Finding a job in the United Arab Emirates is a unique opportunity. Although at first glance there may be many similarities with your home country, it is important to remember that this Islamic country has its own culture and traditions.
Labor market in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE has seen western growth in the last decade, so there are many job opportunities here. In fact, Dubai has the lowest unemployment rate in the world at just 0.5%. We continually operate across multiple sectors including technology, finance, oil and petrochemicals, construction and tourism. In recent times, there has been a notable surge in the growth of startups and fintech companies. Many global companies in various industries have offices in the UAE, including DHL, Microsoft, Omnicom, Hilton and Marriott Hotels, BP Shell, Standard Chartered and HSBC.
Salaries in the northern Arab Emirates
Salaries in the UAE can vary greatly as they are highly dependent on a number of factors. Some of them are quite arbitrary. In general, the more qualifications and experience you have, the higher your salary. However, you must master the art of behavior. The right salary and benefits package depends largely on your abilities.
It is important to remember that there is no minimum wage in the UAE. However, in recent years, the country has introduced certain rules whereby employers are not allowed to pay university graduates less than AED 12,000. This means that every offer you receive is subject to negotiation. Average wages are at EU levels. Also, remember that you don’t pay taxes, so take home everything you earn. As with everything, your salary depends on your work.
Outlined below are typical salary ranges in the UAE. It’s worth noting that expatriates often receive higher compensation packages.
- Managing Director: AED 30,500 per month.
- Lawyer: AED 24,000 per month.
- Civil Engineer: AED 15,300 per month.
- Architekt: AED 15.000 per month.
- Developer: AED 15,000 per month.
- Accountant: AED 11,300 per month.
Where to start your job search in Dubai
The job search in Dubai should begin by identifying your goals and professional interests. Below are some initial actions to kickstart your journey:
- Determine your goal. Before you start looking for a job, decide what kind of work you are interested in, what skills you have and what industry would like to work in.
- Prepare your resume. Create a high-quality resume, highlighting your work experience, education and skills that may be useful to employers in Dubai.
- Research the labor market. Research the demand for your profession in Dubai, as well as the requirements for candidates and salary levels.
- Use online resources. Use online job search platforms in Dubai such as Layboard, Bayt, GulfTalent, Indeed, and LinkedIn. You can also search for job openings on local company websites.
- Expand your contacts. Connect with people who already work in Dubai or have connections with local companies. Maybe they have information about job openings or can recommend you to their friends.
- Prepare for the Interview. If you receive an interview invitation, be available to respond to questions about your work experience, motivation and skills. Also be prepared to discuss your visa status and employment conditions.
Start with these steps to successfully start your job search in Dubai.
Exploring Job Prospects in the United Arab Emirates
Recruitment process under the United Arab Emirates is very similar to what you will find in other places. You submit your resume and cover letter. Conduct several interviews, perhaps an initial phone call with HR before meeting with managers. You can find a job yourself using job search sites such as https://layboard.in/vacancies/jobs-in-uae/jobs-in-dubai/speciality/crane-operator. A decision and job offer will then be made and you will discuss the details of your contract. You can expect the entire process to take about five weeks on average.
When preparing your CV, make sure it is suitable for the UAE. You must provide your photograph, nationality and date of birth, as well as standard personal information such as name, email address, phone number and current location. Your resume should be about two pages in length and include information about your work experience and education. In the UAE, everything is done in a big way, so don’t be afraid to celebrate your achievements – just don’t lie. Indicate your language level, but keep in mind that you don’t need to give any recommendations at this stage.
When meeting with a potential employer for an interview, be sure to prepare properly. Be polite – dress and act appropriately – and learn more about the company and its activities in the UAE. You might ask why you would want to get in the country. So think about it and prepare a good answer. There are no anti-discrimination laws in the UAE, so potential employers may ask you questions.
Assistance in searching for a job in the United Arab Emirates
Finding a job in the United Arab Emirates can be a challenge for expats, but with the right preparation and strategy, you will be able to maximize your chances of successful placement. Here are a few steps that can help you in this process:
- Be financially self-supporting. Since there is no social security for expatriates in the UAE, it’s important to be ready for that you will have to support yourself financially while searching for a job. Prepare for this in advance to avoid financial difficulties in the process.
- Improved language skills. Good knowledge of English and Arabic can greatly improve your chances of getting hired in the UAE. Consider taking English or Arabic courses to improve your skills to the required level.
- Improve your professional skills. Consider earning certifications or taking courses that can improve your competitiveness in the job market. These could be courses related to your profession, such as marketing or project management, or courses to develop personal skills, such as communication and leadership.
- Network marketing. Utilize your connections and networks to find job openings. Participate in professional events, seminars and conferences to expand your network and connect with potential employers.
- Continuous learning and development. Be prepared to continually learn and develop your skills throughout your career. Refresh your knowledge, stay up to date with the latest trends in your field, and strive for continuous improvement.
By following these steps and approaching your job search in the UAE in a systematic and targeted manner, you will maximize your chances of being hired and achieving your career goals.