
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Introduction
Nestled on the Arabian Peninsula between Saudi Arabia and Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates, including cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Its transformation from desert landscapes to a modern, cosmopolitan hub has captivated the world, symbolising growth and development.
The partnership between India and the UAE runs deep, rooted in shared history and common aspirations for peace and prosperity. This alliance is poised to flourish further, fostering new avenues of collaboration and unlocking boundless opportunities for both nations.
The United Arab Emirates' flag is a beautiful symbol of unity and progress. The colours hold meanings that reflect the nation's values. The red stripe represents courage and determination, the green signifies growth and prosperity, white symbolises peace and purity and black stands for strength and solidarity.
The UAE is usually 1 hour and 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time (IST). For example, if it's 12:00 PM IST in India, it would be 1:30 PM GST (Gulf Standard Time) in the UAE.
The distance between India and the United Arab Emirates is around 1,900 to 2,200 kilometres (1,180 to 1,370 miles), depending on the specific cities. A direct flight between major cities like Mumbai and Dubai typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, while flights between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi may take slightly longer, around 4 to 5 hours. These flight durations can vary due to factors like route, weather conditions and airline schedules.
Arabic is the official language of the United Arab Emirates and is widely used in government, business and everyday communication. English is also widely spoken and serves as the common language, especially in the business and tourism sectors.
The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the UAE Dirham, abbreviated as AED. As of April 2024, 1 AED is equivalent to 22.72 Indian Rupees (INR).
The United Arab Emirates has a desert climate, featuring hot and dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and mild winters with temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Rainfall is minimal throughout the year and sandstorms are occasional, especially in the summer.
The United Arab Emirates is not prone to major natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes or tsunamis due to its geographical location. However, it does experience occasional sandstorms, especially during the summer months.
The United Arab Emirates boasts a diverse culinary scene influenced by a melting pot of cultures, melding traditional Arabic cuisine with global flavours.
Vegan: Falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves
Vegetarian: Falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves, vegetable biryani
Non-vegetarian: Shawarma, kebabs, biryani, grilled lamb, grilled chicken, grilled fish, shrimp dishes.
In the United Arab Emirates, a significant portion of the population adheres to halal dietary restrictions. Halal refers to what is permissible or lawful in traditional Islamic law. This includes specific guidelines for the preparation and consumption of meat and other food products. Certain meats such as pork are strictly prohibited in Islam and are not consumed by observant Muslims.
Traditional clothing reflects the cultural heritage and Islamic values of the region. For men, the traditional attire typically includes the "kandura" or "thobe," which is a long, ankle-length robe usually made of lightweight white fabric, worn with a headscarf called the "ghutra" or "keffiyeh" and secured with an "agal," a black cord. Women often wear the "abaya," a loose-fitting, black robe that covers the body from the shoulders to the feet, often paired with a headscarf called the "shayla" or "hijab."
While traditional attire is common, western-style clothing is also widely worn, especially in urban areas and among expatriates. However, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully, particularly in public places and during religious occasions.
Occasion | Date |
The New Year | 1st January |
Eid Al Fitr | From 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal* (4 days) |
Arafah day and Eid Al Adha | From 9 to 12 Dhu al Hijjah* (4 days) |
Islamic New Year | Hijri New Year* |
Prophet Mohammed's Birthday | 29 September |
National Day | 2 and 3 December (2 days) |
*Note: Islamic holidays are determined according to moon sighting. |
Transport in the UAE heavily rely on roadways, with no railways or waterways. The country features numerous ports, over 40 airports and a well-developed network for domestic and international flights. Dubai also boasts a modern metro system.
Before oil was discovered in the 1950s, the UAE's economy relied on subsistence activities like farming and pearling. Post-discovery, under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's leadership, the nation's oil wealth fuelled a transformation in infrastructure, education and healthcare, establishing a modern government framework. These investments catalysed rapid growth, elevating the UAE's GDP per capita to over $50,000 by 2023, surpassing the UK and most of Europe.
