The jewel of the Middle East; the awe-inspiring skylines; the Burj Khalifa – have you ever pictured immersing yourself in one of the richest cultures in the world?
Dubai’s skyline is an eclectic, at times eccentric mix of towering behemoths that echo the abilities of some of the world’s best construction professionals. The city-state boasts a dynamic industry and cutting-edge infrastructure, and the most lucrative construction jobs in Dubai are within your grasp.
If you take a leap of faith, keep reading to learn what that leap entails.
You may have heard ghost stories of the property glut in Dubai following the 2008 financial crisis. Rows upon rows of barely-finished construction projects. All empty.
Deserted. Unsold financial black holes.
The truth is that the economic downturn is over – and it never really started to begin with. The financial crisis was a blip on Dubai’s radar – and now the construction industry has bounced back with a vengeance.
Driven by robust demand for both commercial properties and residential housing, the city’s real estate market is on a steady upward incline that looks set to continue for the foreseeable future. And the construction industry has responded in kind, embarking on a new wave of activity.
Dotted with cranes and construction sites, Dubai’s skyline is a hub of activity.
And the government has ambitious plans for the future. From skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa (breaking global records) to increasing demand for luxury properties, everything looks bright for foreign professionals eyeing construction jobs, because while Dubai is rich in natural resources, it is poor in natural expertise.
The city’s strategic location, its status as a global business hub, a favourable business environment, and visionary leadership have all contributed to this boom.
And with that boom comes a hiring spree. The city is hungry for professionals from abroad – and UK-certified construction workers, managers, and supervisors, are all the rage.
Check out some of the exciting new construction projects currently being planned for Dubai.
What does the city have to offer you?
For UK professionals, the allure of Dubai goes beyond the abundance of job opportunities – highly paid though they may be. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures that offers a near-unrivalled quality of life to its residents.
The cosmopolitan lifestyle, the world-class amenities, the modern infrastructure, and the tax-free salaries. What’s not to love about it?
Moreover, the city’s strategic location makes it a gateway to the Middle East. It provides UK professionals with the opportunity to expand their careers as they broaden their minds and their own personal horizons.
Who wouldn’t want to work on some of the world’s most ambitious, prestigious construction opportunities?
It’s not all about skyscrapers and high-rises, either. The construction jobs on offer in Dubai are diverse. They cater to every skill imaginable in the industry.
Whether you’re an architect, civil engineer, or qualified tradesperson, you’ll find plenty of jobs on offer no matter where you look. But, why?
Architects and civil engineers are needed to meet the demands of the city’s penchant for innovative construction projects. Project managers ensure those projects don’t spiral out of control. And tradespeople – carpenters, electricians, and plumbers – are needed to get their hands dirty and see projects to completion.
Is your interest piqued?
If you’re genuinely considering working for a construction business in the UAE, you’ll need to understand the regulations. Desperate for foreign experts, the UAE government has streamlined the process of obtaining work visas.
To work in Dubai, you’ll need a visa or permit. Usually, those are sponsored by your employer – and many employers even handle the application process for you. The process involves a medical exam and the submission of documents, including your contract and passport.
However, if you’re thinking long-term, then you may consider a Golden Visa.
The Golden Visa grants long-term residency for professionals with certain skills. And yes, this includes those in the construction industry. It’s part of the government’s efforts to attract talent from abroad.
Building a successful career in Dubai is a world apart from switching cities in the UK. Here are some tips to help you land your dream job:
Don’t take our word for it: Understand the market yourself. Take the time to learn the key players and the big fish, and read up on the next big projects to go ahead.
Then you can begin tailoring your CV and networking with other professionals in your field. Highlight the skills that are most relevant on your resume and join professional associations. LinkedIn is a great place to network professionally – but remember, your CV is your marketing tool. Use it wisely.
It’s not easy to relocate, let alone to another country. Most importantly, you’ll need to weigh the accommodation options, the lifestyle, and the cost of living.
Dubai’s cost of living, when compared with the UK, is between 15% and 20% less per person. Factor in eye-watering salaries and bonus schemes (and a lack of state taxes), and you’ll quickly realise it’s a smart financial decision.
The crux of the problem is the lifestyle, the culture, and the distance from home. Ultimately, those matters are up to you.
Dubai has everything on offer from luxury villas to affordable apartments. Choose an accommodation that suits your budget and lifestyle. The city also offers a high standard of living, with world-class healthcare, education, and recreational facilities.
Dubai has a thriving construction industry. Its favourable business environment and high living standards make it an attractive destination for professionals on the hunt for construction jobs in Dubai. Whether you’re established or a newcomer looking for a challenge, the city has something to offer you.
The door is ajar. It’s up to you to walk through it.
SSA Group has been playing the international recruitment game since 2003, and we’ve learned a lot. Originally established in Dubai to cater to foreign professionals, we put our extensive network to work for you. View open Middle Eastern opportunities here to get started!
