Work for British citizens travelling to United Arab Emirates
GOV.UK warns that working on a visit visa can lead to fines, prison, or deportation. Employment needs UAE work permission.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Employees sponsored by UAE employers. · UAE government portal: employment visa (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Duration of the work permit. · UAE government portal: employment visa (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Employment visa costs are paid through the employer and UAE authorities. See UAE employment visa guidance (opens in a new tab). · UAE government portal: employment visa (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Work permits are sponsored by the employer. Timelines are set by the relevant emirate authority — your sponsor should confirm. · UAE government portal: employment visa (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Through the sponsoring employer and relevant emirate authority. · UAE government portal: employment visa (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Secure a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- Complete medical tests and Emirates ID steps as directed.
- Do not work before the permit is issued.
FAQ
Can I remote-work on a visit visa?
GOV.UK treats working on a visit visa seriously — get proper permission.
Is freelance work allowed?
Self-employment needs the correct licence and visa.
Sources
- GOV.UK: United Arab Emirates entry requirements (opens in a new tab)
- UAE government portal: do you need an entry permit or a visa? (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.