Dubai Forums Dubai Expat Forums Working in Dubai

Dear Friends,
I need some advise on the following.
Recently I have received a job offer letter with the following clauses included
1) For any termination/resigning before the contract period of 6 yrs (probation period inclusive) the employee will bear all the costs of Labour fees, dubai immigration and related fees expended during the employee's hiring.
2) Taking up new employment or in a competing business is not allowed for 1 year from date of resignation/termination

I want to know how do all these rules play in the Dubai world? What are my options/limitations here in case I take up work with this company?
Is there a way out incase I do not like the job or If I choose to work for another employer after say 1 year?
Are these kind of employee-employer contracts common in the UAE world?

Any comments are information for me.
Please help me here with your comments/suggestions.

Clause 2 sounds normal enough.
Clause 1 is a problem. As far as I know, the employer is responsible for all visa costs, issuance of work permit etc. Even during probation. 6 years is a long time for a contract. Most are 1-3 years.

Usually if a contract includes a clause that contravenes the law, it can't be enforced even if you sign it. However, theory and practice are two very different things in Dubai.