Probation Period in the UAE: Rules & Rights

The probation period is where many UAE employment questions arise, because the notice rules differ from those after confirmation. Here's what current labour law sets out.

Maximum length

Probation may not exceed six months. An employer cannot extend probation beyond this, and an employee cannot be placed on a second probation period for the same role.

Ending probation early

The notice rules during probation are specific and often surprise people:

• Employer ends it: at least 14 days' written notice.
• Employee leaves to join another UAE employer: at least one month's notice; the new employer may be required to compensate the former employer.
• Employee leaves the UAE entirely: at least 14 days' notice.

Gratuity and probation

If employment ends during or at the end of probation without confirmation, the employee does not qualify for end-of-service gratuity, which only accrues after completing at least one year of continuous service.

Start new hires on the right foot

Accurate records from day one make probation reviews fair and simple. TimeChart tracks attendance and performance from the first day, so confirmation decisions are based on real data.