UAE Work Visa from India
To work in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or anywhere in the UAE, you need an employer to sponsor your work permit and residence visa. The employer applies and pays. You enter on an entry permit, complete a medical test and biometrics in the UAE, and receive an Emirates ID and a residence visa, normally for two years. Salaries are free of income tax.
The process
Offer letter.
The employer issues an offer on the labour ministry’s standard form, which you sign. Its terms must match your final contract.
Work permit approval
from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, or from the free zone authority if the company is in a free zone.
Entry permit.
Issued online, usually valid for 60 days.
Arrival, medical fitness test and biometrics.
Emirates ID and residence visa.
Labour contract registered
with the ministry.
Mainland and free zone
| Mainland company | Free zone company | |
|---|---|---|
| Regulated by | The labour ministry | The free zone authority |
| Where you can work | Anywhere in the UAE | Within the free zone, or for the company’s clients as its licence allows |
| Labour disputes | Ministry and labour courts | Free zone procedures. Some financial free zones have their own employment law |
Your rights
- The employer pays for recruitment, the visa and the permit. Charging you is prohibited.
- Your passport stays with you.
- Wages are paid through the Wage Protection System.
- You are entitled to annual leave, a weekly rest day, and an end-of-service gratuity based on basic salary.
- You can change employers under the labour law, by giving notice.
- Most employees must be enrolled in the unemployment insurance scheme, which pays a benefit for a limited time if you lose your job.
- If your employment ends, you have a grace period to find new work or leave.
Who the UAE hires
Construction, hospitality and tourism, retail, logistics and aviation, finance, technology, healthcare and education. Professional roles require your degree to be attested by the Indian authorities and the UAE embassy.
Looking for work in the UAE
Graduates of top-ranked universities and skilled professionals can apply for a job exploration visit visa of 60, 90 or 120 days, with no sponsor. Working on a tourist visa is illegal. You must hold a work permit before you start.
Questions people ask us most
Who pays for the UAE work visa?
The employer.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, if your salary meets the minimum for family sponsorship and you have suitable housing.
Is there a minimum wage?
There is no general minimum wage for expatriates. India sets minimum referral wages for certain occupations.
Can I change jobs?
Yes, under the notice and contract rules of the labour law.
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