Working in Dubai in 2023: part-time job possible in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE labor laws allow individuals to work for two different employers in the UAE. It should be noted that in the UAE, full-time employees generally work eight (8) hours per day and forty-eight (48) hours per week. It is also possible to work overtime.
But what about individuals who wish to work part-time in Dubai? What steps should be taken to remain legal?
These are all questions that the government has answered by offering the temporary or part-time work permit.
Whether you want to work in your spare time or generate extra income, here is what you need to know about part-time jobs in the UAE.
NB: this law applies to all employees of private companies located in the mainland and some free zones.
The Law around part-time work contracts in Dubai
The part-time work permits are not new in the UAE. Indeed, since 2010 the labor law allows an employee to work part time and full time, under certain conditions.
It is therefore possible for an employee to work part-time provided he/she has obtained a work permit from the MOHRE.
Beware, if an expatriate is caught working for another company without a work permit from MOHRE, a fine of AED 50,000 will be imposed in addition to other sanctions if the case is a repeat offender. Federal Decree-Law No. 2 of 2007 explains the penalties for this type of practice.
It is not possible to apply for this type of permit if you are on a tourist visa!
What does part-time employment in Dubai mean?
Part-time work in Dubai is the practice of working fewer hours than a full-time job. It is most often used as a way for employees to maintain flexibility in their schedule or to supplement their income.
Part-time work can be beneficial for those seeking an alternative to full-time employment, such as students, stay-at-home parents, retirees or anyone else unable to commit to full-time employment. Part-time jobs offer the opportunity to gain experience and skills that may be useful in future employment opportunities. In addition, employers often offer part-time positions with flexible schedules, allowing employees to maintain a life balance while earning an income. Part-time work is also an ideal way for those who want to explore different fields and learn about different industries.
Ultimately, part-time work in Dubai offers many people a great opportunity to earn money while remaining flexible and meeting personal commitments.
What are the conditions to work part-time in the UAE
Part-time work in the UAE is regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emigration (MOHRE) or by the Labor Law.
The temporary or part-time work permit is intended for employees who have been granted an employment contract of six (6) months or less. It is up to the “future” employer to take the necessary steps to obtain this work permit, and the steps are taken at the MOHRE. This type of permit is only valid for six (6) months.
The employer can apply online or at the Tasheel centers.
In order to apply, the following conditions must be met:
- Be 18 years old at the time of application;
- Be a resident of the United Arab Emirates;
- May be employed or unemployed at the time of application.
Any individual present in the territory with a tourist visa is not eligible for this type of contract. It is absolutely necessary to have a residence visa. Also, any resident over 65 years old is not eligible for this type of work permit.
What documents are required to obtain this work permit?
The process of obtaining this new type of work permit is similar to that of a traditional work permit.
Your employer and his or her PRO team will need to prepare a file in advance consisting of the following documents:
- Copy of passport;
- Copy of employment contract;
- Photograph of the employee in color and white background;
- Copy of the employee’s visa with a validity of at least 6 months;
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current employer (if applicable);
- Copy of the business license of the current employer and the future employee;
- Copy of diplomas certified by the MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
The “future” employer must also provide a NOC to ensure that all parties are aware of this part-time contract.
Find a part-time job in the United Arab Emirates
In the part-time contract job market, there are many positions that offer part-time contracts. Some of the most popular include:
- Commercial agent;
- Accountant;
- Driver;
- Teacher/instructor/trainer;
- Designer/graphic artist/photographer;
- Waiter/waitress;
- Nanny;
This list is obviously not exhaustive and other types of positions are concerned by this type of contracts.
Attention: Please note that a part-time work permit is not equal to a freelance permit. They are two completely different permits.
As you can see, working part-time is possible in the United Arab Emirates under certain conditions. It is however essential to keep in mind that the first step when arriving in Dubai will be to find a job to be eligible for the part-time work permit. Having a second part-time job requires a permit if you wish to avoid any legal problems.
Consult our PROs for part-time recruitment
Our team keeps up to date with all the new laws and regulations in force.
Our PRO’s can also take care of obtaining the classic and part-time permits for your employees, as well as obtaining all the residence visa applications.
Finally, we take care of all the administrative formalities related to the creation and follow-up of your company in Dubai and in the Emirates in general.
For more information, please contact us at support@merritt.group.
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