How to Switch Jobs Legally in the UAE (2025 Guide)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been a top work destination for employees from all over the world for decades. With its tax-free salary, world-class infrastructure, and burgeoning business industries, employees visit the nation in the hope of securing better career opportunities. However, many of them eventually consider changing from one company to another — whether for career advancement, better pay, or a better work-life balance.
But, switching jobs in the UAE is not as straightforward as resigning and accepting employment with a different employer. It is governed by the UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) and the relevant immigration laws. To avoid penalties, visa cancellations, or work bans, one needs to be aware of the legalities of switching jobs.
This article will guide you through everything you should know to change jobs legally in the UAE, ranging from notice periods and visa transfers to employer duties and step-by-step procedures.
- UAE Labour Law on Job Switching: What You Need to Know
The UAE introduced a new Labour Law in 2022 that updated the provisions on employment, contracts, and job changing. Among the more significant points related to job switching are:
Unlimited Contracts Only: Workers are all on unlimited contracts now, and resignations and alterations are simpler than before.
Notice Period Requirement: There is a requirement for workers to serve a notice period of 30-90 days unless both sides come to an agreement.
No More Automatic Employment Bans: Unlike in the older law, workers can now change jobs without an automatic labor ban — as long as they follow the correct legal process.
Visa Sponsorship: It is illegal to work for another company legally unless the residence visa is transferred to the new company.
These reforms allow more freedom for workers to change jobs, but it still needs to be well planned.
- Why People Change Jobs in the UAE
Job changing is fairly common in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the other emirates. Some of the most common reasons are:
Higher Salary – The majority of professionals receive better offers from competing organizations.
Career Development – Employees move for promotions or roles with more responsibility.
Work-Life Balance – Job seekers are attracted by flexible working practices or a better company culture.
Job Security – Some companies offer more long-term stability or better benefits.
UAE Internal Relocation – Staff move if their new office is closer to home.
Understanding why you’re leaving helps with negotiation with your new employer and deciding on the correct resignation process.
- Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Jobs Legally in the UAE
Step 1: Read Your Employment Contract
The very first thing you must do is read your employment contract carefully. Take a close look at:
Notice period (usually 30–90 days)
End-of-service benefits (gratuity)
Any non-compete agreement clauses
If your new firm requires you to join immediately, discuss your notice period with your current employer.
Step 2: Submit a Written Resignation
All resignations must be in writing, either by email or letter. Keep a copy for yourself. Provide the notice period. If you fail to do so, your employer has the right to deduct it from your final settlement.
Step 3: Work Your Notice Period
You will be expected to work through the notice period. Your employer may, on occasion, waive part of the notice period by agreement.
Your employer may in some cases place you on garden leave (where you stay at home but remain employed and paid).
Step 4: Have Your Visa Cancelled by Current Employer
Your current employer is legally required to cancel your work permit and residence visa. The cancellation must be done through the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
You are not legally allowed to start employment with a new company prior to the cancellation of your visa.
Step 5: Receive a Job Offer from Your New Employer
Before resignation, it’s a good idea to ensure that your new employer has provided you with an official offer letter signed by MOHRE. This guarantees that your new employment contract is legally registered.
Step 6: New Employer Applies for Work Permit
Following the cancellation of your visa, your new employer will be required to apply for a new work permit and residence visa. This includes:
Submitting the employment contract to MOHRE
Applying for the work permit
Conducting medical tests
Updating Emirates ID
Step 7: Final Settlement from Previous Employer
Your former employer must provide a final settlement, which includes:
Unpaid salary
End-of-service gratuity (where applicable)
Unused annual leave encashment
Any bonuses (where applicable)
Gratuity is 21 days of basic salary for each year of service for employees with more than one year of service.
- Legal Considerations When Changing Jobs
Notice Period Violations
If you resign from your job without serving the notice, your employer may:
Deduct a month’s salary equal to your notice period.
Report you to MOHRE, which can delay your transfer to another company.
Non-Compete Clauses
Some contracts include a non-compete clause, which bars you from working for a competitor for up to 2 years. But such a clause is valid only if:
The employer can prove that it causes significant business harm.
The restriction is reasonable in scope and duration.
Employment Ban Risks
Although the new Labour Law abolished the majority of automatic bans, bans can still be imposed if:
You abscond (leave without informing your employer).
You violate contract terms.
Sponsorship Transfers
You continue to require a work permit to legally join a new company even if you’re under your spouse’s sponsorship.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Jobs
Resigning without a solid offer – Always wait for a job offer in writing before resigning.
Not serving full notice period – This can lead to deductions or disputes.
Ignoring visa cancellation – You cannot legally stay in the UAE without a valid visa.
Overlooking gratuity rights – Many employees fail to claim their end-of-service benefits.
Presuming all offers are genuine – Verify the company’s trade license and MOHRE approval.
- Can an Employee Change Jobs During Probation in the UAE?
Yes, but with conditions:
If you resign under probation to join another UAE company, you need to serve a 14-day notice period.
If your new firm hires you during the probation period, they need to compensate your old firm recruitment costs.
If you leave the UAE during the probation period, you need to serve a 1-month notice.
- Tips for a Smooth Job Transition in the UAE
Be truthful to your current firm — an honorable exit does your reputation good.
Keep documents ready (passport copy, Emirates ID, educational certificates).
Check visa status on MOHRE or GDRFA websites regularly.
Discuss joining dates with the new employer based on your notice period.
Talk to HR or a legal consultant if in doubt about any labor law rules.
Conclusion
A job change in the UAE can be an excellent career step, but it must be done legally and carefully. By following the UAE Labour Law, serving the required notice period, and experiencing a smooth visa transfer, you can switch without any troubles.
Dubai and the UAE are lands of opportunity, and under the new labor laws, professionals are freer to change employers. Keep compliance top of mind at all times, be considerate of your current employer, and plan carefully for your career growth.