How to Write a Resignation Letter in the UAE

Thinking of moving on from your current job in UAE? Wondering what the correct resignation letter format UAE is? Then, this article will be useful to you. 

Whether it is for career growth, end of contract, or exploration of better opportunities, deciding to resign is a personal choice of an individual. In UAE as well, professionals have the right to leave a job when they feel the time is right, however, within the legal framework.  

Whenever you decide to leave a job for the better, the first thing you must do is draft a resignation letter. A resignation letter is a formal piece of communication where you convey your intention of leaving the job, along with the reasons, to your employer.  

In this article, we will provide you with the most professional resignation letter sample UAE, guide you on how to write it, and also give you information on the legal rules around it. 

Why is a resignation letter UAE needed? 

Whenever an employee decides to quit their current job, they must formally inform their employer about it which is done through submitting a resignation letter. It is not just a legal formality, but it also ensures professionalism and makes the company aware of the situation in advance, allowing them to plan for filling the position. 

Besides that, a well-written resignation letter is also important in the UAE for the following reasons: 

1. Legal requirement:

Submitting a written resignation is a legal requirement in the UAE, as per the labor laws. It ensures that both parties, employee and employer, follow the appropriate notice period and exit procedures.

2. Reflects professionalism:

Writing a professional and courteous resignation letter format UAE not only communicates your intention to leave the job but also reflects that you are a person of integrity and professionalism.  

Clearly stating the reason with a positive tone helps you leave on good terms. It also leaves a good impression for future references. 

3. Serves as an official record:

When you submit a resignation letter, it is recorded in the company’s internal system. It officially documents your intent to resign, the notice period you will be serving, and the timeline of your departure. This serves as a solid reference point if needed in the future.

4. Initiates the exit process:

Once you submit your resignation letter to HR, the company begins the formal exit process. This includes preparation of documents, final payments and disbursement of any benefits. Everything is processed officially, ensuring that your exit is smooth once the notice period is complete.

5. Facilitates handover: 

Once your company is informed about your resignation, they can begin the hiring process to find your replacement. They may bring in trainees or assign someone to take over your responsibilities.  

During your notice period, you can help ensure a smooth transition by training them and handing over your duties effectively. 

Essential components of a resignation letter format UAE 

When writing a resignation letter in the UAE, you must include the following information: 

• Date: The date you are submitting the resignation letter. 

• Recipient’s details: You must mention the name, designation, and company address of the person to whom the letter is addressed. This is usually your HR representative or direct manager. 

• Sender’s details: Include your full name, job title, and employee ID (if applicable). 

• Clear statement of resigning: Clearly and politely state that you are resigning from your current position. 

• Reasons for leaving the job: Write a brief and clear explanation of why you are leaving. This could include personal reasons, career growth, relocation, or any other legitimate reason. 

• Gratitude note: Include a sentence or two expressing appreciation for the opportunities and experiences you gained during your time with the company. 

• Notice period details: Mention that you are committed to serving the minimum mandatory notice period as required by your employment contract or UAE labor law. 

• Transition help offer: Offer to support a smooth transition by completing pending tasks, assisting with handovers, or helping to train a replacement if needed. 

• A polite conclusion: End the letter with a courteous closing remark, wishing the company continued success. 

• Signature: You must sign the resignation letter and include your printed name. 

Quick tip: You must always follow a formal tone in your resignation letter. It should be written out, printed, signed, and physically submitted. Do not submit your resignation by email, unless your company has a clear policy allowing it. 

Resignation letter sample UAE 

Are you looking for a professional resignation letter format UAE? We have got you covered. Here is an example of formal resignation letter with notice period: 

(Your name)  (Your job title)  (Your complete address)  (Your phone number)  (Your email address)    (Date)    To:  (Recipient’s name)  (Recipient’s designation)  (Company name)  (Company complete address)    Subject: Official resignation letter    Dear (Recipient’s name),    I am writing to give my formal declaration that I am resigning from my position as (your job title) at (company’s name), effective from (date of letter submission). My last working day will be (date), in accordance with the 30 day (or as mentioned in the contract) notice period that I will be serving.   This decision comes after careful consideration due to (state the reason for resigning). I am grateful for the opportunities and experience I have gained here during my tenure at the company and thankful to my manager and the entire team for the support and encouragement I have received.    I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will complete all pending tasks. Please let me know how I may assist in training my replacement.    While I look forward to the new chapter ahead, I am equally grateful for my time here and wish continued success to the company. Should you need any further details, please feel free to reach out to me.    Yours sincerely,  (Your full name)  (Signature)

Note: The above sample is example of resignation letter 1 month notice. The notice period can vary based on company’s policy. 

