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Table of Contents
I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. Aim High in Dubai Dubai: A Free City in the East Dubai Facts and Figures What Are the Job Opportunities In Dubai? How to Apply for a Job in Dubai Working and Living in Dubai Cost of Living in Dubai

2 | Guide to Working in Dubai

3 4 6 9

10

10 11 14 16 17 20

VIII. Learn Basic Arabic IX. X. XI. XII. What to Do and Not to Do in Dubai Labor Law in United Arab Emirates Where to Seek Help in Dubai Disclaimer

17

21 22

3 | Guide to Working in Dubai

I. Aim High in Dubai!

Dubai is the largest city in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is regarded as one of the richest cities in
the world. Through the years, Dubai has become a premiere destination of foreign workers including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are seeking for greener pastures. The robust economy of Dubai resulted to thousands of job opportunities for foreign workers so it is not surprising that it has become a haven for Filipino workers. Majority of OFWs in Dubai works in oil and gas companies and luxury hotels, the two main industries in Dubai that offers attractive compensation packages. Compared to other cities in the Middle East, Dubai is the most diverse and open to other cultures. In fact, about 80% of its population is composed of foreigners and only 17% are UAE locals. Though a mix of culture is very evident in the city, the presence of Arabs tradition and Muslim religion remains to be respected and Non-Muslims are expected to observe them. Aside from the job opportunities, another reason why Filipinos prefer Dubai among other cities in the Middle East is the leisure it offers. OFWs would usually gather in groups during their day-offs and enjoy going to malls, parks and other amusement centers to have fun after a hard day of work.

4 | Guide to Working in Dubai

II. Dubai: A Free City in the East!

Dubai is an open city which is an advantage to foreign workers including OFWs. Unlike other cities in the Middle East, it allows a foreigner to practice their own religion, dress in non-traditional attire and simply enjoy the beauty of the city.

Practice Your Religion

Islam remains to be the official religion in Dubai and it
impacts the custom and tradition practiced by its local citizens. However unlike other cities in the Middle East, Dubai allows people of other nationalities to practice their own religions. Non-Muslim groups are allowed to go to their respective house of worships. Recent statistics show that aside from Muslims, the population of Dubai is also composed of Christians, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Bahai. During Christmas season, Filipino Christians in Dubai usually gather to spend Christmas together. They also organize Christmas parties and simbang gabi. However, during the Ramadan season, everyone is expected to respect the Muslims in their fasting and prayer activities.

5 | Guide to Working in Dubai

You Can Eat Pork!

Eating pork is not prohibited for non-Muslims in Dubai. You can find several restaurants and supermarkets that sell pork products. However, it is not advisable to eat pork during the Ramadan season. Muslims practice fasting during Ramadan so do not eat, drink water nor chew a gum in front of them as they find it disrespectful.

Wear Comfortable Clothes!

You can wear comfortable clothes and non-traditional Muslim attires in Dubai. However, wearing too revealing clothes, skimpy outfits and shorts remain to be prohibited as some locals find it ill-mannered. The acceptable length for short pants is up to the knee so it covers the whole leg area. If wearing a blouse, make sure your shoulders are not exposed.

Chill Out with Friends!

Dubai is also a fun city as they have amusement parks, malls and bars where Filipinos gather and relax. Most OFWs hang-out with their groups or chapters (commonly used term) in malls and parks during their day-offs. The chapters abroad are composed of people from thesame provinces here in the Philippines, brotherhoods, school alumnus, etc.

6 | Guide to Working in Dubai

III. Dubai Facts & Figures

Area: Population Expatriates Population of Filipinos in UAE Languages Other Languages Spoken: Currency: Average Exchange Rate (Dirham to Peso) as of August, 2012 Area Code Time Difference 4,114 km 2,262,000 Indian (51%), Pakistani (16%), Bangladeshi (9%) and Filipino (3%) 280,000 - 450,000 *recent Wikipedia
entry about Filipinos in UAE

Arabic, English Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Pashto, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Tagalog and Chinese Emirati Dirhams Php11.00 +971 + 4 (971 is the country code of UAE while 4 is the area code in Dubai) Philippines is 4 hours ahead of Dubai

7 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Major Industries Oil and Gas Petroleum Construction Information and Technology Hotel and Restaurant Gaming and Amusement

National Holidays
International New Year's Day Prophet Mohammed's Birthday Leilat al-Meiraj (Ascension of the Prophet) Start of Ramadan Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan) Al-Hijira (Islamic New Year's Day) UAE National Day January February June July August November December

Note: The dates posted are based on the 2012 National Holidays in Dubai. Holiday dates change every year. Please note that Islamic festivities are according to Islam calendar which is determined by various moon phase sighting.

