A full-time job usually involves an 8-hour work shift every day. Anything less than 8 hours is considered “part-time,” though this is not exactly the same as being a freelancer, which we had discussed in a previous post. But is it possible to work part-time in Abu Dhabi?
The short answer is YES, it is possible to work part-time in Abu Dhabi, or anywhere within the UAE, for that matter. Of course, there are certain conditions and requirements to be met, such as having a part-time work permit, for instance. In this article, we will talk about part-time jobs in the UAE, who can apply for a part-time work permit, and the process for obtaining this type of permit.
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Examples of Part-Time Jobs in the UAE
There are many different types of part-time jobs available in the UAE. Some examples are: nanny, driver, store assistant, sales assistant, teacher/instructor, waiter/waitress, designer, writer, call centre agent, and more. These jobs call for specific skills and qualifications, but the one thing they have in common is that “part-timers” work for less than 8 hours a day.
What is a Part-Time Work Permit?
In 2010, amendments were made to the UAE Labour Law, allowing people with full-time jobs to take up a second job, provided that they have a part-time work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This permit is usually valid for one year.
The employer is the one responsible for getting a part-time work permit for the employee. He/She can apply online through the MOHRE website, or go to the nearest Tas’heel services for the application. Before the permit can be issued, there must be a contract signed by the employer and part-time employee. This contract should indicate the job and salary of the part-time employee.
Who Can Apply for Part-Time Work?
In order to qualify for a part-time work permit, the applicant must be: (a) at least 18 years old; and (b) have a valid residence visa registered with the Ministry of Labour. This means that he/she should already have a full-time job, and that the part-time work is a “second job.”
People who are living in the UAE on a work visa or family visa can apply for a part-time work permit. These include government workers, students who are 18 years old and above, spouses, and parents who hold valid residence visas.
Who CANNOT Apply for Part-Time Work?
The following are NOT allowed to work part-time in the UAE: (a) residents who are 65 years old and above; and (b) people who hold a tourist visa.
Requirements for a Part-Time Work Permit
As mentioned earlier, the employer is responsible for getting his/her employee’s part-time work permit. He/She needs to submit the following documents to MOHRE:
- Copy of applicant’s passport;
- Copy of part-time job contract;
- Coloured photo of applicant (on white background);
- Copy of applicant’s visa (valid for at least 6 months);
- Copy of applicant’s academic qualifications (if required);
- Copy of trade licenses of BOTH employers (full-time and part-time);
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the full-time employer; and
- NOC stating that all parties involved are aware of the applicant’s part-time job.
As for the fees, there is an application fee (AED 100) and approval fee (AED 500), for a total of AED 600. These must be paid by the prospective employer.
What if I Work Part-Time Without a Permit?
According to Federal Decree Law No. 2 of 2007, if a person is found working part-time without a permit, the employer will be fined AED 50,000. In cases of repeat offences, further penalties will be imposed.
DISCLAIMER: The above guide is presented for general information sharing purposes only. To learn more about getting a temporary or part-time work permit in the UAE, please visit the official MOHRE website and the UAE Government Portal.
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