How long is probation under UAE Labour Law?

Under UAE Labour Law, the probation period cannot exceed six months from the employee's start date ^[1]. During probation, either the employer or employee may terminate the relationship under specific conditions, and successful completion transitions the employee to full statutory protection ^[1].

Key rules on probation

The maximum probation period in the UAE private sector is six months, calculated from the first day of employment ^[1]. This cap cannot be exceeded, even by mutual agreement — although the employer and employee may agree in writing to extend probation within that overall six-month limit ^[1]. An employee cannot be placed on probation more than once with the same employer.

During probation

While the employee is on probation, the employment relationship is more flexible: either party may terminate the contract without the standard cause requirements that apply to confirmed employees ^[1]. Specific notice rules apply to termination during probation under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (these differ from the general 30–90 day notice rule that applies to post-probation termination of an ongoing contract) ^[4]. The framework is designed to let employers assess suitability while giving employees flexibility in the early phase of employment ^[1].

After probation

Once the six-month probation is successfully completed, the employee gains full entitlement to statutory benefits and protections ^[1]. This includes the standard notice periods for termination of 30–90 days ^[4], 30 calendar days of annual leave after completing one year of service ^[8], and end-of-service gratuity calculated at 21 days' basic wage per year for the first five years and 30 days per year thereafter, capped at two years' total wage ^[5].

Important caveats

These rules apply to onshore private-sector employment governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. Employees in DIFC and ADGM free zones are governed by separate employment laws with their own probation rules, which are not covered in the sources provided here. If you work in a financial free zone, the onshore six-month cap may not apply.

For advice tailored to your situation, consult a licensed UAE lawyer.

Citations: ^[1] Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, Article 19 (FDL-33-2021 Article 19) — probation period ^[4] Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (FDL-33-2021) — termination notice (30–90 days) ^[5] Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (FDL-33-2021) — end-of-service gratuity ^[8] Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (FDL-33-2021) — annual leave