8 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Low Crime Rate:

Dubai is considered as one of the safest cities in the world. Due to the strict rules and regulations being implemented by the government of UAE, lowest crime rate is recorded in the city. If in case a foreign worker committed a crime in Dubai, he/she will be sentenced according to their law or will be deported back in their country of origin.

Dubai Weather:

Dubai has a tropical climate. Expect extremely hot weather during the summer season with an average high of 42 C (108 F). Contrary to popular beliefs, Dubai also has a winter season with an average high of 23 C (73 F).

9 | Guide to Working in Dubai

IV. Job Opportunities in Dubai

In demand jobs in Dubai are usually offered in the top three players in the city: Oil and Gas, Construction
and Hospitality industry. If you are looking for a company in Dubai that offers high salary and competitive benefits, it is advisable to apply in companies which belong to the top three industries mentioned above.

2010s Top Industries in UAE according to the Ministry of Labor

Building and Construction

In Demand Jobs from WorkAbroad.phs Data

Engineers, Laborers, Mason, Foreman, Architect, Building Electrician, Installer, HVAC Technician, Crane Operator, Designer, CAD Operator and Draftsman. Plumber, Electrician, AV Technician, Installer, Computer Technician and Upholsterer Waiter, Bartender, Life Guard, Waitress, Sues Chef, Commis, Butler, Barista, F & B Manager, Supervisor, Room Boy, Massage Therapist, Receptionist, Housekeeper and Account Specialist Domestic Helper, Family Driver, Caretaker, Caregiver, Housekeeper, Barber, Beautician English Teacher, Math Teacher, Science Teacher and University Instructor. Caregiver, Physical Therapist, Nurse, Physician, Pharmacist, Radiologist, Medical Technician and Laboratory Technician. Programmer, Graphic Designer, Cashier, Office Staff, Account Executive, Salesman, Sales Lady and Safety Officer

Trade and Repair Services Hotel and Restaurant

Community Services and other Personal Services Education

Health and Social Work Others

View the complete list of job opportunities in Dubai

Emirates Flight Catering, part of the Emirates Group is the worlds largest in-flight catering operation, servicing around 120 airlines from Dubai International Airport. Job site located at the ExecutiveAirlineLoungesinDubaiInternationalAirport.

POEAREG.No.10195127

FinalInterview: DECEMBER01,2012
WAITER / WAITRESS
Physically fit, Attractive, with Pleasing Personality 21 - 30 years old Minimum height: Waiter: 5'4. Waitress: 5'2. Previous experience in a 3 - 5 star hotel or fine dining restaurant local or overseas Experience on Alcoholic Beverages is an advantage (liquors, wines, etc.)

SENIOR WAITER / SENIOR WAITRESS

Physically fit, Attractive, with Pleasing Personality Max age is 35 years old Senior Waiter min. height: 54; Senior Waitress: 5'2. Previous experience in a 4-5 star hotel or fine dining restaurant local or overseas Previous experience as a Head or Captain Waiter is an advantage/preferred. Must have experience handling Alcoholic Beverages (liquors, wines, etc.) Bartenders in fine dining or hotel are encouraged to apply.

SOUS CHEF
Relevant experience in a 4 or 5 star hotel is an advantage High standard of verbal and written communication in English. Demonstrated ability to supervise a multinational workforce of culinary staff. Strong practical knowledge and experience in food safety and occupational health and safety.

QUALITY ASSISTANT
A University degree or Diploma holder. Knowledge of ISO 9000 standards. Experience in food industry. Working knowledge on quality management systems.

SENIOR COOK
24- 45 years old. Previous experience working in a STAR HOTEL, fine dining or airline catering unit Knowledge of food types, kitchen items and equipment. Communication skills in written and spoken English.

TEAM LEADER HOUSKEEPING

Age must not be older than 36 years old Must have previous experience in hotel as housekeeping leader or supervisor.

NO PLACEMENT FEE NO PROCESSING FEE NO SALARY DEDUCTION

International Skill Development, Inc.

