Are you looking for part time jobs in Dubai for students? With plenty of big companies and a large expat population, Dubai is a great place to study and work simultaneously.
In this blog, we will discuss the requirements and salary for part-time jobs in Dubai for students, as well as the types of jobs available and the process for obtaining a work permit.
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
Whether you’re a B.Tech student or looking for a job in the retail or hospitality industry, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more about part-time job opportunities in Dubai for students.
Why Work Part-Time in Dubai?
UAE is a popular spot for people from all over the world, with lots of big companies and plenty of expats calling it home. It’s also great for students because you can study and work simultaneously. Working while you study gives you loads of experience and helps you make important connections for your future. Doing internships is a fantastic way to figure out what career path is right for you. Plus, working with companies worldwide gives you many valuable skills.
Studying in UAE can be expensive, so having a part-time job helps you cover some of those costs. And here’s some good news: recent rules protect international students who work part-time in UAE, making it safer and more secure for them.
Age Limit to Work in Dubai
The legal age to work in Dubai is 18. However, there are some exceptions for certain industries, such as entertainment, modelling, and sports, where individuals under 18 can work with the permission of their parents or legal guardians.
Students who are enrolled in universities or colleges in Dubai can work part-time with the approval of their institution and a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
It’s important to note that underage workers are subject to strict labour laws and regulations to protect their rights and ensure their safety in the workplace.
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
Part Time jobs in Dubai for Students
Dubai offers a variety of part-time job opportunities for students to earn extra income while studying.
Some of the popular part-time jobs for students in Dubai include:
1. Retail industry: Students can work as sales associates, cashiers, or customer service representatives in retail stores or supermarkets.
2. Hospitality industry: Students can work as waiters, hostesses, or kitchen assistants in restaurants, cafes, or hotels.
3. Tutoring: Students can offer tutoring services in subjects they excel in for younger students.
4. Promotions and events: Students can work as promoters or staff for concerts, festivals, or other events.
5. Freelance work: Students can offer their skills in areas such as graphic design, web development, or content writing on a freelance basis.
It’s important to note that students need to obtain a work permit from the MOHRE before starting any part-time job in Dubai.
Part Time Jobs for B.Tech Students
B.Tech students in Dubai looking for part-time job opportunities can explore various options depending on their skills and interests.
Some of the popular part-time job opportunities for B.Tech students in Dubai include:
| Type of Jobs | Description |
| Internship | Many companies in Dubai offer internships to B.Tech students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. These internships are usually paid and can provide valuable learning opportunities. |
| Tutoring | B.Tech students who excel in certain subjects can consider tutoring as a part-time job. They can either work with private tutoring companies or offer their services independently. |
| Freelance | B.Tech students with skills in web design, programming, or graphic design can work as freelancers and take on projects on a part-time basis. |
| Retail | B.Tech students can also consider working part-time in retail stores or supermarkets. These jobs usually involve customer service, sales, and stocking shelves. |
| Delivery Services | B.Tech students with a valid driving license can work part-time for delivery services such as food delivery or courier services. |
B.Tech students must have a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) to work part-time in Dubai.
Explore all countries
Process for Part Time Jobs in Dubai
In 2017, the UAE government made a significant move by granting foreign students aged 18 and above the opportunity to apply for work permits, enabling them to work part-time in the country. However, international students must have a university sponsorship to obtain a part-time work permit in Dubai. This sponsorship is crucial for students seeking employment outside their academic commitments.
Students must go through the UAE Labour Department to secure a part-time work permit. This process ensures legal authorisation for students to work part-time while studying in Dubai. Moreover, students can choose between on-campus and off-campus employment opportunities.
Many universities in Dubai offer on-campus job opportunities throughout the year, providing students with valuable exposure to the professional world. These on-campus jobs not only help students financially but also allow them to gain practical experience and develop essential skills for their future careers.
Student Eligibility Criteria to Work in Dubai
Here are the eligibility requirements for working part-time in Dubai, UAE:
- The student must be at least 18 years old.
- The student must be enrolled in one of the 23 academic institutes located within Dubai’s creative clusters.
- The student must be sponsored by their university.
- Fulfilment of academic criteria set by the university is mandatory.
- A visa issued by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA) is required.
Once the above criteria are met, students should contact the Career Services Centre at their academic institution.
The academic institute will then provide a Student Legibility Confirmation application, which must be signed and submitted to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for validation. Upon successful validation, students will receive a notification via email.
Dubai Job Requirements
The job requirements in Dubai vary depending on the industry and the position you are applying for. However, there are some common requirements that most employers look for when hiring candidates. Here are some of the general job requirements in Dubai:
1. Education: Employers in Dubai usually require candidates to have a certain level of education and qualifications related to the position they are applying for. This can range from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
2. Work experience: Work experience is another critical factor that employers consider when hiring candidates. Relevant work experience in the same field or industry can give you an advantage over other applicants.
3. Language skills: Dubai is a multicultural city, and employers often require candidates to have excellent communication skills in English. Knowledge of other languages, such as Arabic, Hindi, or Urdu, can also be advantageous.
4. Work permit: To work in Dubai, you must have a valid work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
5. Skills and abilities: Employers also look for candidates with specific skills and abilities related to the job they are applying for. These can include technical skills, problem-solving skills, teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills.
6. Age limit: The legal age to work in Dubai is 18 years old. Some industries may have specific age requirements for certain positions.
