How to Hire Your First Employee in UAE Mainland

Check Your Business Licence First

Before you hire, confirm your mainland trade licence allows employee sponsorship. Most activities do, but some require extra approvals from authorities like MOHRE. Log into your ICP account or visit an Amer centre to verify your quota and status.

Register With MOHRE and Open WPS

Every mainland company must register with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. Create an MOHRE account, pay the annual establishment card fee of AED 300, and activate Wage Protection System. Without WPS you cannot issue work permits.

Issue the Work Permit and Visa

Submit the job offer details through MOHRE. Once approved, pay AED 300 for the work permit. The employee then completes medical fitness and Emirates ID steps at an approved centre. The full visa process usually costs AED 4,500 to AED 5,500 including medical, Emirates ID, and stamping.

Prepare the Employment Contract

Use MOHRE’s standard bilingual template. Include job title, salary, probation period (maximum six months), annual leave, and notice period. Salaries must be paid through WPS. Minimum wage rules do not apply yet, but contracts must show at least AED 4,000 for a standard skilled visa.

Budget for All First-Year Costs

Expect AED 7,000 to AED 9,000 in government fees for the first employee. Add recruitment costs, medical insurance (minimum AED 150 per month), and possible accommodation allowance. Keep records of every payment for audits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting work before the visa is stamped.
• Paying salary in cash instead of through WPS.
• Skipping the six-month probation clause in the contract.
• Forgetting to update your company quota after hiring.

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