The UAE's evolution has brought significant social and cultural shifts, transforming it into a vibrant multicultural hub with over 200 nationalities.
Key areas of transformation include:
Infrastructure: The UAE boasts world-class infrastructure, with top-tier roads, airports and ports.
Education: Investment in education has yielded a system that rivals the best globally, achieving a literacy rate of 98.2% among young adults.
Healthcare: A state-of-the-art healthcare system has elevated life expectancies to over 79 for males and 83 for females.
Government: The UAE features a modern, efficient and transparent government, enhancing service delivery and accountability.
Economy: With a GDP of $486 billion in 2022, the UAE has successfully diversified its economy beyond oil, becoming a pivotal trade, tourism and finance centre.
From a modest population of 344,000 in 1971, the UAE has burgeoned to over 9.5 million people by 2023.
Before deciding on moving to Dubai, here are a few costs of migration that you must consider.
Economic Costs: Includes recruitment fee, passport, visa, emigration clearance and insurance.
Social Costs: You might be leaving behind your elderly parents, spouse and children.
Health Costs: The physical and mental distress caused due to moving to another country.
However, it also comes with its own benefits like:
Higher wages and currency exchange
A chance to experience a different culture
Diversified work experience
Before moving to the UAE for work, it's crucial to consider several financial aspects:
Debt and Repayment Plan: Assess the need for any planned debt, detailing the amount, interest rate and a structured repayment strategy to avoid financial strain.
Currency Exchange Rates: Stay informed about exchange rates to optimise financial transactions and budget effectively in the UAE's currency.
Cost of Living in Dubai: Research the expenses related to housing, transportation, food and leisure to ensure your budget aligns with the city's living standards.
Savings and Emergency Fund: Prioritise building savings and an emergency fund to navigate unforeseen expenses and ensure financial stability during your time in the UAE.
Insurance: Obtain necessary insurance coverage such as health, car or home insurance to safeguard against unexpected events and mitigate financial risks while living and working in the UAE.
The UAE boasts a vibrant job market rich in opportunities for international talent, making it a prime destination for Indian migrants across multiple sectors.
Workforce Landscape and Trends
The UAE's labour force participation rate rose to 82.2% in December 2022 from 81.3% the prior year, encompassing a 6.5 million-strong workforce across agriculture, industry and services.
In 2018, the UAE's unemployment rate stood at a low 2.2%.
A study done by NSDC notes that UAE stands as the 6th leading destination for international migrants, with migrants constituting 88% of its population in 2019.
Opportunity Landscape across Key Sectors
An NSDC 2022 study forecasts that the UAE will need about one million Indian workers in the next five years, spanning sectors like:
Construction
Wholesale & Retail Trade
Travel & Tourism
Human Health & Social Work
Transportation & Warehousing
Technology
Kafala System in UAE
Kafala is a legal framework followed by the Gulf countries, including UAE. Key points about the Kafala system include:
It falls in the jurisdiction of interior ministries rather than the labour ministries.
It allows companies and local individuals to employ foreign labourers.
It covers the travel expenses and housing for the migrant worker.
Workers' employment and residency visas are linked and only sponsors can renew or terminate them.
This gives sponsors a great deal of control over the worker's life, including the ability to change jobs, leave the country or even leave the employer's home.
(Kafala) Rights of Migrants in UAE | |
|---|---|
Join unions or worker committees | Yes |
Change job or quit without employer’s permission | In Some Cases |
Leave country without employer’s permission | Yes |
Minimum wage | No |
Labour law covers domestic workers | In Some Cases |
Standard contract for all workers | Yes |
The Kafala system comes with certain risks like exploitation of workers with limited rights and legal status.
However, the UAE government is constantly reforming it. In 2021, the government announced that migrant workers don’t need the employer’s permission to switch jobs.
A. NSDC International
You can apply for jobs in the UAE online through the online portal of National Skill Development Corporation International.
