In recent years, the employment landscape has evolved significantly, much like the Dubai skyline. With a growing emphasis on flexibility and work-life balance, young people are now more open to non-traditional sources of income. One of the consequences of this shift is the rise of flexible employment opportunities. This article will cover everything you need to know before looking for part-time jobs in the UAE.
Before we get to the crux of understanding the market of part-time employment opportunities, let’s dive into the legalities and eligibility criteria of what it takes to find part-time jobs in the UAE.
Can you work part-time jobs in the UAE?
Part-time job openings in Dubai are regulated by the UAE labor law, which provides guidelines and protections for both employers and employees. While the specifics may vary by individual circumstance, the first and foremost factor is your eligibility to work in the country. Once you have all the information you require, finding part-time vacancies and evening jobs in Dubai will be easier than ever!
You can search for full-time, part-time and freelance roles on our Job Portal to get started today.
Who is eligible for a part-time work permit in the UAE?
A UAE resident can work part-time in the UAE, whether they are currently employed or not. You are also eligible for the temporary work permit if you are a GCC national or expatriate employee living in the UAE on a work visa.
Only those Expatriates or residents are eligible:
- Age limit – 18 years. Anyone below the age limit can’t get a UAE part-time work permit.
- A valid residence visa in the UAE is mandatory. You have to be a resident of the Emirates to get a part-time work permit.
- Applicants must have a permanent job and work permit.
- Expatriates are also eligible for a part-time work permit if they are in the UAE on a family visa.
- Foreign students aged 18 and above are eligible to apply for a part-time work permit.
- Anyone holding a UAE tourist visa is not eligible for involvement in any part-time work job in the UAE.
- If the person is over 65, they can not apply for a part-time work permit.
Can I get more than one job on a part-time work permit?
Yes, if you hold a part-time work permit, you have the option to engage in employment with another company at the same time. However, you must maintain part-time status at your original place of employment, working for less than eight hours per day. The terms and conditions of the new employment must align with those of the original contract to ensure visa validity.
Can anyone apply for a contract to find part-time jobs in the UAE?
It is important to note that only skilled workers are eligible for part-time contracts. Typically, eligibility requires a university degree or equivalent qualification. Alternatively, completion of a two or three-year diploma in a technical or scientific field may also qualify individuals.
Residents of the UAE holding family visas have the opportunity to pursue a second job. To do so, they must obtain a part-time work permit accompanied by a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their sponsor. These permits are accessible to individuals aged 18 to 65, irrespective of gender.
However, individuals on visitor or tourist visas cannot apply for a part-time work permit.
How can I get a work permit for part-time jobs in the UAE?
The process of getting a part-time or temporary work visa is straightforward. You need to obtain the permit from MoHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization), and the process is typically the responsibility of the employer. You can apply for the visa through the MoHRE website or in person at the offices.
Please note that the permit is generally valid for six months. The permit for the part-time visa is AED 600 in total, and it includes the application fee (AED 100) and the approval fee (AED 500). The prospective employer will be in charge of paying the fees.
The documents needed for the application for the part-time work permit are as follows:
- A copy of both companies’ trade licenses (the current/primary company and the applying/secondary company)
- A color photograph with a white background of the employee
- A copy of the employee’s passport
- If academic qualification is required (post-secondary diploma, university degree or equivalent), a copy thereof which should be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall be attached
- A letter of approval issued by the competent authority shall be attached if so required (doctor, pharmacist, nurse and teacher)
- A copy of the contract
- No objection certificate from the old sponsor/primary sponsor
- A copy of the worker’s visa that includes the sponsor or establishment name that must be valid for more than 6 months
Where should I go to get more information?
If you still have any questions or concerns regarding the procedure and requirements, kindly address your queries to MoHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization). Their website has all the information required.
So before you head down the road to find the perfect part-time employment opportunity for yourself, make sure you can tick off all the boxes – as far as legality is concerned. This will help you to navigate the job market with confidence and make informed decisions about your career pursuits.
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Summing Up
Engaging in part-time employment in the UAE offers numerous advantages for both employers and employees. Individuals can leverage temporary job opportunities to supplement their income or earn while pursuing their studies. Check out Oliv’s curated list of part-time work for students in Dubai (www.oliv.com/blog/part-time-jobs-for-students-in-dubai-uae). Keep following Oliv to stay up to date with the latest news and tips to help you in your job search in the UAE.