It’s essential to research the specific job requirements for the position you are interested in and ensure that you meet them before applying.
Student Part Time Employment Process in Dubai
Upon confirmation of eligibility, the university’s Career Services Centre connects students with available job opportunities among the 4,500 companies within Dubai’s creative clusters.
Once a student is selected for a job, the employer initiates the process by applying for a student part-time employment permit on behalf of the student. The student must sign the Standards of the Student part-time employment form in agreement with the employer.
The employer submits this signed form along with the permit application for processing. If the application is successful, the student will receive an email notification regarding the approval of their part-time employment permit.
On-Campus Employment for International Students
Many universities in the UAE offer jobs right on campus for students from abroad. These jobs can be in different parts of the university, like departments, libraries, or offices.
While classes are in session, international students can usually work up to 15 hours a week or 60 hours a month. But during breaks, like holidays, they can work more—up to 40 hours a week or 160 hours a month.
This setup helps students gain experience, earn some money, and manage their expenses while they’re studying. It also ensures they have enough time for work and their studies, which is important for their overall growth.
Minimum Salary in UAE
The minimum salary for on-campus placements in the UAE varies depending on the university and the position. According to the UAE Labour Law, the minimum wage for full-time employees in the private sector is INR 68k per month.
It’s important to note that part-time workers may receive a lower salary than full-time workers, but it should still comply with the minimum wage laws.
Off-Campus Employment for International Students
Students need a work permit to work outside of their university campus in the UAE. This means they must finish their studies first and then find a job. Once they have a job offer, they can apply for a work permit to start working legally.
Minimum Salary in UAE
The minimum salary for off-campus part-time jobs in UAE varies depending on the industry and job role. However, the UAE government has set a minimum wage of INR 56k per month for most industries, which is equivalent to around USD 680.
It’s important to note that some industries may have higher minimum wage requirements, and employers must provide health insurance and other benefits to their employees.
Summing Up
Working part-time in Dubai can give students valuable experience, connections, and extra income while studying. Part-time job opportunities are available in various industries, and B.Tech students can explore options based on their skills and interests.
Students must obtain a work permit from MOHRE before starting any job. Dubai universities also offer on-campus job opportunities for students.
For more information, you can contact our LeapScholar Team.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q. What is the salary of a student part-time in Dubai?
Ans. The salary for part-time jobs in Dubai for students varies depending on the type of job and the industry. However, the minimum wage for part-time workers in Dubai is currently at INR 284 per hour. Some part-time jobs may pay more depending on the specific job requirements and the employer. Researching and comparing different job opportunities is important to find the best pay for your skills and experience.
Q. Is Dubai cheap for students?
Ans. Dubai can be a bit expensive for students, especially compared to other regional cities. However, there are still ways to live affordably in Dubai. One of the best ways to save money is to opt for shared accommodation instead of renting a studio or one-bedroom apartment alone. You can also save money by cooking your own meals instead of eating out frequently.
Q. How is student life in Dubai?
Ans. Dubai offers a diverse and exciting student life experience with top-ranked universities, a multicultural community, and a vibrant social scene. While the cost of living may be higher, there are affordable accommodation options and plenty of free activities, such as visiting public parks or museums.
Q. How can students apply for a part time work permit in Dubai?
Ans. To get a part-time work permit in Dubai, students must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their educational institution and then apply for a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The permit allows them to work up to 20 hours per week and is valid only for the duration of their academic program.
Q. What are the requirements for obtaining a part time work permit in Dubai?
Ans. To obtain a part-time work permit in Dubai, you need a valid residency visa, a no-objection certificate from your current employer, a copy of your passport and residency visa, academic qualifications, a job offer from a company registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Q. What is the average salary for part time employees?
Ans. The average salary for part-time employees in Dubai varies based on industry and job type. However, according to the Dubai government’s website, the minimum wage for part-time employees in Dubai is INR 20k per month. Some part-time jobs may also offer additional benefits. For specific salary and benefits information, it is best to check with the employer.
Q. Can students work remotely or part time as freelancers in Dubai?
Ans. Yes, students in Dubai can work remotely or freelance part-time while studying. However, they must obtain a work permit from MOHRE and meet the necessary requirements for a part-time work permit. It’s important to ensure that work doesn’t interfere with studies.
Q. What types of part time jobs are available to students in Dubai?
Ans. Part-time job opportunities for students in Dubai include retail, food and beverage, hospitality, tutoring, freelance, delivery, and call centre jobs. There are many other options available based on the student’s skills and interests.
Q. Do students need to have prior work experience to work part time in Dubai?
Ans. No, experience is not always necessary for part-time jobs in Dubai. However, some employers may prefer candidates with relevant experience. Students should check the specific requirements for the job they are interested in.
Q. Can students extend their part time work permit after graduation in Dubai?
Ans. After graduation, students can extend their part-time work permit in Dubai by meeting specific requirements. They need a valid residency visa, a job offer from a registered company, a no-objection certificate from the employer, and an application for a work permit extension from MOHRE.
Q. Do students need to pay taxes on their part time income in Dubai?
Ans. There is no personal income tax in Dubai, so students do not have to pay taxes on their part-time income. However, there may be other types of taxes or fees associated with certain jobs, such as value-added tax (VAT) for some businesses. It’s always a good idea to check with a specific employer or seek advice from a tax professional to understand any potential tax or fee obligations.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance