Finding Jobs in UAE as an Expat (2025)
Updated January 2025 · 11 min read
The UAE's economy continues to grow, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading as global business hubs. The country employs over 5 million foreign workers across every industry, from construction and hospitality to tech and finance. Here's your comprehensive guide to finding work.
Work Visa Requirements
To work legally in the UAE, you need an employment visa sponsored by your employer. The process:
- Receive a job offer from a UAE company
- Employer applies for a work permit from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources)
- Entry permit is issued — you enter the UAE
- Complete medical fitness test
- Obtain Emirates ID
- Visa stamped in passport (valid 2–3 years)
Cost: Typically borne by the employer (AED 3,000–7,000 total). Freelance visas are also available through free zones.
Golden Visa: 10-year renewable residency for skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional students. No employer sponsorship needed.
Top Industries Hiring in 2025
| Industry | Avg. Salary (AED/mo) | Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Technology / IT | 12,000–35,000 | Very High |
| Finance / Banking | 15,000–40,000 | High |
| Healthcare | 10,000–30,000 | High |
| Construction / Engineering | 8,000–25,000 | High |
| Hospitality / Tourism | 4,000–15,000 | High |
| Retail / Sales | 4,000–12,000 | Medium |
| Logistics / Supply Chain | 6,000–18,000 | High |
| Education | 8,000–20,000 | Medium |
Salaries in the UAE are tax-free, which significantly increases your effective earnings compared to most other countries.
Understanding UAE Salary Packages
UAE salaries typically include several components beyond the basic salary:
- Basic salary: 60% of total package — used for end-of-service calculation
- Housing allowance: AED 3,000–8,000/month or company-provided accommodation
- Transport allowance: AED 500–2,000/month or company car
- Health insurance: Mandatory — employer must provide medical insurance
- Annual flight ticket: Return ticket to home country once per year
- End-of-service gratuity: 21 days of basic salary per year (first 5 years), 30 days per year thereafter
Always negotiate the full package, not just the basic salary. A AED 15,000 salary with housing can be worth more than AED 20,000 without it.
Job Hunting Strategies That Work
1. Use multilingual platforms. The UAE workforce is incredibly diverse. Platforms like 58.ae that support 15 languages give you access to job listings from employers of all nationalities — many of which are never posted on English-only platforms.
2. Network through community groups. Join community circles on 58.ae, attend networking events, and connect with people from your country who are already working in UAE. Many jobs are filled through referrals.
3. Target free zones. Dubai has 30+ free zones (DMCC, DIFC, DAFZA, etc.) that attract international companies. Each has its own business community and job market.
4. Prepare a UAE-style CV. Include a professional photo, nationality, visa status, and driving license status. Keep it to 1–2 pages.
5. Be persistent. The average job search in UAE takes 2–4 months. Apply to 10–20 positions per week minimum.
Common Scams to Avoid
- Never pay money for a job offer or visa — legitimate employers cover all costs
- Be cautious of companies that offer unrealistically high salaries
- Verify the company exists (check DED/free zone registries)
- Never hand over your passport to anyone
- Read your employment contract carefully before signing — ensure it matches what was discussed
Freelancing in UAE
The UAE has embraced the gig economy. Freelance permits are available through:
- GoFreelance (TECOM): AED 7,500/year for media, tech, and education professionals
- Freelancer visa (Abu Dhabi): Through twofour54 or Hub71
- Dubai Multi-Commodities Centre (DMCC): AED 9,500/year for various professional categories
Freelancers can post their services on 58.ae under the Business & Services category to find clients directly.
Start Your Job Search
Browse job listings across all industries in UAE on 58.ae — available in 15 languages.