UAE part-time employment in 2026: What workers and employers need to know

Thinking of working for more than one employer? Go ahead, because the UAE’s part-time employment laws will back you up. Can I work part-time in the UAE? Since 2010, the UAE’s Labour Law has made provisions that allow employees to work part time even as they fulfill their full-time positions – subject to certain conditions. In 2018, the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) began implementing Ministerial Decree No. 31 of 2018 Concerning the Introduction of Part Time Employment Contracts. This legislation allows companies to recruit skilled workers from inside the UAE, or from abroad, under a part-time contract system. The working hours or days for part-time employees must be fewer than those of a full-time employee (which is eight hours a day). However, it’s important to note that these types of contracts are limited only to skilled workers – university degree-holders or higher, and those who have completed a two- or three-year diploma in a technical or scientific field. Under this system, part-time contract employees can take on several part-time jobs, without the approval of the original or other secondary employers. However, they are obligated to acquire a permit from the MOHRE. Work permit application The process to apply for a permit from the MOHRE varies slightly, depending on whether you have a work visa or a family (sponsored) visa. Work visa: Emiratis, GCC nationals, and expat employees who are living in the UAE on a work visa, are permitted to take up a second job once they receive a part-time work permit from MOHRE, which is valid for one year. Part-time work permit holders are allowed to work in another company while employed by their current company, on a part-time basis, for less than eight hours per day. You must ensure you have a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer. It’s also best to ensure you are not violating the non-compete clause in your contract with your current employer – the second company should not be a direct competitor or rival. Family visa: UAE residents on a family or sponsored visa can take up a second job after acquiring a part-time work permit, with a NOC from their sponsor. Such work permits can be issued to men and women between the ages of 18 to 65 years. These permits can be used for employment in free zones as well as in mainland companies in the UAE. Eligibility criteria The UAE has very specific criteria for people applying for part-time work in the country. Ensure you are eligible before applying. Part-time work permits are applicable for people who are: Between the ages of 18 to 65 years Hold a valid UAE residence visa, either through employment or family sponsorship Have at least a two- or three-year diploma, or a university degree Have an NOC from their sponsor or employer How do I apply for a part-time work permit? In order to get a part-time work permit, your secondary employer must apply to MOHRE on your behalf. Ensure that your employer has all the necessary documents required to complete the process, including: Passport and UAE residence visa copy Passport-sized photograph Emirates ID copy A part-time contract signed by both parties NOC from the sponsor or employer Any profession-specific licences and education certificates Fees The employer is responsible for paying the fees for your part-time work permit. When the application is submitted, MOHRE charges Dh100 for processing costs. An approval fee of Dh500 is charged after the application is approved. Fine for working without a permit It’s essential to have your part-time work permit on hand, before working with two employers simultaneously. As per Federal Decree Law No. 2 of 2007, if an expatriate is caught working for another company without an official permit, then a fine of Dh50,000 will be applied to the hiring company, in addition to other penalties in case of repeating the offence.