How to find a job and relocate to the UAE

The steps to get hired and relocate

1. 1

   Apply for a job-seeker visa

   You can apply for a job-seeker visa with a validity of either 60, 90 or 120 days. This is the entry route that lets you come and look for work without an employer sponsoring you first. For the current cost and the exact application requirements, check the authority's website, since those details change over time.

   Documents:PassportJob-seeker visa application
2. 2

   Register on job portals for free

   You can register on job portals and create an account free of cost. Set up your profile, upload your CV, and start applying. If you land a job through a job portal, you are not required to pay commission to any party, neither to the recruiting company nor to the company behind the job portal.

   Documents:CVPortal account
3. 3

   Use the main private job portals

   The private job portals include Bayt, NaukriGulf, FoundItGulf, Gulf News Careers and Laimoon. They provide job seekers with the opportunity to get to know participating organisations, their roles and job vacancies within, so it is worth creating a profile on more than one.

4. 4

   Check the classifieds

   Job vacancies are posted in the classifieds section of online and print publications. Look through those listings alongside the portals so you don't miss roles that are advertised the traditional way.

5. 5

   Know that agencies charge the employer, not you

   If you work with a recruitment agency, job seekers are not required to pay money to any recruitment agency, as the onus to pay such fees lies with the employers. If anyone asks you for a placement fee, treat it as a red flag.

6. 6

   Apply directly to government entities

   Federal and local government entities announce job vacancies on their websites. If you are aiming for a public-sector role, go straight to the official website of the entity you want to work for and apply there.

Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.

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