Carpenter (Joinery / Interior Fit-Out)

As per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), the minimum basic salary for carpenters (profession code 711212) to obtain a work residence permit is AED 3,000 per month as of January 2026. Contracts must include accommodation allowance of at least AED 500 or provided housing. Overtime pay is 125% of basic hourly rate for first 2 hours, 150% thereafter.

Foreign carpenters require an employer-sponsored employment visa valid for 2 years, renewable up to 10 years for skilled workers. Key steps include employer obtaining work permit (AED 250 fee), applicant undergoing medical fitness test (AED 350) and security clearance. Processing completes in 5 working days via MOHRE smart services.

MOHRE requires carpenters to be aged 21-60 years with at least 2 years verifiable experience in carpentry for work permit approval. No formal education certificate is mandatory, but trade test attestation from home country labor ministry is needed for non-Emiratis. UAE nationals under 18 can apply with guardian consent.

Required documents include passport copy valid 6+ months, 4 passport photos, attested experience certificate, job offer letter, and medical fitness report from government-approved center (cost AED 350). Employer submits via MOHRE portal with entry permit fee AED 200. Emirates ID application follows visa stamping (AED 100 first year).