Introduction
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a land of opportunity that attracts job seekers from all over the world. With its growing economy, tax-free salary, advanced infrastructure, and cosmopolitan working environment, the UAE is especially attractive to expatriates seeking employment. But what if you are visiting the UAE on a visit visa? Can you work during your visit?
The short answer is yes, but it requires strategic planning, determination, and a proper understanding of UAE labor laws and market conditions. This guide offers a step-by-step roadmap to finding a job in the UAE on a visit visa, updated for 2025.
Understanding the UAE Visit Visa
Before diving into job hunting, it’s important to know the basics about the visit visa:
Types of Visit Visas:
Tourist Visa (30 or 60 Days): Most common for job seekers. Can be extended for a fee.
Job Seeker Visa (60–120 Days): A newer option designed specifically for job hunting.
Sponsored Visit Visa: Issued when a family member or friend sponsors your stay.
Important Note:
Working on a visit visa is illegal. You can search for jobs, attend interviews, and accept offers – but you must convert to a work visa before starting employment.
UAE Job Market Overview (2025 Update)
Key Industries Hiring Expatriates
Technology & AI
Healthcare
Construction & Real Estate
Retail & Hospitality
Finance & Banking
Logistics & Supply Chain
Education
Top Hiring Emirates
Dubai – Startup hub, finance, tourism
Abu Dhabi – Oil, gas, government, education
Sharjah & Ajman – SMEs, education, healthcare
Preparing Before You Arrive
Success in your job hunt begins before you land in the UAE. Here’s how to prep:
Create a Strong Resume
Tailor your CV to UAE standards (max 2 pages).
Include:
- Professional photo (optional)
- Clear objective
- Key skills
- Career summary
- Detailed job responsibilities
Highlight UAE/ GCC experience if you have it.
Build Your LinkedIn Profile
Use keywords relevant to your industry.
Turn on “Open to Work.”
Join UAE-based job groups.
Follow recruiters and companies.
Prepare Your Documents
Passport copy
Attested degree certificates
Experience letters
Professional licenses (if needed)
Passport-size photos (white background)
Best Time to Visit for Job Hunting
January to April and September to November are ideal.
Avoid Ramadan, summer months (May–August), and end-of-year holidays.
Budget Wisely
- AED 3000–5000/month (budget stay)
- AED 500–1000 for transportation
- AED 2500–6000 for visa + extension fees
Tip: Stay in shared accommodations or hostels in areas like Bur Dubai, Deira, or Al Nahda.
Where to Search for Jobs
Online Job Portals
Interview Tips & Tricks
Dress the Part
Men: Shirt, trousers, clean shoes
Women: Formal but modest
Be Punctual and Polite
UAE employers value etiquette and professionalism.
Prepare for Common Questions
- Why do you want to work in the UAE?
- What is your expected salary?
- Are you available immediately?
Tip: Research company background and prepare smart questions.
Understanding UAE Work Permits
Once you get an offer:
Employer Applies for Entry Permit
This allows you to legally enter the workforce.
Get Medical Fitness Test
Mandatory step for visa processing.
Emirates ID & Labor Contract
You’ll receive your labor card and official contract.
Residency Visa
Final step – stamped into your passport.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Working on a visit visa (illegal)
Paying fraudulent agencies
No follow-up after interviews
Poor CV/LinkedIn profile
Applying blindly to irrelevant jobs
Staying Motivated & Mentally Strong
Job hunting in a foreign land can be challenging. Stay motivated by:
- Setting daily goals
- Joining support communities
- Meditating or exercising
- Keeping contact with family
Persistence is key. Many job seekers land offers during their second or third month in the UAE.
What to Do if You Don’t Get a Job Before Visa Expires
Extend Your Visa
Pay AED 1000–1500 to extend for 30 days (max 2 times).
Exit & Re-enter
Fly to Oman or another nearby country and return with a new visa.
Convert to a Job Seeker Visa
If eligible, apply for the UAE Job Seeker Visa while still in-country.
Target These UAE Hiring Companies (2025)
If you are looking for work in the UAE on a visit visa, there are many firms that hire expats and encourage walk-in or internet applications. Some of the top ones to approach are Emirates Group in aviation (careers.emirates.com), Noon in online shopping (careers.noon.com), Careem (which is owned by Uber) in technology (careers.careem.com), Emaar Properties in realty (emaar.com/careers), and Aster DM Healthcare in healthcare (asterdmhealthcare.com). In addition to these individual companies, be sure to visit government-run job websites like Naukri Gulf, Jobs Abu Dhabi, and UAE Ministry of Human Resources for ongoing job postings in a variety of industries.
Quick Survival Guide While Job Hunting
Living on a budget while job searching in the UAE is crucial for feasibility and psychological stability. Average monthly spending can be AED 800–1200 on bedspace, AED 300–350 on a metro pass, AED 700–1000 on food, AED 100 on mobile/internet, and AED 200–300 on miscellaneous other needs. To save money, use affordable means of transport like Careem Bike or Metro, shop at Lulu or Carrefour, and cook your own meals instead of eating out. You can further reduce accommodation costs by sharing apartments with roommates found from Facebook groups, as it is the norm with expats and job seekers.
Interview Trends in 2025
In the new normal of job interviews, first rounds are frequently conducted via Zoom or Google Meet to filter candidates’ technical skills and professional attitude remotely. Final interviews are frequently conducted face-to-face for candidates on visit visas. Usual interview questions are: What brought you to the UAE on a visit visa? and to that a firm response is, “I’m interested in establishing full-time career opportunities and believe my skills are appropriate for the UAE’s emerging industries. If asked about availability, candidates may genuinely answer, “Yes, I am available and willing to transfer my visa on offer.” On legal sensitivity, a good enough reply is, Yes, I understand I am not to start work until rightfully in possession of the correct employment visa, and I shall do so in full.
Avoid These Scams in 2025
Unfortunately, job fraud targeting visit visa holders in the UAE remains common, so it’s important to continue being cautious. Be wary of fake job offers in which recruitment agencies demand advance payments for visas or medical tests since these are clear red flags. Don’t be tricked by unrealistic salary promises that are too good to be true-they usually aren’t. Also, steer clear of agencies that ask for processing fees because legitimate recruitment agencies are paid by employers, not job seekers. Always verify the agency’s registration with the Dubai Economic Department (DED) or the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) before proceeding.
Golden Advice from UAE Recruiters
Recruiters in Dubai this year have given some valuable tips that can be very helpful for job hunters in adapting their approach. According to an HR Manager in a logistics firm, Those candidates who follow up professionally stand out. A gentle reminder message shows interest without urgency. A hiring manager in a tech startup emphasized the importance of being easily accessible locally, adding, “We would rather hire those already in UAE – it is more convenient for scheduling and onboarding.” Meanwhile, the Talent Acquisition Head of a hotel company cited the impact of customization: Individualized CVs aligned with the JD are read more than mass-produced generic ones.