Are you working or planning to work in the UAE? It is important to know what happens when your employment contract ends and you want to join another company. The UAE has set out the rules for workers wanting to change jobs, specifying the conditions under which they can be prevented from working for a year.
Recently, the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) clarified that workers can join another employer after their contract expires or if the employer and employee mutually agree to end the employment. But they have to follow the right procedures.
Here’s what workers need to know before they change jobs.
When Can Workers Change Jobs in the UAE?
In the UAE, workers can usually move to another company once their contract ends and is not renewed. A change of work is also possible if the employer and employee mutually agree to terminate the contract.
UAE labour law allows employees to change employers in other circumstances, for example, if the employer terminates the contract without any fault of the employee. Workers need to undergo employment and work permit procedures before joining a new company. Also, they need to check that their residency visa is still valid and the new employer has the necessary work permit.
When Can a One-Year Work Permit Ban Apply?
Not all workers who switch jobs will be subject to the one-year ban. But there are some violations that will stop you from getting a new work permit in the UAE.
The UAE government’s official guidance says a ban on work permits for a year could be imposed in cases including:
- Resignation During Probation Period: A worker resigns during the probation period without following the required rules, provided the employer has not breached the contract.
- Work abandonment proven: An employer complains that there is work abandonment and it is proven to be true.
- Fictitious establishment: Cancelling a worker’s permit with a fictitious establishment.
The rules are designed to ensure that employees and employers meet the legal requirements. Employees should avoid leaving their jobs without knowing the outcome of their actions.
Can You Stay in the UAE After Your Contract Ends?
Yes. Workers will be entitled to a legally defined grace period after the end of employment to remain in the UAE. During this period, they can find another job, get a new work permit, renew their residency status or complete the necessary procedures to exit the country.
The length of the grace period depends on the worker’s visa category. So instead of assuming everyone gets the same amount of time, check your actual visa status and what the deadline is.
What Should Workers Do Before Changing Jobs?
If you are thinking of moving to another company in the UAE, think about the following points:
- Read your employment contract and know the notice period.
- Keep copies of your employment contract, passport, visa and salary details.
- Make sure you take care of your current work permit and residence status.
- Examine the new employer’s job offer, salary and terms of employment.
- Do not start work for any other company until you have the required work authorisation in place.
- If you have a dispute at work or you want to know your rights, contact MOHRE.
How Dynamic Staffing Services Can Help
Dynamic Staffing Services helps candidates get overseas job opportunities and guides them throughout the recruitment process. It’s been 49 years of us helping candidates fulfil their dream of an overseas job. We support our candidates to familiarise themselves with the details of their job offers and to complete the necessary formalities before deployment.
We can assist you in finding a new opportunity overseas and help you to plan properly. We make sure you are aware of the company’s terms of employment, verify the job details and fill in the necessary documentation before joining a new employer.
Explore Overseas Job Opportunities
The UAE offers opportunities in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, engineering and many other sectors. Knowing the employment rules can help you make good decisions and avoid issues in your career abroad.
Send your CV to resume7@dss-hr.com. Dynamic Staffing Services is your way to finding an opportunity to get a great overseas job today!
