iStockSpot a real UAE job offer before you sign anything (Pic courtesy: istock. Image used for representative purpose only)
The UAE continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for job seekers across Asia and Africa. A large number of applications from India, Pakistan, and the Philippines in the Gulf region target jobs in the UAE, especially in sectors like accounting, hospitality, and construction.In addition to this, the UAE remains the top career destination for young professionals in the Arab world. A YouGov survey from 2023 of 1,502 Arab nationals aged 18 to 24 found that 86.6% considered working in the UAE either 鈥渟omewhat鈥 or 鈥渧ery鈥 appealing.Also Read: Dubai launches citywide 4 day work week for government employees: Will the private sector follow?With its tax-free salaries, liberal lifestyle, and reputation for safety and opportunity, the country continues to attract talent from across the region. Live EventsBut experts warn that as demand rises, so does the risk of falling prey to fraudulent job offers, especially in high-volume sectors like accounting, hospitality, and construction.In this environment, verifying a job offer, particularly from small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has become crucial.What the law saysAn offer letter alone is not a legally binding contract. It is a preliminary agreement that outlines the proposed terms of employment. For an offer to become legally enforceable, it must be followed by a formal employment contract that mirrors the offer鈥檚 terms.This contract must be signed by both parties and registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre).Also Read: UAE teens are trying this 鈥榟armless鈥 hack for a quick high, and parents don’t even know the harmUse of standard contracts requiredAccording to Ministerial Decree No. 46 of 2022, all employers hiring for mainland positions must use the standard contract format approved by Mohre when applying for a work permit. The employment contract may include additional benefits not mentioned in the offer letter, as long as they do not contradict UAE labour laws.Further, Administrative Resolution No. 38 of 2022 requires employers to use standard e-forms issued by Mohre for work permits, offer letters, and employment contracts.How to spot a genuine offer letterJob seekers can contact Mohre directly to verify whether an offer letter is legitimate. The ministry can confirm whether the employer submitted the offer as part of a work permit application.A genuine process involves the employer uploading the signed offer letter using Mohre鈥檚 e-form template, and a work permit application is submitted along with necessary documents and fees. Once the permit is approved, the employment contract is signed and registered.If the employer has not started this process, or if no permit has been applied for, the job offer may not be valid under UAE law.Also Read: This Dubai campaign is handing out 2 million free ice creams and drinks to workers this summerWhat if the offer is withdrawn?Mohre is not legally bound to intervene if the employer backs out before the employment contract is signed and the permit is issued. The candidate may pursue a civil claim through the UAE courts in such cases. Compensation may be awarded if the jobseeker suffered financial loss or other damages due to the withdrawn offer.Additional supportJob seekers can also approach the UAE embassy or their home country consulates to verify job offers. These diplomatic missions often assist in confirming an employer鈥檚 credentials and offer authenticity.If doubts persist, it is also advisable to seek legal consultation, as this article only compiled information publicly available on the internet. Some law firms or the Mohre helpline may offer further guidance.(You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)
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(You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onJob offer UAEUAE job marketverify job offer UAEemployment contract UAEUAE labor lawsgenuine job offer UAEUAE job scamsjob seeker tips UAEwork permit UAEMohre verification(Catch all the Business News, Breaking News, Budget 2025 Events and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online….moreless