Can I be terminated during my probation period in the UAE?

Yes. UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) allows either party to end the contract during the probation period, which cannot exceed six months. If the employer decides to terminate during probation, it must give the worker written notice of at least 14 days. The rules differ when the worker is the one leaving: a worker resigning during probation to move to another employer inside the UAE generally must give longer notice, while a worker leaving the UAE altogether gives a shorter notice — and specific consequences can apply if a new employer recruits a worker still in probation. End-of-service gratuity normally is not payable for service that ends within the first year, but unpaid wages and any accrued entitlements still must be settled. Because probation rules carry their own notice periods and potential recruitment-cost liabilities, check exactly what your contract and MOHRE offer state. If you believe a probation termination was handled unlawfully, you can raise it with MOHRE and compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI for advice on your specific case.