Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Ending a job in the UAE is governed by clear rules under the UAE Labour Law, which outlines when and how employment contracts can be terminated, as well as the rights of both workers and employers. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand your rights, obligations and options.

When can a job contract be terminated?

Under Article 42 of the Labour Law, an employment contract may end in several situations: • Both employer and employee agree in writing to end it • The contract expires and is not renewed • Either party decides to terminate it, following the agreed notice period • The employer or worker dies (in certain cases) • The worker becomes permanently unable to work • The worker is sentenced to at least three months in prison • The company shuts down • The company becomes insolvent or faces any economic or exceptional reasons that prevent the continuation of business • The worker can no longer renew a work permit for reasons beyond the employer’s control In short, contracts can end either by agreement, expiry, or legal grounds.

What is the required notice period?

Article 43 states that either party can terminate a contract “for any legitimate reason,” but must: • Give written notice • Observe a notice period of 30 to 90 days During this period: • The employee continues working as usual • Full salary must be paid • If notice is not served, compensation must be paid instead If the employer ends the contract, the worker is also entitled to one day off per week during the notice period to look for a new job. The notice period can be shortened if both parties agree.

Can an employer terminate a worker without notice?

Yes, but only in specific cases listed under Article 44, including if the employee: • Uses fake identity or forged documents • Causes serious financial loss or damages company property • Violates workplace safety rules • Repeatedly fails to perform duties despite warnings • Leaks confidential company information • Is intoxicated or commits immoral acts at work • Assaults colleagues or management • Is absent without valid reason (more than 20 intermittent days or 7 consecutive days) • Misuses position for personal gain • Joins another employer without following proper procedures The employer must conduct a written investigation and provide a justified dismissal notice.

Can an employee resign without notice?

Under Article 45, employees can leave immediately and still keep their end-of-service benefits if the employer: • Fails to meet contractual or legal obligations • Assaults or harasses the worker • Forces the worker to do a different job without consent • Fails to address serious safety risks In some cases, the employee must notify Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) before resigning.

What is arbitrary dismissal?

Article 47 defines arbitrary dismissal as terminating a worker for filing a legitimate complaint or lawsuit. For example, if an employee reports an issue to MoHRE and is fired because of it, the dismissal may be considered unlawful. If proven: • The court may award compensation of up to three months’ salary • The employee can still claim gratuity, notice pay and other dues Workers can file complaints through MoHRE, which will first try to resolve the issue amicably before referring it to court.

Can you switch jobs after termination?

Yes, in many cases. According to UAE regulations, workers can move to a new employer if: • The contract has ended or expired • The employee resigns legally • The employer terminates the worker without fault After a contract ends, workers are given a grace period to either: • Find a new job and secure a work permit, or • Leave the country Authorities like MoHRE and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) manage these processes.

When can a worker be banned from getting a new work permit?

In some cases, a one-year work ban may apply if: • The worker resigns during probation without employer fault • A “work abandonment” report is proven true The UAE Labour Law provides structured rules to protect both employees and employers. Whether you are resigning or being terminated, understanding notice periods, valid reasons and your legal rights can help you avoid disputes and make informed decisions. ICA/CAM/Expat Media | Source: Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
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