Lexi Webster
If you're an Australian citizen looking to relocate to the UAE for work, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, the good news is that Australian citizens don't need a pre-entry visa and will be granted a free 30-day visit visa upon arrival. This gives you the opportunity to explore the country and get a feel for the job market. However, if you intend to work in the UAE, you will need a long-term visa and a work permit, often called a labour card. The job market in Dubai, in particular, is extremely competitive, so it's important to have a strong CV and unique way of presenting yourself. In terms of sectors, Dubai's business sector is growing, with new hires being a focus in 2017, and the most sought-after skills including statistical analysis, data mining, public policy, and UI design. Working with an agency is common in the UAE, and it's still the best way to secure a job within the emirate. Finally, it's worth noting that the cost of living in the UAE can be high, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but this is balanced out by higher salaries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most sought-after skills | Statistical analysis, data mining, public policy, international relations, algorithm design, web architecture, SEO/SEM marketing, UI design |
| Visa requirements | No pre-entry visa application required for Australian citizens; granted a free 30-day visit visa on arrival; work visa required for employment |
| Medical requirements | Blood test for HIV, Hepatitis C, and tuberculosis; health card issued upon passing tests |
| Other necessary documents | Labour card, residence visa, passport, medical records, health certificate, original entry permit, passport photos, labour card receipt |
| Job search tools | LinkedIn, recruitment agencies, company websites, internships, CV/resume |
| Additional considerations | Cost of living, accommodation expenses, alcohol license, tax implications |
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What You'll Learn
- Visa requirements: Australians don't need a pre-entry visa, but a long-term visa is needed to work
- Health requirements: A blood test is mandatory to rule out certain diseases
- Job search: Use recruitment agencies, LinkedIn, and your CV to find jobs
- Expats in UAE: There's a growing Australian community in UAE, with 25,000 expats
- Cost of living: Expats should consider the cost of living and rent, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Visa requirements: Australians don't need a pre-entry visa, but a long-term visa is needed to work
As an Australian citizen, you do not need to apply for a visa in advance of your arrival in the UAE. When you arrive at Dubai International Airport, proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge. This is a single-entry visa that is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can also extend this visa for up to 60 days.
However, if you intend to work in the UAE, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. This involves getting a work visa sponsored by your employer. To obtain a work visa, you will need to provide your employer with documents such as your passport number, and they will take care of the sponsorship and visa process.
In addition to the work visa, you will also need to obtain a health card and a labour card. To get a health card, you will need to undergo a blood test to rule out certain diseases, such as HIV, Hepatitis C, and tuberculosis. The health card is mandatory for foreign workers in Dubai. For the labour card, you will need to submit your passport photo, employment contract, entry visa, medical records, and your employer's labour licence to the Ministry of Labor.
Finally, you will need a residence visa, which is issued by Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. This requires you to fill out a form, provide your passport, medical records, health certificate, original entry permit, passport photos, a copy of your labour card, and the receipt from your labour card processing.
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Health requirements: A blood test is mandatory to rule out certain diseases
To obtain a work/residence permit in the UAE, foreign nationals must undergo a health screening process, which includes a blood test, to ensure they are free of communicable diseases. This is a mandatory requirement to rule out certain diseases and obtain a health card, which is necessary for foreign workers in Dubai.
The blood test screens for diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, leprosy, syphilis, and tuberculosis. Additionally, female domestic workers must undergo a pregnancy test, which is available at an additional cost. It is important to note that the UAE does not permit foreign carriers of these diseases to reside in the emirates.
The health screening process also includes an assessment by a doctor and a chest x-ray. In the emirate of Abu Dhabi, foreign nationals are screened for pulmonary tuberculosis using a chest x-ray, while Dubai does not require this specific test. However, a new Cabinet Resolution passed in 2016 mandates that all resident expatriates renewing their residence visas must undergo TB screening.
To comply with the health requirements, individuals should ensure they receive the necessary vaccinations, such as the hepatitis B vaccination, and obtain proof of compliance. Vaccination certificates from outside the UAE must be authenticated or attested to be valid.
It is important to stay informed about any updates or changes to the health requirements and screening processes, as they may be subject to the discretion of the UAE authorities. Overall, the health screening process is a crucial step in obtaining a work/residence permit in the UAE and ensuring the health and safety of its residents.
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Job search: Use recruitment agencies, LinkedIn, and your CV to find jobs
Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies can help you find full-time, part-time, or temporary job opportunities. They are free for job seekers and are paid by employers. Recruiters are keen for you to get the job and can help you get past the application process. However, some businesses prefer not to use agencies, and you should be wary of agencies that might try to place you in any job without considering if it is a good fit for you. Before signing up with an agency, check that they are a member of the Recruitment & Employment Federation (REF), and ensure that they get to know you and your goals.
LinkedIn is a useful platform to search for jobs. You can use filters to refine your search results and set job alerts. When you find a suitable job posting, you can apply directly through the mobile app or website.
