UAE Revolutionizes Work Permits with AI

New Era of Work Permits in UAE: AI to Handle Applications

In the United Arab Emirates, the digital transformation is accelerating, particularly in governmental services. The latest development, showcased at the 2025 Gitex Global technology exhibition, is an AI-based system set to revolutionize the process of issuing work permits. Called Eye, the new system's aim is to automate the entire documentation and permitting process - almost entirely without human intervention.

The Eye System: Capabilities and Operation

The Eye system employs an advanced AI agent capable of checking and verifying applicant-submitted documents. This includes personal photographs, passports, employment contracts, and educational certificates. The AI does more than 'view' these documents; it cross-checks them against various databases to filter out potential forgeries, errors, or discrepancies. This automated system is not only more reliable but also faster than traditional, manual verification processes.

The introduction of artificial intelligence allows for applications to be processed within days, whereas previously it could take weeks. This reduces errors and makes decisions more objective, as they are not influenced by human factors such as fatigue or subjective interpretation.

Legal Background and Types of Permits

Under the UAE Labor Law, all foreign nationals are required to hold a valid work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). The same rule applies to employers: they cannot hire anyone without this permit.

Currently, the ministry offers 13 different types of work permits depending on the nature of employment - covering temporary, part-time, freelance, and internship statuses.

Required Documents for Application

During the work permit application process, applicants must submit several documents, which include:

- A passport valid for at least six months,

- A passport-sized photograph,

- Entry permit,

- Copy of the work contract,

- Certified copies of educational qualifications (if necessary),

- Results of a medical fitness examination,

- Documents from the employer (e.g., valid trade license, organization registration card).

These documents were traditionally processed in paper or digitized formats, but from now on, the Eye system will sift through and interpret them from start to finish without human involvement - except in exceptional cases, such as if the system cannot make a clear decision.

Advantages of Automation for Applicants and Authorities

The use of artificial intelligence in administrative procedures saves not only time and energy but also improves the customer experience. Applicants receive faster feedback than before, and the likelihood of incomplete or erroneous documentation is significantly reduced, as the system immediately alerts if something is amiss.

Eye also contributes to transparency. The AI logs each step, making it traceable why a particular decision was made - especially important in contentious cases. For authorities, this automation offers significant relief, freeing staff from repetitive tasks and allowing resources to be reallocated to more complex, strategic questions.

Impact of Technological Breakthrough on the Future

The introduction of the Eye system aligns well with the UAE's efforts to craft one of the world's most advanced digital administrations. Smart government strategies are intended to offer fast, efficient, and convenient services to citizens and residents, with minimal paperwork.

AI is already present in various sectors within the country, whether in transport, healthcare, education, or law enforcement. The Eye system serves as further evidence that the UAE is not only keeping pace but also shaping the digital future.

Summary

The AI-based Eye system's introduction is a milestone in the UAE's work permit process. Automated document verification, reduced human error, and faster administration all serve to make the country more attractive to foreign workers and investors. This example of digital innovation illustrates that the UAE is not just adopting technology but is actively using it for social and economic development. Dubai and the other emirates therefore serve not only as tourist or business destinations but also as prototypes of the intelligent state of the future.

(Source of the article: Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) statement.)