Getting a Work Permit in Dubai Made Easy

Foreign Worker Permitting – How the Process Works in Dubai

For companies operating in the United Arab Emirates, it is crucial to have an official work permit before hiring foreign workers. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) recently reminded companies that working on a visit visa is illegal and can attract fines ranging from 100,000 to 1 million dirhams. The aim is not only to enforce regulations but also to enhance the competitiveness and flexibility of the labor market.

Streamlined Process

Mohre has modernized the permit application system to make the recruitment of foreign labor faster and more transparent. Employers can request a work permit through the following steps:

1. Log In

The process begins with logging in using the UAE Pass digital ID via the Mohre website or smartphone app.

2. Submit Application

The employer fills out an online form, uploads necessary documents, and electronically submits the application.

3. Verification

The ministry reviews the application and notifies the company of any documents that need to be supplemented.

4. Issuance of Permit

If all requirements are met, the permit is approved, and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) issues the entry permit.

5. Post-Arrival Steps

The employee must undergo a medical examination and apply for an Emirates ID, after which the work contract is issued by Mohre.

Required Documents

For a successful application, the following documents are needed:

Color passport photo with a white background

Passport copy valid for at least six months

Official job offer signed by both parties

Education documents (depending on job level):

1-2 level: University degree or higher

3-4 level: College certificate

5 level: Secondary school certificate

6-9 level: No qualification needed

Professional license (for regulated professions such as doctors, teachers)

Certain nationalities (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran) require a copy of both sides of the national ID

Important Conditions

The employer must have a valid digital quota

The employee must be at least 18 years old

The company's operating license must be active and free of violations

Only an authorized representative can submit the application

The applicant must not have an active work permit during the process

Types of Work Permits

The UAE currently offers 13 different types of work permits, tailored to various recruitment models in the private sector. These allow companies flexibility to choose according to job roles and employee profiles.

Fees and Costs

The costs associated with obtaining a work permit depend on the employee's category:

Application fee: 50 dirhams

Issuing a two-year permit:

Category 1: 250 dirhams

Category 2: 1,200 dirhams

Category 3: 3,450 dirhams

Customer center fees: maximum 72 dirhams per service

A bank guarantee or insurance may be required upon payment of the fee.

Tracking and Customer Support

The status of the work permit can be easily tracked in the following ways:

Mohre website

Mohre smartphone app

Customer service hotline: 600590000

Chatbot (live chat service)

Summary

UAE aims to assist companies in the recruitment of international professionals with an efficient and transparent system, while preserving the integrity of the labor market. Through digital solutions and streamlined procedures, hiring foreign workers is now faster and more regulated than ever. It is important that companies comply with all regulations to avoid severe penalties and to ensure legal employment conditions in Dubai and across the UAE.

(Source of the article: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announcement.)