The UAE is consistently ranked among the top countries in the world to work in, offering a plethora of opportunities and a high quality of life for expatriates. With its clean streets, secure neighborhoods, and attractive benefits, it’s no wonder that more and more people are drawn to the UAE for career advancement and personal fulfillment.
One of the appealing aspects of working in the UAE is the flexibility it offers, including the option to hold multiple jobs simultaneously. Unlike in some other countries, employees in the UAE do not need permission from their primary employer to take on part-time work. However, there are regulations in place to ensure that such arrangements are conducted within the bounds of the law.
According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), UAE’s Labour Law permits employers to hire skilled part-time workers, provided they meet certain criteria. These criteria include having a university degree or equivalent qualification, as well as completing a two or three-year diploma in a technical or scientific field.
There are specific requirements depending on the type of visa held by the employee:
- Work Visa Holders:
- Individuals residing in the UAE on a work visa can engage in part-time work by obtaining a part-time work permit from MoHRE.
- This permit is valid for one year and allows the holder to work at another company for up to eight hours a day.
- This regulation applies to Emiratis, GCC nationals, and other expatriates.
- Family Visa Holders:
- Those holding family visas can also pursue a second job with a part-time permit from MoHRE.
- The permit is available to individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 and requires a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the sponsor.
Timings and Costs:
- Companies are permitted to hire skilled workers for up to 48 hours per week or 144 hours per three weeks, with a mandatory weekly rest day.
- The total fee for applying for a part-time work permit from MoHRE is AED 600, with AED 100 for the application and AED 500 for approval.
Penalties:
- It’s crucial for companies to adhere to these regulations, as the consequences for non-compliance can be severe.
- Employing an individual for part-time work without the necessary permit can result in a fine of AED 50,000 for the hiring company.
- Repeat offenses may incur additional penalties.