Get a Dubai Work Visa: Your Guide to Employment Authorisation in 2025

Everything you need to know to get a Dubai work visa and find employment in the UAE

24 March 2025 | Alex Schulte

There’s a reason why 88% of Dubai’s population consists of expats.

I could mention the low taxes, job opportunities, year-round sunshine, economic growth rates, and minimal crime rates.

They also come because the United Arab Emirates doesn’t just welcome skilled professionals—they open their arms to them. It’s one of the world’s most popular places to set up a company, make investments and build a future.

But navigating the UAE’s employment visa process can be confusing for those not used to it.

In this guide, we will equip you with everything you need to know to move yourself or your employees to the UAE and start working in Dubai. Let’s start by picking apart…

… The UAE Permit Puzzle

First things first: a work permit isn’t a work visa.

A work permit authorises an employer to hire you in the UAE, but doesn’t grant entry. To step foot in the country, you’ll need an employment entry visa. This allows you to enter the UAE legally to formalise your work and residence visa applications after approval from the relevant authorities.

This work visa gives you 60 days to complete several crucial steps toward obtaining residency. Successfully tick off these requirements—health insurance, medical checks, and more—and authorities will convert your temporary status into a full residency visa.

This is also different a visit visa, which is intended for tourists coming to the UAE for short stays, and does not grant the right to work.

Still with us? Let’s break it down further.

What’s a UAE Work Permit?

A work permit is a document issued by the Ministry of Human Resources (MoHRE) that legally authorises you to work in the UAE. It applies to Free Zone and Mainland employment. Meanwhile, a work visa allows entry into the UAE for employment purposes.

Permit vs. Visa: The Key Differences

Think of the work permit as your job authorisation and the work visa as your entry ticket. You’ll need both in order to legally work in Dubai, with the visa giving you that crucial 60-day window to complete necessary checks. Only then can you apply for a residence visa.

The Price Tag

The cost of a UAE work permit can vary based on your employer’s classification by the MOHRE. This is determined by their level of compliance with they comply with legislative directions.

• Work permit issuance or renewal: AED 250 (£52) to AED 3,450 (£725)
• Classifications fall into A, B, or C categories

The UAE employment visa landscape now includes three primary categories: the standard work visa valid for two years, the innovative Green visa providing five-year self-sponsorship opportunities, and the prestigious Golden visa for exceptional talents912. Understanding these options is crucial for the 8.84 million expatriates who comprise 88% of the UAE’s population, as proper work authorization remains mandatory for all foreign nationals seeking employment in Dubai213. The application process typically requires 1-2 months and costs between AED 3,000 to AED 7,500, encompassing visa fees, medical examinations, and Emirates ID processing720.

Types of UAE Work Visas

Anyone who wants to settle and work in Dubai will need a UAE Residence Visa. The UAE offers a range of residence permits that should suit most foreign nationals’ needs. Let’s whip through the most important types.

Standard Employment Visa

The standard employment visa represents the most common pathway for foreign professionals entering Dubai’s workforce. This employer-sponsored visa permits expatriates to live and work legally in the UAE for two to three years, with renewal options available upon expiration.

The visa requires a valid employment contract and approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), making it essential for professionals across government and private sectors.

Who qualifies? Any employee in the private sector, government sector, or UAE Free Zone.

Foreign workers are categorised into three distinct skill levels based on their academic qualifications.

• Category 1 includes individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree
• Category 2 encompasses those with post-secondary diplomas
• Category 3 covers high school diploma holders

This classification system influences both application requirements and processing procedures, with higher-skilled workers often experiencing streamlined processes.

The standard visa application begins with securing a job offer from a UAE-based company registered with MoHRE. The employer initiates the work permit application, which typically takes around five working days for Ministry of Labour approval, though processing times can vary based on the applicant’s profession and nationality.

Once approved, the employer can proceed with the entry permit application, allowing the foreign national to enter the UAE and begin the residency visa process.

How much does it cost?

• The fee for the Standard Visa is AED 200

Green Visa for Self-Sponsorship

Introduced in October 2022, the green visa is a self-sponsored five-year residence visa that eliminates the need for an employer or national sponsorship.

