The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Persian Gulf. The seven emirates that make up the UAE are Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The UAE shares land borders with Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the southeast. Additionally, it has a maritime border with Qatar to the northwest and Iran across the Persian Gulf. The country has a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a key hub for trade, business, and tourism.
With a thriving economy driven by sectors such as oil and gas, finance, tourism, real estate, and technology, the UAE is one of the wealthiest nations in the Middle East. It is known for its modern infrastructure, luxury lifestyle, and cultural diversity, with expatriates making up the majority of its population.
Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and the country follows Islamic customs and traditions. However, the UAE is religiously tolerant, allowing the practice of other faiths.
The UAE is known for its tax-friendly environment, with no personal income tax for residents. However, there are other taxes to be aware of:
For more details.
Standard working hours are 8-9 hours per day, 40-48 hours per week. The workweek is typically Monday to Friday (government and many private companies follow this schedule). Overtime regulations apply as per UAE Labour Law.
New Year’s Day – Jan 1
Eid al-Fitr - Varies based on Islamic calendar
Arafat Day & Eif al-Adha - Varies
Islamic New Year – Varies
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Varies
National Day – Dec 2-3
For more information on employee benefits, visit: UAE Labour Law
Pension schemes in the UAE apply mainly to UAE nationals, with both employees and employers contributing to the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA). Expatriates typically rely on private pension plans or end-of-service gratuities provided by their employers.
To live and work in the UAE, you need a valid visa and work permit. The types of visas include:
For more details, visit Visa and Emirates Information.
If you are looking to relocate to the UAE, please speak to one of our recruitment experts as they can have an in-depth conversation with you regarding relocation and can assist you the best way they can.
Shipping is so vast that if it were a country, it would be the 6th largest economy in the world.