Want to work abroad in Dubai? My journey and tips for landing a job here

Dubai is a dynamic and competitive place to work, and as someone who made the move, I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’ve been living and working here for over a year now, and in this article, I’m sharing some insights from my own experience to help you navigate the job market if you’re considering making the move.

The current Dubai job market

Dubai’s job market is thriving, thanks to the government’s strategic efforts to position the city as a global business hub. The economy is stable, there’s no income tax, and the infrastructure is top-notch. With safety and easy travel options, Dubai is an attractive destination for expats.

One unique aspect of Dubai is its multilingual and multicultural environment. While Arabic is the official language, 85% of the population here are expats. This creates multiple language-speaking markets within the city, such as English, Russian, and Chinese. Many companies focus on hiring for specific demographics, depending on their target market. So, if you speak a language that aligns with these markets, it could give you an edge in your job search.

Tips for landing a job in Dubai

1. Understand the competition: Dubai’s job market is highly competitive. With so many people looking to move here, the pool of candidates is vast and varied.

2. Don’t just follow the traditional route: With the overwhelming amount comes in for openings, traditional job applications might not be enough. Many companies prefer to hire through referrals and networks, so it’s essential to connect with people in your industry.

3. Networking is EVERYTHING: Both job opportunities I got here are through referrals. The most effective way to tap into the job market is through human connection, it gives you a layer of trust (which is crucial in Dubai) and helps you tap into the hidden job market which runs through ‘who you know’.