A job offer is exciting, but signing a contract you haven't read carefully can cost you later. This practical checklist is based on the Employment Relations Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and its amendments) and the UAE government's official portal.
1. Check the offer is genuine
According to MOHRE, a genuine job offer is issued on the approved form with a serial number and barcode, which you can verify through the ministry's app, website or call centre on 600590000. Details in our article on fake job offers.
2. Contract term
Private-sector contracts are now fixed-term, and can be extended or renewed for a similar or shorter period. If the term ends and both sides keep working without renewing, the contract is considered renewed on the same terms.
3. Probation
It may not exceed 6 months and cannot be extended. See the notice rules in our probation guide.
4. Basic versus total salary
Separate the basic salary from allowances. This isn't a formality: end-of-service gratuity is calculated on the basic wage, and your unemployment insurance category is also set by your basic salary.
5. Work model
Full-time, part-time, temporary, flexible or remote? The law recognises these models, each with its own rules, so make sure the written model matches what was agreed.
6. Working hours and leave
Normal working hours are capped at 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week, and annual leave is 30 days per year of service. Details in our annual leave and working hours guide.
7. Notice period
The law sets a notice period of no less than 30 days and no more than 90 days when a contract is terminated for a legitimate reason. Know the period written in your contract before you need it.
8. Non-compete clause
If there is one, it must be limited in time, place and type of work, and may not exceed two years from the end of the contract.
9. No recruitment fees, no withheld documents
The law prohibits employers from charging workers recruitment and employment fees and costs, and prohibits withholding the worker's official documents.
Practical steps before signing
- Ask for a copy of the offer and read it calmly; don't sign under pressure.
- Verify the offer through the ministry's channels.
- Note the basic salary, total salary and each allowance separately.
- Ask about any unclear clause in writing, and keep the reply.
- Keep a copy of the signed contract.
Official sources
- Employment contracts: duration and models in the private sector (u.ae)
- Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Employment Relations (u.ae)
- “Dear Worker, know your rights” – Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
This article is general guidance, not legal advice. Rules can change, so always check the official sources or contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (600590000) about your specific case.
Enter the job market knowing the rules
In the Job Readiness Program (3 live hours for 19 AED) we show you how to search, apply and pass the interview, and how to read an offer before accepting it.
FAQ
Are private-sector employment contracts in the UAE fixed-term?
Yes. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, contracts are fixed-term and can be extended or renewed for a similar or shorter period.
Can an employer ask me to pay recruitment fees?
No. The law prohibits charging workers recruitment and employment fees and costs.
How do I verify a job offer?
Using the serial number and barcode on the approved offer form, through the MOHRE app, website or call centre on 600590000.