Are you planning to work and live in the UAE? If so, you must understand the types of work permit in UAE that legally allow foreign nationals to be employed and reside in the country.

In this post, we’ll walk you through all the types of work permit visa in UAE issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) based on your occupation and employment status.

What Is a Work Permit in UAE?

A work permit is an official document issued by MOHRE that authorizes a foreign national to work in the UAE’s public or private sectors.

While UAE nationals do not require a work permit, all foreign workers must obtain it. Working without a valid permit is considered illegal.

Who Applies for the Work Permit?

Typically, your employer or sponsor is responsible for applying for your work permit. Once all required documents and conditions are fulfilled, MOHRE will issue the permit within a few days.

Types of Work Permit in UAE

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) offers several categories of work permits to accommodate different employment situations.

Whether you’re a full-time professional, part-time worker, student, freelancer, or a family-sponsored individual, there’s a specific type of work permit designed for you.

Let’s take a closer look at the types of work permits in the UAE:

1. Regular Work Permit

Companies in the public or private sector commonly obtain this work permit visa in the UAE when they want to hire foreign workers.

This permit is typically accompanied by a residency visa, allowing the employee to live and work legally in the UAE. The employer must bear the cost of the permit and visa processing.

2. Transfer Work Permit

When an employee decides to change jobs from one company to another, they must transfer their work permit and residency sponsorship to the new employer. This process ensures a legal transition and continuity in the individual’s work status.

3. Family Visa Work Permit

If you’re already living in the UAE under a family sponsorship visa (sponsored by a spouse or parent), you can obtain a family visa work permit.

This allows you to work without requiring additional visa sponsorship from your employer. It’s ideal for housewives or adult children looking for part-time or full-time work.

4. Short-Term Work Permit

This permit is issued for temporary jobs, project-based contracts, or seasonal employment (e.g., 6 months to 1 year).

Employers in sectors like construction, events, or tourism commonly apply for short-term permits when they need workers for a limited period.

5. Part-Time Work Permit

The UAE government designed the part-time work permit for individuals who wish to work multiple jobs or take up a secondary role while keeping their primary job.

With this permit, a person can work for more than one employer legally, provided all parties (primary and secondary employers) agree.

6. Juvenile Work Permit

Teenagers aged 15 to 18 years can apply for this permit during school breaks or vacation time.

However, there are strict regulations to protect minors, including restricted working hours and banned sectors (e.g., construction or chemical industries).

7. Student Training and Employment Permit

This type of work permit visa in UAE is issued to university or high school students to gain practical experience through internships or training in sectors like hospitality, retail, healthcare, and media. It encourages skill-building while completing education.

8. UAE & GCC National Work Permit

The UAE government issues formal work permits to UAE nationals and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens when they join a company in the UAE.

Though they don’t need residency permits, this type of permit is important for labor law compliance and benefits eligibility.

9. Golden Visa Work Permit

Golden visa holders who are planning to work or start a business in the UAE can apply for a special work permit.

This is ideal for investors, highly skilled professionals, scientists, or outstanding students who hold a 10-year golden visa and wish to contribute to the UAE economy.

10. National Trainee Work Permit

Companies and training institutions registered with MOHRE can apply for this permit for UAE citizens undergoing professional or scientific training.

This supports national development by encouraging Emiratisation and skills transfer to the local workforce.

11. Freelancer Work Permit

Freelancers in sectors like IT, writing, digital marketing, photography, and design can work independently with this self-sponsored permit.

The UAE government allows individuals to work legally with multiple clients by issuing a freelancer work permit without tying them to a single employer.

12. Teacher Work Permit

This permit is for qualified professionals who wish to offer private tuition or academic support legally in the UAE. Issued free of charge, this two-year permit supports educators in meeting the high demand for tutoring, particularly in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Final Words

These are the main types of work permit in UAE currently offered under MOHRE regulations. The types of work permit visa in UAE may slightly differ between the public and private sectors.

Before applying for a job, always ensure that the correct type of work permit matches your occupation and visa status.

By understanding your options, you can make informed decisions about your career path and remain compliant with UAE labor laws.

