This article aims to detail all the steps from hiring the most suitable candidate until that person officially starts their duties. Gaining these insights into what happens "behind-the-scenes" will give you the advantage of planning work schedules and sticking to local regulations.
After recruiting your ideal employee, the very first formal stage is to send out an offer letter. Typically, companies in the UAE don't treat it as just a friendly email. They rely on the official offer letter template regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). Such a letter highlights the remuneration, other perks, and duties of the job in both English and Arabic.
After the candidate agrees and countersigns, the employer initiates the work permit application process. This is where many businesses choose to work with a recruitment services provider to ensure all documents are filled out correctly. Before the worker can move on to the next phase legally, the ministry must approve the initial permit.
If the employee currently resides outside the UAE, the employer must obtain an "Entry Permit" for them. This document enables them to come into the country on the basis of their employment. On the other hand, if they have been in the UAE on a tourist visa or under a different residency permit, a "Change of Status" will be carried out. It changes their visa status to an employment visa under the employer’s sponsorship.
Every foreign employee working in the UAE is required to take a medical fitness test that is mandated by law. This forms an essential part of the hiring procedure. They must visit a government-approved medical center for blood tests and a chest X-ray. The purpose of these tests is to identify any communicable diseases such as TB or HIV. If an employee does not have a "Fit" medical certificate, the residency visa cannot be processed. In most cases, it takes 24 to 48 hours to receive these test results.
Before the medical results are issued, the employee must apply for an Emirates ID. This is one of the most important identification documents in the UAE. It is used for various activities, opening bank accounts and paying utility bills being just two examples. To provide their biometrics (fingerprints plus eye scan), the worker will have to visit an EIDA center. Although the physical card might take a few weeks to be delivered, the application form will be sufficient to carry on with the next stage of the visa processing.
Previously, a physical visa sticker was affixed to the passport. However, the UAE has now transitioned to a digital residency system. After the medical has been accepted and the process of getting an Emirates ID has started, the residency is "stamped" or approved electronically. Your recruitment services in UAE partner will usually handle the coordination with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to ensure this is finalized.
Once the residency is granted, the parties have to sign the official labour contract from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This is a legal contract that will regulate the relationship between them. Then, the company is required to enroll the worker in the Wages Protection System (WPS). UAE authorities use WPS to ensure employees are paid correctly and on time. Failure to use WPS may result in substantial penalties.
After finalizing the documents, the real "human" onboarding begins. This is when the new hire is acquainted with the company culture. UAE offices are very diverse, and it is very likely that there will be about 10 different nationalities working in one office. The best onboarding program also covers local customs and office manners and even gives guidance on things like the commute. As a result, the new hire is better prepared to deliver excellent work and feels like part of the team.
Hiring in the UAE does not have to be stressful. TASC Outsourcing is a one-stop solution for recruitment and onboarding functions. Our dedicated team not only assists you in sourcing the best talent but also manages detailed visa processing and WPS compliance for you, thus making the whole process smooth and hassle-free. You can rely on us for managing formalities and concentrate on scaling your business. Get in touch with TASC Outsourcing right away and find out how our dedicated recruitment and PRO services can revamp your hiring experience in the Middle East.
In emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, employers are legally required to provide health insurance from the start of employment.
Ideally, an employee should be in possession of their work permit or their "Change of Status" should be completed before they start working so as to not be at risk legally.
The expenses would be determined by the type of jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone) and profession, but primarily they would include the government fees, medical tests, and insurance costs.
Under UAE Labour Law, the probation period can be up to six months. The probation period is also a time for the employer and employee to evaluate if the job is suitable for them.
Well, even if the individual is on their family residence visa, you still need to get a "Work Permit" for them from MoHRE.