It allows holders to sponsor themselves and change employment without requiring a new visa application process. Visa holders can also sponsor immediate relatives to relocate to the UAE

Who qualifies? Freelancers and skilled workers who have:

• Relevant MoHRE permit
• Bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma
• Annual income between AED 180,000 (employees) and AED 360,000 (freelancers)

Applicants must be classified in skill levels 1, 2, or 3 according to MoHRE standards.

The application process can be completed entirely online, with applicants submitting supporting documents.

It also grants six-month grace period upon expiry or cancellation

How much does it cost?

• The fee for the Green visa is AED 200

Golden Visa and Specialised Categories

Beyond standard and green visas, Dubai offers specialised visa categories for specific professional groups and circumstances.

The Golden visa provides long-term residency for exceptional talents, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Who qualifies? Top-tier professionals eligible include:

• Investors and property owners
• Tech entrepreneurs
• Humanitarian pioneers
• Medical professionals
• Engineers and scientists
• Creators and inventors
• Social media influencers
• AI researchers
• Content creators
• Athletes
• IT specialists

Any applicant will require:

• Endorsements from UAE authorities
• Partnerships with platforms like Meta or TikTok
• Contributions to Dubai’s digital economy through platforms like Creators HQ
• Bachelor’s degree
• Documented professional experience

How much does it cost?

The fee for the Golden Visa is AED 1,100.

Virtual Work Visa

This one-year self-sponsored residence visa caters to remote workers employed by overseas companies, plus entrepreneurs

Who qualifies? Digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who earn over USD 3,500 monthly.

Requirements:

• Remote employment proof
• USD 3,500 monthly income
• Proof of business ownership
• Income verification
• Virtual residency permit

How much does it cost?

The fee for the virtual work visa is USD 187.

Dubai Virtual Working Program

Similar to the UAE-wide Virtual Work Visa but specifically limited to Dubai, this one-year program welcomes remote workers and their families.

Requirements:

• UAE health insurance
• 1-year employment contract or business ownership proof
• Monthly income of USD 5,000+
• Recent bank statements

How much does it cost?

•  USD 287 per person plus processing

Additionally, Dubai’s free zones, such as DMCC, offer distinct visa categories including employment visas, partner/investor visas, business visit visas, and student visas, each with tailored requirements and validity periods

How to Apply for a Dubai Work Visa

Document Requirements and Preparation

The Dubai work visa application process demands meticulous document preparation, with requirements varying based on visa type and applicant circumstances. Standard documentation includes a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, passport-sized photographs with a white background, and educational certificates properly attested by the UAE embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The attestation process for educational qualifications is a critical step that can drag on application timelines if not completed correctly.

Employers must provide comprehensive documentation, including valid employment contracts signed by both parties, work permits issued by MoHRE, and copies of company trade licenses.

The employment contract must specify job responsibilities, salary details, and terms of employment in compliance with UAE labour law requirements. Additionally, some professions require specialised certifications, particularly in healthcare, engineering, and education sectors, necessitating additional verification processes

The document collection phase is often the most time-consuming aspect of the application process. Applicants must coordinate with multiple authorities across different countries to ensure proper attestation and certification of documents. The speed of this process largely depends on the individual’s responsiveness and the efficiency of the attestation services in the applicant’s home country.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

The Dubai work visa application follows a structured multi-phase process beginning with Ministry of Labour approval. This initial approval typically requires five working days, though processing times can extend based on profession-specific requirements and nationality considerations. Once Ministry approval is secured, employers can proceed with entry permit applications, enabling successful candidates to enter the UAE within the 30-day validity period.

Upon arrival in Dubai, visa holders must complete several mandatory procedures within 60 days. The medical fitness examination is a crucial requirement, including tests for tuberculosis, hepatitis (A, B, C), HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and leprosy, ensuring public health safety standards.

The final phases involve visa stamping, Emirates ID application, and biometric submission procedures. Visa stamping physically endorses the residence visa onto the applicant’s passport, providing legal authorisation to remain in the UAE. The Emirates ID application records residency details and serves as the primary identification document for all UAE residents.

Here is an outline of what you should expect.

Step 1: Employer Gets the Ball Rolling

After receiving entry visa quota approval, your employer submits a signed work and signed employment contract to the Ministry of Labour in English, Arabic, and your native language.

