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While pursuing education at an international institution in the UAE, not every student will have a dream run. They are required to double their efforts and pursue employment while simultaneously earning a degree at one of the top-ranked colleges in the UAE, due to certain financial requirements that accompany these circumstances. As a result of Dubai's extensive exposure in global trade and commerce, the city is now one of the most sought-after destinations, and the employment prospects available there are numerous. Many students, however, are not aware of how they might obtain suitable employment to support themselves and maintain a work-study balance at the same time. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about working while studying as an international student in the United Arab Emirates.
If you want to study or work legally in the UAE, you need a valid student visa. Most student visas are good for one year and can be renewed as long as you are a student in the UAE. Before you begin paid employment, you have to get a student work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This permit will:
In the UAE, working part-time gives you more than just extra money:
Many of the students move up from part-time jobs to full-time jobs or internships that help them get jobs after they graduate.
There are a few basic things you need to do before you can apply for a work permit:
According to UAE law, there are three main types of work for students:
Here are some steps involved in working while studying in the UAE:
Step 1: Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your university.
Step 2: Secure a formal job offer from a UAE-based employer.
Step 3: The employer submits the work permit application through the MoHRE online portal.
Step 4: Gather required documents:
Step 5: Await MoHRE approval (typically 2–5 weeks ).
Service | Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
Student Visa Application | 600 | 1-2 weeks |
Work Permit Application (MoHRE) | 300-500 | 2-5 weeks |
Medical Fitness Test | 200-400 | 1 week |
Emirates ID Registration | 100-200 | 1-2 weeks |
Fees may vary slightly depending on the state or service centre. As required by UAE labour laws, employers usually pay for the application fees for work permits.
It is important to follow the legal boundaries on working hours:
To conclude, as a foreign student in the UAE, you can work and study at the same time if you plan rightly. By learning about visa requirements, following rules, and getting better at managing your time, you can do well in school and advance your career while living in one of the world's most exciting areas. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have any specific questions about your case, such as information about company sponsorship, questions about your industry, or post-study visa pathways.
If you are planning to study in the UAE, connect with Edroots, a leading education consultant in Dubai, for expert guidance and support throughout your admission and visa process.
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