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Business Setup and Support in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) WORK PERMIT IN THE UAE

Fedortsov Oleksandr

Senior lawyer

E-mail

fedortsov@prikhodko.com.ua

Phone numbers

Lawyer practicing international migration. Specializes in issues of migration law - paperwork on the territory of Ukraine and the countries of the European Union (Romania, Hungary, Spain, Czech Republic).

WORK PERMIT IN THE UAE

How to get a work permit in the UAE?

Official employment (knowledge of the English language is mandatory for a high-paying position, construction workers, cleaners, warehouse workers do not need to know a foreign language).

DOCUMENTS THAT GIVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UAE

Work visa – which allows you to stay in the territory of the UAE for a long period of time. A work visa in Dubai offers a number of advantages where the future employee can bring family members to the Emirate. This permit can give any foreigner the possibility of permanent stay in the country. Moreover, you should know that the work permit is issued for two years and can be extended without time limits and restrictions. Please note that entry once every six months is necessary to maintain the validity of the residence visa.
Work permit – issued after the provision of a local sponsor and gives the foreigner the full right to stay in the Emirates for an unlimited period of time. The Dubai work permit is issued with a new identity card that can be used instead of those issued in the country of residence.

In the UAE, to get a job, you must provide the following documents:

copies of passports, birth and marriage certificates,
confirmation of financial statements,
employment contract,
lease agreement with provision of address information in Dubai.

Peculiarities of concluding an employment contract

Let’s emphasize the main features of the local market situation:

the minimum age for signing a contract is 18 years;
please note that there must be no Israeli visas in the foreign passport of a job seeker – the country does not have diplomatic relations with this state and does not welcome any contacts;

In order for the selection process to be effective, if possible, it is necessary to have a confirmed specialty – on the basis of a diploma. Arab companies will gladly accept employees who have letters of recommendation from companies of international status.

So, contact our company if you need legal advice, including questions about obtaining a work permit in the UAE

how is it legal to work in the UAE?
what is the difference between a work permit and a seasonal work permit?
how to get a work permit in the UAE?
is it necessary to have a work permit in the UAE in all cases?
what are the types of work permits?
which permission to submit documents for?
who can legally work in the UAE?
how to confirm the legality of entering the UAE?
what is the validity period of residence permits?
how to legally employ a citizen of Ukraine?
how to fill out an application to the employment service?

There are many job options, and therefore, to choose the most suitable one for you, you need to contact specialists. We will select the most optimal option for you.

Please note that your sponsor or employer in Dubai can apply for a work permit on your behalf, but full assistance and detailed legal information on this matter can be obtained from our lawyers in Dubai.

Which is better: Mainland or Free Zone?

Mainland is generally suitable for businesses planning to operate directly in the UAE domestic market, maintain a physical location, premises or a local team. Free Zone is often chosen for international services, IT, e-commerce, consulting, trade and other models with specialised infrastructure. The choice depends on the activity, clients, office, visas, account and tax model.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in the UAE?

Yes, Free Zones allow 100% foreign ownership, and most Mainland activities are also available for full foreign ownership. Special restrictions, approvals or ownership structure requirements may apply to certain strategic impact activities.

Does a Free Zone company pay 0% Corporate Tax?

Not automatically. The 0% rate applies to Qualifying Income of a company that meets the requirements of a Qualifying Free Zone Person. Other taxable income may be subject to the 9% rate. The company must also register for Corporate Tax, maintain records and submit returns.

When does a company need VAT registration?

For resident businesses, mandatory registration generally arises when taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 during the previous 12 months or are expected to exceed this amount within the next 30 days. Voluntary registration is possible from AED 187,500. Different rules may apply to non-residents and certain cross-border transactions.

Is it mandatory to obtain a residence visa?

Not for every structure. A company may be registered without immediately obtaining an owner’s visa if the relevant jurisdiction allows it. At the same time, a residence visa and Emirates ID may be important for living in the UAE, banking KYC, leasing, connecting certain services and demonstrating local presence.

Successful cases on the topic: