MOHRE Issues New Guidance On UAE Job Transfers, Probation Rules, Work Permit Restrictions

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has clarified the rules for employees who want to switch jobs in the UAE after their employment contracts end, while outlining situations where workers may be barred from obtaining a new work permit for one year.

When Can Employees Move To New Job?

According to MOHRE, employees are allowed to move to another employer once their employment relationship officially ends. This can happen when a contract expires or when both the employer and employee mutually agree to terminate the contract.

MOHRE also explained that employment contracts may be converted into different work arrangements if both parties agree. These include full-time, part-time, temporary, flexible, remote, and job-sharing models. Before making any change, all financial dues linked to the original contract must be settled.

Can An Employee Stay In The UAE After Their Job Ends?

The ministry further confirmed that workers can legally remain in the UAE after their employment ends during the grace period allowed under UAE residency rules. Depending on the visa type, this grace period can range from 30 to 180 days after the cancellation of residency, as stated on the UAE government's official portal.

Two Mistakes That Could Cost Your Job In The UAE

The ministry warned workers about two situations that could prevent them from getting a new work permit for one year.

The first case involves leaving a job during the probation period without following the required notice rules. Under UAE labour law, probation can last for up to six months from the date of joining a new employer. Employees who wish to resign during probation and join another company in the UAE must give written notice at least one month in advance. If they fail to do so, they may face a one-year ban on receiving a new work permit.

In such cases, the new employer is generally required to compensate the previous employer for recruitment expenses unless both sides agree otherwise.

If a worker resigns during probation and plans to leave the UAE, they must provide at least 14 days' notice. If that employee returns to the UAE within three months and joins another employer, the new company may have to compensate the previous employer for recruitment costs.

The second case relates to approved absence-from-work complaints. MOHRE said workers may be denied a new permit for one year if an employer files a complaint stating that the employee stopped reporting to work without informing the company or without a valid reason, and the complaint is later confirmed as valid by the ministry.

The ministry has strictly advised workers to follow all notice requirements and labour regulations carefully to avoid issues when changing jobs in the UAE.