Risk Prevention Starts Before Hiring
Proactive screening is essential. Implementing these two mandatory safeguards can significantly reduce your risk:
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
- Obtain a recent UAE or international PCC to verify that the candidate has no criminal history.
- While not a statutory requirement, it’s widely recognized and enhances due diligence.
- Employment must remain conditional upon satisfactory PCC results.
- Previous Employment Certificate
- Require a formal employment certificate from the candidate’s most recent employer, stating role, responsibilities, dates, and reasons for leaving.
- UAE Labour Law encourages issuing such certificates upon request.
- Verify its authenticity via direct communication with former employers, using consent compliant with PDPL regulations.
Template Contract Clause
Background Screening Condition
This offer is conditional upon the Employee providing:
a) a valid Police Clearance Certificate issued within the last six months; and
b) a certified Previous Employment Certificate from their last employer.
Employment is contingent upon satisfactory verification of both documents.
The Employee consents to the Employer’s conduct of verification checks, in compliance with the UAE Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL).
Why This Works
| Risk Mitigated | Benefit |
| Helps filter out candidates with criminal or misconduct history |
| Demonstrates due diligence, critical in mitigating vicarious liability |
| Eliminates entry of dishonest staff, especially in financial roles |
| Sets a firm tone from the start |
Complete Risk-Monitoring Strategy
To fortify these clauses, combine them with:
- Clear policies on employee authority and misconduct, with mandatory acknowledgments
- SOPs for dual authorization in cash handling and financial processes
- Regular training on ethics, anti-fraud, and legal compliance
- Periodic audits, spot checks, and quick corrective measures when concerns arise
- Fidelity insurance to cover losses from employee malfeasance
- Internal recovery plans—after paying compensation, the employer can claim reimbursement from the errant employee
Final Thoughts
Including mandatory Police Clearance and Previous Employment Certificates strengthens your recruitment process and reduces exposure to employee-related tort liability.
When combined with internal controls and oversight, these steps create a robust compliance framework, protecting the company, its reputation, and its bottom line