If you’re planning to pursue your education in the United Arab Emirates, understanding the student visa in UAE is essential.

Whether you’re applying to a university or enrolling your children in school, the UAE offers several student visa categories to suit different academic and personal situations.

In this post, I’ll discuss the types of student visas in the UAE, student visa requirements, application procedures, and your rights as a student.

Types of Student Visa in The UAE

1. University-Sponsored Student Visa

If you are enrolling in a UAE-based university, the university can sponsor your student visa in the UAE. This is the most common option for international students.

Student visa in UAE requirements:

• Admission offer letter from a recognized UAE university
• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Four or more passport-sized photographs
• Proof of tuition fee payment and sufficient funds for living expenses
• Proof of accommodation (either from the university or private housing)
• Previous academic certificates (e.g., high school diploma)
• Medical fitness certificate from a UAE-approved medical center

Note: This visa needs to be renewed annually for the duration of your study.

2. Parent-Sponsored Student Visa

If your parents are UAE residents, they can sponsor your student visa in UAE, whether you’re joining a university or a school.

Required documents:

• An admission letter from your school or university
• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Four or more passport-sized photographs
• Proof of your parents’ income in the UAE
• Educational documents
• Medical fitness certificate

Eligibility: A father or mother in the UAE can sponsor a daughter until marriage or a son until he turns 25.

3. 10-Year Golden Residency Visa for Graduates

Outstanding students graduating from a UAE university (or from top global universities) can apply for the 10-year student visa in UAE, also known as the Golden Visa. This option does not require annual renewal.

Criteria:

• Graduation must be within the last 2 years
• The university should be classified as A or B by the Ministry of Education
• Recommendation letter from your university
• Accredited graduation certificate
  • Minimum GPA of 3.5 (A-class university)
  • Minimum GPA of 3.8 (B-class university)

For students who graduated outside the UAE:

• Graduation from a top 100 university worldwide
• GPA of at least 3.5
• The certificate must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Education
• Graduation date within the last 2 years

With the Golden Visa, you’re also allowed to work part-time and sponsor your parents, spouse, and children.

4. 5-Year Visa UAE for Outstanding High School Students

High school students studying in the UAE can apply for the 5-year student visa UAE if they are national-level academic toppers.

Eligibility requirements:

• Achieve at least 95% in your final year of secondary school
• Study in a public or private school in the UAE
• Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment)

This visa may be extended if you enroll in a top-tier university in the UAE with a program that exceeds 5 years.

How to Apply for a Student Visa in UAE?

Applying for a student visa in UAE is now more convenient thanks to the availability of online portals and government-approved service centers. Once you have all the required documents ready, follow these steps based on your visa type and location:

Step 1: Choose the Right Sponsor

Depending on your situation, your student visa in UAE can be sponsored by:

• A UAE university or college
• A parent who is a UAE resident
• You, if you qualify for the Golden Visa

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Here are the typical student visa in UAE requirements:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Admission offer letter from a UAE-registered institution
• Previous academic certificates
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Proof of funds for living expenses
• Medical fitness certificate (from a DHA/MOH-approved clinic in UAE)
• Emirates ID application form (for in-country applicants)
• Sponsor’s Emirates ID and proof of relationship (if sponsored by a parent)

Step 3: Choose the Application Channel

You can apply through one of the following platforms:

A. ICP Smart Services Portal (For all Emirates except Dubai)

• Visit: https://icp.gov.ae
• Choose “Golden Visa Services” if you are eligible for the 10-year visa
• For standard student visas (sponsored by parent or university), select “Residency Services” “Residency from Outside UAE” or “Residency from Inside UAE”

B. GDRFA Dubai Portal (For Dubai-based institutions or residents)

• Visit: https://gdrfad.gov.ae
• Under “Services”, go to Residency Services
• Apply for a student visa if your sponsor is a Dubai-based university or parent
• For the Golden Visa, use the Golden Residency section

C. Mobile Apps for Convenience

• ICP Smart Services App (Android/iOS)
• GDRFA Dubai App (Android/iOS)
  Both apps allow users to apply, upload documents, pay fees, and track visa status.

