The demand for part-time jobs in Ajman and Sharjah has increased significantly in recent years. As the cost of living steadily rises in the UAE, many residents—especially in smaller emirates like Ajman and Sharjah—are actively seeking ways to supplement their income without committing to full-time employment. Whether it’s to cover rent, fund education, or support family expenses, part-time work is becoming an essential financial solution for many.
This trend isn’t limited to working professionals. University students, homemakers, and even semi-retired individuals are increasingly exploring part-time job opportunities that offer flexibility and financial support without compromising their lifestyle or family commitments. With job types ranging from retail sales and online tutoring to freelance digital work and short-hour shifts, the landscape of part-time employment in Ajman and Sharjah is evolving rapidly.
However, one of the most critical concerns people have is legality—can you work part-time in the UAE without breaking the law? What type of visa or permit is required? What are the safest and most legal channels to follow?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from legal frameworks to eligible visa types and practical job options. Whether you’re a student, expat, or someone looking for a 4-hour part-time job in Ajman, this article is your trusted resource to help you work legally, safely, and smartly in 2025.
Is It Legal to Work Part-Time in the UAE in 2025?
Yes, working part-time in the UAE is legal, but only under specific conditions outlined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The UAE has significantly updated its labour laws in recent years to support a more flexible and inclusive workforce. As of 2025, UAE labour law permits individuals to work part-time through an official MOHRE-issued part-time work permit, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Who Can Apply for a Part-Time Work Permit?
- UAE residents with a valid residence visa
- University students (with permission from their institution and legal guardian, if under 18)
- Spouse or family visa holders
- Freelancers with a UAE freelance permit
- Professionals with existing full-time jobs (with NOC from their current employer)
This part-time permit legally allows an individual to work for fewer than 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week with a secondary employer.
Before applying for a part-time role, make sure you understand the legal process of living and working in Ajman. Read our guide on Ajman real estate laws and regulations
Can You Work Part-Time on a Visit Visa in the UAE?
No, working part-time (or full-time) while on a visit or tourist visa is illegal in the UAE. Doing so may result in:
- Heavy fines for both the worker and the employer
- Visa cancellation
- Deportation or travel bans
Important Legal Note
All part-time employment must be registered and approved by MOHRE. If you’re offered a job that does not involve legal documentation or is paid “under the table,” it’s a red flag. Always ask your potential employer about MOHRE compliance, contract terms, and your part-time labour card.
The good news? Getting a part-time permit is now more streamlined and accessible than ever.
Who Can Legally Do a Part-Time Job in Ajman or Sharjah?
Understanding your eligibility is the first step to avoiding legal issues and finding legitimate opportunities. Let’s explore the key categories of individuals who can legally take up part-time jobs in Ajman and Sharjah.
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University Students (With Permissions)
Students enrolled in accredited universities in Ajman or Sharjah are eligible to work part-time, provided they obtain:
- Written consent from the university (if under sponsorship)
- MOHRE part-time permit (if working off-campus)
Popular part-time jobs for students include:
- Retail sales assistants
- Library or office support roles
- Online tutoring or freelance gigs
This gives students the chance to gain valuable work experience while managing their studies.
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Residents with Spouse or Family Visas
If you’re on a spouse or dependent visa, you can legally work part-time after obtaining a MOHRE permit. You’ll also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor (usually your spouse or parent). This is common among homemakers or stay-at-home parents who want to contribute financially.
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Freelancers with Valid Freelance Permit
The UAE allows freelancers to legally operate in certain professions—such as writing, marketing, photography, and design—through a freelance visa or permit. Once registered, freelancers can take up remote part-time jobs in Ajman or Sharjah without being tied to a single employer. This is ideal for those looking for online part-time jobs or side gigs.
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Full-Time Professionals Seeking Secondary Income
Full-time employees with a valid UAE work visa can also work a second part-time job, but only under these conditions:
- Their primary employer issues an NOC
- The secondary employer applies for a MOHRE-approved part-time work permit
This arrangement is beneficial for those looking to boost their income with 4-hour evening jobs or weekend-based roles in retail, customer service, or logistics.
How to Apply for a Legal Part-Time Work Permit in the UAE
If you’re planning to work legally part-time in Ajman, Sharjah, or anywhere in the UAE, securing a MOHRE-issued part-time work permit is a must. This permit ensures that you’re working within the law and protected under the UAE’s labor regulations.
Where to Apply
You can apply for the part-time work permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) either:
- Online via the MOHRE portal (mohre.gov.ae)
- Through TASHEEL service centers across the UAE
- Via your secondary employer’s PRO or HR department
Required Documents
To process your permit, you’ll need:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Valid UAE visa copy
- Passport-sized photo
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or primary employer (if applicable)
- Emirates ID copy
Students may need a letter from their university permitting part-time work.
