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Notice period rules in the UAE.
Length: set by your contract, with a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 90 days under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021.
In writing: notice should be given in writing and dated. Email works; many companies also ask for a signed letter.
During the notice period: the contract continues, and you are paid your full wage for the days you work.
Shortening it: you and your employer can agree in writing to waive or shorten the notice period.
Not serving notice: the side that ends the contract without the required notice may have to pay compensation equal to the wage for the notice period, or for the part of it not served.
During probation: an employee moving to another UAE employer gives one month's written notice, and an employee leaving the UAE gives 14 days. An employer ending the contract during probation gives 14 days' notice. Probation cannot exceed six months.
Notice period, gratuity and leave.
Resigning does not cost you your gratuity in the UAE: with at least one year of continuous service you receive the full amount. Earned leave you have not taken is paid out on basic salary. Estimate both with the gratuity calculator and the leave salary calculator, and give notice with the resignation letter templates.
This page is general guidance. Free zones such as DIFC and ADGM have their own employment laws, and your contract and MOHRE are the authoritative sources. Ready for the next role? Browse open jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the notice period in the UAE?
The period in your contract, which must be between 30 and 90 days under the UAE Labour Law. It applies whether you resign or your employer ends the contract.
What is the notice period during probation in the UAE?
One month if you are moving to another UAE employer, 14 days if you are leaving the UAE, and 14 days if your employer ends the contract.
Can I leave before my notice period ends?
Only if your employer agrees in writing. Otherwise you may have to pay compensation equal to the wage for the notice days you do not serve.
Do I get paid during my notice period?
Yes. The contract continues during the notice period and you receive your full wage for it.
Notice period in the UAE: the rules and your last working day.
Under the UAE Labour Law, the notice period is whatever your contract says, between 30 and 90 days, whether you resign or your employer ends the contract. During probation, you give one month's notice to move to another UAE employer, or 14 days to leave the country. Notice must be in writing, and you keep working and are paid in full until it ends.
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