Working in the UAE? MoHRE Lists 12 Mandatory Work Permits

Dubai – The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has reaffirmed that no individual is allowed to work legally in the UAE without an official work permit issued by the ministry.

In a statement released this week, MoHRE warned employers against recruiting or engaging workers without valid permits, stressing that all hiring must follow approved legal procedures. The ministry said the labour law exists to regulate employment relationships, protect workers from exploitation, and ensure transparency within the UAE labour market.

According to MoHRE, the UAE currently recognises 12 different types of work permits, each designed to cater for specific employment arrangements and worker categories.

The 12 Approved Work Permits in the UAE

1. Work Permit for Recruitment from Outside the UAE
   Allows companies to hire workers from abroad in line with approved conditions.

2. Transfer Work Permit
   Enables employers to hire non-national workers already in the UAE after the end of their previous employment contract.

3. Work Permit for Family-Sponsored Residents
   Allows individuals on dependent visas to work, subject to ministry approval.

4. Temporary Work Permit
   Issued for short-term employment for workers already in the UAE for a fixed period.

5. Mission Work Permit
   Allows workers from outside the country to enter the UAE to complete specific, time-bound projects.

6. Part-Time Work Permit
   Permits employees to work reduced hours and, with approval, for more than one employer.

7. Juvenile Work Permit
   Applies to youths aged 15 to 18, under strict conditions to protect health, safety, and education.

8. Student Training and Employment Permit
   Enables students aged 15 and above to gain work experience under regulated conditions.

9. Work Permit for UAE and GCC Nationals
   Facilitates employment of UAE citizens and Gulf Cooperation Council nationals.

10. Golden Residency Work Permit
    Allows companies to employ holders of the UAE’s long-term Golden Visa.

11. Citizen Trainee Work Permit
    Supports training and skills development for UAE nationals based on approved qualifications.

12. Private Tutoring Work Permit
    Authorises qualified individuals to offer private lessons under regulated guidelines.

Strict Compliance Required

MoHRE stressed that no employment arrangement is exempt from permit requirements, including part-time work, tutoring, student employment, and temporary contracts. Employers found violating labour regulations risk legal penalties.

The ministry encouraged both employers and workers to familiarise themselves with the correct permit categories to ensure compliance with UAE labour laws.