Working in Dubai

If possible, expats considering working in Dubai should secure a job before breaking out the bubble wrap and making the move to the Emirate in search of a better salary. Though many foreign nationals have chosen to forego this advice and make a success of themselves regardless, it should be noted that it's much more difficult to do so.

That being said, employers are increasingly looking for those already settled in the region, thus resident status can go a long way when it comes to securing lower and mid-level positions.

It is virtually impossible to begin a life in Dubai without a residence permit (granted through a work permit), since this needs to be presented when buying a mobile phone, opening a bank account, renting a property and linking into any other logistic required for a normal lifestyle.

According to Gulf News, jobs in the UAE are mostly in banking and finance, insurance, Sharia compliance, construction, retail and services, and the telecom sector.

Those considering a move should be aware that career flexibility in Dubai is very limited. Since residence depends upon sponsorship which is tied to an employment contract, workers practically sell their soul to their employers when they sign on the dotted line.

Expats working in Dubai find that it's not easy to move between companies. Many employment contracts contain clauses imposing a ban on employees working for another company within the same industry within a year of leaving, although there is some doubt as to whether such practices can be applied in the ‘Free Zones’.

Furthermore, expats must actually apply for a new visa entering a new job, and the former employer must sign a formal document called a “No Objection Clause”.
 
Historically, companies sourcing talent to work in Dubai were required to offer generous relocation packages as an incentive for workers to decamp to the desert. Now, with the exception of very senior level positions, those days are all but gone.

No one, it seems, needs much incentive to make the move to Dubai and it is becoming increasingly unusual to find fully subsidised accommodation, furniture/shipping allowances, private schooling, family vehicles and other historically appealing expat perks.
 
What employees can expect is: