Like expat-moths to a flame, people from all over the world are mesmerized by the magnificence of Dubai. Working abroad in Dubai offers a unique cultural experience, but more importantly, those looking to work abroad will find this city holds seemingly ceaseless job opportunities. In fact, the majority of the city’s workforce is composed of expats as Dubai has built a great reputation as one of the top destinations to work abroad, especially for professional skill development. Dubai has become one of the world’s largest and most stable business centers, making it an even more attractive place to work abroad, not to mention the tax-free salaries!
Popular Ways to Work Abroad in Dubai
Expats will undoubtedly relish in Dubai’s numerous world-class hotels, innovative architecture, and endless forms of entertainment. Beyond these surface level opportunities, Dubai is home to a diverse array of jobs all with differing stipulations and benefits.
Popular jobs in Dubai. Since the Dubai is filled with a number of luxurious hotels, resorts, and restaurants, hospitality jobs are widely available. And all those fancy schmancy buildings don’t build themselves, so construction jobs are in high demand as well. But if an air-conditioned office is more your jam, jobs in business and technology are also available and yours for the taking.
Short term jobs and summer jobs vs. long term jobs in Dubai. The first thing to consider is how long you want to live to expat life. Jobs abroad in Dubai are available on both a short-term or long-term basis, ranging from a month or so and to infinity and beyond. If graduation is looming, but you’re still working towards your degree, summer jobs are also available and popular among students. Remember some jobs may only be a part-time gig, while others require a full on 40-hours-a-week commitment.
Unpaid vs. paid jobs in Dubai. No matter what industry you choose, Dubai always rewards those who work hard. In the hospitality industry, expats are often provided with onsite accommodation. Keep in mind that some employers will pay you generously and leave housing up to you. Others will compensate you in room and board and maybe even a small stipend. In Dubai—a city that doesn’t exactly color inside the lines—nothing is standard, so any combination of these reimbursement packages are possible when you work abroad in Dubai.
Expat Life in Dubai
During the day, Dubai unwaveringly adheres to the “shop ‘til you drop” mantra as city that hosts not one, but two huge annual shopping festivals. Shopping is a leisure activity in Dubai, where malls are much more than a hodgepodge of stores. Dubai’s malls lure visitors with surreal attractions like indoor ski slopes or giant aquariums, NBD. However, traditional souks are alive and well too, always boasting a total sensory experience like none other.
After dark, Dubai caters to just about every taste, budget, and age group. From flashy dance temples, sleek rooftop terraces, and sizzling beach clubs to fancy cocktail caverns and concerts under the stars—Dubai delivers. For a more laid back vibe, sheesha lounges, community theatre, and live music venues are more than enough to keep you entertained.
On the weekend, join in Dubai’s obsession with eating and check out world-class farmers’ markets. The blossoming cultural scene also means there’s a major concert or exhibition happening most weekends. If not, spend your time reveling in Dubai’s natural and man-made wonders. Hit the beach or set an early alarm to catch a view of sun rising over the city during special early morning viewings at Burj Khalifa.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Dubai is an incredible place to work abroad thanks to high-paying jobs, tax-free salaries, and many expatriate-friendly policies. Also, since the city abides by very strategic urban planning policies and standards, Dubai is naturally more livable.
However, there are still challenges that nearly every expatriate will face while working in Dubai. Living in the lap of luxury ain’t cheap and the high standard of living in Dubai is reverberated by high cost commodities. The language barrier can also prove to be somewhat challenging for expats, as it can often make it difficult to communicate with locals during daily transactions.
Also, Dubai is HOT. It may seem like all fun in the sun in the Dubai, but remember it can sometimes reach extreme temperatures. Don’t ignore the weather report, and pack smart for the heat so you’re comfortable, but also remember to dress appropriately for not only your job, but for the highly conservative culture as well.
Working abroad in Dubai will fascinate you on the daily with its energy, optimism, and openness towards people from all over the world. It's hard not to admire Dubai for its unrelenting spirit, gutsy ambition, and ability to dream up and bring projects to life that may never leave the ground elsewhere. With grandiose projects always in the pipeline, working abroad in Dubai will feel like you are living in the future.
For more information habibi, read our comprehensive guide on working abroad in the United Arab Emirates.