أسئلة وأجوبة
Can my employer extend my notice period without my consent?
Hello,
I am serving my notice period with my current employer, and the day after it ends, I am supposed to join the new company. However, my current employer is telling me they will extend the notice period due to pending work.
The reason I'm resigning is that I have to work 12-14 hours a day on a 9-hour shift, and there has also been mistreatment from the supervisor.
Can they extend my notice period without my approval?
Hello,
No, your employer cannot unilaterally extend the notice period unless there is an agreement between you and the employer to do so.
The notice period must be followed as per the contract, and the employer is not legally allowed to extend it without your consent.
For further assistance, kindly share your WhatsApp number.
Dear Questioner,
Thanks for your inquiry!
According to UAE labor law, an employer cannot extend an employee's notice period without their consent.
If your employer is trying to extend your notice period, you have the right to refuse and insist on leaving on the agreed-upon date.
However, it is important to note that if there are any pending works that you were responsible for, you may be required to complete them before leaving.
In this case, it is best to discuss with your employer and come to a mutual agreement on how to handle the pending works.
If your employer still insists on extending your notice period without your consent, you can seek legal advice and file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
Kindly do not hesitate to contact us via phone or email for further guidance.
Greetings,
Dear Questioner,
Unless there is a specific provision in your employment contract allowing for an extension of the notice period by the employer unilaterally or unless local labor laws dictate otherwise under special circumstances, your current employer cannot extend your notice period without your approval.
In general, an employer cannot unilaterally extend your notice period without your consent.
However, there may be specific clauses in your employment contract that allow for extensions under certain circumstances.
Carefully review your employment contract to determine if there are any provisions regarding notice periods and extensions.
If nothing is mentioned in your contract regarding this extension, you don't have to accept their demands.
Try to negotiate a compromise with your employer, such as working remotely during the extended notice period or handing over your responsibilities to a colleague.
If you need further clarification, you may ask us.
Dear Questoner,
The notice period must be the same as in the employment contract, from 30 days to a maximum of 90 days, depending on the employment contract.
Therefore, if the contract is extended beyond what is required, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
In the UAE, the notice period upon termination of an employment contract is regulated by the Federal Labour Law.
The notice period is usually specified in the employment contract, and is often 30 days. The employer may not extend the notice period without the employee’s consent, unless this is stipulated in the employment contract or agreed upon by both parties.
Since you have completed the agreed notice period and are preparing to join a new company, your current employer has no right to unilaterally extend the notice period due to pending work.
If your employer tries to force you to stay longer without your consent, you can legally refuse.
In addition, if you are working hours beyond what is stipulated in the employment contract without adequate compensation, or are being mistreated by your supervisor, this is a violation of your rights as an employee.
You can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE to look into these violations.
It is advisable to keep copies of all correspondence and documents related to the resignation and notice period, and to contact the new company to inform them of any potential delays.
For assistance, please contact us via phone or WhatsApp number [---------].
Welcome,
If you have submitted your resignation and are serving your notice period, your employer cannot extend the notice period without your consent, unless it is explicitly stated in your contract.
If you do not agree to the extension, you can refuse and stick to the originally agreed notice period.
If you're resigning due to excessive working hours or mistreatment by your supervisor, you have the right to resign without being forced to stay longer than your contractual notice period.
If the issue persists, you can consult with a lawyer specializing in labor law to protect your rights.
If you need further assistance or legal advice, feel free to contact us. We are here to help you.
Best regards,
Thank you for your inquiry!
Based on UAE labor laws, an employer cannot unilaterally extend your notice period beyond what is stated in your employment contract or as agreed upon during your resignation process, unless you consent to the extension.
If your employer insists on extending your notice period without your approval, this could be a violation of your rights.
Additionally, if you are facing mistreatment and excessively long working hours, these issues may warrant further legal action or a formal complaint.
I can assist you in addressing this matter professionally, ensuring that your transition to your new job is smooth and within the framework of the law. I recommend we discuss your situation in detail to outline the best course of action.
Feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or phone at [----------] to discuss this further.
Best regards,
Suhail Rana

Dear questioner,
You are not obligated to serve an extra notice period that is not mentioned in your MOHRE contract.
If they are insisting and holding your end-of-service benefits or salary, you can file a complaint with MOHRE.
If you need our assistance in this matter, kindly share your WhatsApp number.