Guide about Working Part Time in UAE

Want to make additional money or learn new skills? You’re not alone. It is a new trend in the UAE to have part time jobs. It’s an intelligent method for making more income. It also teaches you new skills and adds to your resume. Part time work in UAE are highly flexible regardless of whether you are a student, freelancer, or full-time worker. And you can use your time more effectively.

In 2025, many employees will be working part time work in UAE across various sectors. Therefore, if you want to multiply your income and earn more, part time jobs are a great option. This guide describes everything you need to understand step by step.

1. What is Part Time Work?

Part time work has fewer hours than full-time jobs. In the UAE, full-time work is approximately 8 hours per day or 48 hours a week. Less than that is part-time. You could work mornings only, evenings, weekends, or some combination thereof.

Many part-time positions offer flexibility and cater to students, freelancers, or individuals with other commitments. You should also know that a part time work permit in UAE is commonly required. This ensures that your job is legal and safe.

2. Part Time Work in UAE for You

Let’s look at the best part-time jobs in the UAE for students, freelancers, and adults. They are flexible, easy to access, and can also provide you with money and skills.

2.1 Videography

You can do videography, if you have a camera and a basic understanding of shooting videos.  Many videography needs, such as weddings and events, are used by YouTube creators and small businesses. This is a job that is creative and pays well.

2.2  Call Centre Working

Part-time call center agents are available in many Dubai-based companies. Moreover, this is a good option if you can communicate well and help people. It can be performed in shifts, writing on evenings or weekends.

2.3 Social Media Marketing

Do you love Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok? Businesses pay part-time social media marketers to assist with posts, ads, and customer messages. You can also work from home.

2.4 Grocery or Retail Cashier

Supermarkets and shops often require additional workers during peak periods. These part time jobs in UAE for students are perfect for evening or weekend work if you have no experience.

2.5 Part-Time Teaching

Teaching is in demand, and tutors in math, science, or English are needed. You can even assist schoolchildren with homework or test preparation.

2.6 Driving

If you own a UAE driving license, you can practice driving part-time. Additionally, the income looks steady if you drive with delivery apps or as a private driver. This is a great job if you enjoy being on the move.

2.7 Content Writing

Do you love writing? Then, businesses always need blog posts and social media captions/articles. Freelancers with flexible hours and a preference for remote working should consider part-time content writing.

2.8 Designing

Graphic designing is a trending skill in the UAE. If you’re familiar with Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator, you can do small design projects like logos, flyers, or social media posts.

2.9 English Language Instructor

Parents and professionals are eager to improve their English. If you master the language, you can offer English classes part-time. This option tends to work best in the evenings or on the weekends.

2.10 HR Recruiters

Most hiring companies require part-time HR recruiters to take calls from candidates, schedule interviews, or organize documents. This position is suited for someone who already has some office experience.

2.11 Web Development

If you know how to build websites, you can get part-time work for startups and small companies. Your responsibilities may include updating sites, correcting bugs, or creating new pages.

3. Tips on How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Dubai

A common question is, “Can I work part time in UAE?” Yes, you can! The right job just doesn’t come to you, though. Here are some ways to help you do so.

3.1 Use Job Sites

Look at all the job sites, such as Bayt, Indeed, Dubizzle, and LinkedIn. Additionally, you can filter jobs by “part-time” on these platforms and see plenty of relevant opportunities.

3.2 Freelancer Platforms

You can check platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. These sites provide gigs in writing, design, marketing, and more. You never have to leave home; you can pick what to work on depending on your skills.

3.3 College Notice Boards

If you are an aspiring student, check the notice boards of colleges. Many colleges have part-time jobs available for students on or off campus that they post physically or on online boards.

3.4 Social Media

Social media—join UAE job groups on Facebook or Telegram, to name two. Many employers post half-time listings on these platforms, which are frequently refreshed daily with current openings.

3.5 Walk-In Interviews

Most often, local shops or cafes hire you on the spot. Drive to these places and ask if they need part-time help, and you can get a job on the spot.

4. Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Work

Ensure you meet all the legal requirements before pursuing part-time work in the UAE. You’ve got to play by the rules. Otherwise, you could face penalties. So, here are the eligibility criteria clearly explained.

4.1 Must be 18 years or older

First, you need to be at least 18 years old. That is the youngest legal age to work part-time in the UAE.

4.2 Must possess a valid residency visa

You should also have a valid UAE residency visa. Without it, you are no longer legally entitled to apply for work.

4.3 Students require a student visa 

You have to be on a student visa (if you’re a student). Plus, you need a part-time work permit to begin working.

4.4 Family visa holders require NOC

A No Objection Certificate from your sponsor is also required to obtain the permit if you hold a family visa.

4.5 Tourists are not legally allowed to work part-time jobs

Visitors or tourists cannot work. So, working without a proper work permit is illegal.

4.6 A part-time permit is required for full-time workers 

Part-time licenses are necessary, even if you may already have a full-time job before beginning any additional work or side job.

