Dubai Work Visa and Permit – Everything You Need to Know Before Working in the UAE
Dubai continues to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from across the globe. To legally work in Dubai, every foreign national must obtain a UAE work visa and employment permit, issued under the supervision of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Below are the complete guidelines for obtaining a Dubai Work Visa in 2025:
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✅ Types of Dubai Work Visas
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Standard Employment Visa: Issued for those hired by UAE-based private or government companies.
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Free Zone Work Visa: For employees working in Dubai’s Free Zones such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and JAFZA.
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Green Visa (Self-Employment): For freelancers, skilled workers, and investors without requiring a UAE sponsor.
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Mission Work Visa: Short-term visa (90 days) for project-based work or temporary assignments.
🧾 Documents Required
To apply for a Dubai work permit, you’ll need:
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Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Recent passport-size photographs
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Educational certificates (attested by your home country and UAE embassy)
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Medical fitness certificate from an approved UAE health center
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Employment offer letter or contract from the employer
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Entry permit issued by MOHRE
🔄 Application Process
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Job Offer & Entry Permit: The employer applies for the work permit approval.
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Medical Test & Emirates ID Registration: Upon arrival, applicants undergo medical screening and biometric verification.
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Residence Visa Stamping: Once approved, the residence visa is stamped in the passport, allowing legal stay and work in Dubai for 2 years (renewable).
💼 Work Visa Fees (Estimated 2025)
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Application Fees: AED 300 – AED 1,000 (depending on job category)
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Medical Test: AED 300 – AED 500
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Emirates ID: AED 250 – AED 370
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Total Processing Time: 5 – 15 working days
🕊️ Benefits of Having a UAE Work Visa
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Legal employment and residency in Dubai
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Access to UAE bank accounts and SIM cards
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Eligibility for family sponsorship
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Tax-free income and safe working environment
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Opportunity to apply for Golden Visa (for highly skilled professionals)
⚠️ Important Notes
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The work visa must be sponsored by a licensed UAE employer or free zone authority.
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Working without a valid visa is illegal and punishable by law.
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Always verify your employment offer through MOHRE’s official portal.
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