When should I receive my contract of employment?

Possible consequences for not finishing a work contract in UAE?

• I am working in Dubai as a Private Physiotherapist for almost 5 months now. This is the employment offer that I signed when I was still in the Philippines. OFFER FOR EMPLOYMENT Date: 17.06.2010 Dear Ms. F We are pleased to offer you employment with us according to the following terms and conditions. Position Information: Job Title :Physiotherapist Location :Dubai Visa :Domestic employee (Type and Nature of the Job and salary): 1- We agree to employ you in the capacity of (Private Physiotherapist) under Domestic employment visa and you shall receive an annual salary, payable monthly to the amount of AED ___ () the monthly salary will be paid in full at the end of each month in addition to Food and Accommodation. 2- You undertake all obligations and regulations of this position stipulated by the contract. (Work and vacation) 1- You shall be given one month paid vacation and return economy class ticket after contract completion to your home country Philippines. We reserve the right to postpone the leave if the work requirements so warrant. All other benefits will be according to U.A.E labour Law for Domestic Employees (Travel Tickets) 1- Upon expiry of contract without renewal, we will provide you one way ticket to home country. (The Contract Length) 1- The duration of the contract is for two years starting from the date of your residence in the country and can be extended for one year or more according to both parties' wishes. 2- In the event that we wish to terminate the contract before turn we will provide a one way ticket to your home country. 3- In the event you wish to terminate the contract then you will bear your travel expenses to your home country. Now my problem is I feel like they hire me as a domestic helper and not as a Physiotherapist because the duties and responsibilities that I do mostly everyday is domestic job and not a physiotherapy work. I felt deceived by my employer. Because of this I'm planning to resign after I finish my 6 months of working as I'm no longer happy with my work. Also, does this mean from the employment offer above that I'm under a LIMITED CONTRACT? Because of this I'm planning to resign after I finish my 6 months of working. What are the possible consequences if I will not finish my contract under the labour law? Thank you!

• Answer:

  You signed a limited contract for 2 years. Not fulfilling the same is considered breaching UAE Labour Law and you may receive a one year work ban. Now - Domestic workers do not fall under UAE Labour Law what doesn't mean they haven't to fulfill their contracts signed. You have to bear your relocation costs if not fulfilling your contract. You may talk to your employer and let him know that your current work is not like mentioned in your contract. Try to find an amicable solution before doing a step which might be regretted later. Take care.