5. Documents Required for Part Time Work in UAE

To get a temporary work permit UAE, here are the documents you need:

5.1 From the Employee

• Passport copy
• Recent passport-size photo
• Valid residency visa
• NOC (If already Worked Full-Time)
• Certificates of education (if applicable).

5.2 From the Employer

• The company’s trade license copy
• Establishment card copy
• Your employer submits these to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

6. How to Apply for Part Time Work in UAE

In the UAE, a permit is available for part-time work. This legal document safeguards your employment and obeys the regulations. The process is simple. Just follow the below steps to obtain your part-time work permit easily.

 6.1 Find a Job

First, you should be offered a part-time job. Seek a legitimate offer from a UAE-registered firm. Ensure that the employer is ready to sponsor your permit. You can’t start the application process without a valid offer.

6.2 Employer Applies

Your employer then has to apply for a part-time work visa. They may do it through the MoHRE website or visit a Tasheel service center. The process is smooth. However, your employer is the only one who can file this application.

6.3 Document Check

The next step is to verify your documents. These may include your passport, visa copy, and part-time job offer. In some instances, your current sponsor’s approval is required. Ensure all documents are valid, clear, and current to expect fast approval.

6.4 Fee Payment

After your document is reviewed, you will need to pay the fee. The application fee is AED 100, and the approval fee is AED 500 once approved. The employer usually pays for it – double-check whether that’s the case in advance so there’s no delay.

6.5 Get Permit

The last stage is getting a part-time work permit. Depending on the application, the validity is from 6 to 12 months. Once you receive it, you can legally work part-time in the UAE. Do not deviate from the terms of your permit during your work.

7. Rights and Responsibilities of Part-Time Workers

You have rights, even as a part-time worker:

• You must be compensated properly for hours worked
• If you have your permits, you can work for more than one employer
• You won’t receive full-time benefits such as leave or insurance unless your contract specifies it
• You are entitled in the UAE Labour Law to handle workplace safety

Always read your contract. It should specify your position, salary, hours, and benefits.

8. Recent Changes in UAE Part-Time Work Policies

Required: 2025 Year, UAE Part-time Job rules were relaxed, significantly reducing the regulations on the way of work-life for workers. So, let’s take a quick walkthrough of what’s new and what’s changed.

8.1 Easier to Apply Online

The application process has been streamlined. Indeed, recently, you have been permitted to apply online for a work permit for part-time jobs. This modification saves time and adds convenience for both employers and employees.

8.2 Faster Approval Times

Three-day temporary passes for part-time sessions are also more easily processed. Although approval took longer, new rules expedited it, allowing people to start work sooner.

8.3 Larger Occupational Categories Are Now Allowed

There will be more job categories for all types of jobs being opened. Jobs exist for everything from unskilled to skilled labor, enabling you to look at different fields. Allowing part time work in UAE is helping more people earn and live better.

Comparison to Full-Time Work in UAE

Let’s discuss the comparison of part-time vs full-time work:

Part time work permit in UAE

Part-time jobs provide flexibility in their own right, so they’re a no-brainer if you want more of that. Just follow the rules.

Get Help from Us

When you are starting, this can be not easy. That’s where we come in. Business setup consultants in Dubai can help you with:

• Part time work permit UAE
• Identifying legal and safe work opportunities
• Labor laws and contracts explained

We are a business setup experts in Dubai and will help you every step of the way if you intend to work in Dubai, consider a Freelance visa, or start your own business.

FAQs

1. Can I do part part-time job with a family visa?

Yes. You can, however, do so with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor. So, you apply for a part-time work permit.

2. How much does a UAE part-time permit cost?

The total cost is AED 600. This also covers up to AED 100 for the application and AED 500 for approval. The employer typically pays this.

3. Are there part time jobs in Dubai for students?

Yes! There are many Part time jobs for students in Dubai. But first they need a work permit. Tutoring, delivery, and freelance work are popular jobs.

4. How long does the part-time permit last?

It is typically good for 6 to 12 months. Thus, always verify the expiry date. Make sure to renew on time to avoid legal problems.

5. What if I continue to work without a permit?

It’s illegal. You may face heavy fines, your visa may be canceled, and you may even be deported.

6. Who must apply for a work permit on a part-time basis?

Your employer petitions for the visa. They may visit a Tasheel center or use MoHRE’s online portal. You cannot apply yourself.

7. Are you allowed to have multiple part-time jobs in the UAE?

Yes, but they have to apply separately for each employer. All permits should be current. Always notify your primary sponsor first.

8. Do freelance workers require a part-time permit as well?

Yes. Required even for freelancers. However, there is also the possibility of getting a freelance license, depending on the type and extent of your work.

Conclusion

That’s all about part-time jobs in the UAE. Overall, it is flexible, fulfilling, and accessible to many people – if done correctly. First, just follow the legal process, apply for your UAE work permit, and start your role.

If you’re a student, freelancer, or already working full-time, there’s a part-time gig suited to you. Finally, remember, our experts in business setup in Dubai are only a call away. Stay legal. Stay safe. Start smart.