Resignation

A reader in Dubai asks: I came to Dubai on a visit visa of a transport company, which employed me after three months. I worked as an electrician for two years and my contract is for three years. I received an offer from another country. I submitted a month's notice of my resignation but my employer rejected my resignation. They asked me to pay all the expenses they incurred, including that of the visa. They will release me only if I pay all the expenses.

The questioner has violated the labour contract by revoking the contract prematurely and he shall be required to compensate as per Article 116 of the Labour Law, which says "where a contract is revoked by the worker for reasons other than those specified in Article 121, he shall be required to compensate the employer ... provided that the amount of compensation shall not exceed half the worker's remuneration for three months or the remaining period of the contract whichever is shorter unless the contract contains a provision to the contrary".

I, however, advise you an amicable settlement with the employer, to avoid a ban for a year.

Questions answered by advocate Mohammad Ebrahim Al Shaiba of Al Bahar Advocates and Legal Consultants