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Many job seekers in the UAE wonder whether they can switch jobs during their probation period. The short answer is yes, you can, but there are very clear rules you must follow to avoid fines, bans, or legal issues. Understanding these rules can help you make smarter career decisions, especially in a fast-moving job market like the UAE’s.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how probation works, what the UAE Labour Law says about changing jobs, what notice period you must serve, and the steps you should take before making the move.
The probation period is a trial period at the beginning of your employment that allows both you and your employer to assess whether the job is a good fit.
Under the UAE Labour Law:
Probation can last up to 6 months maximum.
Employers are allowed to end employment during probation with 14 days’ notice.
Employees can also resign during probation, but rules differ based on whether you are leaving the UAE or switching to another job within the country.
Yes, you can switch jobs during probation, but the process depends on where you plan to work next. The UAE Labour Law outlines clear rules for two scenarios:
You want to leave your job and stay in the UAE
You want to leave your job and exit the UAE
Each scenario requires a different notice period and different steps.
If you plan to join a new company within the UAE, you must:
Submit a 30-day notice to your employer.
Ensure the new employer submits a compensation amount to your current employer.
This compensation amount is based on recruitment costs and is required by law if you change jobs during probation.
The goal of this rule is to prevent employees from quickly switching companies without giving the employer a reasonable time to replace them.
Inform your current employer in writing.
Get a written job offer from your new employer.
Make sure the new employer initiates the transfer through the official channels (MoHRE).
Complete your notice period before joining the new job.
If you plan to exit the UAE entirely, the law requires a shorter notice period. You must:
Submit 14 days’ notice in writing.
Leave the country once your employment is cancelled.
If you try to join another UAE employer within 3 months of departure, the new employer will be required to pay your previous employer the same compensation amount mentioned above.
This prevents misuse of the system by exiting the country temporarily just to avoid compensation fees.
No, switching jobs during probation does not result in a labour ban, as long as:
You serve the required notice period.
Your new employer follows the legal process.
You do not violate any contract terms related to confidentiality or intellectual property.
Labour bans are now rare in the UAE and generally only apply in cases of serious violations.
You are not required to pay for visa expenses. UAE Labour Law prohibits employers from charging employees for:
Recruitment costs
Visa costs
Labour contract fees
If an employer attempts to deduct these from your salary, you can file a complaint with MoHRE.
You’re able to move to a better opportunity quickly.
No employment ban if you follow the law.
You can correct a poor fit early rather than staying for years.
You must serve a notice period even during probation.
Your new employer may hesitate because of compensation costs.
Changing jobs too quickly may raise concerns for future employers.
Make your decision based on:
Long-term career goals
The stability of the new offer
The culture and benefits of the new employer
Whether the new company offers growth opportunities you can’t get now
Always compare:
Salary package
Work-life balance
Career development
Management style
Maintain a professional relationship with your manager.
Avoid burning bridges even if the job wasn’t a good fit.
Keep your CV updated and aligned with your career goals.
Prepare your story for future interviews about why you left quickly.
No. You must serve the notice period required by law.
No. Employers must accept resignations as long as the notice period is served.
Yes. The new employer can start a new probation period of up to six months.
Contract type does not change the probation rules; both follow the same process.
Yes. Your existing visa will be cancelled and replaced by your new employer.
Switching jobs during probation in the UAE is possible and legal if you follow the correct process. Whether you are staying in the country or leaving, make sure you understand the notice period and employer obligations. A thoughtful, well-planned move today can open better opportunities tomorrow.
To explore thousands of fresh opportunities across the UAE, visit Bayt.com and start applying today.