UAE Work Permits: 13 Types Explained

UAE Labor Laws: 13 Types of Work Permits for the Private Sector

The labor laws of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) not only protect the rights of employees and employers but also contribute to the country's economic growth and dynamic labor market. There are a total of 13 different types of work permits available for the private sector, allowing companies to attract expertise or adapt flexibly to market demands. These permits facilitate the involvement of not only foreign professionals but also the local workforce, while ensuring that everyone works within legal frameworks.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) oversees these permits and ensures that both companies and employees are aware of the regulations. It is illegal to work without a valid permit in the UAE, so it is essential for employers and employees to know the available options.

Detailed Description of the 13 Types of Work Permits

Standard Work Permit: This permit allows companies registered in the UAE to recruit workers from abroad. The employer is responsible for obtaining the visa, work permit, and residency permit.

Transfer Work Permit: This permit allows foreign workers within the UAE to change jobs without leaving the country, enabling them to transfer from one company to another.

Work Permit for Family Visa Holders: This permit allows individuals with a family visa to work without the employer needing to provide a visa.

Temporary Work Permit: Necessary for short-term projects or specific tasks, this permit allows companies to employ workers for a short duration without long-term contracts.

Task-Specific Permit: This allows a foreign worker to arrive in the UAE for a specific project or task for a short period.

Part-Time Work Permit: This permit allows an employee to work under a part-time contract, where the work hours or days are fewer than a full-time contract. The employee can work for multiple employers with ministry approval.

Juvenile Work Permit: Available for teenagers aged 15-18 with restrictions on work hours and positions to ensure a safe work environment.

Student Training Permit: Available for students from the age of 15 residing in the UAE, allowing them to engage in practical work under specific rules and conditions.

Work Permit for UAE and GCC Citizens: This permit eases the employment of UAE and GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) citizens.

Golden Visa Work Permit: Required for Golden Visa holders who wish to work at a UAE-registered company.

National Internship Permit: Available for companies registered with Mohre looking to train citizens with academic qualifications.

Freelance Permit: Available for independent foreigners providing services or completing tasks based on individual or corporate assignments without being tied to a specific employer.

Private Tutoring Permit: This license allows qualified professionals to legally offer private lessons in the UAE. The two-year permit is available for free.

Why Are These Permits Important?

The UAE labor laws and the various work permits allow companies to flexibly adapt to market demands while ensuring employee rights. These permits help maintain the UAE's attractiveness to international professionals and support the country as a global business hub.

The different types of permits allow companies to attract expertise, employ workers for temporary projects, or even hire part-time employees. All of this contributes to the UAE's economic growth and dynamic labor market.

Thus, UAE labor laws not only protect the rights of employees and employers but also create opportunities for economic development and international collaboration.