UAE labour law: 13 types of work permits to hire employees in private sector

The UAE labour law plays a pivotal role in creating a balanced and dynamic workforce in the private sector. The law provides a framework for recruiting expat workers and local talent and addresses key aspects of employment.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) offers a range of work permits for private sector companies, each curated to accommodate different employment schemes, whether you are a professional, student, freelancer, or seeking part-time work.

Working in the UAE without a valid permit is illegal. Each permit is designed for a specific role, making it easier for people to work while contributing to the country’s growing economy. Here’s a breakdown of the 13 work permit options available in 2025:

1. Standard work permit: This allows UAE-based companies to recruit employees from abroad. Employers are responsible for obtaining visas, work permits, and residence documentation.
2. Transfer work permit: This allows expat workers to switch jobs within the UAE without leaving the country — a work permit to transfer from one establishment to another.
3. Work permit for residents visa by family: This permit allows individuals on family sponsorship to work in the UAE without requiring visa sponsorship from an employer.
4. Temporary work permits: These are granted for short-term projects or specific tasks, offering companies flexibility to hire workers for limited periods without committing to long-term contracts.
5. One-mission permit: This permit is given to recruit a worker from abroad to complete a temporary job or a particular project for a short-term period.
6. Part-time work permit: This permit is issued to recruit a worker under a part-time contract where his working hours or days are less than his full-time contract. The worker can work for more than one employer after obtaining permission from the ministry.
7. Juvenile work permit: Available for teenagers aged 15-18, with restrictions on working hours and job types to ensure safety.
8. Student training, employment permit: Designed to employ a 15-year old student who is already in the UAE, according to specific regulations and conditions that ensure a suitable training and work environment.
9. UAE, GCC national work permit: Facilitates employment for Emirati and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens.
10. Golden Visa work permit: This permit is required for Golden Visa holders looking for a job with a UAE-based company.
11. National trainee permit: A trainee national work permit is granted to companies registered with the Mohre that wishes to train citizens with approved scientific qualifications.
12. Freelance permit: A freelance permit in the UAE is issued to self-sponsored foreigners who provide services or perform tasks for individuals or companies without being tied to a specific employer or having an employment contract.
13. Private teacher work permit: Allows qualified professionals to offer private tuition legally in the UAE. The two-year permit is issued free of charge to applicants.

These diverse permits make it easier for companies to bring in specialised talent or to adjust their workforce based on demand, thus supporting the UAE’s status as a global business hub.

ALSO READ:

• UAE labour law: Termination of employment contract, protection from arbitrary dismissal

• UAE: Hiring employees for a mainland company? Guidelines for work permit, contract, sponsorship

• UAE cuts residency visa, work permit processing time from 1 month to 5 days