What’s it like working in the
United Arab Emirates?

Average Working Hours

Hours of work are usually 48 hours per week, 5 days a week. Saturday and Sunday are the weekend days off.

Holidays

There are 10 public holidays per annum and 30 calendar days annual leave per annum, according to the sighting of the moon. Most employees are entitled to at least two days’ annual leave for each month of service.

Tax Rates

There are no income taxes in the UAE.

Improve your chances

Graduates with Postgraduate qualifications, Specialist Skills or Work Experience will have a better chance of gaining employment. It may also be worth considering taking a lower paid job to break into the UAE employment market.

Language requirements

English is the language of business in the UAE, but candidates with good written and spoken Arabic are at an advantage.

Working practices and customs

Business dress is formal, with business men expected to wear trousers and a long sleeved shirt, while the women are expected to dress modestly.