D. Amer Centers (Dubai Only)

If you’re not familiar with online procedures, visit an Amer Center near you. These government-approved centers can apply on your behalf for all GDRFA services, including student visas.

E. University PRO/Admissions Office

Many universities in the UAE handle the full visa process for students, especially for international applicants. Check if your university offers visa assistance.

Step 4: Undergo Medical Test and Biometrics

If you’re already in the UAE:

• Book a medical test at a MOHAP or DHA-approved medical center.
• You’ll also be required to complete biometrics for the Emirates ID at a designated ICP office.

If you’re outside the UAE:

• Apply for the entry permit first.
• Once you arrive, complete the medical test and biometric process to activate the residency visa.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Track Application

• Visa processing fees range from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000, depending on the visa type and service channel.
• You can track your application online or through mobile apps. Processing usually takes 5 to 10 working days.

Additional Tips:

• Always double-check the eligibility for the Golden Visa before applying.
• For fast-track services, choose the urgent processing option (extra fee applies).
• Some universities require you to transfer your visa under their sponsorship if you shift from another sponsor.

Can You Work Part-Time on a Student Visa in UAE?

Yes! As a student holding a valid student visa in UAE, you are allowed to work part-time during vacations, holidays, or outside of study hours. However, you must first obtain a part-time work permit and a legal contract with your employer.

Can You Sponsor Your Parents on a Student Visa in UAE?

If you are a Golden Visa holder, you are eligible to sponsor your immediate family members, including your parents, spouse, and children, while you reside and study in the UAE.

If you’re planning to study, work, or settle in the United Arab Emirates, you must complete certificate verification in UAE. This essential process confirms the authenticity of your documents, including the seal and signature on them.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) provides this verification service, both for those inside and outside the country.

How to Do Certificate Verification in UAE

You can easily apply for certificate verification in UAE through the MoFA website. If you are outside the UAE, visit the UAE Embassy in your home country. Here’s a step-by-step process to guide you:

If You Are Inside the UAE:

1. Visit the MoFA Website.
2. Log in using your UAE PASS or register a new account.
3. Select the attestation service under the Services section.
4. Fill in the application form and upload your documents.
5. Pay the required attestation fees.
6. Wait for the SMS confirmation of your successful application.
7. Your attested documents will be delivered via the selected courier service.

If You Are Outside the UAE:

1. Visit the MoFA website or approach the UAE Embassy.
2. Register or log in.
3. Submit your application form.
4. Pay the fees.
5. You will receive an SMS confirmation.
6. Visit the UAE Embassy or consulate in your country for document attestation.

No matter where you are, certificate verification in UAE ensures your official papers are valid for use across the government and private sectors in the country.

Degree Certificate Verification in UAE

If you’re a university graduate, degree certificate verification in UAE is a critical step. You cannot verify your degree certificate directly on the MOHESR website. Before that, you must verify it through one of their partnered organizations, such as DataFlow or QUADRA3ay.

Your application will go through two main stages:

Stage 1: Verification by Partnered Organization

1. Visit the MOHESR website and go to Individual Services.
2. Choose Recognition of university qualifications issued from outside the UAE and click Start Service.
3. Select a verification partner: DataFlow or QUADRA3ay.
4. Create a user account on the selected partner’s platform.
5. Confirm your details and select your verification requirements.
6. Enter information about your degree and any previous qualifications.
7. Upload the required documents.
8. Pay the fee based on your degree level.
9. A specialist will review your application and may ask for more documents.
10. The verification agency will contact your university to confirm the authenticity of your degree.
11. Once your degree is verified, the findings will be sent to the MOHESR directly.
12. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research will then update your record accordingly.

Important: Once you confirm that your degree certificate has been verified by DataFlow or QUADRA3ay, only then should you proceed to Stage 2.

Stage 2: Final Recognition on MOHESR Website

1. Return to the MOHESR website and log in using UAE PASS.
2. Click on Complete Application.
3. Enter the Reference Number from the verification agency and your Date of Birth.
4. Your academic and personal details will be auto-filled.
5. Review and confirm all information.
6. Pay the recognition fee.
7. You will receive a Recognition Report (Recognized / Not Recognized) via email.
8. You can also download the result from your account on the MOHESR portal.