Link: https://www.nsdcinternational.com/looking-for-jobs
B. Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs)
Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs) serve as vital intermediaries connecting prospective workers with employment opportunities in the UAE. These agencies facilitate job searches, assist in obtaining necessary travel and employment documents and provide clarity on employment contract terms. To ensure a legitimate and secure process, individuals should engage only with licensed IRAs, steering clear of unauthorised sub-agents. Adherence to the Emigration Act of 1983 and its associated regulations is crucial in safeguarding against fraudulent practices. Additionally, the Government of the UAE offers an online portal, "Dubai Careers," as a resource for job seekers to explore available opportunities.
Identifying Licensed Indian Recruitment Agencies
To prevent fraudulent practices, it's essential to differentiate between licensed and unlicensed recruitment agencies. The following points can assist you in making this distinction:
a) Registered agents will prominently display their Registration Certificate (RC), issued by the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE), in their office premises. You will also find a noticeable signboard in front of the business premises should show the Recruiting Agent's name, registration number and year of registration. Ensure that the RC is valid and not expired.
b) If the recruiting agent is authorized to carry on business at additional premises, an attested copy of the registration certificate with an endorsement by the registering authority will be displayed at noticeable place in the business premises of such Branch Office.
c) A registered RA will have office premises of at least 50 square meters of built-up area with necessary amenities, such as a waiting hall, interview room, internet facility and other office amenities. Unregistered RAs may operate from inadequate or questionable office premises, lacking essential amenities.
d) It will have arrangements for skill testing for the trades for which the RA recruits the intending emigrants.
e) The charges which the recruiting agent may recover for the services rendered, shall not exceed the amount equivalent to wages for 45 days as per the employment contract subject to maximum Rs.20,000.
To determine whether a Recruitment Agent (RA) is registered with the Ministry, you can visit the list of Recruiting Agents on the website https://www.emigrate.gov.in.
Responsibilities of Indian Recruiting Agencies
All Indian Recruitment Agencies shall:
a) Provide you the employment details, including contact conditions before you are recruited.
b) Make efforts to ensure your proper reception by the employer in the UAE.
c) Make efforts to ensure that after the employment, the employer shall not alter the terms of the employment contract.
d) Endeavour to ensure that the employer takes timely action for renewal of documents authorizing your stay in UAE.
e) Facilitate amicable settlement of disputes between you and the employer.
f) Issue receipt for the payments made by you.
g) Issue only such advertisements that are genuine and factually correct and shall refrain from any inducement or misrepresentation in this regard.
h) Ensure that the employer observes the terms and conditions of the employment contact.
For more information on RAs, please refer to the given link:https://www.mea.gov.in/ras.htm.
Living and working in the UAE presents unique challenges for Indian migrants, including:
1. Cultural Adjustment: The transition to a more conservative culture can be challenging. Adapting to the social norms may require significant adjustment, particularly for those accustomed to India's diverse cultural landscape.
2. Language Barrier: Arabic is the official language, posing a challenge for those not proficient in it. While English is commonly used in business settings, everyday tasks like shopping or interacting with local authorities may prove difficult without knowledge of Arabic.
3. Weather and Climate: UAE's desert climate brings scorching temperatures, especially during summer, with inland areas reaching up to 42°C and desert regions soaring as high as 55°C. Coastal areas offer some relief but still maintain warm temperatures averaging between 27°C to 38°C.
4. Cost of Living: The UAE's higher cost of living compared to India can strain finances. With expenses averaging significantly higher, maintaining a comfortable standard of living may require careful budgeting and adjustment to spending habits.
5. Loneliness and Homesickness: Distance from family and familiar surroundings can lead to feelings of isolation and longing for home, particularly during holidays or significant life events. Managing these emotions while maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being.
Despite these challenges, many Indian migrants have successfully integrated into the UAE society by building support networks, fostering cultural awareness and demonstrating a willingness to adapt. These strategies can help ease the transition and enhance the overall experience of living and working in the UAE.
1. Labour Laws for Migrants
Migrant workers in the UAE must adhere to specific labour laws governing their residency, employment and entitlements.