POEA License No. 207-LB-101311-AOE
POEA Awardee Top Performer Hall Fame Award of Excellence

5439 Curie Street, Palanan Makati City

AnISO90012008 CertifiedComany Phone: 833-1241, 551-7452, 551-9676 Fax: 551-9675
Getthelatestupdates www.facebook.com/ISDPhilippines www.twitter.com/isdphil

Rm.201LDMBldg.LegaspiSt.,CebuCity +6332.253.9605/+6332.256.1738

Email:isd@isdphilippines.com

www.isdphilippines.com

10 | Guide to Working in Dubai

V. How to Apply for a Job in Dubai

Getting a job abroad has become stiffer as qualification is now high. In a progressive city like Dubai, employers expect more from Filipinos as we are known for having great skills both in practical work and in communication. Aside from OFWs, there are other foreigners in Dubai who also seek job opportunities which makes job hunting much tougher. So if you want to get a job in Dubai, level up your application, improve your skills and make thorough research on how to get a job in Dubai!

1. Apply through a POEA-Licensed Agency

Look for a job opening from a legitimate recruitment agency. Employers in Dubai team-up with POEA-licensed agencies in the country to process applicant's documents and visa. The agency will be responsible in securing that your employment contract is according to what the law states both in the Philippines and in UAE.

2. Register in Overseas Jobsite Online

Signing up in an online job portal would help you speed up your job application in Dubai. The leading job portal in the Philippines, www.workabroad.ph has more than 5,000 job openings (as of October 2012) in UAE which are posted by POEA-licensed agencies.

View the Latest Job Openings in Dubai, UAE

View Here To See The List Of Agencies In The Philippines

Register at Workabroad

11 | Guide to Working in Dubai

VI. Working and Living in Dubai

First and foremost, you must have an employer in Dubai to be allowed to work there. Your employer will be the one who will process and issue you a WORK PERMIT or WORK VISA for you to be a legitimate foreign worker. A work visa is valid for two years or the total years indicated in your work contract. Having a work visa allows you to also live in Dubai. However, you are not allowed to extend your stay for more than the period stated on your visa. Aside from work visa, Dubai also issues Employment Visa which is valid for 30 days only. An employment visa is issued to visitors who have arranged employment before coming to Dubai. However, the employer must process and issue a work visa within the period stated only.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Using Tourist or Visit Visa for employment in Dubai and in any other parts of UAE is ILLEGAL.

12 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Pointers Regarding Sponsoring a Family Member:

An OFW in Dubai can apply for visit visa for a family member. The family member will undergo a medical examination before he/she will be issued a visit visa. The cover of the medical examination for visit visa applicants is same to the work visa applicants. If in case the family member fails the medical exam, he/she will be sent back to the country he/she originally from. As of July 2009, a foreign worker who wants to sponsor his/her child, spouse or any first degree family member should have a minimum salary of AED 3,000.00 to AED 10,000.00. The cost of visit visa is AED 120.00 for 1 year and AED 360.00 for the period of three years.

13 | Guide to Working in Dubai

List of Diseases Not Allowed in Dubai

The United Arab Emirates is part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) along with Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. To be able to work in the GCC countries like UAE, you must pass the medical examination required by the Gulf Cooperation Council-(GCC) Accredited Medical Clinics Association (GAMCA).

List of diseases that would make an OFW unfit to work in Dubai: Infectious category: HIV/AIDS reactive Hepatitis B surface antigen, HCV reactive Microfilaria positive and malaria blood film positive, known leprosy patients Tuberculosis any type, X-ray showing active PTB, past evidence of PTB or healed, Pulmonary scar, including minimum fibrosis, calcification (granuloma) pleural thickening, pleural effusion, tuberculosis lymphadenitis, VDRL/TPHA reactive

Non-Infectious Category: Chronic renal failure Chronic hepatitis failure Congestive heart failure Hypertension Diabetes mellitus Known case of cancer Psychiatric disease and neurological disorders Physical disabilities, i.e. color blindness, deafness

14 | Guide to Working in Dubai

VII. Cost of Living in Dubai

In Dubai, sharing is common for Filipino workers. They live in groups in order to minimize their daily expenses. Dubai is considered as one of the most stable economies in the world which explains why the cost of living in the city is quite high than other cities in the Middle East. But according to Filipinos in Dubai, expenses can be managed if you have DISCIPLINE. There are employers in UAE who also provides allowance that cover housing, transportation, health insurance and food to help you with your monthly budget. To get through the daily expenses, below is the summary of cost of living in Dubai:
Basic Needs Housing Average Price For bed-spacer: AED400AED600 (Php 4,400- Php6,6600) per month For a studio-type apartment: AED900-AED9,900 (Php11,000Php16,500) per month Food More or less AED500 (Php5000) per month Tips To minimize your housing expenses, live with groups. There are Filipinos in Dubai who look for bed spacers Rent in cheap apartments in Dubai that offer less expensive rooms. Choose a place located near your workplace. There are restaurants that offer cheap-price food. If you live in groups, it is advisable to store food (grocery) at least once a week.

