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Hi, do I need to have a university degree to work in Dubai? I'm seriously thinking of looking for work out there. I have family friends I can stay with, I work in publicity currently in London, and there seems to be quite a bit of work out there. But a lot of them say 'degree qualified'. Please help,
Thank you! x

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1

Expats are required to hold a degree for management level positions and companies are required to advertise as such, however many people do not have degrees and their visa will state their position as clerk (or similar) to get around this. It is not a problem and makes no difference to your rights. Go ahead and apply for the positions, tell them you do not hold a degree. You will need to produce an educational certificate that has been notorised and attested in your home country to apply for a residence permit though.

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2

Of course you don't need a university degree to work in Dubai.

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3

It depends on the kind of job you are applying for. I would say that the younger lot of Western Expats who apply for better paying jobs do have a college degree. However if your experience trumps that of degree holders, the lack of a degree would not be an drawback.

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4

I will respectfully disagree with the above posts in saying that many places look for a degree as a precursor for a job. You certainly do not have to have one; however, many of the better paying (and better treating) places will not look at individuals who do not have a college degree.

While I would not let this stop me from applying to places, I would also be aware that you may be passed over simply because you do not hold the correct piece of paper that is required by that organization. I would also do my homework as much as possible on any job offers as many organizations try to get by (and treat very poorly) people without a college degree because they know that your options may be more limited.

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5

I agree with Bri. Most jobs that westerners would be interested in salary-wise are classed as degree level status. To get a residency issued for a job which is classed as "degree level" you need to have your degree certificates attested and notarised etc - they wont issue the residency without it. Without a degree you're heavily restricted on the jobs you will even be considered for, and you'll be competing against a massive number of people who will work for a much much lower salary than you would even consider.

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6

Let's put it this way. For most jobs, it is not a legal requirement to have a degree. But, like others have said, it is a definite advantage in a competitive field.


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7

Hi there,

I wouldn't worry too much about a degree, i know many people who have a very high position in good companies regardless of their lack of degree. It all depends on your experience, once you get an interview and show them you are well equipped then you shouldn't have a problem. I also know of some people who have a degree but are in lower paid jobs than the former! Hope this helps!

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8

Hi,

I am also interested in working in the United Arab Emirates. However, I was wondering whether you guys have good job search sites.

I have found for examples: jobsindubai.com. They ask a fee of 92$ to get registered with them. Is this a site which is worth the money, anyone knows?

I am sorry if I use this thread incorrect, hope you don't mind.

Kind regards,
appie

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9

Any agency that asks you for money up front is a rip off!

There are recruitment companies in Dubai, go to Expatforum/Dubai for details,but the best way to get a job is to be relocated by a company based in your home country or come to UAE and knock on doors. It costs money to bring someone over so most companies will look to employ someone already here.

What is you profession?? and nationality?

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