A notice period offers you this buffer time between saying your farewell to your old job and actually walking out the door. Your final salary, benefits, and even how smoothly you can move to your next opportunity is impacted by it.
Still, such an important part where you transition from one workplace to the next one, many people still remain curious and nervous on the subject. It is quite likely because they don’t know the rules and what a notice period actually entails.
That’s why we have taken upon ourselves to discuss this in today’s blog post. In 2025, the notice period in UAE has clear rules under the law and we will be covering them all.
Working in the UAE: Key Employment Insights
With people coming from all over the world to work in finance, tech, construction, healthcare, and beyond, UAE’s job market is way more diverse. With this mix of industries and talent, employment rules need to be simple so everyone is on the same page.
For anyone who is on a limited contract, an unlimited one, or just entering their probation, the law sets standards to protect both you and your employer.
Importance of understanding notice period rules in 2025
You don’t want to resign one day and realize your employer is still counting on you for 30 more. Or worse, skip the notice period and lose part of your end-of-service benefits.
Knowing your rights and obligations makes transitions easier. As we go even in more detail on this topic, you will see how notice periods vary depending on your contract type, your probation, and whether you’re resigning or being let go.
Notice Period in UAE Jobs: What It Really Means
The notice period is the time between when you or your employer announces the end of the contract and the day the job officially ends. It’s there to give both sides breathing space. Employees get time to prepare for their next step, and employers can plan to hire or redistribute work.
Why notice periods exist for both employers and employees
Employers don’t want sudden resignations leaving projects hanging, and employees deserve a smooth exit rather than a rushed departure. This balance is why notice periods are part of every contract. The time also ensures your salary and benefits are calculated correctly, preventing last-minute disputes.
Legal vs. contractual notice periods
There’s a difference between what the law requires and what your contract states. The UAE labour law sets the minimum, but contracts can go beyond it if both sides agree. That means you might have a longer notice period than the legal minimum, but never shorter.
Standard Notice Periods in the UAE
In this section, we will discuss what the standard notice period looks like, what’s the minimum time period for a notice period to last, where it differs from sector to sector or for various job levels, and how it is different or similar when it follows a resignation or a termination:
What is the minimum notice period in UAE jobs?
Under UAE law, the standard notice period is usually 30 days, but it can stretch up to 90 days depending on your role and contract. You’ll always need to serve at least the minimum required by law, which sets a base standard for everyone. This ties into other employment factors like the minimum wage in UAE, ensuring workers have a safety net while they transition.
Differences based on job level or sector
A senior executive might be required to serve a 90-day notice period, while an entry-level role might stick to 30. Sectors like healthcare or education sometimes ask for longer notice due to the nature of the work.
Notice period for resignation vs. termination
If you resign, you need to follow the agreed notice. If your employer terminates you, they must also give you the same notice or pay you in lieu of it. Both sides are bound by fairness, though there are exceptions during probation which we’ll dive into next.
Notice Period During Probation in 2025
We use this section to discuss one of the most asked questions about notice periods: what happens when you are on your probation?
Updated probation rules in 2025
Probation isn’t just a “trial run” anymore. It has clear rules. In 2025, probation typically lasts up to six months, and both employees and employers must serve notice during this period, though shorter than after confirmation.
Employer vs. employee notice requirements during probation
Employers need to give at least 14 days’ notice if they want to end the contract during probation. Employees, on the other hand, usually give 30 days if they plan to leave, especially if they’re moving to another UAE employer.
Can an employee resign during probation
Yes, but there’s a catch. The notice period in UAE during probation is shorter than after confirmation. If you’re relocating abroad, the notice is usually 14 days. If you’re switching jobs within the UAE, it’s longer to prevent sudden gaps in the workforce.
International relocation during probation and notice implications
Planning to take a job abroad? You’ll need to give your employer proper notice so they can finalize your paperwork and cancel your visa without issues. This prevents legal or immigration problems later.
Best Practices for Serving Your Notice Period
These are some of the best practices you should always follow when you are on your notice period.
Tips for employees
Serve your notice gracefully. Complete pending tasks, hand over responsibilities properly, and keep relationships positive. You never know when you might need a reference. Remember, your salary during notice period in UAE is still yours, so work until your final day to avoid deductions.
Advice for employers
For employers, use the notice period wisely. Document the handover, train replacements, and calculate the employee’s dues in advance. This reduces friction and sets the stage for a clean exit.
Final Settlements and End-of-Service Benefits
In this section, we discuss when exactly your final dues get paid and what happens with the calculation of unused leave, gratuity, and other entitlements.
When are final dues paid
After your notice ends, your employer must clear all dues within 14 days. This includes your final salary, unused leave, and gratuity if you’ve been with the company for more than a year.
Calculation of unused leave, gratuity, and other entitlements
Unused leave gets encashed, gratuity is calculated based on years of service, and any reimbursements are added. For those under a notice period in UAE for a limited contract, the calculations may differ slightly depending on how early the contract ends.
Checklist before leaving a job
Return company property, clear advances, and keep copies of your resignation acceptance. This ensures you face no disputes later. As we said earlier, skipping notice or mishandling your exit can cut into your benefits, which is why planning your notice period is non-negotiable.
Conclusion
The notice period in UAE protects your rights, secures your benefits, and lets you leave on some good terms. These rules set the tone for your career moves.
And if you are ever in doubt about your payroll, settlements, or benefits, get in touch with us right away. Our team will guide you on these matters as we help businesses like yours simplify their payroll, benefits, and compliance. Let’s make your next career move as smooth as possible. Contact us now!
FAQs
What is the minimum notice period required in the UAE?
The minimum is 30 days. But it can also extend to 90 days depending on your contract.
Can an employee resign without serving notice?
Technically yes, but you may lose part of your benefits or face legal consequences.
Is notice period applicable during the probation period?
Yes. The notice period usually lasts between 14 to 30 days if it happens during probation. The exact days depend on if you are leaving for another employer or if you are relocating abroad.
Can an employee take leave during the notice period?
Yes, but it needs employer approval. Any unused leave is usually encashed if you have not taken it before your last day.
