Working In The UAE On A Visiting Visa: Here Is What You Need To Know

Understanding the UAE Visit Visa

A UAE visit visa is a short-term entry permit for people coming into the country. It is usually for tourism, visiting family, or checking out business or job opportunities. However, this visa does not allow you to work in the UAE.

Many visitors wrongly think they can start working as soon as they get a job offer, even without getting the right work permit. This mistake can break the law and lead to fines or other penalties for both the visitor and the employer in the UAE.

It’s important to clearly understand the difference between a visit visa and a work visa. A visit visa only lets you stay in the UAE for a short time and does not allow you to work. A work visa, on the other hand, comes with a valid work permit. It allows you to work legally and gives you residency based on your job.

What the Law Says About Working in The UAE on a Visiting Visa

The United Arab Emirates has strict labor laws to control employment and protect both workers and employers. These laws clearly state who is allowed to work in the country and under what conditions.

Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, especially Article 6, says that no one can work in the UAE without a valid work permit. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is the official body that gives out these permits. This rule applies to everyone looking for a job, even those who enter the country with a visit or tourist visa.

Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021, under Article 5, also supports this rule. It clearly states that foreign nationals cannot work in the UAE unless they get the proper approval under the country’s labor laws.

These laws make one thing clear: you must have a valid work permit and residency visa before you can start working in the UAE. Getting a job offer alone does not give you the right to work. You can only begin working after the proper permits are approved by the authorities.

Types of Work Permits Available in UAE

The United Arab Emirates provides different types of work permits for different kinds of jobs. Each permit matches the type and length of the job. Employers must get the right permit for their workers before they start working. These permits follow the rules in Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022, which explains the types of legal jobs and the conditions for each one.

Full-Time Work Permit

This permit is for people hired to work full-time for one employer. It covers regular jobs where the worker follows set hours and works only for that company. This is the most common type of work permit in the UAE.

Part-Time Work Permit

This permit is for people who want to work for more than one employer or work fewer hours. It lets them take on part-time jobs while staying flexible. Both employers must follow the rules and get the needed approvals.

Temporary Work Permit

A temporary work permit is for short-term jobs. It is often used for projects or seasonal work. Employers get this permit for workers hired for a set time or a specific task. The job details and length must be clearly stated.

Freelance Work Permit

This permit is for people who work on their own without an employer. It is common for professionals in media, design, tech, and consulting. The freelance permit lets skilled workers offer their services legally using their name or brand.

Penalties for Working Illegally in the UAE

Working in the UAE without the proper authorization can lead to serious legal consequences. Both job seekers and employers are responsible under the country’s labor laws.

Legal Consequences for Job Seekers

Individuals who begin employment without a valid work permit and residency visa are considered to be working illegally. Such violations may result in severe penalties, including:

Monetary fines
Deportation
Employment bans

These penalties are in place to protect the labor market and make sure all workers have legal protections. Working without authorization can also hurt future visa applications and may prevent re-entry into the UAE.

Employer Liabilities and Penalties

Employers who hire people without approved work permits face strict penalties. Federal Decree Law No. 9 of 2024, which changes Article 60 of the UAE Employment Law, increases fines and actions for these offenses. Employers may face:

Heavy fines per illegal worker
Suspension of business licenses
Blacklisting by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE)

These penalties apply whether the illegal employment was intentional or due to a mistake. Employers must legally check the immigration and labor status of all workers before they can start working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Employer Start the Work Permit Process While I’m on a Visit Visa?

Yes, but you cannot begin working until the permit and visa are fully approved.

Will I Need to Leave the UAE During the Visa Process?

In some cases, yes. You may need to exit and re-enter on an employment visa.

Who issues Work Permits in the UAE?

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Is Freelance Work Allowed on a Visit Visa?

No. Freelancers also need a valid freelance work permit to operate legally.

Conclusion

In summary, working in the UAE without the correct work permit and residency visa is a serious violation of the country’s labor laws. A visit visa does not allow you to work. To work legally, you must get the proper work permit and residency visa before starting any job.

Following the law is key to building a stable life in the UAE. When you follow the right steps, you avoid fines, deportation, and job bans. It also helps your career grow safely within the country’s legal system.