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Emirates 24|7 reported that Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 sets the probation period at no more than six months from an employee’s start date with the same employer unable to impose it more than once on any individual. The publication noted that time spent on probation counts toward total service for calculating end-of-service benefits leave entitlements and other rights once the worker completes the trial successfully. A legal review published by The Law Reporters confirmed that any attempt to extend probation beyond six months remains unenforceable under the statute.
According to the same Emirates 24|7 article an employer seeking to end a contract during probation must provide at least 14 days written notice before the termination date. The outlet added that employees retain full protections including salary payment and safe working conditions throughout the probation phase. Legal experts consulted by the publication stressed that the contract stays valid and enforceable from day one.
Emirates 24|7 detailed two distinct notice obligations for employees who resign while on probation. Those planning to join another employer within the UAE must deliver one month’s written notice to their current company after which the new employer typically compensates the original for recruitment costs unless both parties agree otherwise. Workers intending to leave the UAE face a shorter 14-day written notice requirement before their departure.
The report from Emirates 24|7 explained that failure to observe these notice rules can trigger a one-year restriction on obtaining a new work permit for foreign employees. It added that if a worker exits the country during probation and returns within three months for fresh employment the incoming employer may bear responsibility for the compensation payment. A separate analysis on uae.hrsgonline.com reiterated that the one-month notice applies specifically when transferring to another local firm while the 14-day rule governs departure from the country.
Annual leave entitlements begin to accrue once an employee surpasses six months of service with workers eligible for two days of paid leave per month during the balance of their first year according to related guidance carried by Emirates 24|7. The outlet stated that any unused leave balance must be paid out upon resignation regardless of whether the exit occurs after probation. This provision aligns with broader rules under the 2021 decree that prevent employers from denying accrued leave beyond two consecutive years.
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 which took effect in 2022 continues to govern these procedures without major amendments entering 2026 multiple law firm summaries including those from Al Kabban & Associates confirmed. The framework aims to give both sides an opportunity to evaluate the employment fit while safeguarding against abrupt disruptions. Employers and workers alike must document all notices in writing to avoid disputes over compliance with the statutory timelines.
