1. I would love to work in the United Arab Emirates, but I don’t know the Arabic language.

While Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is the language of business and is spoken throughout the UAE. All road and streets signs, restaurant menus, etc. are available in Arabic and English.

2. I am concerned about the volatile political situation in the Middle East and my personal safety.

United Arab Emirates, as well as other countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia), are politically stable. The crime rate in the UAE is one of the lowest in the world, due to vigilant police patrols. Possession of firearms is illegal and violence is not tolerated. Please note that expatriates involved in public fights are deported from the UAE.

3. Is there a dress code in the UAE?

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and there are no dress code restrictions for visitors. However, a good amount of respect for local customs and decency is recommended.

Although visitors and non-nationals of the UAE most commonly wear business attire, UAE nationals wear their traditional dress: men wear a Khandura, a white full-length shirt-dress and a white or red checked headdress known as the Gutra, and women wear the black Abaya, a long black robe that covers their normal clothes. Women also wear a headscarf, the Sheila.Wearing a headscarf is not mandatory for expatriate women.

4. Do I have to go to the UAE to apply for a job? What is the job interview process like?

You are welcome to apply online from home. There will be typically two or three telephone interviews with Human Resources and the relevant manager. Personal, face-to-face interviews are generally reserved for managerial level and above (the hotel will cover the travel costs). Practical interviews happen for positions like Pastry Chef.

5. Who can work in the UAE?

Both men and women of all nationalities (excluding Israeli citizens) from 18 to 60 years of age are allowed to work in the UAE. Work opportunities and benefits are equal for men and women.

6. I don’t have 5 star hotel experience. Can I work in the UAE?

Absolutely! There is a wide range of hotels in the UAE: from 3 star to 7 star to residence hotels. Most hotels provide extensive training programs and assist with employees’ career development.

7. Are there any legal requirements prior to accepting a job in the UAE? What about after accepting a job?

Workers must be between the ages of 18 and 60. If you are submitting any educational certificates, they will have to be attested by the UAE embassy in the country the certificates were issued. Please contact your local UAE embassy for more information.

A medical check-up is mandatory, and it is recommended that you go through one before leaving your old job and accepting the new one. Individuals with HIV or hepatitis will not be granted resident status in the UAE.

After accepting a position in the UAE, you will be required to obtain medical insurance and resident visa or work permit (your employer will provide assistance with these items)

Most reputable employers will cover most costs associated with moving to the UAE.

8. I would like to move with my family. Is there any assistance available?

95% of hospitality jobs in the UAE are jobs with family status. In this case, the employer will assist with visas, accommodation, and medical insurance for the whole family and provide educational assistance for your children. You will need to provide attested marriage certificate and your children’s birth certificates and passports. Please contact your local UAE embassy to find out more about attesting required documents.

If your job doesn’t have a family status you will be responsible for sponsoring your family into the country, providing visas, and medical insurance and finding accommodation. Your employer may provide you with necessary information.

9. Are there American schools in the UAE?

As UAE population is very diverse, a variety of school curricula are available. Your employer will provide you with information about school and educational assistance for your children if your job has a family status.

Schools for children with special needs are available in the UAE.

10. What salary can I expect?

Your salary will depend greatly on your position. Please keep in mind that there is no personal income tax in the UAE and your accommodation and most living expenses will be covered by your employer.

11. What is a typical benefits package?

A typical all-inclusive benefits package includes: accommodation, flights home, medical coverage, life insurance, free meals, free transportation to and from work, 30 days paid annual leave.

Gratuity / end of service payment is paid on departure if you have worked for more than 1 year.

12. Can I bring a pet?

Please check with your employer if pets are allowed in your accommodation. Most villas will allow pets, whereas most apartments will not. There are a lot of pet-friendly parks and veterinary clinics and hospitals in the UAE.

13. Will I be able to own and drive a car?

You will be able to obtain your Drivers License after receiving your residence visa. You will be required to pass a theoretical and practical driving test. International driving licenses from UK, EU, USA, and Canada can be exchanged for a UAE drivers license.

Owning a car is affordable; most banks will offer low interest rates on car loans.