UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is strategically located on the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia to the south and west and Oman to the southeast, with a coastline along the Persian Gulf. This prime position in the Middle East has made the UAE a crucial player in regional geopolitics and a significant contributor to global trade.
The UAE is characterised by its arid desert climate, with scorching summers where temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F) and mild winters. The country receives minimal rainfall, making it one of the driest regions globally. Despite these challenging climatic conditions, the UAE has developed advanced infrastructure to support its growing population and booming tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors yearly to experience its unique weather and natural landscapes.
Renowned for its rapid modernisation, the UAE is famous for its iconic skylines, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Dubai is celebrated for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping destinations, and vibrant nightlife, while Abu Dhabi is known for its rich cultural heritage, exemplified by landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Economically, the UAE is one of the wealthiest nations globally, primarily due to its substantial oil reserves. However, in recent years, it has diversified its economy by heavily investing in tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services, establishing itself as a global hub for business and innovation.
Visa Eligibility, Types and Process
Visa Eligibility
The UAE’s job market is dynamic and diverse, attracting a global workforce across key sectors like oil and gas, finance, tourism, real estate, and technology. Economic diversification has spurred growth in renewable energy, healthcare, and education, creating numerous job opportunities. With its favourable business environment, tax-free salaries, and world-class infrastructure, the UAE is an attractive destination for expatriates seeking career advancement and high living standards.
To be eligible for a UAE work visa, both the applicant and the hiring company must fulfil certain conditions:
Applicant Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- There is no maximum age for employment, but companies must pay a higher fee for workers over 65.
Hiring Company Requirements:
- Must have a valid business license.
- Must not have any legal violations.
- The job role must correspond to the nature of the company’s business.
Application Process
In the UAE, the responsibility of obtaining a work permit lies with the employer, who must apply on behalf of the prospective employee. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) oversees the issuance of work permits. The following steps outline the application process for obtaining a UAE work permit:
Application Submission:
- The employer initiates the process by printing the work permit application through the Tas’Heel website, the Ministry of Labour’s online system.
Document Submission:
- The employer must then submit the required documents. These typically include a copy of the applicant’s passport, a passport-sized photograph, a copy of the employment contract, and any other documents specified by the MoHRE.
Review and Corrections:
- Upon submission, the Ministry reviews the application and the accompanying documents. If there are any discrepancies or missing documents, the Ministry will notify the employer to resubmit the necessary documents or correct any irregularities.
Approval and Issuance:
- Once the application is approved, the Ministry issues the work permit. The employer can then download the approval document from the Ministry’s website.
Required Documents for a UAE Work Permit
- A copy of the applicant’s passport.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- A copy of the employment contract.
- Relevant educational and professional qualifications (if applicable).
- Any additional documents specified by the MoHRE.
Additional Considerations
- Processing Time: The processing time for a work permit can vary depending on the completeness and accuracy of the submitted documents.
- Fees: The employer is responsible for paying any fees associated with the application process.
- Compliance: Employers must ensure that their business complies with all relevant laws and regulations to avoid delays or rejections in the application process.
Visa Types
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is responsible for issuing work permits in the UAE. Employers must obtain the work permit on behalf of the applicant. MoHRE provides 12 types of work permits, catering to different employment scenarios:
1. Recruitment Permits:
- Recruiting a worker from outside the UAE.
- Transferring a foreign worker from one establishment to another.
- Recruiting a resident on family sponsorship.
2. Temporary and Project-Specific Permits:
- Temporary work permit for a specific job within a set period.
- One-mission work permit for a temporary job or project.
3. Speciality and Part-Time Permits:
- Part-time work permit for jobs with fewer hours or days than a full-time contract.
- Juvenile permit for workers aged 15-18.
- Student training and employment permit for 15-year-old students in the UAE.
4. National and Golden Visa Permits:
- UAE/GCC national permit for hiring UAE or GCC nationals.
- Golden visa holder permit for workers with the UAE’s Golden Residence visa.
5. Freelance and Training Permits:
- National trainee permit for training UAE nationals.
- Freelance permit for self-sponsored foreigners providing services or performing tasks independently.
- Private teacher work permit for hiring private teachers.
Visa Fees
The fees for obtaining a UAE work permit are structured based on the category and level of the worker:
1. Initial Approval:
- Requesting an initial approval of a new electronic work permit: AED 200 for all categories/levels.
2. Approval of the New Electronic Work Permit (including worker recruitment, hiring, and Labour Card issuance):
- Category 1: AED 300.
- Category 2:
● Level A: AED 600.
● Level B: AED 1,500.
● Level C: AED 2,000.
- Category 3: AED 5,000.
3. Special Fees:
- For foreign workers over the age of 65: AED 5,000 in all categories.
Benefits of Working in UAE
01
Tax-Free Income: One of the most significant benefits is tax-free income, allowing employees to retain their entire earnings without deductions for income tax.
02
Competitive Salaries: The UAE offers competitive salaries across various industries, often higher than in many other countries.
03
Diverse Job Market: The UAE has a dynamic job market with opportunities in key sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, tourism, and real estate.
04
High Living Standards: The UAE provides a high standard of living with access to modern amenities, world-class healthcare, and excellent educational facilities.
05
International Environment: UAE is a multicultural hub, offering a diverse and inclusive work environment with expatriates worldwide.
06
Career Growth Opportunities: UAE’s rapidly growing economy and business-friendly environment provide ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
07
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Employees benefit from the country’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, including efficient public transport, advanced technology, and modern office spaces.
08
Generous Employment Benefits: Many employers offer attractive benefits packages, including health insurance, housing allowances, annual leave, and end-of-service gratuities.
09
Safe and Secure Environment: The UAE is known for its safety and low crime rates, which provide residents with a secure living and working environment.
10
Travel Opportunities: The UAE’s strategic location offers easy access to travel destinations in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it convenient for personal and business travel.
Conclusion
The UAE provides an exceptional environment for expatriates with its tax-free income, competitive salaries, and dynamic job market across various key sectors. Employees benefit from generous employment packages, including health insurance, housing allowances, and end-of-service gratuities, which enhance their overall experience in the UAE. The country’s safety and low crime rates create a secure and comfortable living environment.
However, it is important to note that while the UAE offers numerous advantages, obtaining citizenship is generally restricted and not typically available to foreign workers. Residency is usually maintained through renewable work visas and residency permits. Despite this, the UAE’s strategic location and access to modern amenities and robust benefits make it a desirable place to work and live.