CV
A CV is a summary of your skills, achievements, and experience used to apply for jobs. It should be clear, easy to read, and tailored to the job and company you are applying for. Include your contact details, an introduction, education history, work history, and references. If you are applying for your first job, you can focus on skills learned through projects, work experience, or volunteering, and include your interests and hobbies.
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Expats in UAE: There's a growing Australian community in UAE, with 25,000 expats
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for expats from around the world, including an estimated 25,000 Australians. The country has become more accessible to Australian expats due to an increasing number of direct flights, and it offers a high quality of life, a favourable tax system, and a unique cultural experience.
Australian expats in the UAE can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle and excellent infrastructure, including a good schooling system and superior healthcare facilities. The country's tax system is particularly advantageous for Australians, as there is no income tax, allowing them to save more of their earnings. Additionally, the UAE presents economic opportunities for Australian workers and businessmen, especially in industries such as education, healthcare, and finance, where Australian expertise is highly valued.
However, there are several considerations for Australians planning to move to the UAE. One significant difference between Australian and Emirati cultures is that the latter is modern but rooted in Islamic values. As a result, Australians should be mindful of dressing modestly, behaving ethically in public, and respecting the significance of Ramadan. Additionally, while the UAE offers a rich lifestyle, certain emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi can be expensive, with high rental costs. Rent is typically paid through a one-year contract with a three-month security deposit, and landlords often request 12 post-dated cheques upfront.
To connect with the Australian community in the UAE, expats can explore online platforms, physical locations, and associations like ANZA Dubai, which caters specifically to Australians and New Zealanders. These communities provide valuable support, including volunteering opportunities and mental health resources. Additionally, Australian expats can familiarise themselves with local customs, driving regulations, and the process of relocating their belongings to the UAE.
Overall, the UAE presents a unique and rewarding expat experience for Australians, offering a vibrant blend of culture, tradition, and economic opportunities.
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Cost of living: Expats should consider the cost of living and rent, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The cost of living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi varies, with Dubai being the more expensive option of the two.
Dubai
Dubai has seen an increase in the cost of living, but it remains a top destination for expats, with its high quality of life, safety, and comprehensive social support structures. The amount expats will need to live comfortably in Dubai depends on their lifestyle, but a budget of AED 16,000 to AED 30,000 is typically sufficient for most international employees settling in the city.
Housing in Dubai is likely to be an expat's largest expense, with prices varying significantly depending on the community and location. For example, the yearly rent for a studio apartment in Downtown Dubai is around AED 85,000, whereas, in a more affordable community like Jumeirah Village Circle, the average is AED 55,000. The Jumeirah Lakes Tower (JLT) is one of the most popular districts for expats, with rental prices ranging from AED 70,000 (USD 19,059) for a one-bedroom apartment of 400 square feet, to AED 90,000 (USD 24,504) for 900 square feet.
Fresh produce and meat are relatively affordable in Dubai compared to other major cities, but imported products tend to be more expensive. A monthly pass for the metro in Dubai costs around AED 350, and a single ride on the bus costs between AED 4 and 8.
If you are moving to Dubai with your family, school fees are likely to be a significant concern. Expats are charged fees for public schools, which teach exclusively in Arabic, while private schools offer international curricula but can be costly. Preschool education in Dubai is the most expensive in the UAE, with parents paying AED 2,900 per month for one child.
Abu Dhabi
The cost of living in the capital, Abu Dhabi, is lower than in Dubai, with a single person needing a minimum of AED 5,500 per month to pay for rent and utilities, while a family needs AED 11,000. Basic utilities in Abu Dhabi cost AED 1,100+ per month, and rent starts at AED 4,900 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs AED 10,400, 30% cheaper than in Dubai.
Abu Dhabi offers a high quality of life, with business opportunities and cultural experiences, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Sharjah is another option for expats, being both famous and affordable, with a slower pace of life.
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Frequently asked questions
Australian citizens do not need to complete a pre-entry visa application for the UAE and will be granted a free 30-day visit visa upon arrival. This is a great option for those wanting to get a feel for the country before committing to moving there full-time. If you intend to live and work in the UAE, you will need a long-term visa and a work permit, often referred to as a labour card.
Foreign workers in Dubai must undergo a blood test to rule out diseases like HIV, Hepatitis C, and tuberculosis. The UAE does not allow foreign carriers of these diseases to reside in the Emirates. Once you pass the tests, you will be issued a health card, which is mandatory for foreign workers.
The job market in Dubai is extremely competitive, with recruiters spending on average only six seconds checking out a resume. Many businesses hire through headhunters and agencies, so working with an agency is a good way to find a job in the Emirates. According to a 2017 report, Dubai businesses will be focusing on new hires with skills in statistical analysis, data mining, public policy, international relations, algorithm design, web architecture, SEO/SEM marketing, and UI design.
You can find job vacancies in newspapers and online. Post your resume on job sites like Indeed and Bayt.com, and register with recruitment agencies to find out about job opportunities in your field. Networking is also important, so make use of LinkedIn and join labour associations and discussion groups.
