UAE Labour Profession List 2024: A Complete Guide to Skill Levels, Visa Eligibility, and Career Pathways

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Shini Ramith

October 17, 2023 · 0 min read

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Quick Summary: The UAE Labour Profession List 2025, updated by MOHRE, classifies jobs into 9 skill levels, impacting visa eligibility, salary, and career growth. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from skill classifications to visa requirements.

As per the official UAE government website, the last update was on 29 Apr 2024, and the information remains valid in 2025 - Source: u.ae

The UAE has a highly structured labor market, with opportunities across diverse skill levels and industries. As per the latest updates, the UAE Labour Profession List 2025, 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 2025 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.

In this article, we will discuss:

  • What is the UAE Labour Profession List?
  • Professional Levels of Jobs in the UAE
    • List of Professional Levels:
  • Updated UAE Skill Levels Breakdown and Professions
    • Skill Level 1: Legislators, Managers, and Business Executives
    • Skill Level 2: Professionals in Scientific, Technical, and Human Fields
    • Skill Level 3: Technicians in Scientific, Technical, and Humanitarian Fields
    • Skill Levels 4: Clerical Support Workers (Administrative and Writing Professionals)
    • Skill Level 5: Service and Sales Workers
    • Level 6: Skilled Agricultural, Forestry, and Fishery Workers
    • Level 7: Crafts and Related Trades Workers (Construction, Mining, and Other Skilled Trades)
    • Level 8: Plant and Machine Operators, and Assemblers
    • Level 9: Elementary Occupations (Simple Professions)
  • Labour Classification for Skilled Work
  • How Skill Levels Impact Visa Eligibility and Salary Expectations
    • Skill Level and Visa Eligibility

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 labour market. This classification system aligns job roles with required qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. The list is divided into nine professional 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, while lower levels may have simpler visa processes but offer limited growth opportunities.

Professional Levels of Jobs in the UAE

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) classifies employment into 9 professional levels according to the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organization.

List of Professional Levels:

  1. Legislators, Managers, and Business Executives
  2. Professionals in Scientific, Technical, and Human Fields
  3. Technicians in Scientific, Technical, and Humanitarian Fields
  4. Clerical Support Workers (Administrative and Writing Professionals)
  5. Service and Sales Workers
  6. Skilled Agricultural, Forestry, and Fishery Workers
  7. Crafts and Related Trades Workers (Construction, Mining, and Other Skilled Trades)
  8. Plant and Machine Operators, and Assemblers
  9. Elementary Occupations (Simple Professions)

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Updated UAE Skill Levels Breakdown and Professions

The MOHRE profession list 2025 categorizes jobs into 9 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?

Senior professionals responsible for policy-making, business operations, and executive management. They ensure regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making.

Examples

CEOs, General Managers, Engineers, Doctors, Financial Managers, Marketing Directors, Legal Advisors, Senior Consultants.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Minimum monthly salary: AED 12,000
  • Required qualification: An attested degree certificate
  • Experience: Typically requires 5+ years of relevant work experience

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


Who Fits In?

Experts with specialized knowledge in scientific, technical, and human service fields. They perform complex analytical tasks requiring advanced education and experience.

Examples

IT Specialists, Mechanical Engineers, Medical Laboratory Technologists, Accountants, Architects, Pharmacists, Data Analysts.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Minimum monthly salary: AED 7,000
  • Required qualification: A post-secondary education attested certificate
  • Experience: Minimum 2-5 years of industry experience

Skill Level 3: Technicians in Scientific, Technical, and Humanitarian Fields

Who Fits In?

Skilled workers who assist professionals in executing technical duties. They apply specialized knowledge in operational tasks that support business functions.

Examples

Sales Executives, Supervisors, Office Administrators, Clerks, Technicians, Customer Service Representatives, Electricians.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Minimum monthly salary: AED 5,000
  • Required qualification: A secondary education certificate or technical diploma
  • Experience: Typically requires 1-3 years of relevant work experience

Skill Levels 4: Clerical Support Workers (Administrative and Writing Professionals)

Who Fits In?

Employees who perform routine office and administrative tasks, including document management and customer support, to ensure smooth operations.

