Things to know about working in Dubai

Before working in Dubai, certain prerequisites must be met. Expatriate job seekers are typically required to have a valid work permit, which is usually sponsored by the employer. Additionally, a residence visa is necessary for long-term stays, and a valid Emirates ID must be obtained upon arrival in the country. Educational qualifications and professional certifications, depending on the specific job role, may need to be attested by the relevant authorities in the individual's home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

It is essential for job seekers to familiarize themselves with these prerequisites to ensure a smooth transition to the local job market and adhere to the regulations in place for working in Dubai.

Your employer will submit a list of required documents for your work permit application:

A copy of your passport (valid for atleast 6 months)

A visa application form

Application fee

A passport sized photo

Your entry permit

A valid health certificate

Three copies of your employment contract

Education certificates, plus any professional qualifications

A copy of the trading licence

Professional Certification

Professional Certification 

Certain professions require accreditation to be able to practice them in Dubai, specifically professions of intellectual or creative nature, such as consultancy, beauty salons, printing and publishing, repair services, and carpentry, including but not restricted to the following: 

Accountants, Auditors, and Financial Advisors

Teachers and Educational Professionals

A passport sized photo

Architectural Consultants

Entertainment Artists

A copy of the trading licence

Advertising Professionals

Business Consultants

Your entry permit

To apply, the issuing entities will mainly request these documents: 

Application form

NOC from the business owner’s sponsor

A passport sized photo

Visit visa copy for residents

Emirates ID copy

A copy of the trading licence

Passport copy

Additional approvals listed by the DED

Your entry permit

Retirement & Pensions

There is always a new experience to live for in Dubai, which makes it ideal for your retirement plan. You may also benefit from the retirement Golden Visa program, valid for 5 years and open to applicants above 55 years old.  Pension and Social Security Services 

Retirement Services 

Emirati Nationals

For Emirati citizens, retirement is regulated by the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA), which manages the pensions and social security benefits for UAE nationals. Upon reaching retirement age, Emiratis can apply for their pension benefits, which are calculated based on their years of service, salary, and other contributing factors.  All GPSSA services

Expatriates

For expatriate residents, the retirement process is different, they are typically entitled to an end-of-service gratuity, which is a lump-sum payment made by the employer upon the employee's departure from the company. The gratuity amount is calculated based on the employee's duration of service, salary, and other factors as stipulated by the UAE Labour Law.Being part of a pension scheme will help expats save more and even earn profits on their monthly contributions that begin at Dh100. Companies have to first sign up for the GPP that is offered by National Bonds. This Golden Pension Plan is not mandatory for employees, but a voluntary savings measure.”

Retirement Visa

In 2018, Dubai introduced the Dubai Retiree Visa, a long-term visa that allows eligible retirees to reside in the emirate. Expatriates looking to retire in Dubai can apply for this visa, provided they meet the financial eligibility criteria, which include having a minimum investment in property, a minimum monthly income, or a minimum savings balance. It is essential for individuals planning their retirement in Dubai to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and requirements to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transition to retirement.  More details on retirement visa

The requirements to obtain a retiree visa are:

To have minimum yearly income of AED 180,000 (approx. USD 49,000)

OR a one million dirhams savings in a 3-year fixed deposit

OR both above options