New

Your first day at work

Your first week is mostly paperwork. Here’s what to bring, what happens, and the workplace habits that differ from the UK.

Last checked 1 Oct 2026·Information, not advice

In 30 seconds

Bring your passport, attested degree, passport photos and copies of everything
Week one is mostly visa admin: a medical test and fingerprints, usually booked by HR
Your employer isn’t allowed to keep your passport

What to bring on day one

Your passport, plus two or three copies
Passport photos on a white background
Your attested degree (originals and copies)
Your signed offer letter and the MOHRE contract you were sent
A UK bank card that works abroad, because your first UAE pay may take a while

Your first week

When	What happens
Day 1	HR induction. You’ll meet the PRO (public relations officer), who handles government paperwork
Days 2–5	Medical test and Emirates ID fingerprints, booked by your employer
Week 2	Residence issued. Ask HR for a salary certificate to open a bank account
Month 1	First pay, due on the 1st through the Wage Protection System

Hours and probation

Normal hours8 a day48 a week

Ramadan2 hours lessEach day, for the month

ProbationUp to 6 months14 days’ notice from the employer

How it’s different from the UK

Dress smarter and more modestly than you might at home. Follow what colleagues wear
Seniority and titles matter more. Use them until you’re told otherwise
When greeting a woman, let her offer her hand first
Expect WhatsApp to be used for work, including after hours
Many offices finish early on Fridays

Your contract

Your employment contract is registered with MOHRE, the Ministry of Human Resources. If there’s an Arabic version, it takes priority in a dispute, so make sure it matches what you agreed. Your rights at work.

What to do next

Read your MOHRE contract carefully
Find out who your PRO is and save their number
Set your LinkedIn location to the UAE and connect with your team

Sources

Last checked 1 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the official source before you act. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@theglobalocal.com.