Your Guide to Employment in Dubai for Foreigners

Finding a job in Dubai

Like in most international markets, prospective employees can make use of both online and offline resources for job-hunting in Dubai. Trusted job search sites providing comprehensive listings across industries include:

• Homegrown initiatives like Bayt and Laimoon
• Regional versions of portals like Monster Gulf, Naukri Gulf and Indeed
• LinkedIn, which is also among the most popular options for those seeking to network
• Glassdoor, which offers honest reviews of companies by verified employees

Additionally, recruitment agencies can play a pivotal role in helping expats find the right jobs. Through a network of experts, these agencies guide talent towards fulfilling job paths aligned with their skills, experience and expectations.

Popular recruitment agencies in Dubai

Hays
Specialises in permanent and contingent outsourced solutions, and contract management. Industries covered include accountancy, business support, financial services and construction.
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Michael Page
Operating across 25 disciplines, the agency recruits for permanent, temporary and contract opportunities. Industries covered include consultancy, strategy, and data and analytics.
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Cooper Fitch
Provides recruitment, HR advisory and recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) services in the UAE and GCC. Industries covered include technology, consumer goods, healthcare and real estate.
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TASC Outsourcing
A staffing and HR solutions agency in the region, serving more than 200 organisations through a wide range of services. Industries covered include healthcare, and delivery and logistics.
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Employee benefits in Dubai

Working in Dubai comes with numerous benefits for employees. Health insurance is mandatory for all workers, no matter what category, and many companies also include transportation and housing allowances as part of salary packages. Employees may also be eligible for relocation assistance to move to Dubai, while some companies may pay for children's schooling fees.

Staff are legally allowed generous leave entitlements. This includes annual leave, sick days and maternity leave to guarantee a healthy lifestyle. Many companies will also cover the cost of plane tickets for expatriates to visit their home countries annually.

Bookmark these resources

Unemployment Benefit Scheme
Workers facing job loss (for reasons other than resignation or disciplinary action) can get monthly financial aid of up to 60% of their average basic salaries for a certain time.
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Submitting a work complaint
MOHRE oversees all employment-related disputes. Workers can file a complaint by filling out a form on the ministry's website, calling MOHRE or via the MOHRE app.
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Dubai gratuity calculator
The Dubai Development Authority has launched an online calculator that enables workers and employees to calculate their end-of-service benefits.
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New worker checklist

Dubai for the self-employed

Setting up a business

Start a business in Dubai, whether via the mainland or in one of the city’s multiple free zones, with a host of unique benefits and a strong support ecosystem.

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Special visas

Understand more about long-term residency visas for skilled workers, artists, investors and pioneers, plus options to work remotely or retire in Dubai.