Yes, but only if they are reasonable in scope. The UAE Labour Law allows non-compete clauses where the employee's role gives access to the employer's clients or trade secrets, provided the restriction is reasonable in three dimensions:
Quick answer: Non-compete clauses are enforceable in UAE if reasonable in geography, duration (max 2 years), and activity scope. They must protect legitimate business in
Yes, but only if they are reasonable in scope. The UAE Labour Law allows non-compete clauses where the employee's role gives access to the employer's clients or trade secrets, provided the restriction is reasonable in three dimensions:
What courts look at:
What the employer cannot do:
The employee's remedy if a non-compete is being abused: refuse to sign new restrictive amendments, document the access provided to assess scope, and consult a UAE-licensed lawyer to negotiate or challenge enforceability.
Sub-questions our research cluster pulls together — each links to its full Tier-B/C answer.
UAE sick leave: 90 days/year after probation. Days 1-15 paid in full, days 16-45 half pay, days 46-90 unpaid. Requires 3-day notice and UAE medical certificate.
Standard notice is 30–90 days written notice (must be set in contract). The other party can pay in lieu. Probation termination requires 14 days.
Yes. Employer must give 14 days written notice. No gratuity if under 1 year. Discriminatory or retaliatory dismissal can still be challenged at MOHRE.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice tailored to your specific situation, consult a UAE-licensed lawyer.
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