Contract ending means Dubai worker free to leave job

I have worked for a Dubai company since December 2009 on a limited contract. My next contract renewal is in December 2016, but I want to resign to take up new job in Dubai in January. Can I do this? Will I get a ban, and how much will I need to compensate my present company? I heard there are new rules from January, so will they make a difference? MI, Dubai

Anyone who is on a limited contract has the right to leave service at the end of the contract and is free to do so without penalty. They certainly do not have to compensate the employer if they complete the contract. No employer should ever repay any visa costs, and only someone who has broken the terms of a fixed-term contract by leaving early will be subject to a penalty. Anyone who has completed more than two years of employment should not receive a ban upon changing employer. There are a few changes to UAE Labour Law that will take effect on January 1, and these are designed to clarify the rules, particularly in respect to employment contract terms, but will not affect this particular situation.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years’ experience. Contact her at [e-mail]. Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE.

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only.

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