Step 2: Visa Application

Your employer submits the work visa application online. Once approved, you’ll receive an entry visa (also called a “pink visa”) with 60 days (or 6 months for Golden Visa holders) to complete the necessary steps.

Step 3: The 60-Day Sprint

With your “pink visa” in hand, you must:

📃 Apply for an Emirates ID within 14 days of arrival (required for medical screening)

📝 Ensure your employer submits labour contracts within 14 days after your medical check-up

🏥 Undergo a medical screening at a government-approved clinic in the UAE

❤️‍🩹 Obtain valid health insurance

Completing all these steps is crucial for working in the UAE.

Step 4: Final Work Visa Application

After completing the previous steps, you can apply for your work visa. Processing typically takes five days, after which your employer can begin payroll.

Step 5: Residence Visa Conversion

Following a five-day waiting period, authorities will convert your work visa into a residence visa.

Hidden Costs to Consider

Budgeting for your move? Don’t forget these expenses:

💰 Work permit: AED 200

💰 Electronic work permit: AED 300-5,000 (category-dependent)

💰 Emirates ID: AED 100 annually

💰 Health examination: AED 250-750 (test-dependent)

💰 Visa stamping: AED 300-800

Visa Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard processing times for Dubai work visas range from one to two months on average, encompassing all phases from initial Ministry approval through final Emirates ID issuance. However, processing times can fluctuate according to factors including applicant nationality, profession-specific requirements, and seasonal application volumes.

The Ministry of Labour approval phase typically represents the most predictable timeline component, while medical examinations and final documentation processing can introduce variability.

Expedited processing options are available for urgent business requirements, though these services incur additional fees and may not guarantee significantly reduced timelines.

Employers seeking faster processing should ensure that their documents are complete and prepared before initiating applications and schedule medical examinations early in the process.

The UAE’s digital transformation initiatives, like the new Work Bundle and AI-enabled Salama system for visa renewals, have streamlined many application procedures. Prospective employees should familiarise themselves with these tools.

Medical Requirements and Health Screenings

Getting a UAE residence visa and work permit requires a clean bill of health. Here’s what to expect.

Mandatory Medical Examinations

Medical fitness examinations are an essential component of the Dubai work visa process, designed to protect public health while ensuring applicant welfare. All visa applicants must undergo comprehensive medical screenings at a government-approved health center within the UAE, with testing requirements standardized across all visa categories.

The examination protocol includes systematic screening for communicable diseases that could pose public health risks, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to maintaining high health and safety standards.

The mandatory medical test battery encompasses blood samples and chest X-rays for tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis A, B, and C, HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and leprosy. These specific tests target diseases with significant transmission potential or long-term health implications requiring specialised medical care.

The examination process typically requires one to two hours, with results available a day or two after.

Test Results and Validity Periods

Medical test results maintain validity for 30 days from the issuance date. This relatively short validity period necessitates strategic scheduling to ensure the results don’t expire throughout the visa processing phases. Applicants who fail to submit visa applications within the 30-day window must undergo repeat medical examinations.

A positive result for a serious communicable disease will likely lead to a visa rejection, though appeal processes exist for applicants who can provide additional medical documentation or proof of treatment.

For visa renewal applications, repeat medical examinations may be required depending on the specific visa category and individual circumstances. Some visa types mandate fresh medical clearances for each renewal cycle, while others may accept previous results if they fall within acceptable timeframes. Understanding these requirements enables applicants to budget appropriately for renewal costs and timeline considerations.

Health Insurance and Ongoing Requirements

Dubai employers are mandated to provide health insurance coverage for their employees as part of the sponsorship responsibilities. This requirement ensures that visa holders have access to appropriate medical care throughout their residency period, reducing potential public health burdens while protecting employee welfare. The mandatory insurance typically covers basic medical services, though employees may choose to supplement coverage based on individual needs and preferences.

Health insurance requirements extend beyond initial visa approval, continuing throughout the entire residency period. Employers must maintain active coverage for all sponsored employees. Lapses may potentially impact eligibility for visa renewal.

International health insurance options are available for applicants who are not yet employed or who require enhanced coverage beyond mandatory minimums. These plans can provide continuity of care during the transition period and may offer more comprehensive coverage options tailored to specific medical needs or preferences.

