Part-time Employment Regulations in UAE: Complete 2025 Guide

1 week agoLast Updated: April 12, 2025

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UAE part-time work has become increasingly popular among expatriates and residents. With flexible working models gaining popularity, it is essential you know about UAE part-time work rules. Whether you are an employer or a potential employee, this guide will walk you through the rules, eligibility, legalities and more.

Table of Contents

Understanding Part-time in the UAE

Part time employment is a form of working arrangement where the individual works below that of an employee who is full-time. In the UAE, it equates to below 48 working hours per week.
The UAE Labour Law, as amended by Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, has precise definitions and protections for part-time work. All part-time work falls under the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) regulations.

Understanding Part-time in the UAE

Eligibility Requirements for UAE Part-time Jobs

The eligibility requirements for part-time jobs in the UAE are discussed below.

UAE Nationals
GCC nationals
Expatriates with valid residence
University students with proper approvals

Non-residents and residents who do not possess a full-time work visa must seek a part time work permit from MOHRE. The permit allows the person to legally work at a second job without losing their primary sponsorship.

How to Obtain Part time Work Permit in UAE

In order to obtain a UAE part time work permit, the employer must apply via the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The process involves presenting documents like a valid residence visa, passport copy, and No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor. On approval, the one-year permit allows legal part-time work in all industries.

Step-by-Step Process

The following explains the step-by-step process for part-time work in the UAE.

Employer files application with MOHRE
Employee submits No Objection Certificate (NOC) from existing sponsor
Relevant fees are paid
Permit in 3-5 working days

Document Required

Below are the documents required for part-time work in the UAE.

Copy of passport
Emirates ID
New photo
Education certificates (if required)
Valid residence visa
Sponsor’s NOC

Cost and Validity of the Permit

The part-time permit typically costs AED 100 to AED 600, depending on the qualification of the applicant and the type of the employer. It can be renewed and remains valid for one year.

Obtain Part time Work Permit in UAE

Employer Responsibilities and Restraints

There should be a legal labor contract for all part-time employees stipulating terms of employment, work tasks, remuneration and working hours.

Maximum Permissible Working Hours

According to UAE labor law, no worker can work more than 48 hours a week for all types of jobs, whether full-time or part-time. This is to ensure the health of workers and fair labor practices. The rules are the same in all emirates and for city-based people, the working hours in Dubai guidelines provide a decent set of rules to follow.

Entitlements to Payment and Benefits

Part-time employees are entitled to proportionally wages for hours worked, and end-of-service gratuity if permissible. Employers are not required to pay end-of-service gratuity except in the employment contract.

Differences Between Full-time and Part-time Employment

The following table shows the difference between full-time and part-time employment.

Feature	Full-time	Part-time
Hours	48/week	Flexible, <48/week
Benefits	Full	Limited/pro-rated
End-of-Service	Mandatory	Optional unless agreed

Currently, the UAE does not have an income tax. However, social security contributions apply to UAE nationals, not expatriates, regardless of part-time or full-time roles.

Employee rights in UAE

The UAE provides part-time employees with some of the rights including pro-rata annual leave, sick leave after 90 consecutive days of employment, and maternity leave according to the contract. Although health insurance is usually provided by the secondary employer or sponsor, secondary employers have no legal obligation to offer coverage unless provided for in the employment contract. For more information on employee rights in UAE, encompassing full-time and part-time legislation, visit our comprehensive guide.

Employee rights in UAE

Popular Industries Hires Part-time Staff in UAE

Some of the most common industries in the UAE that hire part-time workers include retail, hospitality, education and events. These sectors offer flexible jobs such as sales assistants, tutors and customer service representatives.

Retail and Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants and shopping centers typically hire part-time staff to work weekend or night shifts.
Education and Training: Tutors, instructors and support staff typically work on a part-time basis at training institutions or international schools.
Freelancing and Technology Jobs: Technology freelancers, marketers and designers typically work on a freelance license or part-time license.

Pros and Cons of Working Part-time in the UAE

The following table lists the advantages and disadvantages of part-time work in the UAE.

Pros	Cons
Flexibility	Limited benefits
Skill development	Lower job security
Extra income	Permit costs and formalities

Effect of Telework on Part-time Laws

The rise of working remotely has clouded the differences between freelance and part-time employment. While MOHRE has adapted by allowing virtual work permits, all of these arrangements are still legally documentable.

Conclusion

It is vital to understand part-time work regulations in UAE for anyone considering flexible working hours. As a job applicant or an employer, being in line with MOHRE laws ensures a legal, safe and effective employment practice in the UAE. For the latest updates on UAE labor laws, part-time work permits, and employment news, visit WikiHow UAE and never miss an important change again!