UAE ministry sets conditions for job transfers during probation period

MoHRE move to balance worker rights and employer interests

Last updated: August 08, 2025 | 06:22

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Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has issued an update to certain labour law regulations and procedures, outlining four specific conditions under which a worker may transfer to another employer or establishment during their probation period — while safeguarding the rights of the current employer.

According to the Ministry’s official website, the conditions include:

Providing notice to the current employer at least one month in advance, or
Paying compensation equivalent to the worker’s wage for the notice period or the remaining portion thereof, and
Allowing the current employer to seek compensation from the new employer for recruitment and contractual costs.

Also Read: MoHRE updates leave and holiday entitlements in UAE: What employees need to know

In addition, the rules state that a worker must inform the employer at least 14 days prior to the intended termination date. Failure to do so would require the worker to compensate the employer with an amount equal to the full wage for the entire notice period — or the remaining portion.

The Ministry also clarified that if a worker fails to comply with the notice period, they will be ineligible for a new work permit for a period of one year from the date of departure.

Also Read: Explained: 6 job models in UAE private sector - MOHRE highlights full-time, remote and flexible work

MoHRE emphasised that all legislative and procedural updates are aimed at achieving a balanced relationship between employers and employees, while also protecting rights and supporting a flexible, competitive, and business-friendly labour market in the UAE.

Abdulla RasheedEditor - Abu Dhabi

Abdullah Rashid Al Hammadi  is an accomplished Emirati journalist with over 45 years of experience in both Arabic and English media. He currently serves as the Abu Dhabi Bureau Chief fo Gulf News. Al Hammadi began his career in 1980 with Al Ittihad newspaper, where he rose through the ranks to hold key editorial positions, including Head of International News, Director of the Research Center, and Acting Managing Editor. A founding member of the UAE Journalists Association and a former board member, he is also affiliated with the General Federation of Arab Journalists and the International Federation of Journalists. Al Hammadi studied Information Systems Technology at the University of Virginia and completed journalism training with Reuters in Cairo and London. During his time in Washington, D.C., he reported for Alittihad  and became a member of the National Press Club. From 2000 to 2008, he wrote the widely read Dababees column, known for its critical take on social issues. Throughout his career, Al Hammadi has conducted high-profile interviews with prominent leaders including UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and key Arab figures such as the late Yasser Arafat and former presidents of Yemen and Egypt. He has reported on major historical events such as the Iran-Iraq war, the liberation of Kuwait, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the establishment of the Palestinian Authority. His work continues to shape and influence journalism in the UAE and the wider Arab world.