UAE Considers Allowing Visit Visa Holders to Work Legally

A top official in the UAE has proposed allowing visit visa holders to work legally in the country, with proper regulations and safeguards in place. This move could benefit both businesses and visitors seeking employment opportunities.

Current Restrictions and Penalties

Currently, working on a visitor visa in the UAE is strictly illegal. Companies that hire individuals on visit visas face heavy fines and other penalties. Businesses must obtain a work permit and employment visa before an employee can begin working legally.

Proposal for Change

Dr Ali Humaid bin Khatem, head of Naturalisation and Residency Prosecution, believes allowing companies to hire visitors legally could create a win-win situation.

He made this suggestion at a recent forum hosted by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai.

Importance of Following Current Laws

While proposing the change, Dr Khatem urged business owners to adhere to existing laws and avoid employing visitors illegally. He emphasized the risks involved, stating that companies caught employing individuals on visit visas face a fine of 50,000 AED per person.

Addressing Fake Emiratisation

The forum also addressed the issue of fake Emiratisation. This practice involves employing Emirati nationals in nominal positions solely to meet government-mandated Emiratisation targets, rather than for actual work contributions. Dr. Khatem expressed concerns about this practice and its potential consequences.

Supporting Young Entrepreneurs

The forum aimed to support young entrepreneurs by discussing the challenges they face and exploring solutions. Lieutenant-General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, director-general of the GDRFA, highlighted the responsibility of content creators in empowering and promoting young innovators.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of legal frameworks in fostering youth initiatives and sustainable development.

(Source and Inputs from Khaleej Times)