UAE Labour Category List & Profession Skill Level Categories by MOHRE

The UAE has a highly structured labor market, with opportunities across diverse skill levels and industries. The UAE Labour Profession List 2024, developed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), organizes professions into distinct categories. This MOHRE skill level list is designed to align with the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) and impacts anyone planning to work in the UAE. Understanding it can affect visa eligibility, salary, and job responsibilities.

In this guide, we break down the MOHRE profession list 2024 in detail, covering each skill level and included professions. You’ll also gain insights into how the UAE labour category list affects career opportunities and visa applications.

 What is the UAE Labour Profession List?

The UAE Labour Profession List is a standardized categorization of professions, developed by MOHRE to structure job roles in the UAE labor market. This classification system aligns job roles with required qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. The list is divided into five skill levels, each with specific educational and experience criteria. By classifying professions in this way, the UAE promotes a balanced and efficient workforce.

Importance of the MOHRE Profession List for Employers and Employees

For employers, accurately classifying job roles is essential to comply with UAE labor laws. For employees, understanding where a role fits within the MOHRE skill level list is vital for career planning, salary expectations, and visa processes. Higher skill levels generally offer better job security, benefits, and salary packages; lower levels may have simpler visa processes but can offer limited growth opportunities.

UAE Skill Levels Breakdown and Professions

The MOHRE profession list 2024 categorizes jobs into five distinct skill levels. Each level is associated with specific roles, qualifications, and responsibilities. Here’s a detailed look at each level:

Skill Level 1: Legislators, Managers, and Business Executives

Who Fits In?

This level includes top-tier professionals. They typically hold advanced degrees or have significant qualifications in their fields.

Examples:

CEOs, General Managers, Engineers, Doctors, Financial Managers, Marketing Directors.

Salary & Qualifications:

• The minimum monthly salary is AED 12,000.
• An attested degree certificate is mandatory for this level.

Skill Level 2: Professionals in Scientific, Technical, and Human Fields

Who Fits In?

Professionals with specialized technical skills fall into this category. They often hold a diploma or an equivalent qualification.

Examples:

Technicians, IT Specialists, Mechanical Engineers, Medical Laboratory Technologists.

Salary & Qualifications:

• The minimum monthly salary is AED 7,000.
• A post-secondary education attested certificate is required.

Skill Level 3: Technicians in Various Fields

Who Fits In?

Individuals with a high school or higher secondary education typically occupy this level. Their roles usually require basic technical skills.

Examples:

Sales Executives, Supervisors, Office Administrators, Clerks.

Salary & Qualifications:

• The minimum monthly salary is AED 5,000.
• A secondary education certificate is required.

Skill Levels 4 and 5: Unskilled Workers

Who Fits In?

This category includes workers who do not need specific qualifications. They usually occupy roles requiring manual labor or basic services.

Examples:

General Laborers, Housekeepers, Construction Laborers, and Cleaners.

Salary & Qualifications:

• There is no specific salary threshold under the new UAE labor laws for these levels.

How Skill Levels Impact Visa Eligibility and Salary Expectations

Your skill level determines your job eligibility and potential salary. It also affects the types of job offers you can accept. Higher skill levels often come with better job security and benefits.

Skill Level and Visa Eligibility

The skill level assigned to your profession directly influences the type of visa you can apply for in the UAE. Understanding your skill level is crucial for ensuring that your visa application process goes smoothly.

How Skill Levels Impact Visa Types

• High-Skill Visas: Skill Levels 1 to 3 require advanced qualifications and may involve a more detailed visa process.
• Low-Skill Visas: Skill Levels 4 and 5 have a simpler visa process, though job options may be restricted.

Navigating Visa Requirements

• Required Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as attested educational certificates and employment contracts, before applying for a visa.
• Salary Requirements: Higher skill levels have specific salary criteria; lower levels have more flexibility in terms of salary.

Key Takeaways for Employers and Employees

Aligning with the UAE Labour Profession List has significant benefits for both recruitment and career development:

For Employers

• Compliance: Ensure that job roles are accurately classified according to MOHRE guidelines. This helps to avoid legal complications.
• Hiring Strategy: Align your hiring strategies with the skill levels to attract the right talent. This also helps streamline visa applications.

For Employees

• Career Progression: Understanding your skill level can help you plan your career path. It also helps identify opportunities for advancement.
• Visa Planning: Align your job search with your skill level to ensure a smooth visa application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can my skill level impact job eligibility in the UAE?

Yes, your skill level does impact job eligibility. Higher skill levels (1-3) apply to roles that need specific qualifications and experience. Lower levels (4-5) are for roles that need basic education or manual skills.

2. Do I need to update my skill level if I change roles or get promoted?

Yes, you should inform MOHRE if your responsibilities or qualifications change. This update can impact your visa type, salary requirements, and other work conditions.

3. Can I move to a higher skill level if I gain more qualifications while working in the UAE?

Yes, gaining new qualifications or experience may help you shift to a higher skill level. Talk to your employer, as they might need to reapply for your visa with the new classification.

4. Does my skill level affect family sponsorship eligibility in the UAE?

No, it doesn’t impact family sponsorship directly. Eligibility depends on income. You need a monthly salary of at least AED 4,000. With company-provided accommodation, AED 3,000 is sufficient.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're an expat seeking a job or an employer hiring talent, knowing the UAE Labour Profession List and its skill levels is essential. It simplifies visa applications, keeps you compliant, and opens doors to better opportunities.

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