Living in Dubai

Dubai Job Market and Working in Dubai

Dubai Job Market and Working in Dubai

Dubai is one of the best international tourism destination and people from all parts
of the world come here on vacations. It is a place with a lot of expatriates who have
settled here and working in various jobs. Foreigners often find Dubai as the most
exotic place to live and work. One of the best reasons to work here is the income tax
free salaries that help save a lot of money. People of different nationalities, cultural
backgrounds and traditional values live here and work together. Thus making Dubai a
place best for exchange in cultural values and ethics that help a person understand the
world better.

Working in Dubai

Unlike most countries, working in Dubai has many benefits. The hospitality is truly
appreciable and everyone here is treated with respect and friendliness. There is
absolutely no room for racism or any kind of differentiation. Hence people from all
over the world love working here. There is definitely a tough competition in the job
market here but not impossible to get a good job for all skill sets. Because tourism is
one of the biggest industries of Dubai, finding a job in tourism and hospitality sectors
is quite easy.

Vacancies in Dubai are plenty for skilled labours like construction workers, carpenters, plumbers, cleaners, painters, etc. However, professional and
qualified people get a lot of jobs too. Some of the best sectors to work in Dubai are
Hotel Industry, Engineering, Construction, Architectural, Retail and Technology.

Benefits of working in Dubai

Most foreigners choose Dubai as job destination because of the benefits it offers to the
employees including expatriates there. Working in Dubai or anywhere in UAE means
salary without any taxes which is the main reason people come here to work. Since
people from all over the world work here, you get to learn and understand the culture
and tradition of other countries. Since it is an exotic location for tourists, workers here
find quite a lot of options for relaxing and having fun which contributes to the work
life balance. The atmosphere here is absolutely stress-free and one can choose to work
in any sector where they have skills, regardless of their qualification and experience
backgrounds. Every expatriate here gets 30 days of paid vacation including round trip
ticket fare to their country. This vacation is offered every 12 months in most of the
companies here.

Disadvantages of working in Dubai

Like any other city, Dubai has its own disadvantages for workers too. This is a very
hot place and people sensitive to heat may find it hard to adjust to the climate as it
is hot for 8 constant months. However, centralised air conditioning is a plus point in
all offices and homes, people who hate heat may not find the city ideal. Since you
only get 30 days vacation once in a year, you tend to visit your country and end up
spending with relatives and friends instead of going to some exotic vacation spot.
Only married couples can stay together so if you and your girlfriend are planning to
find jobs there, then forget about living together.

Dubai can be great place to work for people who can overcome the disadvantages.

dubai marina

How to find a job in Dubai

Find a job in Dubai

How to find a job in Dubai

The job market in Dubai is competitive due to the number of foreigners attracted to living and working there. Dubai is expecting an economic growth of at least 5% this year. The economy is booming comparatively to recession infested economies of UK, Europe and America.

If you are eager to find a job in Dubai, be warned that it is not as easy as it seems. You have to face a lot of competition from expats all over the world.

Points to consider when starting your job search in Dubai:

Your CV or résumé.The word ‘CV’ is more commonly used in Dubai, although for Dubai employment purposes, CV or résumé are the same thing. Ensure that you have a strong CV that correctly represents your skills and qualifications. Do include your photo, nationality and date of birth. There are job listings in Dubai where they may ask for a specific gender, age and ethnicity. Dubai employers actually expect a two-page CV, unlike their Western counterparts who prefer one-page CVs. Write a great cover letter and include compelling reasons why they should hire you.

Recruitment process. Before you start searching for job openings, make sure that you understand the recruitment process in Dubai. After preparing your CV/résumé, do a bit of research on working and living in Dubai. It helps to know some background on the place that you want to work in. Go over some expat forums so you can get a feel of working in Dubai. Then, as you attach the job market, check out lists of recruitment agencies and double-check their reputation and legitimacy. You can also browse online for headhunters, executive search firms and hiring managers in Dubai.