Following these steps ensures that your degree certificate verification in UAE is complete and officially recognized. This recognition is vital for pursuing work, further education, or immigration processes in the UAE. Always make sure to track your application progress and submit additional documents if requested to avoid delays.

Understanding overtime calculation in Saudi Arabia is essential for both workers and employers. It ensures that employees are fairly compensated for extra hours, while helping companies comply with Saudi labour laws.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has established labour laws to protect both employers and workers, much like other GCC countries such as the UAE and Qatar.

However, overtime calculation in Saudi Arabia is unique due to its structured approach. In the GCC, KSA is the first country that has introduced a minimum salary for foreign workers.

Regular Working Hours Under Saudi Labour Law

According to the Saudi Labour Law:

• Standard working hours are 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, from Monday to Thursday.
• For hazardous jobs, the maximum is 7 hours per day and 42 hours per week.
• During Ramadan, Muslim workers’ hours have been reduced to 6 hours per day.
• Workers usually work 6 days a week, with 1 rest day.

Employers provide Muslim employees with prayer breaks on Fridays to attend mosque as part of their legal entitlement.

In some non-continuous working jobs, the working hours can be extended to 9 hours per day, depending on operational needs.

Overtime Rate in Saudi Arabia

The overtime rate in Saudi Arabia is 150% of the employee’s regular hourly wage—that’s your hourly wage + 50% extra.

The law does not differentiate between normal days, weekends, or public holidays like Eid. That means whether you work on a Friday, a public holiday, or a night shift, the same 1.5x rate applies.

Eid Holiday Overtime Calculation in Saudi Arabia

Working during Eid holidays is treated as overtime. The same rate applies — 150% of the basic hourly wage — regardless of the occasion. This makes it easy for employers and employees to apply a single calculation across all scenarios.

How to Calculate Overtime Pay in Saudi Arabia

Here’s how to calculate your overtime pay if your monthly salary is SAR 3,000:

1. Calculate your hourly wage:
   SAR 3,000 × 12 / 365 / 8 = SAR 12.32 per hour
2. Overtime wage per hour:
   SAR 12.32 × 1.5 = SAR 18.48
3. Assume 70 overtime hours per month:
   70 × SAR 18.48 = SAR 1,293.6

So, if you worked 70 extra hours, your overtime pay would be approximately SAR 1,294.

Use Our Overtime Calculator

To make it easier for you, we’ve created a simple overtime calculator for Saudi Arabia. Just enter your monthly salary and overtime hours, and it will automatically calculate your overtime compensation according to the latest rules under Saudi labour law.

Whether you’re calculating Eid holiday overtime in Saudi Arabia or regular overtime, this tool ensures accurate results every time.

Eligibility for Overtime in Saudi Arabia

Who Is Not Entitled to Overtime Pay in Saudi Arabia?

While most employees are eligible for overtime pay, Article 108 of the Saudi Labour Law outlines specific exemptions. Employers may not grant overtime compensation to the following categories of workers:

• Guards and janitors (excluding civil security personnel): Security guards and janitors typically fall outside standard overtime laws unless they are part of civil security forces.
• Persons in high-ranking management or policy-making roles: Employers may exclude senior employees who supervise others and help set company policies or decisions from overtime rules.
• Workers involved in preparatory or supplemental tasks: Employees may perform tasks before or after regular working hours, such as equipment setup or shutdown procedures, which employers may exclude from overtime compensation.
• Jobs that are intermittent by nature: Employees whose work is not continuous or occurs at irregular intervals may not be covered by overtime rules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is overtime allowed on Fridays in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. If you work on your rest day, such as Friday, it is treated as overtime and paid at 150% of your hourly wage.

2. Does the overtime include housing and transport allowances?

Usually, overtime calculation in Saudi Arabia salary is based on the basic salary only, not on total salary including allowances, unless otherwise mentioned in the contract.

3. What is the overtime rate in Saudi Arabia during public holidays like Eid?

It remains 1.5x the hourly wage, as per Saudi Labour Law. There’s no special multiplier for holidays.

