Working Part-Time in the UAE – All You Need to Know (Guide)

Are you thinking about a part-time job in the UAE? Whether you’re a student trying to earn some extra cash, a freelancer looking for more flexibility, or a professional wanting to boost your income, part-time work in the UAE can be a lucrative option.

Part-time jobs are becoming more popular in the UAE, thanks to their flexibility and the chance to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Whether you want to gain new skills, explore different industries, or simply have more control over your work schedule, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you. So, here’s all the essential information you need to know about working part-time in the UAE.

UAE Part-Time Work Employment

UAE part-time employment refers to work arrangements where an individual works fewer hours than the standard full-time schedule. This is typically less than the standard 48 hours per week set by the UAE Labour Law.

The UAE has progressively reformed its labour laws to accommodate the evolving workforce and economic landscape:

• 2010: The UAE introduced regulations permitting residents and expatriates to engage in additional part-time roles alongside their main employment. This initiative aimed to enhance workforce flexibility to meet varying economic demands.

• 2018: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) implemented a system enabling skilled workers to hold part-time contracts. This system is accessible to both UAE residents and individuals from abroad, facilitating the formalisation of part-time employment arrangements and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while offering flexibility to both employers and employees.

Eligibility Criteria for Working Part-Time in the UAE

To work part-time in the UAE, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Age Requirements:

• Individuals must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for a part-time work permit.

• Those aged between 15 and 18 can engage in part-time work but must obtain a juvenile work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). They are subject to specific restrictions, such as prohibitions from night work and hazardous roles.

Residency and Visa Requirements:

• Applicants must hold a valid UAE residency visa. This includes expatriates on family visas, who are also eligible to apply for part-time positions.

• Individuals on tourist or visit visas are not permitted to engage in part-time employment in the UAE.

• Students on student visas can work part-time, provided they have a work permit from the MoHRE.

Part-Time Work Permit:

• Expatriates already employed full-time can take up part-time work by applying for a part-time work permit from MoHRE.

• Freelancers can also apply for a freelance permit to work independently.

Current Employment Status:

• If currently employed, obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the primary employer may be required to pursue part-time work.

Sponsorship Approval (For Dependents):

• If you are on a dependent visa (such as a spouse or student visa), you need approval from your sponsor to work part-time.

Read Also: Dubai Remote Work Visa

What is a part-time work permit in the UAE?

A part-time work permit in the UAE allows individuals to engage in employment with reduced working hours or days compared to full-time positions. This permit enables employees to work for multiple employers simultaneously, provided they obtain the necessary approvals from the MOHRE.

Who Needs to Obtain a UAE Part-Time Work Permit?

Any individual seeking part-time employment in the UAE, including current full-time employees wishing to take on additional part-time roles, must obtain a part-time work permit. This requirement ensures compliance with UAE labour laws and facilitates legal employment across multiple organisations.

Required Documents for a Part-Time Work Permit in the UAE

To apply for a part-time work permit in the UAE, both the employee and employer must submit specific documents to the MOHRE. The documents typically include:

Employee Documents:

• Copy of a valid passport.
• You will need to provide recent passport-sized photographs as part of the application.
• Copy of a valid residency visa.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the primary employer, if currently employed.

Employer Documents:

• Copy of the company’s valid trade license.
• Copy of the company’s establishment card.

How can you apply for a part-time work permit in the UAE?

Applying for a part-time work permit in the UAE involves several key steps to ensure compliance with local labour laws.

1. Employer Application

The prospective employer initiates the application process by submitting a request for a part-time work permit through MOHRE’s online portal or by visiting an authorised Tasheel service centre.

2. Document Submission

The employer provides all required documents, including those from the employee and the company.

3. Application Review

MOHRE reviews the submitted application and documents to ensure compliance with labour regulations.

4. Fee Payment

Upon approval, the employer pays the necessary fees associated with the part-time work permit.

5. Permit Issuance

After processing, MOHRE issues the part-time work permit, allowing the employee to commence part-time employment legally.

What is the Cost of Obtaining a Part-Time Work Permit in the UAE?

The total cost for a part-time work permit in the UAE typically amounts to AED 600, comprising:

• Application Fee: AED 100

• Approval Fee: AED 500

These fees are generally the responsibility of the employer.

It’s essential to note that these fees may vary based on specific circumstances or additional services required during the application process.

What are the Popular Part-Time Job Options in the UAE?

Part-time jobs in the UAE are becoming increasingly popular, especially among students, freelancers, and professionals looking to earn extra income. Here are some of the most popular part-time job options you can explore:

1. Retail & Sales

Sales assistants, cashiers, and promoters are in high demand, especially during busy shopping seasons and events.

2. Hospitality & Food Service

You can explore part-time roles in hotels, restaurants, and cafes, such as waitstaff, baristas, hosts, and kitchen assistants.

3. Teaching & Tutoring

Private tutoring and teaching jobs are popular among students and professionals with expertise in subjects like English, math, science, and test preparation.

4. Freelancing & Creative Work

Graphic designers, writers, photographers, and digital marketers can find freelance gigs or short-term projects.

5. Delivery Services

With the rise of online shopping and food delivery, part-time delivery driver positions are widely available.

6. Customer Service & Call Centres

Companies often hire part-time agents to manage customer support during peak hours.

7. Event Management

You can take up short-term roles as ushers, coordinators, or support staff during conferences, exhibitions, and concerts.

8. Fitness & Personal Training

Certified trainers can offer fitness coaching or conduct classes at gyms or privately.

9. Administrative & Virtual Assistance

Many businesses look for part-time administrative assistants and virtual assistants to help with office tasks.

10. Real Estate Assistance

You can explore part-time roles in real estate companies, such as marketing assistants and property consultants.

Rights and Benefits of Part-Time Employees in the UAE

Even if you’re working part-time in the UAE, you’re still entitled to certain rights and benefits. Here’s what you should know:

1. Part-time employees receive wages proportional to their working hours, ensuring fair compensation relative to full-time employees.

2. You can work part-time without strict hour limits, as long as it aligns with your contract agreement.

3. Employers must pay part-time workers fair wages as stated in their contracts and provide overtime pay if employees work beyond the agreed hours.

4. Part-time employees are generally not entitled to full-time employee benefits like annual leave or sick leave. However, some employers may offer pro-rata leave benefits based on the number of hours worked.

5. In most cases, part-time employees are not entitled to gratuity or end-of-service benefits unless stated otherwise in the contract.

6. Part-time workers are also protected under the UAE’s labour laws regarding workplace safety and injury compensation.

7. Part-time employees can work for more than one employer as long as they have the necessary work permits.

Read Also: How to Get a UAE Work Visa

Start Your Part-Time Work Journey in the UAE

Working part-time in the UAE can be an excellent option if you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the right process. It doesn’t matter if you’re a student looking to earn extra money, a freelancer building your career, or a professional aiming for a better work-life balance; part-time work in the UAE offers plenty of benefits and flexibility.

Just make sure to follow the rules and stay compliant with UAE labour laws to keep things smooth and hassle-free.

If you’re planning to move to Dubai or anywhere in the UAE for work or business, our experts at Shuraa are here to help you at every step. From getting work permits to setting up your business, we make the whole process seamless and stress-free. Contact us today and let us help you make your UAE journey a success.

Frequently Asked Questions

*Note: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.