Probation Period in UAE: What Employers Can and Cannot Do

What counts as a probation period in the UAE

Under 2026 Labour Law, a probation period is the first part of an employment contract where both sides test the working relationship. It cannot exceed six months for any role. The period must be written in the contract; otherwise the employee is treated as confirmed from day one.

During probation the employee still receives the agreed basic salary plus any allowances stated in the offer letter. Health insurance arranged through the employer must also be active from the first day of work.

What employers can legally do

Employers may end the contract during probation with seven calendar days written notice. They do not owe end-of-service gratuity for the probation months. They can also extend the probation once, provided the total time never exceeds the six-month cap and the employee agrees in writing.

If the employee is moving to a new visa status, the employer must still complete the medical fitness test and Emirates ID process within the normal ICP timelines, even while the person is on probation.

What employers cannot do

Employers cannot make the probation longer than six months or apply it more than once to the same person in the same company. They cannot withhold salary, overtime, or annual-leave accrual during this time. Deducting recruitment costs from the final pay cheque is also prohibited.

Termination without the required seven-day notice or without a written reason can be challenged at MOHRE. The ministry may order payment of the missing notice period plus any unpaid wages.

Employee rights if terminated in probation

Anyone let go during probation is entitled to a visa cancellation within 60 days and a new-job search period if they hold a valid work permit. The employer must issue the labour card cancellation receipt and pay any outstanding salary within 14 days.

If the employee resigns during probation, they must also give seven calendar days notice. No fine is payable to the employer, but the employee loses the right to claim notice pay from the company.

How to protect yourself before signing

Read the exact wording of the probation clause. Confirm the start and end dates are listed and that total time does not exceed six months. Keep copies of the signed contract, offer letter, and all salary transfer receipts.

If the contract is silent on notice during probation, the seven-day rule still applies under federal law. Ask HR to add the sentence in writing if it is missing.

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