Thinking of working in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of skilled professionals and laborers from around the world come to the UAE to build their careers. But before you can legally work here, you’ll need to obtain a valid UAE work visa, also known as a residency visa for employment purposes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Dubai work visa in 2025, including requirements, process, costs, duration, and useful tips.
Who Needs a Work Visa for Dubai?
Any non-UAE national who wants to work in Dubai — whether you’re from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Africa, or Europe — must get:
✅ A valid job offer from a licensed UAE employer
✅ A work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE)
✅ A residency visa linked to your job
Documents Required for a Dubai Work Visa:
If you’ve received a job offer, your employer will typically apply for your work visa. However, you must provide the following:
From the Employee:
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Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Passport-sized photo (white background)
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Academic certificates (attested by UAE Embassy & Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
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Medical fitness test report (done after arriving in UAE)
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Police clearance certificate (in some cases)
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Entry permit from MOHRE (your employer arranges this)
From the Employer:
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Valid trade license
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Company establishment card
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Labor quota approval from MOHRE
Work Visa Process in Dubai (2025)
Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Offer Letter & Labor Approval
Your employer must offer you a contract and submit a work permit request to MOHRE.
Step 2: Entry Permit (Pink Visa)
Once approved, you receive an Entry Permit (valid for 60 days), allowing you to enter the UAE and begin the visa process.
Step 3: Medical Test & Emirates ID
After arrival:
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Visit a government-approved medical center for blood tests and chest X-ray
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Apply for Emirates ID at an ICP service center
Step 4: Visa Stamping on Passport
Once the above is completed, your residency visa will be stamped into your passport, and you are officially allowed to live and work in the UAE.
Cost of a Dubai Work Visa (Employer Pays)
| Service | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit & Approval | 200 – 500 |
| Entry Permit | 500 – 1,200 |
| Medical Fitness Test | 300 – 700 |
| Emirates ID (2 years) | 300 – 400 |
| Visa Stamping & Typing | 500 – 1,000 |
| Total (2-year visa) | 3,000 – 5,000 AED (paid by employer) |
Note: Blue-collar job costs may vary depending on company type (mainland vs free zone).
Work Visa Processing Time
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Entry permit: 2–7 working days
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Medical + Emirates ID + stamping: 5–10 working days
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Total time: 10–15 working days (in most cases)
Visa Validity & Renewal:
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Valid for 2 years (private sector) or 3 years (government jobs)
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Can be renewed by employer before expiry
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You must cancel the visa before changing jobs or leaving UAE permanently
Important Rules for Employees:
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You cannot switch jobs freely without meeting minimum service requirements (usually 1 year)
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Absconding or resignation without notice may lead to a labor ban
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Always sign the contract before entry
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Keep copies of your labor card, contract, and visa
Work Visa Tips from Desert Feed:
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Don’t pay large amounts to agents—legitimate employers bear the cost
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Always verify job offers through MOHRE or UAE embassy
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Use official channels only to track visa application:
Final Word: Ready to Work in Dubai?
Dubai remains one of the top destinations for job seekers from around the world thanks to its tax-free salary, modern lifestyle, and growing industries. By understanding the Dubai work visa process, you’re one step closer to achieving your career goals in the UAE.
For more visa updates, job tips, and UAE news, keep visiting Desert Feed.