4. Do part-time employees get overtime?

Yes, if their working hours exceed those agreed upon in the contract.

5. What if my employer refuses to pay overtime?

You can file a complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD).

Conclusion

Whether you’re working a regular shift or extra hours during holidays, knowing your rights regarding overtime calculation in Saudi Arabia helps ensure fair treatment.

With the clear overtime rate in Saudi Arabia, employees can calculate their expected wages and protect themselves from underpayment.

How to Check your KSA Visa Online?

When applying for a UAE visa, you might face delays, rejections, or surprisingly fast approvals. These outcomes depend on various factors.

If your UAE visa approval is taking longer than expected while your colleagues have already received theirs, there could be specific reasons behind the delay or rejection.

Common Reasons for UAE Visa Rejection

Understanding the UAE visa rejection reasons can help you avoid mistakes and take the right steps if you’re affected. Below are some of the most common causes:

1. Delayed Application by Employer or Agent
   Your employer or agent may have informed you that the visa is “in process,” but they might not have submitted it on time. This is a frequent cause of visa processing delays.
2. Immigration Verification Issues
   If your name or personal details match someone who has a travel ban or criminal record in the UAE, immigration officers may take more time to verify your identity.
3. Failure to Meet UAE Visa Requirements
   The UAE has clear eligibility criteria for visa issuance. If you do not meet these conditions, your UAE visa rejection is likely.
4. Judicial Travel Ban
   If you had a legal case in the UAE, even after resolving it, the court might have imposed a travel ban preventing you from re-entering the country.
5. Unresolved Criminal Record
   If you left the UAE without settling a criminal or civil case, or if you were deported, it could lead to a visa rejection.
6. Employer Complaint or Fabricated Case
   If your previous employer filed a complaint against you (for example, for not returning after vacation), it might result in a UAE visa rejection. They may also claim financial compensation.
7. Criminal Record in the Gulf Region
   Any past criminal activity in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries could impact your visa application.
8. Documents Required for UAE Visa Application

To avoid delays and UAE visa rejection, ensure you have the following documents ready and correct:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months.
• Passport-size photo against a white background.
• Entry permit or job offer letter
• Emirates ID copy (if renewing or sponsored internally).
• Educational certificates (for employment visas)
• Proof of relationship (for family visas)

Providing accurate and complete documents helps speed up your approval and reduces the chances of rejection.

Types of UAE Visas That Commonly Face Rejection

Visa rejection may happen to any applicant, but some types are more commonly affected:

• Tourist Visa: Often rejected due to insufficient funds, incorrect documents, or a history of overstaying.
• Employment Visa: Rejected if the sponsor fails to meet immigration or labor law criteria.
• Family Visa: “Immigration may reject the visa if the sponsor’s salary is too low or if relationship proof is missing.”
• Freelance Visa: Rejection can happen if the business activity or license isn’t approved.

Each visa type has specific rules. Knowing them can help you apply correctly.

How to Check UAE Visa Rejection Status Online

You can follow these steps to check your visa status if you suspect a rejection:

1. For Dubai visas – Visit the GDRFA website, go to “Track Application” and enter your application number.
2. For other emirates – Visit the ICP website, select “Application Tracking,” and input your file number or passport details.

You can also request your employer or PRO to inquire directly at the immigration office.

What to Do If Your UAE Visa Is Rejected

If your UAE visa is rejected, here’s what you should do:

• Ask your employer or sponsor to check the reason for the rejection.
• If you have friends or family in the UAE, send them your file number and passport copy. They can help you approach the UAE immigration to inquire about the issue.
• Consult a licensed lawyer or law firm in the UAE for legal advice if you believe any of the above reasons caused your visa rejection.

UAE Visa Rejected – Can I Apply Again?

A common question people ask is: “UAE visa rejected – can I apply again?”

The answer is yes, but only after you resolve the issue that caused the rejection. Reapplying without addressing the reason will likely lead to another rejection.

If you are facing a labour ban, you must wait one year before reapplying unless you successfully remove or appeal the ban.

There are various methods to lift a labour ban in the UAE. We recommend checking our related post for detailed guidance on how to remove a UAE labour ban. Click here.