The most popular areas for professionals are the UAE and several Gulf nations, including Dubai. The UAE’s economy is a business-booming economy, therefore, many job seekers feel attraction towards it. However, before starting their job search, job applicants frequently have a crucial question regarding the average salary in Dubai. So, it is essential to be aware of Dubai’s minimum wages in order to abide by the laws and regulations.
In this article, we will be giving you the insights and trends regarding what is the minimum wage in Dubai. Employees’ primary concerns when it pertains to employment relate to the earnings paid out and the expense of living. Employee knowledge and experience directly influence their average salary in Dubai or other financial rewards. positions requiring knowledge and competence are highly rewarded, while roles demanding fewer abilities receive less.
Factors Affecting Salaries
Dubai is a popular destination for tourists, expatriates and entrepreneurs. The city offers a high standard of living, a diverse culture and a booming economy. But how much can you expect to obtain regarding your average salary in Dubai? What are the factors that affect your minimum wage Dubai?
- The industry you work in is one of the most important factors that determine your average salary in Dubai. Some of the highest paying industries in Dubai are finance, engineering, IT, healthcare and construction. According to studies, the average salary in these industries ranges from 21,000 AED to 42,000 AED per month. On the other hand, some of the lowest paying industries are hospitality, retail, education and administration. The average salary in these industries ranges from 5,000 AED to 12,000 AED per month.
- The number of years you have been working in your field also affects your salary in Dubai. Usually, as you have more work experience, your average salary in Dubai will rise. Recent studies show that average salary for an entry-level employee in Dubai is 12,000 AED per month, while the average salary for a senior-level employee is 35,000 AED per month. However, the minimum wage in Dubai may vary depending on the industry and the company you work for.
- Your educational background and the country you have graduated from also play a role in your average salary in Dubai. Typically, graduates from American, British, and Australian colleges make more money than others. This is because these countries are considered to have high-quality education systems and prestigious institutions. Additionally, having a higher degree such as a master’s or a PhD can also increase your salary potential in Dubai.
Average Salaries by Industry
Here is the average salary in Dubai per month in some industries:
- Finance and Accounting: 10,000 AED to 130,000 AED.
- Banking and Financial: 15,000 AED to 155,500 AED.
- Digital: 10,000 AED for graphic designers to 90,000 AED for chief digital officers.
- Technology: 10,000 AED for support staff to 130,000 AED for chief IT officers.
- Oil and Gas: 32,000 AED to 48,000 AED.
- Engineering: 9,000 AED to 122,000 AED.
- Healthcare: 7,000 AED to 87,000 AED.
- Education: 5,000 AED to 84,000 AED.
- Hospitality and Tourism: 4,800 AED to 62,000 AED.
As you can see, there is a huge gap between the lowest and highest salaries in each industry. This is because Dubai attracts both highly skilled professionals and low-skilled workers from all over the world. The demand and supply of talent also affect the salary levels in each sector.
Salary Negotiation Tips
If you want to get the best possible average salary in Dubai, here are some tips on how to negotiate effectively:
- Do your research: Before you apply for a job or go for an interview, do some research on the average salary for your position and industry in Dubai. You can use online tools to get an idea of what others are earning. This will help you set a realistic expectation and avoid asking for too much or too little.
- Highlight your achievements: When discussing your salary with your employer, highlight your achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your value and skills. Use concrete examples and numbers to show how you contributed to your previous or current company’s goals and performance. This will help you justify your salary request and impress your employer.
- Be flexible: While you should have a salary range in mind, be flexible and open to negotiation. Do not be too rigid or stubborn about your salary expectations, as this can turn off your employer and ruin your chances of getting hired. Instead, be willing to compromise and consider other benefits that your employer may offer, such as housing allowance, health insurance, transportation allowance, or bonuses.
- Be polite and professional: Finally, be polite and professional throughout the negotiation process. Do not be rude, arrogant, or aggressive when asking for your salary. Instead, be respectful, courteous, and confident. Thank your employer for their offer and express your interest and enthusiasm for the job. This will help you build a positive rapport and relationship with your employer and increase your chances of getting the salary you want.
Cost of Living Comparison
Housing: One of the biggest expenses for anyone living in the UAE is housing. The UAE is known for its modern and luxurious buildings, but they also come with a high price tag. The average monthly rent for a furnished 85 m2 apartment in an expensive area of Dubai is 9,910 AED, while in a normal area it is 7,073 AED. In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, the average monthly rent for a similar apartment in an expensive area is 8,500 AED, while in a normal area it is 6,500 AED.
Food: The UAE imports most of its food from other countries, which makes it more expensive than locally produced food. The average cost of a basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district of Dubai is 41 AED, while a combo meal in a fast food restaurant is 32 AED. A kilogram (2 lb.) of tomatoes costs 4.88 AED ($1.33), while a dozen eggs costs 14 AED ($3.81).
Transportation: The UAE has a well-developed road network and public transportation system, but it also has high fuel prices and traffic congestion. The average cost of a one-way ticket on local transport in Dubai is 7.50 AED, while a monthly pass costs 300 AED. A liter (1/4 gallon) of gas costs 2.29 AED, while a new Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 150 CV (or equivalent) costs 90,230 AED.
Utilities: The UAE has a hot and dry climate, which means that electricity, cooling, and water are in high demand. The average cost of basic utilities for 85 m2 apartment in Dubai is 893 AED, while the average cost of internet is 330 AED. In Abu Dhabi, the average cost of basic utilities for a similar apartment is 800 AED, while the average cost of internet is 350 AED.
Latest Salary Trends
According to recent studies regarding average salary in Dubai and salary trends, the UAE’s economy will be the fastest growing in the Gulf region in 2023. This, thanks to its strong recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and its success in attracting tourists and investors. The guide predicts that wages in the UAE will increase by just under 2% in 2023. However, salaries in the UAE still remain higher than those in the UK, Europe and Australia. Also, these regions offer other benefits such as tax-free income and a high quality of life.
These studies on Dubai minimum wage also reveals that more than half of the UAE-basing organizations surveyed (55%) grew their workforce in 2022. Similarly, 59% plan to increase their headcount in 2023. The most in-demand sectors are aviation and tourism, which have outperformed market expectations throughout 2022. As well as government, healthcare, technology and education.
According to recruitment experts, offering an attractive benefit package is crucial to luring the finest candidates. Some businesses are thinking creatively and providing employees with additional bonuses or one-time stipends to aid with an increase in the cost of living, as well as to increase employee loyalty and entice them to stay with the company.
To sum up, the latest salary trends in the UAE indicate a healthy and growing economy that offers many opportunities for professionals across various sectors. However, salaries alone may not be enough to satisfy the expectations and needs of the workforce, so employers need to adopt a holistic approach to compensation and benefits that considers both financial and non-financial factors.
If you want to learn more about other employment topics in the UAE, go to our Connect Freelance blogs section!