15 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Basic Needs Transportation Average Price Bus Transportation: AED1.80 AED2.30 (Php 19.80 Php25.3) per ride. Taxi Flag Down Rate: AED10.00 (Php 110) Train: AED1.80 AED5.80 (Php19.80 Php 63.8) per ride Abra (Water Taxi) AED2.00 (Php 21.00) per ride Health Insurance: AED850 (Php 9,350) per annum. Check-Up and Fees: AED100-AED200 (Php1,100 Php2,100) per consultation for those with no insurance. Tips Choose a place located near your workplace to minimize the transportation expenses. Take a bus ride when going to work. Look for an employer who offers health insurance. In case the employer do not issue a health insurance, apply for one. Take vitamins and maintain proper diet to avoid getting sick. Purchase a car only if youre granted a stable job and residential visa. Avoid buying branded clothes if necessary. Buy according to what you need. Bring jacket, shoes and clothes for winter season before going to Dubai. Look for an apartment that offers FREE wifi Look for an apartment that offers free electiricity/water fee. Dont buy and use too many and unnecessary gadgets. Schedule your use of laptops and charging of cellphones.

Hospitalization

Gasoline

AED600 (Php6,100) per month

Clothing

AED50-AED100 (Php550 Php1,100) per piece.

Internet Water and Electricity

FREE in some housing/apartment AED5 (Php51.00) per hour in internet shops. Free in some flat/Apartment AED150 - AED250 (Php1,500- Php2,500) per month (Applicable to those who live in room sharing)

VIII. Learn Basic Arabic

16 | Guide to Working in Dubai

People living in Dubai are from different parts of the world which explains why language in Dubai is diverse. Although Arabic remains the most commonly-used language among locals, English is widely spoken too. Due to the mixture of culture, other languages are also spoken in the city like Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Pashto, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Tagalog and Chinese.

Basic Phrases in Arabic Language:

Good morning! Good evening! How are you? Im fine, Thank you. Thank you! You're welcome! What's your name? My name is (Your name) Can You Say It Again? Sorry (for a mistake) What time is it? I love you One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten What time is it? Nice to meet you!

English

Sabah el kheer Masaa el kheer Kaifa haloka/ haloki Ana bekhair, shokran! Shokran Alafw Ma esmouk? Esmee (Your Name) Aed men fadlek? Aasef! Kam essa'a? Uhibbok/ uhibboki wahed, ithnaan, thalatha, arba'a, khamsa, sitta, sab'a, thamania, tis'a, 'ashara. Kam essa'a? Motasharefon/ Motasharefatun

Arabic

TIP: Although most employers speak English, it is advisable to study Arabic for you to be able to communicate well with Arab co-workers.

17 | Guide to Working in Dubai

IX. What To Do and Not To Do in Dubai

When going to an Arab city like Dubai, make sure you have researched their basic rules and regulations in order to avoid trouble from the law enforcement or much worse, get deported. So here are some Dos and Donts that you must remember before going to Dubai:

Dos

Always bring your passport and which serves as your residential visa and labor card while youre in Dubai. Change your money in authorized money changing stores and banks only. It is much better to drink bottled water being purchased in supermarkets than drink tap water. Give space and respect Muslims in practicing their religion. Apply for a liquor license first before you purchase alcohol in supermarkets and licensed bars, clubs and pubs. Use your right hand when greeting and handling things to local citizen of Dubai. Using of left hand is considered disrespectful for some Muslims. Protect your skin from sunburn using sunscreen. Also, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight. If you are with your spouse, always bring a copy of your marriage certificate wherever you both go.

