UAE juvenile work permit: 8 rules for hiring 15- to 18-year-olds

Dubai: If you are a young teen enthusiastic about gaining work experience or earning an income, you have the option to join the UAE’s private sector through the Juvenile Work Permit, which is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The UAE, however, sets out some clear guidelines for the employment of juveniles, through the UAE Labour Law – Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 – and its implementing regulations. Here is all you need to know about what the law says and the work options available to you. Eight rules for hiring a 15- to 18-year-old Article 5 of the UAE Labour Law sets out the following regulations for the employment of young adults: Children under the age of 15 cannot be employed. A written consent must be obtained from the juvenile's guardian or custodian. A health certificate must be issued by the relevant medical authority, proving the fitness of the juvenile to undertake the required work. Their working hours cannot exceed six hours per day. This duration includes one or more breaks, which shall not be less than one hour in total. The period of the breaks should also be defined in the work contract so that the juvenile does not work for more than four consecutive hours. They should not be asked to work between 7pm and 7am. They should not be employed in dangerous or arduous works, or in works which, by their nature, are likely to harm their health, safety or morals. They should not be asked to work overtime. Juvenile work permit If you do find a job, your employer is required to apply for a ‘juvenile work permit’. However, you will be required to provide the following documents: Clear coloured photo with a white background. Written consent signed by your guardian or custodian. Medical certificate issued by a competent medical authority confirming that you are medically fit for the job. Your passport and residence visa copy. The permit is issued for a period of one year. Traineeship for young adults Another short-term options available to students who are at least 15 years of age is the student training and work permit, which is issued by MOHRE for a period of three months, in accordance with Administrative Resolution No. 22 of 2022. According to the resolution, any establishment may train students aged 15 years and above, on the condition of a written contract. The contract must include: the areas of training; duration of the training period; weekly and other holidays; the value of the bonus, if any, and any privileges granted to the trainee. While the juvenile work permit can be issued for any individual between the ages of 15 to 18, the student training and work permit is specifically for students. In order for the establishment to apply for the permit, you would need to provide all the documents listed above, as well as a ‘no objection’ certificate from your educational institute.