Working in Dubai

Despite suffering from the fallout of the global economic slowdown, Dubai is still an attractive option for job hunters.   Our pointers below will help you track down those golden opportunities and survive the workplace:

Go online
Job sites such as GulfTalent  Monstergulf & Bayt.com are good destinations to begin your job hunt.  Major recruitment agencies and companies list their jobs here and it’s also worth creating a profile so those looking for employees can find you!

Don’t get scammed
Beware of rogue recruitment agencies.  Never pay money to register for an agency or apply for a job – under UAE law all recruitment costs should be borne by the employer.  Anyone request for money is likely to be a scam.

Build your network 
Although you will probably have a job before you get here, if you are changing jobs, the value of contacts and ‘knowing someone who knows someone’ cannot be underestimated.  There are a number of networking organisations based in the city that can give you the inside view on the job market and your particular field of expertise.

Stay in the ‘zone
If you’re on the hunt for companies to target, Dubai’s freezones are a good place to start.  The freezone websites usually have a directory of companies which operate within them and some may even carry job listings.

What’s in your package?
Expat benefits are not the pots of gold they once were but a good job offer should at the very least include a housing allowance and an amount for school fees if you have a family.  You will also need private health insurance so check what provisions are made for you and your family members.

Mind your own business (card)
Always carry business cards with you.  Remember what we said about networking?  It’s key to doing business in Dubai and trading in business cards is the first step to building your own network.

Be patient
The first six months to a year in any new country and job are difficult.  Setting up home and building your professional network will take some time and it’s often not until the second year when expats really start to find their feet.

Background reading
If you want to know more about work culture in the Middle East, check out ‘Don’t they know it’s Friday’ by Jeremy Williams.  The book gives a good overview of the social and cultural factors behind the Dubai workplace.