18 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Do not take pictures of local citizens of Dubai most especially women wearing their traditional attires. Do not apply for an employment in Dubai using visit or tourist visa as you will get detained and deported once caught. Avoid taking pictures of government-owned establishments like airport, military camps, etc. Do not wear revealing clothes like short skirts and plunging neckline blouses in public places. Avoid practicing Public Display of Affection (PDA) with your partner in public places. Do not eat in public places during Ramadan as Muslims practice fasting. Also, do not eat and drink water in front of them during Ramadan as they find it offensive and disrespectful. In case of having an argument with a fellow person in Dubai, avoid swearing and using offensive hand gestures as you may get detained. Non-Muslims can purchase alcohol in supermarkets and clubs. However, you can get fined or arrested by appearing drunk in public places. Do not touch, hit or tap someone elses head in Dubai as some locals find it offensive. Do not carry pornographic materials, alcohol and drugs upon entering Dubai. Do not drink and drive. Wear appropriate swimsuit when on a beach or resort. For men, do not walk in any place in Dubai without a shirt. According to Sharia Law, it is prohibited for an unmarried person to live with someone in the opposite sex under one roof. Dubai is very strict when it comes to drugs even to over-the-counter medicines. In case of carrying pills or other medicines, make sure that you have your doctors prescription and letter of permission with you in order to avoid being questioned.

Donts

19 | Guide to Working in Dubai

X. Labor Laws in Dubai

It is very important that you know the labor laws of the country you are going to for you to be aware of your rights as a foreign employee. It is also important to do your research about the company, the work environment and their offers before you sign any contract with the employer.

Salary

Leave Working Days and Hours

Work Contract

Health

Benefits

There is no fixed salary or minimum wage per job title in UAE except for Domestic Helpers which gets no less than USD500 or its peso equivalent. There is also NO INCOME TAX in Dubai . A foreign worker is entitled to a 14-day leave with pay per year. Employees who are able to finish five years of continuous service are entitled to a 21-day paid vacation leave. Work days are Saturday-Wednesday, 8 hours a day. Thursday and Friday are considered weekends. During the month of Ramadan, Muslim employees only work from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Non-Muslim employees are allowed to report to work but are entitled to overtime pay. Minimum period of an employment contract is 2 years. Legally, only the Arabic version of a contract is valid in UAE. However, a foreign employer must have an English version of his/her contract. Contract must be sent and signed by the applicant before he/she go to UAE. Both the employer and applicant must agree with what is written in the contract. In case the applicant has issues, he/she must inform the employer immediately to fix it before he/she sign the contract. Employer must shoulder the hospitalization cost of a sick employee. A foreign worker will also receive full wages during the period of recovery that should not exceed six months. A foreign worker must be provided aside from his work visa, a residence permit, health insurance and food and housing allowance.

20 | Guide to Working in Dubai

XI. Where to Seek Help in Dubai

Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines

For Dubai and Northern Emirates Address: #35 Beirut St. Ext. No. 2 Al Qusais 3 Dubai, United Arab Emirates P.O. Box 94778 Tel. Number: + 971 4 2207100 Mobile Number: + 971 50 6544047 Fax Number: + 971 4 2207800

UAE Ministry of Labor

Toll Free: 800-665 (For any concerns regarding employment) Tel Number: 047023333 (Dubai)

Embassy of the Philippine Republic

United Arab Emirates Address: Villa No. 8, Street 8, Sector 94, Zone 2 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

21 | Guide to Working in Dubai

Below are the direct numbers of PHL Embassy, UAE according to your concerns:

Kinds of Concerns Passport Renewal Authentication /Notaries/Civil Registry Civil Registry Police/Court/Emergency Cases OEC/ Labor Matters OWWA/Welfare/Household Service Workers or Helpers Cases Pag-Ibig Fund SSS Membership Trade (Import/Export) Embassy Fax Number Email

Numbers 02 639 0006 Local 215/200 02 639 0006 Local 217 02 639 0006 Local 218 050-207 9988 056 - 659 4977/02 658 2889 02 639 0023/0561085459/055-2220613

02 639-0026/ 050 357 6308 050 572 8693/ 050 1681983 04 223 6526 02 639 0002 auhpe@philembassy.ae *Please leave your full name and mobile number

In case of emergency, the public may call the following: POLO Hotline OWWA Hotline 056 659 4977 050 141 3697

22 | Guide to Working in Dubai

XII. Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The information contained in this e-book is for information purposes only. The publisher made sure that the information presented is accurate, reliable and up to date. However, the publisher cannot guarantee that all information is up to date and true at all times due to the fact that policies and regulations are never constant. The reader of this e-book agrees that the publisher cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect losses that may be incurred as a result of the information presented in this document. Copyright August 2012 by WorkAbroad.ph

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