Guide to Writing a Resignation Letter in the UAE (With Samples)
If you have ever needed to write a resignation letter in the UAE, you know it means more than just saying, ‘I quit.’ Resignation in the UAE is a formal procedure governed by certain laws and workplace etiquette. Whether you are resigning for personal reasons, to secure a better salary, or to pursue a new career, writing your letter of resignation effectively is essential.
Let us guide you through everything you need to know about writing a professional resignation letter in UAE step by step. We will also include UAE resignation letter samples and tips for a good exit route.
What is a Resignation Letter in UAE?
In the UAE, a resignation letter is a formal document that an employee submits to their employer, stating their intention to leave the job. The letter is an official record of your decision and will initiate the notice period.
This letter is important because:
- It is by the UAE labour law.
- It creates a paper trail.
- It allows your employer to initiate payment of dues, cancel your visa, and provide end-of-service benefits.
UAE Labour Laws Related to Resignations
The definitions of the resignation process are contained in the federal laws and decrees of the UAE. This process is very solemn:
1. Notice Period in UAE
- 30 days for most jobs
- 90 days on a higher level
- Probation can range in notice days depending on the reason for leaving:
- 14 days if leaving the UAE
- 30 days if remaining within the UAE
2. Final Settlement Constitutes
- Pending Salary
- Gratuity after 1 year of service
- Leave Payments unused
- Return ticket- if stated in the contract
3. Any Legal Risk if the Notice Period was not Travelled
- A penalty may be imposed.
- Your employer will report you as absconding.
Always refer to your contract to avoid all legal clauses.
Key Components of a Resignation Letter in the UAE
In the UAE, writing a professional resignation letter is very important. It helps to ensure a smooth transition while maintaining positive relations with the employer. The letter should be short and straightforward. Here are the main elements to be incorporated:
- Submission Date: Specify the Date on which you submit the resignation letter.
- Your Details (Name, Job Title): Please provide your full name and current job title to avoid confusion.
- Manager’s Name and Job Title: The letter should be addressed to one’s manager, including their name and title.
- Resignation Statement: Clearly state your intention to resign from your present position in this section.
- Notice and Last working day: Indicate the notice period and the exact Date of the Last working day.
- Thank-You Note: Express gratitude to the employer for the opportunities and experiences gained during your service.
- Offer to Assist in the Handover Process: To ensure a seamless transition, assist with the smooth handover.
- Signature: To make the letter look formal and professional, conclude it with a signature.
How to Write Resignation Letter in UAE
Suppose you plan to resign from your job in the UAE after so many years of dedication. In that case, writing a professional resignation letter is one of the many things you must do before resigning. An excellent resignation letter can help you leave the company with a very good impression on the people working there. Here is a simple format for you to follow-
- Greetings: Start the letter with a very nice greeting, addressing your manager with the name: “Dear [Manager’s Name],”
- Opening Line: Specifically state your intention: “I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date].”
- Middle part: In this part, refer to the official notice period of one month and appreciate all the opportunities you had.
- Offer to Help with the Handover: Immediately offer to help during the handover process. For example, “I am happy to assist with the transition in any way possible.”
- Closing: In the last part of your letter, thank your employer again. Write: “Thank you again. I wish [Company Name] continued success in the future.”
- Sign: The final touch to show respect is a formal sign-off, such as “Best regards, [Your Name].”
How to Submit Your Resignation Letter in the UAE
Follow this simple process:
- Talk to your manager first-respectfully.
- Submit your resignation letter, printed and signed.
- And email a copy of it for documentation.
- Get a written acknowledgement.
- Settling the dues with HR.
- Return the property of the company.
- Your employer will cancel the work visa.
- This is to ensure that the whole process becomes legal and smooth.
Resign Letter Format in UAE
Here is a basic resignation letter format in the UAE:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am resigning from my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day]. I am serving my notice period as per the terms of my contract.
Thank you for the learning opportunities and support. I will help with a smooth handover.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Different Scenarios for Resignation Letters in the UAE
There are different circumstances in which an employee might leave their job. Hence, resignation letters in the UAE vary according to the reasons behind quitting. These reasons may be personal, professional, or health-related. In the following few lines, you can learn about the scenarios of writing resignation letters.
- Career Growth Opportunity: I have been presented with another opportunity closely aligned with my long-term career goals.
- Personal reasons: I cannot continue my current role due to personal commitments.
- Health Related: I would like to resign immediately due to health reasons.
- Outside the UAE: I am relocating and cannot continue working here.
- Toxic Environment: I have decided to resign due to the bad work environment of the company.