Top careers in Dubai. In any growing economy, there are hot and cold industries. For example, the traditionally strong MEP job sector in Dubai is weakening due to slowdown in construction activities. However, there are abundant jobs in other fields. Hospitality jobs continue to boom. Food industry jobs are expected to rise dramatically this year. Retail banking jobs will experience growth in the next five years. Media jobs are also on the rise according to studies. Also, diamond and gold jobs have increased as the consumer market for these commodities are going up.

Using Social networks to find a job in Dubai: Using social network sites can help you land a great job in Dubai. The rise of social networks like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter has made getting a job you want much easier to achieve. LinkedIn is proving to be a prime tool for job search in mid-career to senior level work opportunities. You can use LinkedIn to join communities or groups where you get a chance to network with Dubai-based employers and showcase your expertise when the chance arises. Studies show that there is 1 in 5 employers in Dubai using LinkedIn, so it is definitely a good venue for your job search.

Be Vigilant, Alert and Informed. It is also very important to update youself with Dubai news, especially news in your preferred job sector so that you are aware of upcoming trends. Know how to spot job scams. Prepare your education and employment documents ahead of time — such as duly attested original transcript of records and your portfolio, passport, even your driver’s license and marriage certificates, if applicable. You can check the validity of a company’s trading activities, contact details and licensing thru the Dubai Department of Economic Development’s website.

Stay positive and be smart when finding a job in Dubai.

Check the latest jobs in Dubai here.

relaxing in Dubai

Expat Guide to Moving to Dubai from UK

British Expats in Dubai

Dubai is an attractive relocation spot for British citizens. Every year, hundreds of British expats move to Dubai from UK for better prospects and financial gains.

With over 200,000 new resident arrivals each year, Dubai continues to attract more expatriates. Affordable accommodations, high salaries, employee-friendly taxes are only some of the reasons why more people are looking into starting a new life in Dubai.

Whether you are moving to Dubai for business, work, retirement or just for an extended stay, consider the following tips – especially if you are moving to Dubai from UK.

Coming to Work in Dubai:

Most people who relocate to Dubai do so because they have found a suitable job there. It is advised that you find work before moving. Finding work is not that difficult in Dubai, especially in the areas of information and technology and hospitality. The city and its economy is growing and there’s a lot of work in other sectors too.

Residency Visa and Work Permits. In order to live and work in Dubai, you need an approved Work Permit and Residency Visa. Your employer will usually facilitate the submission of the necessary documents for the government’s approval. Income is tax-free, but the job market is very competitive. So you must prepare yourself for a challenging job hunt, making sure that your relevant skills are highlighted when you apply for a job.

Compensation. As an expatriate, what compensation and benefits are you going to receive? Some companies pay for expenses of removals, accommodation rentals, and flights to and from UK, children’s school tuition fees and personal vehicles. You are very fortunate if all these are to be paid for by the company. Work on your numbers to see whether your finances can support your lifestyle in Dubai. Major consideration is your family, if you are bringing them with you.

Living in Dubai:

Dubai is often called an “expat’s paradise”. More than half of people living here are foreign born. As an expat, you will enjoy amenities which you may not have in your home countries. For instance, telecommunication system is excellent; most of the modern buildings are equipped with hi-tech air-conditioning and safety systems. Media, such as newspapers, TV, radio stations, are available in Arabic, English, Urdu and several other languages.

Dress and etiquette in Dubai: Most Emirati males wear a kandura. It is an ankle-length tunic woven from wool or cotton. Women wear an abaya, a black over-garment covering most parts of the body. Because of the large expatriate population, Western and modern clothing is popular, and is also beginning to grow among the Emiratis.

Accommodation in UAE: The cost of living in the UAE depends on the location and size of the accommodation. Expats moving to Dubai from UK usually prefer to live in Marina, Jumeirah Beach Road, Safa Park, Umm Suqeim, JBR, as well as the freehold areas like Ranches, Meadows, Springs, Greens, DIFC, and Palm.

Finding an apartment in UAE is easy with the help of online portals like www.justproperty.com.

