In a significant move towards enhancing economic opportunities and expanding the workforce in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a top-ranking official has put forth a groundbreaking proposal. This proposal suggests granting individuals holding visit visas for the UAE the chance to engage in employment within the country.
The UAE has long been recognized as a hub for business, tourism, and innovation, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, while visit visas offer individuals the opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and culture, they traditionally come with restrictions barring visitors from working during their stay.
Recognizing the potential for economic growth and the untapped talent that visit visa holders may bring, the proposal aims to remove this barrier and allow them to contribute to the UAE’s thriving economy through employment opportunities. By enabling visit visa holders to work, the UAE stands to benefit from a more diverse and skilled workforce, fostering innovation and driving economic progress.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of creating a more inclusive and dynamic society, where individuals from all walks of life can actively participate in its development. Moreover, it reflects the country’s commitment to embracing innovation and adaptability in the face of evolving global trends.
Granting visit visa holders the right to work not only enhances their experience during their stay but also presents numerous benefits for the UAE’s economy and society as a whole. It provides businesses with access to a broader pool of talent, fosters cultural exchange and diversity in the workplace, and strengthens the country’s position as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.
However, implementing such a proposal requires careful consideration of various factors, including regulatory frameworks, labor market dynamics, and the protection of workers’ rights. Collaborative efforts between government entities, businesses, and relevant stakeholders will be essential to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative while maintaining the integrity of the UAE’s labor market.
As discussions around this proposal unfold, it opens up a dialogue on the importance of creating inclusive policies that harness the potential of every individual, regardless of their visa status. By embracing diversity and fostering an environment of opportunity and inclusivity, the UAE continues to pave the way towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all its residents and visitors alike.
An esteemed official has underscored the advantages of permitting visit visa holders to work legally in the UAE. The implementation of a work permit system, alongside other legal provisions, could be established to facilitate the lawful employment of visitors by employers.
Under the current regulations, working while on a visit visa in the UAE is prohibited, with substantial fines and penalties imposed on companies found to be in violation. Employers are required to obtain an employment visa and work permit for individuals before they commence work. Dr. Ali Humaid bin Khatem, Advocate-General and Head of Naturalisation and Residency Prosecution, emphasized that enabling companies to legally hire visitors could foster a mutually beneficial relationship. He stated, “Business owners require a starting point, and our nation attracts numerous tourists seeking employment. This approach allows for mutual benefits.” Dr. Khatem presented this proposition at the Entrepreneurship Makers Forum organized by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai in Al Khawaneej.
However, the official cautioned business owners against engaging visitors in employment due to existing legal constraints. He reiterated that a visit or tourist visa does not grant the right to work in the UAE, with severe penalties, including a AED 50,000 fine per individual, imposed on enterprises violating these regulations. He emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, “It is crucial not to commence operations unlawfully, as these regulations and laws are in place to safeguard both business owners and employees.”
Dr. Ali Humaid also voiced concerns regarding counterfeit Emiratisation during a panel discussion at the forum. Fake Emiratisation refers to situations where UAE nationals are employed in nominal roles without genuine responsibilities, solely to meet a company’s Emiratisation quotas. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation disclosed that 113 private companies were referred to the Public Prosecution for breaching Emiratisation regulations, including 98 companies that engaged in counterfeit Emiratisation practices.
The second edition of the Entrepreneurship Makers Forum addressed key challenges encountered by young entrepreneurs and explored strategies to mitigate them. Lieutenant-General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director-General of the GDRFA, highlighted the significant responsibility of content creators in supporting entrepreneurial innovators and empowering them. Essam Lootah, CEO of Imtiaz Service, emphasized the pivotal role of legislation and legal frameworks in bolstering youth initiatives and fostering sustainable development.
In conclusion, the proposal to allow work for UAE visit visa holders represents a significant step towards unlocking the full potential of the country’s workforce and fostering economic growth and innovation. As the UAE continues to chart its path towards progress and development, initiatives like these reaffirm its commitment to building a more inclusive and dynamic society for generations to come.
