Work and carreer

the most asked questions
Required Documents for a Work Visa
  • A passport valid for at least six months.
  • An official job offer from a UAE-registered company.
  • Medical fitness certificate from an approved UAE clinic.
  • Signed employment contract.
  • Entry visa issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
  • Emirates ID, the UAE residency identification card.
  • Health insurance, mandatory for all foreign workers.
Requirements to Work in the United Arab Emirates:
Requirements to Work in the United Arab Emirates:
How does the UAE fund its government and public services?

The UAE funds its government and public services through several key sources:

  1. Oil and Gas Revenues: The UAE continues to rely on its oil and gas industry for a significant portion of government income.
  2. Value Added Tax (VAT): A 5% VAT on goods and services provides additional revenue.
  3. Corporate Taxes: Businesses, particularly in non-free zone sectors and oil industries, are taxed.
  4. Excise Tax: Taxes on harmful products like tobacco and sugary drinks.
  5. Tourism and Real Estate: Income from tourism and property transactions contributes significantly.
  6. Sovereign Wealth Funds: Returns from investments through sovereign wealth funds help fund government activities.

Personal Income Tax in the UAE
Personal Income Tax in the UAE
What is the recommended CV structure for the UAE Job Market?
  1. Personal Information (name, contact details, nationality, work visa status if applicable).
  2. Professional Summary (a brief overview of skills and career goals).
  3. Work Experience (clearly listed roles with a focus on achievements).
  4. Education (degrees, certifications, and relevant courses).
  5. Technical and Soft Skills (key competencies for the role).
  6. Languages (English is essential; Arabic is a plus).
  7. Certifications and Awards (if relevant to the industry).
How to prepare a resume for Dubai
How to prepare a resume for Dubai
Do I need a work visa to work in the UAE, and how long is the workweek?

Yes, you cannot work in the UAE with a tourist visa. A valid work and residence permit is required, which your employer must obtain for you. Once hired, a full-time private sector contract provides for a 48-hour workweek, reduced by two hours per day during Ramadan.

Living and working in the United Arab Emirates
Living and working in the United Arab Emirates
What should Europeans know before relocating to Dubai for work?

"Europeans should understand the fast-paced, result-driven UAE work culture, respect local customs and religion, follow workplace hierarchy and punctuality, and be ready to adapt to a multicultural environment. Key sectors include aviation, technology, renewable energy, real estate, construction, and hospitality".

Sara Al Abdulla, Senior Manager at Dubai Airports, on working in Dubai
Sara Al Abdulla, Senior Manager at Dubai Airports, on working in Dubai
Industries with High Demand for Employees
  1. Technology & IT – Software developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts.
  2. Finance & Banking – Financial analysts, accountants, fintech specialists.
  3. Engineering & Construction – Civil engineers, architects, project managers.
  4. Healthcare – Doctors, nurses, physiotherapists.
  5. Tourism & Hospitality – Hotel managers, chefs, customer service professionals.
How to find a job in Dubai
How to find a job in Dubai
What are the average salary in the United Arab Emirates?

The average salary in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) varies depending on the emirate, industry, experience, and job role. However, to provide a general overview:​

  • Dubai: The average annual salary is approximately 191,807 AED, which is about €47,000 at an exchange rate of 1 AED = 0.24 EUR.
  • Abu Dhabi: The average monthly salary for fresh Emirati graduates is around 17,000 AED, translating to approximately €4,080 per month.
Average salaries in Dubai by profession
Average salaries in Dubai by profession
What is the impact of the expatriate workforce on the UAE economy?

The expatriate workforce is integral to the UAE's economy. Their contributions in key industries, such as construction, healthcare, finance, and tourism, support economic growth and development. The influx of skilled professionals and workers has helped the UAE become a global hub for trade, tourism, and innovation.

Moreover, expatriates contribute to the diversification of the UAE’s economy, particularly in sectors beyond oil and gas. They bring new skills, technologies, and innovations that drive the country’s progress in areas such as information technology, renewable energy, and finance.

Expatriate workforce in the UAE
Expatriate workforce in the UAE
What is the future of employment in the UAE?

The unemployment rate in the UAE is expected to remain low, especially with the government’s ongoing focus on economic diversification and job creation. The private sector is expected to continue growing, offering more opportunities for both expatriates and nationals. However, challenges such as the skills gap, youth unemployment, and expatriate dependency will require continued attention from policymakers.

The UAE government is also likely to further enhance the Emiratization policy, creating new pathways for nationals to enter the workforce and boosting employment in sectors beyond oil and gas. With continued efforts to diversify the economy, invest in infrastructure, and foster innovation, the UAE’s labor market is poised for continued growth and opportunity.

Unemployment rate in the UAE
Unemployment rate in the UAE
What concrete opportunities does Dubai offer to those who want to work there?

“The city is growing at an extraordinary pace, and this translates into a constant demand for skills. Among the most sought-after professionals are those working in the tech and medical sectors, but there are certainly many opportunities in any field that requires qualified professionals. In Dubai, you’ll find a diverse ecosystem that ranges from large international corporations to professional firms and startups: if you have the right preparation and the willingness to challenge yourself, opportunities abound.”

Opportunities and multicultural contexts
Opportunities and multicultural contexts
What are the 5 most in-demand jobs in the UAE?
  • Software Developers and IT Professionals: Software engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, AI experts, cloud computing specialists.
  • Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory technicians, medical consultants.
  • Finance and Accounting Professionals: Financial analysts, auditors, accountants, investment bankers, tax consultants.
  • Engineers: Civil engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, project managers.
  • Marketing and Digital Marketing Specialists: Digital marketing managers, content creators, SEO specialists, social media strategists, brand managers.
Most in-demand job sectors in Dubai
Most in-demand job sectors in Dubai