Job Opportunities in Dubai for International Students

Dubai is considered the most vibrant city in the Middle East, which is not only popular for offering the best tourism, luxury, technology, and innovation. But the city is also known for its educational system, due to which, it has become a global education destination. Multiple international universities have expanded their campuses in Dubai, and thousands of students join these universities. One also gets a good chance to build their career in Dubai after completing the program.

Why Choose Dubai?

Dubai offers world-class education, along with global career opportunities and a multicultural lifestyle. The city is a hub of global business that offers internships and jobs in sectors like technology, finance, hospitality, tourism, and logistics. Apart from that, Dubai also provides tax-free salaries with modern infrastructure, which is a deal-breaker for international students. Additionally, it also opens doors for global networking and traveling.

Universities for International Students

Dubai is home to multiple international universities that cater to students on a global level. Also, it offers recognized degrees and a multicultural environment. There are campuses of prestigious institutions in Dubai, such as:

The University of Birmingham
Heriot-Watt University
Middlesex University

The following universities offer programs in business, engineering, media, and many other programs, with English instruction. In Dubai, tuition fees may vary from one institution to another, but they generally cost less than institutions in Western countries. Many institutions also offer scholarships and financial aid to their students. Apart from academics, the city provides good networking opportunities with top companies, internships, and a pathway to employment in the city.

Types of Job Opportunities for International Students

The job market in Dubai is big. However, freshers/students may find it difficult to land a full-time job immediately, there are part-time and internships available:

There are on-campus jobs available for the students during which, the student can work as a library assistant, research assistant, administrative support, and even as an event helper.
There are also internships available for students who are pursuing a specific program. Students studying Engineering, Business, or Media can start working as an intern particularly in: Business and finance, IT and software development, Media and communications.
Along with internships and on campus opportunities, students can also take up part-time jobs (Off-Campus) in sectors such as Hospitality, Sales and Marketing, Event-planning, or even freelance as a writer, graphic designer, and so on. However, international students needs to have right permits to start working in the corporate field.

Eligibility to work in Dubai

To legally work in Dubai, international students need to be:

Enrolled in a university, licensed in the UAE free zones or mainland.
Take permission to work part-time, by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Take approval from the University for working.
Ensure that your employer is registered and authorized.
Stick to the working hours based on your visa.
The student should be 18 years, at least.

Violating these rules could result in fines, deportation, or visa cancellation.

High-Demand Job Opportunities

Once the students graduate, then they are eligible for UAE Job seeker visa, which gives 6-12 months stay and search for job opportunity. During that period, many companies offer entry-level jobs, so one can take up those to learn about the field. After getting a full-time job, the employer themself will sponsor the employment visa, which allows international students to remain and work in Dubai, legally.

The following sectors consistently offer better prospects for students and graduates:

Tourism and Hospitality
Information Technology (IT Engineers)
Marketing
Communication and Media
Business and Finance

How to Find a Job in Dubai

Get all the documents ready: Updated resume, Portfolio, and LinkedIn profile
Prepare the CV and Cover letters for the job roles you’re interested in
Balance your work and studies alongside
Check visa and labour law in Dubai

Where to find Jobs in Dubai

To search for jobs in Dubai, you can utilize various online platforms like Bayt.com, LinkedIn, NaukriGulf, GulfTalent, Dubizzle, and Monster Gulf. Apart from these platforms, one can also explore government portals and can also connect with recruitment agencies.

Average Salary Range

The salary packages in Dubai can differ by industry, educational qualification, and experience too. Usually, entry-level roles for freshers or interns can be around AED 3,000 to AED 6,000 per month. In-demand roles such as Information Technology (IT), Finance, Business, and Engineering may offer salaries between AED 7,000 to AED 12,000 per month. Part-time and Freelancer roles might earn like AED 30-60 per hour, depending on the type of work one does. However, Dubai offers tax-free income, so the take-home payment is generally high than many other global cities.

FAQs – Jobs in Dubai for International Students

Can international students work part-time in Dubai?

Yes, international students are permitted to work part-time in Dubai city, after getting permission from the MOHRE and the University.

How many hours can a student work per week?

The working hours depends upon the visa type of the student and also the university guidelines. However, a student can work for 15-20 hours per week, during a semester.

Is it necessary to understand and speak Arabic in Dubai?

No. Majorly, English is the common communication language in the workspace, especially in multinational companies. However, understanding Arabic can be an advantage.