How to write a resignation letter in UAE correctly? 

Here are some tips that will help you draft the correct resignation letter format UAE: 

• Tone: Use polite language with a formal tone. Avoid emotional statements, as they can give the wrong impression. 

• Details: Do not forget to include key details like your name, designation, date of the letter, notice period, and other important components. 

• Reason: If possible, it is good to explain the reason for leaving. Do not give false reasons, as this could lead to complications. 

• Statement: Clearly state, “I am writing to formally resign…” Use a direct and clear statement to avoid confusion. 

• Hard copy: Ideally, your resignation letter should be printed, signed, and submitted physically. This is better than sending it by email unless your company allows otherwise. 

• Signature: Include your official handwritten signature on the letter. 

• Follow the law: You must follow your contract and legal obligations, and this should be reflected in your letter, for example, mentioning the correct notice period. 

How to resign from a job in UAE? 

These steps should be followed to submit a resignation letter formally in UAE: 

Step 1 – Review your job contract

Go through your job contract and check the clauses related to resigning and leaving the job. You will get an idea about the need for end-of-service benefits, your responsibilities after resignation, the employer’s responsibilities, the notice period you must serve, and other important conditions. 

Step 2 – Write your resignation letter

Following the professional resignation letter format UAE, write your letter. Make sure to include all the essential details.

Step 3 – Submit it to the authority

Submit it to the company’s authority, which can be HR or your manager. It is better to submit it physically, or you can do so online as per company policy.

Step 4 – Follow up

After official submission, you must follow up. Serve the notice period properly, fulfil your responsibilities, train your replacement, and do what a good employee should. This will help you to leave on good terms.

UAE laws and legal framework for resignation 

Seeking resignation is not an issue in the UAE when done for legitimate reasons. However, the UAE is very careful about maintaining a proper work environment, which is why there are well-defined UAE and Dubai labour law for resignation.  

When resigning, certain legal aspects must be kept in mind by both the employee and the employer. 

1. Employer’s obligations: 

• The employer must not withhold the official documents of the worker at the end of service. 

• If the worker’s file is retained, it must be preserved for not less than 2 years, in accordance with the law. 

• The employer must settle all outstanding payments related to salary, bonuses, or end-of-service benefits, as may be due per the job contract and legal obligations. 

2. End of service benefits: 

At the end of service, an employee is entitled to certain benefits based on their length of service: 

• Less than 1 year: No end-of-service benefits. 

• 1 to 5 years: 21 days’ salary for each year of the first 5 years of service. 

• Above 5 years: 30 days’ salary for each year beyond the first 5 years. 

Important note: The total end-of-service benefits must not exceed the equivalent of 2 years’ wages. Also, the employee must have completed at least one full year of service. Days of absence from work are not included in the calculation of service duration. 

3. Notice period: 

When an employee decides to resign for a legitimate reason, they must serve a minimum notice period of 30 days, which may go up to 90 days depending on the employment contract.  

During the notice period, job responsibilities remain the same, and the employee will continue to receive their full salary. If the employee fails to serve the notice period, the employer is not obligated to pay for that period and may take legal action.  

In some cases, if specified in the employment contract, the employer may waive the notice period. 

4. Unlawful absence: 

If employee leaves work without any valid reason, strict action may be taken. For example, the employee may not be issued a new work permit for up to 1 year from the date of absence. Such act is referred to as absconding in UAE, and it can have serious consequences. 

5. Resignation during probation: 

If an individual decides to resign during the probation period, they must notify the employer in writing at least 14 days in advance, unless otherwise stated in the contract. 

6. Non-competition clause: 

Some employment contracts may include a non-competition clause, which prevents the resigning employee from working with a competitor for a certain period. Such clauses are common and must be reviewed carefully before signing the job contract. 

Conclusion 

The UAE gives you full rights to leave a job whenever you choose, provided you have legitimate reasons. When leaving a job, you must submit a formal resignation letter. The resignation letter sample UAE typically includes your name, job details, reason for leaving, and a note of gratitude. 

This article has covered everything you need to know about the correct resignation letter format UAE as well as the legal framework around resignation. When done properly, resignation is a smooth and respectful process that protects both your professional reputation and legal rights. 

Make sure to follow the proper steps, meet notice period requirements, and communicate clearly and you will leave your role on a strong, positive note. 

For more such informational content, or if you need assistance with business setup in Dubai or have company formation queries in the UAE, feel free to contact us at Dubiz Business Setup. 

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485     

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485     

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co     

Frequently Asking Questions (FAQs)