UAE Dual Employment: With the rising cost of living and the desire to maximize income, many professionals in the UAE are asking: “Can I work for two companies in the UAE?” The answer is: Yes but under specific conditions. The UAE Labour Law (2022 reforms and updated 2025 guidelines) now allows for UAE dual employment, including part-time and freelance roles, provided legal steps are followed.
This guide explains everything you need to know about UAE dual employment 2025, including who’s eligible, what permits are required, and what to avoid.
UAE Dual Employment 2025 What Workers Must Know
Is UAE Dual Employment Legal?
Yes, UAE dual employment is legal if:
You have a valid part-time work permit issued by MOHRE
Your current employer provides a No Objection Certificate (NOC) (in most cases)
The secondary job does not violate company policies or conflict of interest clauses
The UAE government supports flexible employment, especially in skilled and knowledge-based sectors.
Who Can Work for Two Companies?
UAE Dual Employment: You may legally hold two jobs in UAE if:
You are under private sector employment (MOHRE or free zones)
You are over 18 years of age
You are on a valid residency visa (employment/spouse/freelance)
You apply for a Part-Time Work Permit from MOHRE
You receive an NOC from your primary employer (unless exempt)
Required Documents for UAE Dual Employment Permit
To apply for a second job, your secondary employer must submit:
| Document | Who Provides |
|---|---|
| NOC Letter from Current Employer | You/Your Employer |
| Emirates ID | You |
| Passport Copy | You |
| Visa Copy | You |
| Labour Card of Primary Job | You |
| Offer Letter or Contract (2nd Job) | Secondary Employer |
| Application Fees (~AED 100–200) | Secondary Employer |
Approval typically takes 3–5 working days via MOHRE.
What About Free Zone & Mainland Jobs?
UAE Dual Employment: Here’s how dual employment applies in different zones:
| Scenario | Legal? | Permit Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Mainland + Mainland | ✅ | Yes |
| Free Zone + Free Zone | ✅ | Yes |
| Mainland + Free Zone (or vice versa) | ✅ | Yes |
| Public Sector + Private Job | ❌ | Not allowed |
Public sector employees cannot hold a second job without special authorization.
Can Blue-Collar or Labour Staff Work Two Jobs?
Generally, manual laborers and low-wage categories cannot take on a second job due to:
Limited visa types
Company contracts that prohibit outside work
Physical demands or scheduling issues
However, some are allowed after getting NOC and labour approval in special cases (e.g., night security + daytime warehouse help).
What Is the Maximum Work Limit?
The UAE Labour Law sets working hours at 48 hours/week for full-time roles. For dual job holders:
The combined workload must not exceed 144 hours every 3 weeks
Employers must ensure minimum 1 rest day per week
Violation of hours or misreporting may lead to penalties or deportation.
What Happens If You Work Illegally?
Working for two companies without proper legal approvals is a serious offence in the UAE.
| Violation Type | Consequences |
|---|---|
| No work permit or NOC | Up to AED 50,000 fine + deportation |
| Working during sick leave | Termination + visa cancellation |
| Company unaware of second job | Legal action by primary employer |
Always apply through official MOHRE or free zone portals.
MOHRE Part-Time Permit Process (2025)
New Employer submits online application
Upload documents & pay fees
MOHRE reviews & approves permit
You start your second job legally
Permit validity: 1 year (renewable)
Can Students or Spouse Visa Holders Work Two Jobs?
Yes, with some rules:
Spouse visa holders can take part-time jobs with NOC from their sponsor
University students can work part-time during breaks if approved by KHDA + MOHRE
NOC and student visa documentation are required
Freelancing vs. Dual Employment
If you’re considering working for yourself and a company simultaneously:
| Option | Legal Status | Permit Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Dual Employment | ✅ (with NOC & permit) | Yes (MOHRE) |
| Freelancing | ✅ (with freelance visa) | No NOC required |
Freelancers can work multiple jobs without NOC only if they hold a UAE freelance permit.
Mahad HRC Assistance for Dual Employment
At Mahad HRC, we offer:
Step-by-step part-time permit application assistance
Drafted NOC letters for job switch or second employment
Free consultations on contract compliance and risks
Coordination between free zone and mainland employers
Whether you’re an employee or employer, Mahad HRC ensures 100% legal compliance.
Conclusion
Dual employment in the UAE is possible and legal in 2025 but only with the right work permit, company approvals, and awareness of the law. Whether you’re trying to increase your income or pursue multiple interests, always follow the legal route.