UAE Work Permits: A Guide for Jobseekers and Employers

TDT | Dubai

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a seasoned professional, or a student seeking your first job, having the correct work permit is essential to work legally in the UAE.

In the private sector, work permits are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) introduced various types of permits to meet the needs of both employers and employees. These permits allow companies to hire talent locally or internationally, while also offering jobseekers flexibility—from freelance work to temporary contracts.

How Work Permits Work

With the exception of the freelance permit, which individuals can apply for themselves, all other permits must be requested by the hiring company.

Work Permit for Foreign Recruitment

Companies hiring workers from abroad must apply for this permit. Employers are responsible for completing all procedures, including the residence visa, medical tests, Emirates ID, Labour Card, and stamping the UAE Residency Visa on the passport within 60 days of arrival. All costs are borne by the employer. Companies that fail to obtain a permit can face fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000.

Transfer Work Permit

This permit applies when an expatriate moves from one registered company to another within the UAE.

Work Permit Under Residence of Relative

If a worker’s residence visa is sponsored by a family member, the company only needs to apply for a work permit, not the visa.

Temporary Work Permit

For short-term employment in the UAE, this permit allows an expatriate to work for a specific period of up to six months.

One-Mission Permit

Issued for a specific project or temporary work abroad, this permit is valid only for the project duration.

Part-Time Work Permit

Allows employees to work for multiple employers, provided they work at least 20 hours per week with each.

Juvenile Work Permit

For individuals aged 15 to 18, this permit requires parental consent and limits working hours to six per day. Juveniles cannot work in hazardous or physically demanding jobs.

Student Training and Employment Permit

Students aged 15 and above can train and work for up to three months at registered establishments, with parental consent required.

UAE and GCC National Permit

Allows companies to hire UAE or Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens.

Golden Visa Work Permit

Even Golden Visa holders need a work permit if employed by a UAE-based company. This permit applies to those seeking their first job, renewing an existing contract, or joining a new employer.

With clear guidelines in place, both employers and jobseekers can navigate the UAE labour market confidently, ensuring compliance with the law and securing smooth employment opportunities.