When working in the UAE’s private sector, it’s important to understand the rules regarding the notice period for job termination. Whether you’re switching jobs or have been terminated, these rules apply as per the UAE Labour Law – Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021.
Key Points About the Notice Period
The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) 
- Duration: The notice period must be at least 30 days and no more than 90 days.
- Duties: Employees must continue fulfilling their job duties during the notice period.
- Compensation for Non-Compliance: If either party does not comply with the notice period, they must compensate the other party with a notice allowance payment.
- Notice Allowance Payment: This payment equals the full wage or a proportionate amount for the remaining notice period.
- Job Search Leave: If the employer terminates the contract, the employee is entitled to one unpaid day off per week during the notice period to search for a new job, with at least three days’ notice.
- Calculation of Notice Allowance: The notice allowance is based on the worker’s most recent wage, whether it’s monthly, weekly, daily, or hourly.
- Piece-Rate Workers: For workers paid by piece-rate, the notice allowance is determined by their average daily wage.
Exceptions to Serving the Notice Period
In some situations, employees can resign without serving the notice period. This is possible if the employer has not fulfilled certain rights or if the workplace is unsafe.
Knowing these rules ensures that both employers and employees handle job terminations fairly and according to the law.