The Complete Guide to UAE Work Visas for Employers and Employees

Do you know that 80% of Dubai’s population is expats from across the globe? Almost everyone’s favourite choice is to set up a business or work with a well-established company. Talking about employment and the occupational options in Dubai is endless. There are big opportunities opened in all the sectors, starting from physical trading to digital transformation companies. With the world moving towards tech, AI, and innovation, there is a lot of funding for these sectors in the UAE. 

Introduction

In context with this context, the expats need to abide by a few sets of rules implemented by the UAE Authorities. The entry into Dubai as an employee requires a work visa, which is facilitated by the employer.

In this article, get detailed insights about the employers & employee agreements, types of work visas, and how the process of visa application might differ in free zones & mainland. Lastly, how can Arnifi help you walk through this process and get HR compliance, along with other hiring benefits.

Why the UAE?

Key Attractions for Employers and Employees

The UAE is a one-of-a-kind mix of opportunities, security, and growth. For the employers, it is a business-friendly centre that carries the markets of the region and the world at large. For an employee, it provides tax-free pay, first-class infrastructure, and a multicultural ambience. 

The Indian software engineer who recently made the UAE his home says that in addition to increasing his pay by three to four times, he has also seen an improvement in the quality of life while being just four hours away from family. 

Economic and Lifestyle Benefits

The diversified economy of the UAE hosts a potent set of sectors, including technology, logistics, tourism, and finance. All this, coupled with really good housing, schools, and healthcare good reasons why they have a thousand movers every month.

Types of UAE Work Visas

There are several types of work-related visas in the UAE, each designed to meet different needs:

1. Standard Work Visa – This is the most common visa type, issued to employees sponsored by a UAE-based employer.

2. Green Visa – Aimed at freelancers, skilled workers, and self-employed individuals, this visa allows them to sponsor themselves without needing a company sponsor.

3. Golden Visa – This long-term residency visa is granted to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students, and certain skilled professionals.

Visa Type	Sponsorship	Validity	Target Group
Standard	Employer	2-3 years	General employees
Green	Self	5 years	Freelancers, skilled workers
Gold	Self	10 years	Investors, high performers

Eligibility Criteria

Each visa type has specific requirements:

• Standard Work Visa: A job offer from a UAE-licensed employer is essential. Academic qualifications may be required for some roles.
• Green Visa: Applicants typically need a minimum salary threshold (around AED 15,000), a university degree, and proof of freelance or skilled work.

Golden Visa: Varies widely — for example, scientists must be accredited by the Emirates Scientists Council, while investors must meet financial thresholds.

Mainland vs. Free Zone Difference

In mainland companies, work permits are issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). In free zones, the respective authority (e.g., Dubai Multi Commodities Centre or Abu Dhabi Global Market) handles the process. Requirements and timelines can differ significantly.

Choose the Right Business Structure

Mainland Company Setup – Setting up a mainland company allows for direct trade within the UAE and international markets. It requires a local sponsor but provides unrestricted business operations.

Free Zone Company Setup – Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and minimal trade restrictions. Popular free zones for scrap metal trading include the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC).

Offshore Company Setup – Offshore companies in Dubai benefit from confidentiality and tax savings, though they are limited to international trade and cannot conduct business within the UAE.

Required Documents

General Document Checklist

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Passport-size photos (UAE-specific dimensions)
• Educational certificates (attested)
• Medical fitness test results
• Entry permit
• Employment contract
  

Additional Documents by Visa Type

• Green Visa: Freelance license, degree, proof of income
• Golden Visa: Awards, investment documents, or academic achievements
  

Jurisdiction-Specific Requirements

Free zones often request additional documents like lease agreements or NOC letters. A startup founder in Dubai’s Internet City mentioned needing a business plan and a letter from his incubator during his application.

Step-by-Step UAE Work Visa Application Process

• Quota Approval (If Applicable) – For mainland companies, MOHRE checks if the company can hire a foreign national under its quota.
• Employment Contract – An offer letter must be signed electronically through MOHRE or the relevant free zone portal.
• Work Permit & Entry Visa – Once approved, the employee receives a temporary entry permit (valid for 60 days) to enter the UAE.
• Arrival, Medical Testing, and Emirates ID – The employee must undergo a medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID. Fingerprints and a biometric scan are part of the process.
• Residence Visa Stamping – After all documents are submitted, the residence visa is stamped in the passport, allowing the employee to legally live and work in the UAE.

Jurisdictional Differences: Mainland vs. Free Zone

Key Differences

• Mainland companies can do business across the UAE; free zone companies are limited to their specific zone unless they partner with local distributors.
• Processing times vary. Free zones are often faster due to fewer layers of approval.
• The salary protection system (WPS) is mandatory for mainland companies, which may affect documentation and timelines.

Check What Arnifi’s HR Solutions Offer

Arnifi HR solutions simplify the recruitment process in the UAE as all is completely compliant with labour laws, visas, WPS, and insurance, thus avoiding legal risks. No local setup of an entity is needed, which translates to some time and cost savings. Efficient and speedy onboarding allows your team to start work in a matter of days.

From simple to premium, our adaptable plans fit the requirements and budgets of various companies. And with the totally open pricing, you will never have to fret about surprise fees. For stress-free, compliant, efficient, and cost-effective hiring in the UAE, there is no need to look any further than Arnifi HR. For better comprehension. Get a free consultation today!

Also Read – Top 7 Cost-Effective Hiring Strategies in the UAE for Growing Businesses