It is possible to add terms to employment contract, as long as it complies with UAE Labour Law

I am thinking about changing jobs, from a secure one to one I deem as risky with a newly set-up company. I would like to know if I could add into the contract that I want to have a minimum of, say, 18 months' employment to get the new venture up to the agreed level and then, only after that, can they terminate my employment. This would mean that I have a guaranteed income for 18 months, so even if I was terminated after six months they would have to pay me for another 12 months. Would this be held up and enforced by the labour law for the company to honour if we made a contract? How do I go about doing it? What type of contract should I have and should I have any kind of UAE government body to attest or a lawyer? BH, Dubai

Provided a contract of employment abides by all the minimum requirements of UAE Labour Law it is possible to include a variety of additional terms, as long as this is fully accepted by both parties. I would strongly recommend taking advice from a lawyer who is experienced in this area to ensure that the contract is fully binding on both parties and will stand up if challenged. It is very unusual to see terms like this in the UAE, but it could be done if both parties are willing. It would be best if the contract was not only signed by both parties, but also witnessed by a respected third party, such as the lawyer in their professional capacity, or the Notary Public.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years experience. Contact her at keren@holbornassets.com. Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only. Readers are encouraged to seek appropriate independent legal advice.