Navigating Part-Time Employment in the UAE: Rules, Permits, and Rights

As the UAE economy grows more diverse and flexible, so too do employment arrangements. Part-time work, once informal or restricted, is now fully recognized and regulated under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021. The framework enables employees to legally work for multiple employers — provided they follow the proper procedures.

What Is Part-Time Employment?

Part-time employment is defined as working for fewer hours than a standard full-time contract — less than eight hours per day. It allows individuals to engage with one or more employers simultaneously, offering flexibility for workers and access to broader talent pools for businesses.

These arrangements must be formalized through a part-time employment contract, overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for part-time work in the UAE, an individual must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
  
  

• Hold a valid UAE residency visa.
  
  

• Already have a primary full-time job.
  
  

• Secure a part-time work permit from MoHRE.
  
  

For those on family visas, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor is also required.

Obtaining a Part-Time Work Permit

The process is straightforward:

1. Receive a job offer from a secondary employer.
   
   

2. Collect necessary documents (passport, Emirates ID, residency visa, job offer letter, and NOC if applicable).
   
   

3. The secondary employer applies for the permit through MoHRE, paying the relevant fees.
   
   

4. Once approved, the employee can legally begin part-time work.
   
   

Work Conditions and Benefits

• Work hours: Less than 8 hours per day.
  
  

• Contracts: A standard part-time contract must clearly outline rights and obligations.
  
  

• Benefits: Employees remain entitled to statutory benefits — annual leave, end-of-service gratuity, and other protections under UAE labour law — unless explicitly excluded.
  
  

• Employer obligations: The primary employer retains responsibility for visa sponsorship, gratuity, and key benefits. The secondary employer must comply with labour regulations and ensure the part-time permit is valid.
  
  

Risks of Non-Compliance

Working part-time without the necessary permit can lead to serious penalties, including fines and potential deportation. Employers who bypass the system may also face sanctions.

Why It Matters

The legalization of part-time employment represents a shift toward a more dynamic labour market, where professionals can diversify income streams and companies can access specialized skills without committing to full-time hires. For younger workers, students, or those balancing family commitments, the system provides welcome flexibility.

Conclusion

Part-time employment in the UAE is now a structured, lawful option. With the correct permits, contracts, and employer cooperation, it offers flexibility while preserving workers’ rights and benefits. But the rules are strict — and both employees and employers must comply to avoid costly consequences.