You calculate a UAE probation period by counting from an employee's first working day, up to a maximum of six months, as set out in Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. The exact end date cannot be extended or renewed once it passes.
You calculate a UAE probation period by counting from an employee's first working day, up to a maximum of six months, as set out in Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. The exact end date depends on the start date stated in the MOHRE-registered contract, and it cannot be extended or renewed once it passes. This guide explains how to count the period correctly, along with the notice, leave, and how continuous service accrues toward statutory severance on our Free UAE Gratuity Calculator.
Getting this calculation right matters for both sides. Employers who miscount the end date risk losing the right to terminate under probation terms, while employees need to know exactly when their trial period ends and full employment protections begin.
What Is the Legal Limit on Probation in the UAE?
Under Article 9 of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, an employer may place an employee on probation for a period not exceeding six months from the date they start work. The law sets hard boundaries around this:
The contract can specify any period up to six months (e.g. 3 months). It cannot exceed six months under any circumstances.
Once the agreed probation period ends, the employer cannot extend it, even if the initial term was shorter than six months.
An employee cannot be put on probation more than once with the same employer, even if they change roles or receive a promotion.
How to Calculate the Exact End Date of Probation
To find your probation end date, start on the first working day listed in your MOHRE contract and count forward by the number of months specified in your agreement.
Notice Rules During Probation (Article 9)
Termination or resignation during probation requires specific written notice under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021:
| Action | Initiating Party | Required Written Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Termination | Employer | 14 calendar days |
| Resigning to Leave UAE | Employee | 14 calendar days |
| Resigning to Join New UAE Employer | Employee | 30 calendar days |
Completed probation and reaching your 1-year continuous service milestone?