Legal Services Related to Resignation Letters in the UAE
You can get advice from a lawyer on matters like:
- Breaking contracts
- Non-payment of salaries
- Ban from work
- Employer declines to process resignation
If in doubt, consult Business setup experts in Dubai, who often work closely with employment attorneys.
Importance of a Professional Resignation Letter
A professional resignation letter is respectful. It assures you of legal backing and a smooth exit from your work and gives you a chance for future engagements. Close those bridges, but don’t ever burn them down.
Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter in UAE
Resignation letters in the UAE are very careful and professional. When the resignation process seems daunting, the right tone and structure are crucial. Let’s take a look, then, at a few simple tips that would help you resign the right way.
1. Formal Tone
Always use respectful tones. Even if you’re upset, remain calm and polite; it will be recorded, so avoid using harsh or emotional words. Instead, you would use clear, formal language. After all, it’s always smart to leave on good terms.
2. Be Succinctly Clear
Do not write too long letters. Keep your message to short points. Your job title, last working day, and appreciation will be placed specifically. There is no need for long explanations for every reason. In brief, it should be concise, readable, and clear without any confusion.
3. Eliminate Negativity Criticisms
It is not easy to quit a job, but do not tarnish your boss’s name or the office’s reputation. Those words will come back to you sooner or later. Please focus on the positive aspects and maintain a neutral tone, as your future may require a reference.
4. Conform to UAE Labour Laws
Always follow the rules. For instance, respect the notice period stated in your contract. If you don’t, there may be legal issues. Therefore, read the labour law carefully or ask HR. This simple step will avoid hassle later on.
5. Help during the Transition
Finally, we’ll ease the Transition for your teammate. Show a willingness to assist with training someone on certain tasks or finishing up pending work assignments. It is very mature and will put you in a positive light. Further, it helps the company make the Transition smooth. When you’re no longer there, your image is professionally important.
Resignation Letter in UAE Sample
This is a resignation letter sample in UAE:
Subject: Formal Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hereby tender my resignation in my designation as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name] with effect from [Date].
I will take pleasure in being part of the team and appreciate the encumbrance I have received. I will cover the notice period in the UAE and assist with any transition initiatives that may be required.
Thanks one more time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
What is Notice Period in UAE?
The term “notice period in the UAE” refers to when you are expected to continue working for your employer after submitting your resignation. What is the notice period under UAE law?
Typically, it lasts 30 days, but it might stretch to 90 days for top management. The time varies from 14 to 30 days, provided it falls within the probation period. Otherwise, salary deductions or a ban from working in the country follow if you skip it. Always review your employment contracts before resigning.
Get Help from Business Setup Consultants
Whether changing jobs or starting your own business, a business setup consultant in Dubai can help you. They allow you to cancel your old visa and procure a new work permit, and then they set you up to start your own business in Dubai. Leaving your career can be made easier with these services.
Additionally, many firms offer legal assistance for employment-related requirements, smoothing the pathway to even the most drastic transitions. Consulting a business setup in Dubai can be a good avenue for saving time and reducing added stress.
FAQs
1. Can I resign without serving notice in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?
Yes, but this would be in exceptional cases. You must be notified, and it is advisable to review your contract first to avoid any penalties.
2. What if my employer rejects my resignation?
First, send it via email; if they reject it, a complaint will be lodged with MOHRE for resolution.
3. Can I take leave while under notice?
Sometimes, yes, but again, it depends on the manager’s approval. If not approved, it would either be unpaid or not allowed at all.
4. Can I cancel my resignation later?
Yes, but only before the employer has started the process. Act promptly and contact HR before it’s too late.
5. Do I get a gratuity after I have resigned?
If you have worked for more than one year, your calculations are based on your basic salary and the total years you have spent here.
6. Will I be getting a ban after my resignation?
Usually, no prohibitive law applies. In abandonment cases, resigning before the end of a limited contract can result in a labour ban.
7. Am I allowed to work during my notice period?
Yes, unless the employer releases you without penalty; otherwise, everything outside of that can lead to salary cuts or legal issues.
8. Do I need to submit a formal written resignation?
Yes, always submit it in writing. Moreover, keep a record of emails or papers for proof in case of future issues.
Conclusion
Writing a resignation letter in UAE is not hard; it can be done easily with simple steps. Every tiny detail counts, from understanding the notice period to using the right resignation letter format.
Be clear, professional, and with the law. If you’re starting something new, consult business setup experts in Dubai for guidance. And always leave your job with grace—your future self will thank you.
Whether quitting for a new opportunity or personal reasons, a resignation letter written in the appropriate form will help you exit the job trouble-free. Use our guide and sample resignation letter for the UAE; respect goes a long way.