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Darsky
Joined: 14 Aug 2009 Posts: 11
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Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2012 3:43 pm Post subject: Breaking a contract before you start |
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I'm interested if any of you have experience (even vicarious) with breaking a contract in the UAE. I have signed a 2 year contract with a private school. However, several things have changed (ie, a title I was promised has been revoked, and mass exodus of staff) and have made me rethink my decision. The contract term does not begin until August.
Would it be possible for me to break the contract and sign on with another employer in the UAE?
Keep in mind
-My visa is still with a third party
-My contract does include a stipulation that I should pay the school if I terminate early (with 6 months notice)
I have read through the labor law and everything I see pertains to the visa, since my visa is not yet filed with my new employer, does that law apply?
Thanks! |
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dunteslin
Joined: 20 Jul 2010 Posts: 20 Location: australia
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Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2012 6:36 pm Post subject: |
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Are you in the country? Did you sign the contract in UAE? Have you started work? And in which emirate?
You would normally expect a probation period of three months or more.
My advice--do not let your passport out of your sight. |
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Darsky
Joined: 14 Aug 2009 Posts: 11
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Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2012 7:02 pm Post subject: |
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I am in the country, finishing a contract in Abu Dhabi. The contract I want to break was signed in Abu Dhabi (although they only have a scanned copy, I have the original). The new job I'm considering is in Dubai.
My passport is still with me, however, the company has a scanned copy. |
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helenl
Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202
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Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2012 3:28 am Post subject: |
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If the job title/designation specified in the contract has been revoked - then the contract is not valid - in the real world. In UAE, it may be a different matter.
If the job title was only mentioned verbally, you may have some issues, I'd go to the Dept of Labour and ask there what your options are. |
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Darsky
Joined: 14 Aug 2009 Posts: 11
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Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2012 12:33 pm Post subject: |
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The job title was promised in the interview, but not included in the contract. I was told there would be a subsequent contract for the leadership position (which never came). Because this was verbal I'm not sure if it would hold up?
Does anyone know who I could contact at the ministry of labor for clarification? |
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helenl
Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202
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Posted: Wed Jun 13, 2012 3:04 pm Post subject: |
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A verbal promise is worth the paper it's written on - in any country.
Ask for the contract to be issued with that verbal promise, if they won't - well, you have an indication of their reliability and integrity. |
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