The key differences between mainland and free zone employment in UAE: Mainland employment: 1) Work visa is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE); 2) Employment contract follows UAE Labor Law; 3) Companies must comply with Emiratisation quotas; 4) Employees can work anywhere in the UAE without restrictions; 5) Changing jobs requires NOC (No Objection Certificate) in some cases; 6) End-of-service benefits calculated as per UAE Labor Law; 7) Typically more stable long-term employment. Free zone employment: 1) Work visa is issued by the respective free zone authority; 2) Employment contract follows free zone regulations (though aligned with UAE Labor Law); 3) Companies are exempt from Emiratisation quotas; 4) Work location may be restricted to the specific free zone; 5) Typically easier job transitions between free zone companies; 6) End-of-service benefits generally match Labor Law but may have variations; 7) More flexibility in contract terms; 8) Often higher salary packages but potentially less job security. Employees should carefully review contract terms regardless of employment type, as benefits, probation periods, and notice requirements can vary significantly between employers.
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