Residency and Employment: Expatriates can remain in the UAE only while their work permits and residence visas remain valid. It's important to note that the UAE does not grant residency or citizenship to foreign nationals.
Legal Actions: In cases of employer misconduct, migrant workers have the right to seek compensation with sufficient evidence. They also possess the freedom to resign from their jobs and cannot be compelled to reimburse visa expenses except in certain circumstances.
Contract Legitimacy: All employment contracts must be sanctioned by the Ministry of Labour to be legally binding. Job changes necessitate employer consent and while workers cannot appeal job terminations, they reserve the right to claim compensation.
Prohibited Practices: Employers are forbidden from accepting payments from employees for sponsorship transfers. Breach of contract by employees warrants compensation claims from employers.
Offenses and Penalties: Migrant workers may face penalties for various offenses, including providing false identities, disobedience, causing financial losses, misconduct, etc.
Note: Housemaids are not protected by the UAE’s labour laws.
2. Documentation
Employers are legally barred from retaining employees' passports. Migrant workers must possess valid work permits, residence visas and labour contracts to engage in employment.
3. Family Visa
Employees meeting specific salary requirements may apply for family visas, although not all job titles qualify for this privilege.
4. Job Change
Engineers and professionals can switch jobs after two years of continuous service with the consent of their current sponsor and provided they hold valid residence visas.
5. Leave Entitlements
Workers have the right to leave their current jobs if their employer breaches the terms of their contract, assaults them or fails to pay their wages promptly. Promotions necessitate the creation of new contracts endorsed by the Ministry of Labour.
6. Contract Termination
Compensation is mandatory for terminating limited contracts, whereas unlimited contracts can be terminated with proper notice. Failure to pay salaries may result in the seizure of an employer's assets.
7. Maternity Leave and Driving Licences
Maternity leave is available to female employees after one year of continuous service, with partial-pay maternity leave being an option for those who haven't met the requisite employment duration. Certain visa holders are ineligible for UAE’s driving licences.
8. Complaints Procedure
Migrant workers can lodge complaints with the Ministry of Labour regarding unlawful deductions from their wages.
These regulations are in place to protect the rights and ensure fair treatment of migrant workers within the UAE.
Migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates must comprehend and adhere to their responsibilities to uphold a positive and respectful work environment.
Proper Leave Notification: Notify the employer well in advance for any leave, preventing disruption to work schedules.
Sickness Reporting: Inform the employer promptly about illnesses and provide medical certificates for transparency.
Safety in Extreme Weather: Take precautions in extreme weather conditions to prevent health risks.
Health Precautions: Practice safe behaviours to prevent the spread of diseases, including HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Respect for Host Country's Culture: Respect local customs, traditions and dress codes, fostering positive relationships.
Respect for Women: Treat women with dignity and respect, avoiding inappropriate behaviour.
Avoiding Illegal Activities: Refrain from engaging in any illegal activities, including drug abuse or discrimination.
Knowledge of Local Laws: Familiarise oneself with UAE laws and adhere to them, including traffic rules for safety.
Adherence to Workplace Regulations: Follow workplace rules and regulations to maintain order and safety.
Document Management: Keep important documents updated and inform employers about renewals.
Seeking Help: Reach out for assistance in case of problems or disputes, utilising available support channels.
Do's:
Know the Laws: Be aware of UAE laws, especially labour laws, to understand rights and obligations.
Keep Important Contact Numbers: Maintain a list of essential contact numbers for emergencies and support services.
Report Abuse and Grievances: Report any abuse or grievances promptly to the relevant authorities.
Maintain Records: Keep essential documents and information updated and share them with trusted contacts.
Use Legal Remittance Schemes: Ensure money transactions comply with legal remittance channels.
Plan for Retirement: Start a pension scheme early and invest wisely for future financial security.
Protect Against Identity Theft: Safeguard personal information and be vigilant against identity theft.
Have Insurance Cover: Obtain necessary insurance coverage for medical and life protection.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Practice regular exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle suitable for the job.
