Top Things to Consider Before Applying for a Job in the UAE

You have decided! YYou’ve chosen to live and work in the UAE, with Dubai as your selected destination for job opportunities. But before you set foot in the UAE, have you considered what you need to know? Every year, many people are drawn to the UAE for better career prospects, but it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the fundamental rules of living and working here. This guide will help you prepare for your life-changing journey by outlining the key aspects you need to consider.

Key Considerations Prior to Pursuing a Job in the UAE

1. A Visa is needed to enter the UAE

To ensure a smooth entry into the UAE, unless you are a GCC Citizen or from one of the 82 Visa on Arrival eligible countries (see list), you must apply for a visa in advance. Options include the Job Seeker Visa, Tourist Visa, and Visit Visa.

The Job Seeker Visa offers durations of 60 days (Dh1,495), 90 days (Dh1,655), and 120 days (Dh1,815). For a Tourist Visa, you can apply through accredited agencies, hotels, or airlines. Costs vary: Dh370 for 30 days and Dh570 for 60 days. You can extend a 30-day Tourist Visa for an additional 30 days for Dh1,200 before its expiry, without leaving the UAE.

Visit Visas are issued to those with immediate family in the UAE, sponsored by residents earning a minimum monthly salary of Dh4,000 or Dh3,000 plus accommodation. They can apply for Short Term (30 days) or Long Term (90 days) Visit Visas, extendable for 30 days at Dh570 per visa before its expiry, without exiting the UAE.

2. The cost of living in the UAE, particularly rent, may be higher than what you’re used to in your home country.

UAE is a highly modernized country; Dubai and Abu Dhabi are one of the most expensive cities for expats according to a survey. One meal typically ranges 10 – 50 AED; depending on the type of food. Rent usually costs 700 AED for bed space in a shared room, 1500-2500 AED for a partition room, 3000 AED or more for a full room. Cost will be more expensive if you rent your own flat. So make sure this will be included in your budget.

To check the cost of living in the UAE, click here.

use currency notes with background of uae skyline

3. You should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in your field from your home country.

If you are planning to apply for a job that is related to your profession, make sure to have at least 2 years minimum experience. Companies, especially the big ones, would hire a talent with more experience related to the job offer.

Aside from your work experience, enhancing your skills will also improve your chances of getting a job in the UAE. Additional certifications for computer and communication skills will give you an advantage. For medical professionals, taking a government approved license exam (e.g. DHA in Dubai, HAAD in Abu Dhabi) is essential.

filipino engineer working in Dubai — Filipino engineer working in Dubai

4. It is illegal to work on a tourist or visit visa!

If you are caught working on a tourist or visit visa, you could land in jail. Make sure your Employment Visa has been released before you start your job. There could be some companies that will ask you to report to their office to check your work performance. It maybe a genuine act, but it is best to be careful as some people can take advantage of you. Unfortunately, there are cases of employees working without their Employment Visas being issued.

5. Do not come during summer season!

Summer weather can be grueling in the UAE. It would be a sacrifice for you to go out every day searching for walk-in interviews. Summer could also mean vacation time for the key decision makers of the company. Thus, processing of employment can be delayed. The best time to come and look for a work is when the weather gets cooler, between September to May. Also take note of Ramadan season; work timings are shortened during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

6. Medical Tests are important

Make sure you don’t have any infectious disease like Tuberculosis, Leprosy and HIV/AIDS. For full list click here. Even if you are hired and have been issued an Entry Work Permit, you will be asked to return to your home country if your medical test results show that your are positive to the said diseases. A scar from previous TB infection could also be a reason for disqualification.

7. Apply in Advance

It will be helpful to apply for jobs in advance before going to the UAE. You can apply thru LinkedIn and other Job portals (like Dubizzle, Gulfnews, etc). You can also strengthen you network with your family or friends who are already in the UAE. They can help you look for available jobs in advance. It is important to gather all the information prior leaving your home country to maximize your time looking for a job.

8. Do not fall to a Job Scam

Be extra cautious when looking for a job. Unfortunately, job scam exists in the UAE, just like in any other country. Beware of companies or recruitment agencies asking for a money. Make sure to check the company�s official website. Most companies in the UAE don�t ask for money when processing your job application. Remember, research is the key!

9. Attest your certificate and documents

Once you are successfully hired, attested certificates and documents are needed by the company. These are the requirements for the application of your working visa. Documents issued outside UAE will not be accepted without proper attestation . Attestation usually takes time so make sure you have attested your documents in your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UAE Embassy. Take note that some documents need additional attestation in the UAE. Others might even need a translation before government agencies like MOHRE can issue the Residence Visa.

So, are you ready to go to the UAE to look for a job? What do you think you should consider before applying for a job in the UAE? Drop your comments below

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