Examples

Data Entry Operators, Receptionists, Secretaries, Office Clerks.

Salary & Qualifications:

  • Minimum monthly salary: AED 4,000
  • Required qualification: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience: Entry-level positions may not require experience

Skill Level 5: Service and Sales Workers

Who Fits In?

Individuals working in retail, hospitality, and customer service, focusing on direct customer interaction and service provision.

Examples

Cashiers, Sales Assistants, Customer Service Representatives, Waiters, Hotel Staff.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Minimum monthly salary: AED 4,000
  • Required qualification: High school diploma preferred but not always required
  • Experience: Typically requires prior experience in a similar role

Level 6: Skilled Agricultural, Forestry, and Fishery Workers

Who Fits In?

Workers engaged in farming, fishing, and forestry-related tasks that require knowledge of agricultural techniques and environmental conservation.

Examples

Farmers, Fishermen, Livestock Handlers, Irrigation Technicians.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Salary varies based on industry demand
  • Required qualification: Vocational training or industry certification preferred
  • Experience: On-the-job training is common

Level 7: Crafts and Related Trades Workers (Construction, Mining, and Other Skilled Trades)

Who Fits In?

Skilled manual workers performing tasks related to construction, repair, and craftsmanship, often requiring technical training.

Examples

Welders, Carpenters, Plumbers, Electricians, Mechanics, Tailors.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Salary varies based on industry and employer
  • Required qualification: Vocational training or apprenticeship
  • Experience: 2+ years of practical experience preferred

Level 8: Plant and Machine Operators, and Assemblers

Who Fits In?

Workers responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of heavy machinery, equipment, and production lines.

Examples

Factory Workers, Machine Operators, Heavy Equipment Operators, Drivers.

Salary & Qualifications

  • Salary varies by sector and role
  • Required qualification: Some positions may require technical certification
  • Experience: Training provided on-site for most roles

Level 9: Elementary Occupations (Simple Professions)

Who Fits In?

Workers performing basic manual tasks and routine labor-intensive jobs with minimal skill requirements.

  • Examples

General Laborers, Housekeepers, Cleaners, Construction Workers, Porters.

Salary & Qualifications

  • No specific salary threshold under UAE labor laws
  • Required qualification: None required for most roles
  • Experience: No prior experience required for entry-level positions

Labour Classification for Skilled Work

Labour is classified as skilled work if it fulfils all the conditions listed below:

  • The worker must be at a professional level (one amongst first to fifth level mentioned above).
  • The worker has obtained a certificate higher than the secondary certificate or an equivalent certificate.
  • The certificate must be attested by the competent authorities.
  • The monthly salary (excluding commission) of the worker must not be less than AED 4,000.

This classification is essential for understanding eligibility under the MOHRE profession list, UAE employment visa profession list, and MOHRE skill level list


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 9 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.
  • Visa Categories: Roles such as those under the sales officer visa category in UAE may fall under different skill levels based on responsibilities and qualifications.

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 the MOHRE profession list to avoid legal complications.
  • Hiring Strategy: Align your hiring strategies with the UAE employment visa profession list to attract the right talent and streamline visa applications.

For Employees

  • Career Progression: Understanding your skill level can help you plan your career path and identify opportunities for advancement.
  • Visa Planning: Align your job search with your skill level for a smoother visa application process.
  • MOHRE Designation List: Keep track of updates in the MOHRE designation list to ensure your profession is classified correctly.

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 (4-9) 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.

5. How do I check my MOHRE profession category?

You can check your MOHRE profession list through the official MOHRE website or by consulting your work permit and employment contract.

6. What happens if my profession is not listed in the MOHRE skill level list?

If your profession is not on the UAE visa profession list, your employer may need to align your job role with the closest matching category in the MOHRE designation list.

7. How does my skill level impact my UAE work visa renewal?

Higher skill levels have simplified renewal processes and better job mobility. Lower-skill levels may face additional documentation requirements as per MOHRE skill level list regulations.

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.

Looking for your next role? TalentPoint has jobs across all skill levels. Whatever your profession, check out our platform and apply today—your next opportunity awaits at TalentPoint!

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