
Working in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates enjoys a dynamic economy. The country has a lot going on, which is particularly visible in the cityscape, with new buildings being built everywhere. For many Germans, Dubai is also an increasingly attractive country to work and live in. Many are also attracted by the fact that you do not have to pay income tax there. In this article, you will learn more about working in Dubai, the working conditions – especially as a woman – and how you can find a job in Dubai.
Working conditions in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates has undertaken a lot in recent years to ensure that it is perceived as an attractive location for workers from abroad. Dubai is the most progressive city throughout the country, with the greatest tolerance towards other nations and Western values. What attracts many people to work and live in Dubai is certainly the fact that you do not have to pay income tax in the United Arab Emirates.
But everyday working life also has its differences to that in Germany. The working week in Dubai starts on Sunday and continues through to Thursday. You also have to expect a 6-day work week in some companies, as the law only stipulates one weekend day; it is common to work 40 to 48 hours as a full-time employee, for example. You are also entitled to at least 20 days of holiday leave per year.
In Dubai, you are entitled to 90 sick days – but not all of them are paid. For the first 15 days you will receive your full salary, for another 30 days half, and the remaining 45 days are unpaid.
But in which language can you communicate in your everyday work? Although the official language in Dubai is Arabic, the language of business and commerce is English. This means that you will be able to deal with just about every situation as long as you have a very good knowledge of English.
Salaries in Dubai are usually slightly higher than in Germany. However, this depends very much on the industry in which you will work. You can expect a monthly salary of between 15,000 and 25,000 dirhams (roughly between 3,900 to 6,500 euros). Please note that there is no minimum wage in the United Arab Emirates and therefore no legal basis for a minimum salary.
You should definitely negotiate a few things for your employment contract. Since you will not receive statutory health insurance, you should ensure in any case that your employment contract includes health insurance. You can also negotiate a housing allowance and a company car. This is one way of reducing your costs of living in Dubai.
Professional life of women in Dubai
Much has been done in recent years for women’s rights. For example, there are now some regulations in place that are intended to protect and promote women in the working environment. Women now have the right to equal pay, maternity leave and protection against discrimination in the workplace. There are also initiatives that promote the employment of women – especially in management positions. Women are now represented in all professions and management levels in Dubai, as well as in politics.
High-demand job positions in Dubai
So, you would like to work in Dubai and are wondering if you can get a job in Dubai with your professional background? If you work in one of the following industries, then the chances are very good because they typically have the most vacancies in Dubai:
- IT
- Finances
- Engineering
- Marketing
- Tourism
- Health service
Other important professions are defined for the “Green Visa”. If you work in one of these fields, you can apply for this visa and live and work in Dubai for five years.
Job search and application in Dubai
Have you decided that you definitely want to work in Dubai? Then we have some helpful information and tips for your job search and application in Dubai. Incidentally, a firm job offer is also essential for most visas.
Job search
You certainly have a good chance of finding a job in one of the approximately 800 German companies that have a branch in the United Arab Emirates.
In addition, you can of course find a job in Dubai on one of the relevant job portals:
You can find more information for your job search on the government website of the United Arab Emirates.
Application
For your application, you will need a CV with a photo, an informative cover letter and your most important certificates and references. Your application does not have to be in Arabic: it can also be in English. Make sure that your English is error-free and have your documents proofread by native English speakers. You should definitely have your references and certificates translated into English and certified.
Translations for job application
More information about Dubai
If you would now like additional information about Dubai, you can find out more in our other articles:
If you study medicine in Germany, you should have no problems working as a doctor in Dubai. However, you must have your degree recognised. To do this, you need to register with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and pass the DHA licence exam.
You can basically continue to work in your normal job that you have had until now. If the medical professions are involved, you must have your degree recognised.
As a German, you are unlikely to be able to work as a police officer in Dubai, as the UAE only considers citizens and Arab applicants for such police positions in Dubai
You can actually hold any position in Dubai that men are allowed to hold. This is now also regulated by law. Women are even explicitly encouraged to take up employment – especially in management positions.
Yes, healthcare staff are even increasingly in demand in Dubai. As a nurse, however, you must first have your degree recognised. Among other things, you will have to take an exam for this.
Yes, physiotherapists with international qualifications are in high demand in Dubai. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind about your qualifications. For example, your degree must be internationally recognised and you must already have work experience.