Working in Dubai - A Guide for Job Seekers
People all over the world flock to the UAE in the hope of getting a job and make a better future for them. However, it is not always a quick or easy process. Job seekers who come to Dubai should plan to spend several weeks in the job search. Employers often receive hundreds of applications for a single opening and competition is fierce. Networks can be vital and connect with others in the same industry through sites like LinkedIn.com can be invaluable.
For those who hope to find a job in Dubai, excellent online resources include:
Bayt.com
GulfTalent.com
GulfJobSites.com
NaukriGulf.com
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There are also several recruitment agencies with good reputations available to assist job seekers in their job search. These include:
Clarendon Parker
Kershaw Leonard
LAC
Michael Page
Manpower Middle East
To avoid scams, it is always advisable to do some research on reputation and a recruiter methods before using their services. Any agency requiring registration fee should be avoided.
Once a person is officially engaged, a contract will be signed with the employer. Contracts can be either limited or unlimited. A limited-term contract for a specified period not exceeding four years. The renewal is not guaranteed. If one party breaks a limited contract early, he or she may incur penalties. A contract is renewable without limit. After the trial period (usually 3-6 months) a permanent contract can be terminated by either party, as long as there are valid reasons and 30 days notice is given. Employment can be terminated during the probationary period without notice or compensation. A contract should include basic salary, position, date of departure and allowances (if available), including medical coverage, transportation, housing, the coverage of repatriation and vacation time. Employment contracts must be in Arabic and English. Although Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English contract for expatriate staff who can not understand Arabic is included. For those working in a free zone rules may be different.
The employer will act as a sponsor of the employee. Employment visas are valid for two to three years. The work week is typically 40 to 48 hours, and overtime is common in some industries. During Ramadan (the holy Muslim fasting month) the working day is shortened six hours by law.
Find a job in Dubai can be time consuming and difficult. But with networking, determination and hard work, job applicants may be able to get their dream job.
Ahmed Juma is the owner of Emirates-ads, a site with Free Classified Ads job in Dubai.
