The UAE government has published a guide outlining seven official job portals that foreigners can use to search for employment in the country, alongside details of a jobseeker visit visa designed to make the process more accessible. According to the government's guidance, foreigners who want to enter the UAE specifically to look for work can apply for a jobseeker visit visa without needing a host or sponsor in the country.
Jobseeker Visit Visa: Duration and Conditions
The visa is available in three durations: 60, 90, or 120 days, giving applicants flexibility depending on how long they expect their job search to take. Each visa covers a single trip. This allows foreigners to enter the UAE legally and search for work without the traditional requirement of having a local sponsor or employer before arrival.
The move is part of broader efforts to attract international talent to the Gulf region. The visa is particularly relevant for Nigerians and other Africans considering the 'japa' route to the Gulf, as it removes some of the friction that often makes international job searches feel out of reach.
How the Job Portals Work
Once in the country, or even before travelling, job seekers can register on any of the seven official government portals at no cost. While some portals offer optional paid services for extra features, the core registration and job search functions are available for free.
One important detail the UAE government highlighted is that no commission is owed to anyone if a job is secured through one of these platforms, not to the recruiting company and not to the portal itself. This protects applicants from being exploited during what can already be a financially stressful period.
Full List of UAE Government Job Portals
The seven official portals span both the federal level and individual emirate governments. They are:
- Federal Government job portal, managed by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources
- Abu Dhabi Government job portal
- Dubai Careers, the Dubai Government job portal
- Job seekers services in Sharjah
- Government of Ajman jobs, listed under the Kawader platform
- RAK jobs, covering Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah Government jobs
The spread of portals means that applicants can target specific emirates based on where they hope to work, rather than relying on a single national listing. This decentralised approach allows job seekers to focus on regions with the most relevant opportunities for their skills.
UAE Speaks About Work Permit
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the UAE government published the specific grounds under which a foreign worker can be barred from obtaining a new work permit for 12 months. The ban applies to workers in the private sector who violate Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on employment relationships.
