Barriers

Whether working in the UAE or anywhere else in the globe, women face a particular set of challenges in order to establish themselves in the workplace.

Expats are seen as a significant and necessary component of the population. Because we all know that expats make up around 85% of the population, it makes things easier and more familiar for them.

These are some barriers that might affect your working in UAE

1. Conflict of social and cultural ideologies

2. Religion and beliefs

3. Working environment

4. Gender differences

5. Marital status

6. Personal viewpoint

Job opportunities

Many women believe they are being gaslighted because they are not given the same opportunities or promotions as males.

Here are some highest paying jobs for expats living in the UAE:

1. Dietitian

One of the finest occupations for women in the UAE is that of a nutritionist. Dietitians' responsibilities usually include assisting patients in better understanding nutrition and improving their diets. Meal planning and home visits may be among your other responsibilities.

Salary: Approximately AED 43,100 per month.

2. Skincare Specialist

Skincare experts assist their clients in achieving bright skin and treating common skin problems.

Salary: Approximately AED 32,100 per month.

3. Child Development Specialist

Children with suspected psychological or developmental issues work closely with child development professionals to identify, monitor, and address certain behaviours or qualities.

Salary: Approximately AED 30,000 per month.

4. Patient Relations Manager

They're in charge of billing and insurance information, as well as all patient complaints and issues.

You'll need a graduate degree and experience in insurance, customer service, or billing to work as a patient relations manager.

Salary: Approximately AED 25,200 per month.

5. Youth Care Counselor

You'll need a master's degree and certification to work as a youth care counsellor. Education and certification requirements, on the other hand, can differ from job to job.

Salary: Approximately AED 25,100 per month.

Can women work in Dubai?

Women are generally under the impression that they are unable to work in Dubai. In truth, women can work in Dubai, and those who do say the prospects are better than in many other parts of the world. The presence of foreign nationals in Dubai is changing the role of women in the workplace, from caring for the house and family to contributing to the economy. Many businesses, however, are still dominated by males, despite the fact that men account for three-quarters of the population. Expat women in Dubai can either work on their own employment visa or apply for job and acquire a work permit through their new company if their residence visa is sponsored by their husband.

Dress code

In most of the UAE, modest clothing is necessary, such as covering your shoulders, yet it is a common misperception that women must be fully clothed in public. Dubai, the country's most populous emirate, is recognised for being slightly more liberal than the rest of the country; many female tourists can be found roaming around in shorts or exposing their shoulders. If you're visiting the UAE, especially if you're going to a place of worship, you should first investigate what to dress. 

Restaurants and Clubs:  Dress codes vary in restaurants, bars, and clubs. Several places may allow short hemlines and more skin exposure, but you should check with the establishment in advance.

Beaches and swimming pool: Bikinis and swimming costumes are permitted at private beaches in Dubai as well as hotel pools. Wear a kaftan or cover your swimwear and shoulders when you're heading home or to bars or restaurants.

Mosque: The hair and legs of women should be covered if they are visiting a mosque in Dubai. It is also advisable to wear loose-fitting clothing and to remove shoes before entering the mosque.

Public places as Malls: Modest dressing is appropriate in public places. While it is common to see tourists and expats wearing less modest clothing, it is advisable to wear something that covers your shoulders, midriff and back.

Working in the UAE is just like working at home

Most women feel that cultural hurdles will make it difficult for them to acclimatise to the professional environment in the UAE, however this is not the case. Managing a high workload, meeting the expectations of the boss, and dealing with competitive co-workers are all challenges at work. It's likely that these issues are recognisable to you.

The work environment in the Middle East is not much different from that of any other country. Most people find that working in the UAE is similar to working in any other nation; this isn't to suggest that cultural differences don't exist; they do, but not to the extent that most people believe.

How are women treated in Dubai?

In Dubai and the UAE, there are a few customs that may cause women to be treated differently than men. Due to religious considerations, men and women working in Dubai may not be offered handshakes, however women may be more so. Women-only facilities abound in the city, including designated lineups in government offices, pools and gyms, pink-colored taxis and metro carriages, and ladies' nights in clubs and pubs. These are not required to be utilised, and women are welcome to use non-pink taxis and visit mixed-gender pubs.

Laws to consider 

If you are found to be in violation of any legislation, it is essential to apologise and remedy the problem as soon as possible. If you cause a commotion, things can swiftly escalate. So, if you don't want to go to prison, be on your best behaviour. Because the society is conservative in general, take special care to avoid any action that could be construed as insulting.

Check out these 5 rules that expats should be aware of before relocating to Dubai or other parts of the UAE.

1. Alcohol Consumption in Dubai

Drinking alcohol is prohibited in Dubai, with the exception of hotel bars and restaurants. If you're an expat who enjoys drinking alcoholic beverages, these are the only places you can go where it's legal to do so. Dubai's Islamic culture views drinking in a very different light than Western civilizations.

2. Kissing in Public and PDA

Even in expat bars, public expressions of affection are frowned upon in Dubai. Kissing and cuddling in public places should be kept to a minimum, as these could be considered obscene behaviours, which are illegal in the UAE. Homosexuality is also against the law, so be cautious if you're dating or living with someone of the same gender. Dubai isn't exactly a welcoming environment for members of the LGBTQ community.

3. Clothing Restrictions in UAE

UAE's culture is quite conservative, especially among women. Women should dress modestly and avoid wearing anything that could be considered exposing. The stomach, shoulders, and back must all be covered. Women should not wear anything shorter than a short-sleeved shirt and a skirt that reaches the knees. At swimming pools and beaches, the rules are a little more lenient. A violation of the law can result in a month in jail and deportation.

4. In UAE, there is no such thing as extramarital sex

While foreigners have fewer restrictions on alcohol and dress, extramarital sex is completely illegal in Dubai. It makes no difference if you're an expat or just passing through on vacation—a it's serious infraction, so be careful where you stay and who you stay with.

5. Photography in Certain Areas

Taking images of residents without their consent is illegal. Some government buildings even prohibit you from photographing the façade. If you do take images of these structures, don't post them on social media. If UAE authorities notice it, it's clear evidence of a crime.