Free Zone vs. Mainland: What’s the Difference?

Dubai’s 26 free zones are allowed to pick their own rules, operating distinctly from the mainland. They typically offer businesses tax-free concessions, exemptions from customs and 100% foreign ownership.

What Employers Need to Know About Dubai Work Visas

Dubai’s attractiveness to so many expats means that employers will have to learn the rules of the game to support their employees’ relocation journeys.

Emiratisation: The Local Hiring Push

The UAE wants to see 10% of its workforce made up of Emiratis by 2026. To this end, it is penalising non-compliant companies while offering incentives for those meeting targets.

How Emiratisation Quotas Work

• Small companies (20-49 employees): Hire one Emirati by 2024, another by 2025
• Larger companies: Increase local skilled worker hiring by 2% annually
• Target sectors include IT, healthcare, engineering, real estate, and finance

Non-Compliance Penalties

Fines increase with company size. For example, companies with 20-49 employees face penalties of:

• AED 96,000 per unhired Emirati in 2024
• AED 108,000 per unhired Emirati by 2025

Support Programs

The Nafis program helps companies find qualified Emirati candidates and offers reduced pension contributions for local employees.

UAE Contract Compliance Checklist

All employment contracts must:

• Be fixed-term (not exceeding three years)
• Include versions in Arabic, English, and the employee’s native language
• Be registered with MoHRE

Common Challenges & Solutions

The Dubai work visa process is normally very smooth and efficient. But a few hiccups can put you off track if not properly handled. We’ve presented some of the most common visa and work permit delays – and how you can mitigate them.

Compliance and Enforcement Developments in 2025

Recent regulatory changes have strengthened compliance requirements and enforcement mechanisms across all visa categories.

• Prohibition against working on visitor visas reinforced with enhanced penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation
• Labour market testing requirements refined to balance employer needs with local employment priorities. Companies must demonstrate that suitable local talent is unavailable before sponsoring foreign workers
• Sophisticated tracking systems implemented to monitor visa status and ensure compliance with residency requirements.

The UAE has no tolerance for immigration noncompliance, and its systems are becoming better at detecting it. Make sure you’re not caught out.

What’s the Best Residence Visa Choice?

It depends. Did your company win a contract in Dubai? They will probably partner with a local company or commercial agent to handle sponsorship for you, and decide that the green visa is their best option for sending a few skilled workers.

If you’re not 100% sure, chat with one of our global compliance experts today. We’ll find the best residence visa for you and your employees and get the engine moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Employer Exceed Quotas?

Companies can exceed their initial visa quotas if needed, but they will have to make requests which are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

• Expand office space (DMCC allows 1 visa per 9m² or 3 visas per flexi-desk)
• Request quota increases through free zone authorities
• Focus hiring in high-demand sectors with local talent shortages

What UAE Immigration Policy Changes Should I Expect in 2025

Immigration policy in the UAE changes frequently to make the country even more attractive to foreign capital. Here are a few changes on the way

• Unlimited contracts became invalid in January 2025
• All agreements must specify duration, wages, and benefits
• Companies with 20-49 employees must hire 1-2 Emiratis or face fines of up to AED 108,000
• Gratuities become mandatory regardless of the termination reason

Can I bring my family?

Yes, residence visa holders earning more than AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 (plus accommodation) can apply to bring their family members. Any child over 18 has to complete a medical fitness test at medical centres approved in the UAE.

What if My Company Has No Dubai Presence?

If your company isn’t established in Dubai, then your options include:

• Outsourcing visa sponsorship via local service agents
• Establishing an LLC with a local partnership (51% UAE national ownership)
• Engaging commercial agents to sponsor foreign workers

What is the Work Bundle Initiative?

This digital platform streamlines employee management by combining services like onboarding, permit renewals, visa information and medical exams in one place.

How do I Convert a Visit Visa to an Employment Visa?

1️⃣ Secure a job offer from a UAE-based employer

2️⃣ Gather all documents required (passport, health certificate, entry permit)

3️⃣ Have your employer initiate the visa conversion application process immediately

4️⃣ Complete medical tests and security checks

5️⃣ Receive your employment visa (typically 7-14 days)