Legal Preparedness: Have a legally acceptable will and mandatory unemployment insurance.
Don'ts:
Avoid Religious Controversy: Refrain from posting controversial religious views on social media to prevent offense.
Respect Traditions and Privacy: Avoid violating cultural norms, taking pictures of restricted areas or posting images without consent.
Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive information like passwords or PINs with anyone.
Alcohol Consumption: Do not consume alcohol in public areas unless permitted by appropriate licensing.
Avoid Blank Signatures: Never sign blank documents or cheques to prevent misuse.
Don’t Abscond: Instead of fleeing, report issues to relevant authorities for resolution.
1. Legislation Overview:
The entry and residence of foreign citizens in the UAE are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. (29) of 2021, commonly referred to as the "Dubai Entry Law."
2. Regulatory Authority:
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is responsible for executing the Dubai Entry Law.
3. Professional Classification:
MoHRE classifies employment into nine professional levels based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) by the International Labour Organization.
These levels include:
Level 1: Legislators, managers and business executives
Level 2: Professionals in scientific, technical and human fields
Level 3: Technicians in scientific, technical and humanitarian fields
Level 4: Writing professionals
Level 5: Service and sales occupations
Level 6: Skilled workers in agriculture, fisheries and animal husbandry
Level 7: Craftsmen in construction, mining and other trades
Level 8: Operators and assemblers of machinery and equipment
Level 9: Simple professions
4. Criteria for Skilled Work:
To be engaged in 'skilled work,' a labourer must meet the following conditions:
Belong to professional levels one to five as mentioned above.
Hold a certificate higher than a secondary certificate or an equivalent.
Have the certificate attested by competent authorities.
Earn a monthly salary (excluding commission) not less than INR 90618 (equivalent to AED 4,000).
5. Regulatory Visa Framework for Indian Skilled Workforce:
While there is no specific regulatory framework for Indian skilled workers under the Dubai Entry Law or MoHRE policy, Indian citizens meeting certain criteria can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum of 14 days if they:
Hold an Indian passport.
Possess a visit visa or green card issued by the United States of America (USA) or a residence visa issued by the United Kingdom (UK) or European Union (EU), valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in the UAE.
The employment of workers in the United Arab Emirates is regulated by Federal Decree-Law No. (33) of 2021, known as the Employment Relationship Regulation. This law mandates that employers must obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) before hiring any worker in the UAE.
Penalties: Article 60(3) of the Employment Relationship Regulation imposes fines ranging from INR 11,17,000 to INR 44,68,000 for misuse of work permits.
Application Process:
Job Offer: An UAE-based employer provides a job offer letter to the prospective employee.
Work Permit Application: The employer applies for a work permit on behalf of the employee, submitting necessary documents such as passport and educational qualifications.
Entry Visa Application: Once the work permit is approved, the employee applies for an entry visa, providing additional documents if necessary.
Residence Permit: Upon receiving the entry visa, the employee undergoes immigration procedures to obtain a residence permit and Emirates ID card.
Types of Work Permits:
MoHRE issues various types of work permits depending on job requirements. Some permits relevant to Indian citizens include:
Work permit for hiring workers from abroad
Work permit for transferring workers between establishments
Temporary work permit for specific jobs or projects
Freelance permit for self-sponsored foreigners
Service Fees: Service fees for work permits vary based on the company's classification (A, B or C), ranging from INR 5,585 to INR 77,073. This classification is based on the company's compliance with UAE labour laws and relevant regulations.
Foreign nationals intending to work in the UAE must acquire a Residency Visa in addition to a work permit, which is facilitated by their employer. This visa is granted by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and is essential for legal employment in the country.
There are three primary categories of residence visas for employment purposes in the UAE:
Standard Work Visa: Designed for individuals employed in either the government or private sectors.
Green Visa for Work: A specialised visa granted to skilled employees, offering a longer validity period of up to 5 years.
Domestic Worker Visa: Exclusively provided to individuals working as domestic helpers in households within the UAE.
