While Dubai boasts a bustling business all year round, new expats looking to settle in Dubai must time their job hunts carefully. At any point in time, there is always a need for people when it comes to employment. Being an international hub, transfers, new offices and business expansion are not uncommon in Dubai. As a regional hub, many expats in Dubai move to newer offices in the region such as Saudi Arabia, or head offices such as those in New York or London.

So, the question arises, what is the best time for an expat to look for a job in Dubai? There are some important points to consider when planning to job hunt in Dubai:

Are you applying directly through a company’s HR department or head hunter?

What time of the year it is?

Are you planning on visiting Dubai for interviews?

Which industry are you planning to join?

The Chase is not Better than the Catch

First off, like job hunting anywhere, it takes time. The most important thing to remember is, not to get flustered by failed attempts and long waits. Dubai is a popular destination, and ergo is a competitive one, with people from many places around the world applying for the same position at any given time.

When applying, it is important to consider the cultural aspects of Dubai. A multicultural city with an Islamic government, it is not ideal to apply for jobs during Ramadan, Christmas breaks and the summer months of July and August. This is due to members of companies taking vacations, and a lack of decision making when it comes to hiring.

Secondly, visiting Dubai for a month on a tourist visa and applying for jobs is not the smartest decision. A month is just not enough, unless you already have interviews lined up prior to your arrival. Aside from this, most companies do not entertain walk-in interviews. Prepare some interviews before you reach Dubai for a chance to meet the people you want to.

Preliminary interviews done via Skype or phone are just formalities some companies employ to get a basic understanding of who you are.

Third, it is imperative that you bring your own laptop with you. Job hunting can be a round the clock endeavor, and important emails, online openings and Skype calls can make all the difference. Wifi is easily available at hotels, malls and cafes, so going online won’t be a challenge.

When you visit Dubai, ensure you have a place to stay during the duration of your trip. It would eat into your job hunt if you constantly had to move around and make arrangements for lodgings every few days or every week.

Hunter of Heads

Head hunters are a popular commodity in the emirate. From retail to fast food and modeling prospects, head hunters in Dubai can get you in touch with the right people, however, this route is not without its own drawbacks. Firstly, there are some who will only be interested in taking your money. “Never Give Money” to any headhunters. They have arrangements with employers for their income.

While head hunters are a good way to connect and meet people, they aren’t necessarily the best. A more reliable and safer way to apply is through company websites. These put you in direct contact with your prospective employer, and are more direct than head hunters.

All in all, the months of September to May, excluding Christmas holidays, are the best to apply when looking for work in Dubai.

For more information please contact