Employer) | 30 days minimum |
UAE Probation Law
Key Legal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum period | 6 months |
| Must be in contract | Written, agreed at start |
| Only once per employer | Cannot repeat if rehired |
| Extension | Once, with employee agreement |
| Termination notice | Required by both parties |
Notice Period During Probation
| Party | Minimum Notice |
|---|---|
| Employee terminating | 14 days |
| Employee leaving UAE | 1 month |
| Employer terminating | 30 days |
Probation Review Process
| Review | When | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 30-day | End of month 1 | Initial check |
| 60-day | End of month 2 | Progress review |
| 90-day | End of month 3 | Mid-probation |
| 120-day | End of month 4 | Detailed assessment |
| Final | Before probation ends | Confirmation decision |
Setting Probation Expectations
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Role clarity | Job responsibilities |
| Performance standards | What success looks like |
| Probation duration | 3 or 6 months |
| Review schedule | When assessments occur |
| Support available | Training, resources |
| Who to ask | Questions, help |
Review Templates
Assessment Criteria
Performance Criteria
| Criteria | What to Assess |
|---|---|
| Job knowledge | Understanding of role |
| Quality | Accuracy, thoroughness |
| Productivity | Output, efficiency |
| Problem-solving | Handling challenges |
| Technical skills | Role-specific abilities |
Behavioral Criteria
| Criteria | What to Assess |
|---|---|
| Attendance | Present, punctual |
| Reliability | Dependable, consistent |
| Communication | Clear, professional |
| Teamwork | Collaboration |
| Initiative | Proactive, engaged |
| Adaptability | Flexible, learning |
Decision Making
| Performance | Behavior | Attendance | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good | Good | Good | Confirm |
| Good | Issues | Good | Discuss, may confirm |
| Issues | Good | Good | Consider extension |
| Good | Good | Issues | Address, may confirm |
| Issues | Issues | Any | Consider termination |
Probation Extension
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum extension | Same as original period |
| Employee agreement | Must agree in writing |
| Documentation | Clear reasons |
| Only once | Cannot extend again |
Termination During Probation
| Requirement | Employer | Employee |
|---|---|---|
| Written notice | 30 days | 14 days |
| Reason required | Recommended | Not required |
| Gratuity | Pro-rata if more than 1 year | Pro-rata if more than 1 year |
| Notice pay | Can be paid in lieu | Can be paid in lieu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Automate Probation Tracking
NeuralHR provides automated probation reminders, digital review templates, secure document storage, and deadline alerts.
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NeuralHR Team
VerifiedUAE HR Compliance Experts
Our team of HR professionals and legal experts specializes in UAE labor law compliance, with extensive experience helping businesses navigate MOHRE regulations, Emiratisation requirements, and workforce management in the UAE and GCC region.
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