Working illegally

A reader in Dubai asks: I work for a media group for Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone. I have been forced to resign by the company because it seems there is no vacancy for me anymore after my ex-director resigned, although there are several posts available in the company that I'm qualified to do. I still have not resigned as I don't know where I stand legally. Is it possible for the company to terminate me and if they do can I file a complaint against them? Also, regarding the notice period, it is mentioned in the letter of employment that if they terminate me then they'll give me one month's notice and if I resign I have to give 90 days' notice. What does the UAE labour law say regarding termination with no reason, especially as I don't have a contract with the company?

I would like to tell the questioner that as long as he did not sign an employment contract with the company, he could be working illegally.

If so, the questioner may not file a complaint against the company due to the fact that the working relationship should be controlled and regulated only by an employment contract approved by JAFZA.

Consequently, the questioner did not clarify exactly whether his relationship with the company is legal or illegal.

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