Cost of the Permit (As of 2025)
- Approximate Fee: AED 100 – AED 600
- Fees may vary depending on your employment status, sponsor type, and employer category. Your secondary employer usually covers the cost, but it’s best to confirm in advance.
Duration and Renewal
- Validity: 1 year
- Renewable annually, subject to visa validity and continued employment
Timeline for Approval
- Standard processing time: 2–5 business days
- Faster processing may be available via authorized PRO services
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility (based on your visa type and sponsor)
- Collect required documents
- Get an NOC (if needed)
- Apply online via MOHRE or visit a TASHEEL center
- Pay the fees and wait for approval
- Start your legal part-time job once the permit is issued
Obtaining this permit is not only a legal requirement but also gives you access to workplace protections and rights under UAE labor law.
“Looking to work and eventually settle down in Ajman? Here’s everything you need to know about property registration in Ajman.”
Types of Part-Time Jobs Available in Ajman & Sharjah (2025)
Part-time work opportunities in Ajman and Sharjah cater to diverse profiles—students, freelancers, homemakers, and professionals alike. Whether you’re looking for online part-time jobs, evening shifts, or 4-hour weekend work, there’s something for everyone.
a. For Students
Students often prefer roles that are flexible and require minimal experience. These jobs offer learning opportunities and extra income:
- Teaching Assistant: Schools and tuition centers often hire students to assist with younger kids
- Retail Sales & Cashier Roles: Malls and convenience stores hire part-time help, especially on weekends
- Restaurant Staff: Cafés, fast food outlets, and food courts need support during peak hours
- Library/Office Support: Many universities offer on-campus part-time opportunities for their students
b. Online Part-Time Jobs in Ajman (Remote)
Remote jobs are growing, especially for those with digital skills or freelancing backgrounds:
- Freelance Graphic Design, Writing, Social Media Management
- Virtual Assistant Roles for business owners or executives
- Online Teaching or Tutoring, especially in English, Math, or Science
These can be done from home and often offer flexible hours.
c. Short-Hour Roles (4-Hour Jobs)
Ideal for homemakers, part-time seekers, and students who only have a few hours per day:
- Delivery Rider (food, eCommerce, pharmacy)
- Morning/Evening Receptionist in clinics or gyms
- Hotel Assistant or Valet for guest check-in periods
- Customer Service Representatives (onsite or remote)
Some part-timers eventually invest in local properties. Check out our listings of affordable apartments for sale in Ajman
Where to Find Legal Part-Time Jobs in Ajman or Sharjah
Finding legitimate part-time work in Ajman or Sharjah requires knowing where to look and avoiding scams. Here’s a list of the most reliable platforms and strategies:
Top Job Portals
- com – Use filters for “Part-Time” under job type
- Dubizzle Jobs UAE – Especially good for quick retail or delivery roles
- Indeed UAE – Use keywords like “part-time,” “temporary,” or “evening shift”
- Naukrigulf – Offers job listings by city and type
Freelance Websites
If you prefer remote or digital roles:
- Fiverr and Upwork – Freelance platforms for creatives, marketers, and developers
- Ureed – A GCC-focused freelance platform, ideal for Arabic and English content creators
Local Classifieds & Facebook Groups
- Facebook groups like “Jobs in Ajman & Sharjah” or “Part-time Jobs UAE” can sometimes list opportunities
- Use caution—always verify employer details and never pay upfront
University Bulletin Boards
Students should check:
- University career portals
- Community WhatsApp groups
- On-campus job fairs or internship offices
Referrals & WhatsApp Groups
Join local WhatsApp groups for:
- Freelancers
- Job alerts
- Neighborhood-specific openings
Referrals through friends or trusted connections often lead to safe and verified roles.
Looking to live close to your part-time job? These are the best areas to live in Ajman.
Can You Get a Part-Time Job with a Visa in Sharjah or Ajman?
Yes, you can work part-time with the right visa in Ajman or Sharjah—but only if your visa type allows it and you follow MOHRE regulations.
Visa Types Eligible for Legal Part-Time Work
- Family/Spouse Visa (with NOC from sponsor)
- Student Visa (with university and guardian approval)
- Freelancer Visa or Permit
- Work Visa Holders (with NOC from primary employer)
Permit Required
Even with the right visa, you must apply for a part-time work permit via MOHRE. This protects you legally and ensures that both you and your employer follow UAE labour laws.