Insurance. Talk to your insurance adviser in UK and ask how your current insurance policies will be affected when you move to UK. Concurrently, talk to a trusted insurance adviser about your insurance options in Dubai. The biggest foreign players in the insurance industry in Dubai are Metlife ALICO, Zurich International Life and AXA for life and medical insurance. Some of the more reputable local players are Oman Insurance, Arab Orient Insurance and Daman.

Healthcare. In Dubai, healthcare is generally satisfactory. If you have any special medical requirements, make sure you ask your employer or any trusted sources about this. Determine the medical and dental package that your employer is offering you. Remember that you are in a foreign land, and you should be prepared for any health needs that you will be encountering.

Weather and landscape. Avoid staying outdoors during summer as it can get very hot. Throughout the rest of the year, it is quite pleasant and the winter isn’t too cold. A lot has been achieved in terms of landscaping, irrigation and beautification, to think that all these was barren desert a decade or two ago.

Over 80% of people living in Dubai are from other countries. You are bound to run into someone from your home country. Things are generally cheaper, but it depends on your lifestyle and which country you come from. There are traffic cameras everywhere, given the tendency to enjoy speeding because of the roads, cheap fuel and sporty cars. Be sensitive to their culture and remember that you are in a different country.

There are certain hidden costs of living in Dubai. Do factor in for them when planning your monthly budget.

When moving to Dubai from UK, do not expect the two places to be similar, even with Dubai’s modernization.

dubai expat life

Dubai Rent Guide

Are you planning to rent a property in Dubai? Whether it is a villa, flat or bed space – rent negotiation is a skill every expat must acquire.

Although there is too much supply and low demand but rents in Dubai fluctuate very frequently. Some say falling rents in Dubai is a myth.

Gulf News reports rents in Dubai have surged by more than 10% this year.

Dubai Rent Guide

Dubai Rent Guide:

Business Bay

Rent in March 2011 – Dh87.6 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh92.4 per square foot
Current average three-bedroom apartment rental – Dh115,000 to Dh130,000

The Greens

Rent in March 2011 – Dh73.92 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh78.6 per square foot.
Current average three-bedroom apartment rental – Dh120,000. to Dh150,000

The Palm Jumeirah apartments

Rent in March 2011 – Dh76.44 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh81.84 per square foot
Current average three-bedroom Shoreline apartment – Dh160,000 and Dh170,000 for a street view / Dh200,000 and Dh220,000 for a sea view.

International City

Rent in March 2011- Dh66.96 per square foot yearly
Current rent -Dh72 per square foot
Current average two-bedroom apartment rental – Dh40,000 to Dh50,000

Jumeirah Lakes Tower (JLT)

Rent in March 2011- Dh60.36 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh64.92 per square foot
Current average three-bedroom apartment rentals – Dh110,000 to Dh130,000

Arabian Ranches

Rent in March 2011- Dh56.52 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh61.2 per square foot
Current average four-bedroom villa rentals – Dh220,000 to Dh250,000

Dubai Marina apartments

Rent in March 2011 2011 – Dh74.76 per square foot per year
Current rent – Dh81.84 per square foot
Current average rentals for a four-bedroom apartment – Dh140,000 to Dh200,000.

The Springs, The Meadows and The Lakes

Rent in March 2011 2011 – Dh53.76 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh59.16 per square foot
Current average three-bedroom townhouse rentals in The Lakes – Dh180,000.
Current average four-bedroom villa rental in The Meadows – Dh250,000

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)

Rent in March 2011 — Dh73.92 per square foot yearly
Current rent — Dh82.2 per square foot
Current average rentals for a four-bedroom apartment – Dh180,000 to Dh220,000

Discovery Gardens (DG)

Rent in March 2011 – Dh49.68 per square foot a year.
Current rent – Dh49.8 per square foot.
Current average : two-bedroom rentals – Dh55,000 to Dh70,000 a year

Palm Jumeirah villas

Rent in March 2011 – Dh73.92 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh77.28 per square foot
Current average four-bedroom villa rental – Dh350,000

Downtown Dubai

Rent in March 2011 – Dh92.88 per square foot yearly
Current rent – Dh97.44 per square foot
Current average four-bedroom apartment rental – Dh200,000 to Dh240,000

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