Guidelines and Legal Requirements for Taking Part-Time Jobs in the UAE

Working Part-Time in the UAE: Rules, Permits & Opportunities

Introduction

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the most attractive destinations for job seekers looking for flexibility, especially through part-time employment. Whether you’re a student, a homemaker, a freelancer, or a skilled professional seeking additional income, the UAE offers structured and legal ways to work part-time without compromising your residency status or employer relationship.

Thanks to the UAE’s updated labor laws—particularly Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022—employees now have the option to work part-time legally under clearly defined contracts with proper permits issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

What is Part-Time Work in the UAE?

Part-time work is defined as a contractual arrangement where an individual is employed for fewer hours than a full-time role, either on a fixed hourly, daily, or weekly basis. This format is ideal for individuals balancing education, family responsibilities, or multiple job commitments.

Legal Framework for Part-Time Jobs

The UAE labor law provides full legal coverage for part-time contracts, including rights to:

• Proportional paid annual leave
• End-of-service gratuity (if worked over 1 year)
• Medical insurance (as mandated by employer’s emirate-specific rules)
• Public holidays and sick leave based on hours worked

These contracts are legally recognized, provided they are processed and approved by MoHRE, ensuring protection for both employer and employee.

Who is Eligible for Part-Time Employment?

• UAE Nationals: Can apply without restrictions.
• Expatriates with valid residency visas: Can work part-time with MoHRE approval.
• University Students over 18: Eligible for part-time work with necessary permits.
• Dependents (Spouse or Children): Can take up part-time jobs with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their sponsor.

Documents Required for Part-Time Work Permit

To legally work part-time, a Part-Time Work Permit must be issued by MoHRE. Here are the typical documents required:

1. Passport copy
2. Valid residency visa (minimum 6 months validity)
3. Emirates ID
4. Passport-size photograph
5. Trade license of current and part-time employer
6. Academic or professional qualification (if required)
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer/sponsor

Cost: AED 600 to AED 700 (Usually paid by the hiring company)

Permit validity: 6 months, renewable

Industries with High Demand for Part-Time Workers

• Education and Tutoring
• Marketing and Sales
• Customer Service and Call Centers
• Retail and Hospitality
• Graphic Design & Web Development
• Administrative Support
• Medical & Allied Health

How to Apply for a Part-Time Work Permit

1. Employer initiates the application through the MoHRE website or service center.
2. Upload required documents.
3. Pay the application fee.
4. MoHRE processes the request (usually within 48 hours).
5. The applicant can start working legally once the permit is issued.

Recent Legal Changes You Should Know

• Dual Employment: Since 2018, skilled professionals are allowed to take up more than one part-time job without employer consent.
• Freelancing: Freelancers working under a license can also apply for part-time permits for additional jobs.
• Juvenile Work Permits: Workers aged 15–18 can work under special permits, excluding hazardous or overnight jobs.

Salaries for Part-Time Jobs in the UAE

Part-time salaries vary based on experience, skillset, and industry. Here’s an average estimate:

Benefits of Part-Time Work in the UAE

• Work-life balance: Flexible hours tailored to your lifestyle.
• Legal Protection: MoHRE permits ensure fair treatment and legal coverage.
• Income Boost: Perfect for those seeking to supplement earnings.
• Skill Enhancement: Gain new experiences and improve your resume.

Restrictions to Keep in Mind

• Not all employers accept part-time workers without a permit.
• Certain industries may have restrictions (e.g., defense, government, hazardous work).
• Visa holders must ensure compliance with labor laws and avoid working without a permit.

How Brightlink Consultancy Can Help

At Brightlink Consulting, we provide end-to-end support for obtaining your legal part-time work permit in the UAE. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire skilled part-time staff or an individual navigating work permit rules, we handle the paperwork, MoHRE coordination, and approval process on your behalf.

Contact us to get started:
📞 +971 45575778
📱 WhatsApp: +971 566556645
📧 info@brightlinkconsulting.ae