Employer’s Role
- Must apply for your part-time permit
- Must ensure contract terms are legally documented
- Should pay for the permit in most cases
The legal route also protects you from exploitative work conditions and potential fines.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid While Searching
Avoiding mistakes during your part-time job search is as important as finding the job itself. Here are key pitfalls to steer clear of:
Working Without a Permit
Even a few hours of unregistered work can lead to:
- Fines starting from AED 50,000
- Deportation or travel bans
- Employer blacklisting
Paying Agencies for “Guaranteed Jobs”
If an agency asks for money upfront, it’s a scam. UAE law prohibits recruitment agencies from charging job seekers.
Taking Cash Jobs Without a Contract
Working under informal terms might sound convenient, but it offers zero legal protection. You could lose your earnings without legal recourse.
Not Reading the Fine Print
Before accepting a part-time offer:
- Check working hours
- Ask about weekly off-days
- Ensure NOC and MOHRE compliance is included
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired Part-Time
Landing a part-time job in Ajman or Sharjah requires more than just sending out applications. To stand out from the competition, you need to position yourself smartly with the right tools and timing.
Build a UAE-Style CV
Recruiters in the UAE expect CVs that are:
- Concise (1–2 pages max)
- Directly relevant to the job role
- Includes a photo, nationality, visa status, and contact info
- Lists skills before education, especially if you’re applying for a practical job
Tailor your CV to each job by highlighting experience and soft skills that match the role.
Apply Early in the Week
Recruiters and HR teams are most active from Sunday to Tuesday. Avoid applying late in the week (Thursday–Saturday), when hiring slows down.
Tip: Set job alert emails to deliver on Sunday morning so you’re among the first to apply.
Customize Your Cover Letter
Generic applications are easy to ignore. Write a brief, personalized cover letter that:
- Addresses the employer by name (if possible)
- Shows that you understand their business
- Mentions your availability, visa type, and eagerness to learn
This is especially helpful when applying for student part-time jobs or entry-level roles.
Use LinkedIn Strategically
LinkedIn is a rising platform for part-time and freelance opportunities in the UAE. Here’s how to use it smartly:
- Set your status to “Open to Work”
- Mention Ajman, Sharjah, UAE in your location
- Join LinkedIn groups for UAE jobs, Ajman freelancers, or Sharjah part-timers
- Message hiring managers directly (respectfully and briefly)
Network Locally
Attend career fairs, community events, or university workshops in Ajman and Sharjah. Many part-time roles are never advertised but filled through word-of-mouth or local referrals.
Bonus Tip: Join local WhatsApp or Telegram job groups—but always verify offers before proceeding.
Final Thoughts: Smart Work, Not Risky Work
While part-time jobs in Ajman and Sharjah offer flexibility and extra income, the most important thing is to stay within the legal framework. Working without a permit can put your residency and future in the UAE at risk.
To summarize the smart path:
- Always confirm your visa eligibility
- Apply for a MOHRE part-time permit
- Avoid unregistered employers or cash-only jobs
- Keep your documents and NOC ready
- Focus on local networks and verified platforms
There are thousands of opportunities—but only a legal job is a good job.
If you’re unsure about your status or want to confirm the latest updates, consult:
- The official MOHRE portal
- A licensed HR or PRO consultant
- Your university’s career center (if you’re a student)
Start small, start smart—and grow your career in the UAE, the legal and confident way.
Whether you’re working part-time or planning to settle down in Ajman, we’ve got you covered. Explore Ajman properties or talk to our experts for personalized assistance
FAQ
Is a part-time job in the UAE legal for students?
Yes. Students can work part-time in the UAE with a valid MOHRE part-time permit and written approval from their university. The job must not interfere with their studies, and the employer must apply for the permit on their behalf.
What is the minimum wage for part-time in Ajman?
There’s no official minimum wage for part-time jobs in the UAE. However, common hourly rates in Ajman range from AED 15 to AED 30 per hour, depending on the role, experience, and employer.
Can I work part-time on a visit visa?
No. It is illegal to work part-time (or full-time) on a tourist or visit visa in Ajman, Sharjah, or any part of the UAE. Doing so can result in fines, deportation, and a ban from future entry.
Do I need an NOC for part-time jobs in Sharjah?
Yes, if you are:
- Sponsored by a spouse/family member
- Already employed full-time and looking for a second part-time job
You need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or employer before applying for the MOHRE part-time permit.
Can expat women work part-time in Ajman?
Absolutely. Expat women on a family visa can apply for part-time jobs legally after obtaining an NOC from their husband/sponsor and getting a MOHRE permit. Many employers in Ajman encourage flexible working arrangements for women, especially in education, retail, admin, and freelancing.
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