Indian nationals can obtain a standard employment visa in the UAE under the following conditions:
Employed in the private sector or government sector/free zone.
The employer must initiate the application process for the standard work (residence) visa.
Documents Required for Standard Work Visa:
When applying for a UAE work visa as an Indian national, the following documents are necessary:
Valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of six months.
Copy of employment contract or offer letter from the UAE company.
Copies of educational certificates attested by relevant authorities.
Experience certificates for experienced employees, attested by previous employers.
Recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
Completed visa application form.
Medical fitness certificate from an authorised medical centre.
Emirates ID application form.
Visa Application Steps:
The visa application process can be completed through digital channels, customer happiness centres or Amer service centres. The steps include:
Filling the application form with accurate details.
Submission of required documents.
Payment of service fees.
The visa fee structure includes:
Residence Visa fee: AED 200 (INR 4530)
Additional charges: Knowledge dirham (AED 10, INR 226.5) and Innovation dirham (AED 10, INR 226.5)
Fee inside the country: AED 500 (INR 11327)
Delivery fee: AED 20 (INR 453)
The Emirates ID stands as a cornerstone of identity verification within the United Arab Emirates, mandated for all citizens and residents by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP). This national identity card serves as a pivotal document facilitating various administrative, financial and regulatory processes integral to life in the UAE.
Significance:
Emirates ID serves as a tool for seamless interaction with governmental bodies, enabling access to an array of essential services. It also holds a lot of importance in commercial transactions, particularly in the field of banking. Moreover, it streamlines utility bill payments, aids in vehicle registration and facilitates the settlement of traffic fines. Crucially, Emirates ID plays a pivotal role in affirming residency status at UAE airports.
Components:
Emirates ID holds essential personal information including the cardholder's photograph, biometric data and date of birth. Its most distinctive feature is the inclusion of a unique 15-digit identity number, essential for verification across governmental and private entities.
Application Process:
Applying for an Emirates ID necessitates the provision of requisite documentation, notably a valid passport and residency or entry permit. Applicants can opt for an expedited online application process also. Alternatively, physical application through customer care centres extends the processing time to five days.
Cost Structure:
The acquisition of an Emirates ID entails financial considerations encompassing various fees:
Card Issuance Fee (valid for five years): AED 100 (approx. INR 2265)
Service Fee: AED 150 (approx. INR 3397.5)
Typing Centre Fee: AED 30 (approx. INR 678)
Additional fees for Urgent Service: AED 150 (approx. INR 3397.5)
The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, has implemented several services to assist individuals planning to work abroad. These services include:
1) e-Migrate
You can visit the e-Migrate website (https://emigrate.gov.in/) for assistance with issues related to living and working abroad. The e-Migrate website provides assistance in various areas, including but not limited to:
Online capturing of important emigrant data.
Verification of credentials of Foreign Employers (FE) and Registered Recruitment Agencies (IRA).
Online generation of employment contracts.
Insurance coverage for emigrants through the Pravasi Bhartiya Bima Yojana, up to Rs. 10 lakhs.
2) Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK)
PBSK serves as a facilitation centre offering support services to individuals intending to go abroad for employment purposes. PBSK receives and provides information or registers complaints on behalf of emigrants, channeling them to the relevant MEA officials (Protectors General of Emigrants, Protectors of Emigrants or Indian Embassies/Consulates in foreign countries) for action. It operates a 24x7 helpline (1800113090) providing information to emigrants and their families.
The setup of PBSK also includes five Kshetriya Pravasi Sahayata Kendras (KPSKs), formerly known as Migrant Resource Centres (MRCs), located in Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kochi. These centres operate in coordination with Protectors of Emigrants (PoEs) in these cities, assisting emigrants needing face-to-face interaction for grievance redressal and queries.
3) Protector General of Emigrants (PGE)
The Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) in the Ministry of External Affairs is responsible for safeguarding the interests of Indian workers proceeding abroad for employment. PGEs grant emigration clearance to intending emigrants as per procedures outlined in the Emigration Act, 1983. They also inspect emigrant conveyances departing or arriving in India, enquire about emigrants' treatment during their journey and residence abroad and offer assistance and advice to returning emigrants.
4) Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
PKVY is a skill development initiative aiming to provide industry-relevant skill training to youth. The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has established Skill India International Centres (SIICs) across the country, focusing on sectors such as domestic work, retail, tourism, hospitality, capital goods, healthcare, construction, automotive and security.
5) Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY)
Before applying for Emigration clearance (EC) on eMigrate, it's essential to enrol in the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY). PBBY offers insurance coverage for accidental death and permanent disability, with premiums of Rs. 275 for two years or Rs. 375 for three years. Claims can be made online via the eMigrate portal, with further information available through PBSK.
6) Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF)
ICWF aims to provide various services to emigrant workers, including boarding and lodging for distressed Overseas Indian workers, emergency medical care, assistance for distressed NRI women, air passage for stranded Overseas Indians, initial legal assistance, payment of fines/penalties in deserving cases and support for accidental death or repatriation of mortal remains.
Documents required for transportation of mortal remains include a power of attorney and consent from the legal heir, clinical death certificate, embalming certificate, passport for cancellation and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Indian Mission/Post.
Basic knowledge of the local language can ease communication and facilitate integration into the society and workplaces. Here are some basic phrases that you can learn to ensure a smooth transition:
English | Arabic (Pronunciation Phonetics) |
|---|---|
Hello | Marhaba |
How are you? | Keef Halek |
Good Morning | Sabah Al Kair |
Good Evening | Masaa Al Kair |
Good | Kowaies |
Very Good | Kowaies Kateer |
Please | Min Fadlak |
Thank you | Shookran |
Excuse Me | Ismahlee |
Never mind | Maaleesh |
OK | Taieb |
Yes | Aiwa |
No | La |
Maybe | Yimken |
None, nothing, nobody | Mafee |
My name is ______ | Esmi huwa |
I’m fine | Ana jayyed (M)/jayyedah (F) |
Please | Law samaht |
Thank you | Shukran |
You’re welcome | Afwan |
I’m sorry | Ana asef (M)/ Ana asefa (F) |
Help!! | Mosa’adah! |
I don’t speak Arabic | Ana la atakallamu Al arabiyyah. |
Good morning | Sabah Alkhayr |
Good afternoon | Masa’ Alkhayr |
Good evening | Masa’ Alkhayr |
It’s a pleasure to meet you | Min Dawaei Sururi Muqabalatuk |
Have a nice day | Atamanaa lLk Yawm Saeid |

Frequently asked questions
You can apply for a passport online through the Passport Seva website (https://www.passportindia.gov.in/). The steps involve registering, logging in, filling out an application form, scheduling an appointment and visiting the passport office with your documents.
An ECR passport is issued to those who haven't completed 10th grade. Non-ECR is for those with 10th grade or higher education. ECR holders for certain countries may need emigration clearance.
ECR passport holders working in UAE need Emigration Clearance (EC). If recruited by a Registered Agent (RA) or Project Exporter (PE) with valid permits, they handle your EC through the eMigrate portal. Otherwise, you can apply yourself on the eMigrate portal if directly recruited by a Foreign Employer (FE). You can find the latest process details on the Passport Seva Website.
To open an NRE account in the UAE as a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), you'll typically need documents like passport, UAE residency proof, Indian address proof and NRI status verification (work visa etc.). While some banks offer online applications, others might require a branch visit. Check with your preferred bank for their specific requirements and process.
The UAE's booming economy thrives on migrant workers, with opportunities in construction, wholesale & retail trade, travel & tourism, healthcare, transportation & warehousing and even the growing tech sector.
The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India offers a range of services to assist migrants. These include e-Migrate for online assistance with living and working abroad, Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK) for support services and complaint resolution, Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) for emigration clearance and protection of workers' interests, Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY) for skill development, Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) for insurance coverage and the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) for various forms of assistance to distressed overseas Indian workers.

