Last Updated on April 8, 2025
sThe UAE government classifies private and public sector employees based on their academic qualifications, work experience, and the complexity of their job roles. This system is known as the skill level in UAE, and it plays a vital role in employment classification, work permits, and salary structures.
A job title that aligns with the official classification provided by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) is expected to be held by every employee in an organization. There are 952 job titles grouped under five different skill levels of jobs in the UAE.
Why Are Skill Levels Important?
If you’re wondering, “How can I know my skill level in UAE?”, it’s essential to understand that your salary, benefits, and even work permit fees often depend on your skill category. Employers and the government use the skill level jobs in UAE to determine the professional grade of an employee.
Documentation for Work Permits
To work in skill level jobs UAE under levels 1 to 3, you need to submit educational and experience certificates.
The appropriate authorities in the home country must attest the documents, and the UAE consular office must then verify them. However, employers usually do not require such documentation for workers classified under skill levels 4 and 5.
Skill Level Jobs in UAE: Categories and Requirements
MOHRE has carefully categorized the skill levels of jobs in the UAE as follows:
- Skill Levels 1 to 3: These include professional, technical, and administrative roles. Applicants must provide certified educational qualifications or proof of professional training.
- Skill Levels 4 to 5: These are labor-intensive or operational roles that don’t require formal academic certificates.
The cost of your work permit also depends on your job category and your company’s classification. Workers in construction or production fields may pay different fees compared to those in the service sector.
For the most accurate and updated fee structure, you can visit the Taheel website, a UAE government platform that provides comprehensive labor services.
Benefits for Skilled Workers
Employees under skill levels 1 to 3 enjoy several privileges, such as higher salary brackets, better benefits, and greater job mobility. Therefore, it’s important to know your job’s classification under the skill levels in the UAE system.
Skill Levels of Jobs in the UAE
Here’s a breakdown of the five official skill levels of jobs in the UAE:
- Skill Level 1 – Highly skilled professionals with bachelor’s degrees and specialized roles.
- Skill Level 2 – Mid-level professionals with diplomas or equivalent training.
- Skill Level 3 – Technicians and clerical staff with vocational training.
- Skill Level 4 – Skilled laborers performing practical and manual tasks.
- Skill Level 5 – Basic labor workers with minimal training or education requirements.
In conclusion, understanding the skill levels job in the UAE helps you assess your eligibility for various roles, understand salary expectations, and prepare the right documents. So, next time you ask yourself, “How can I know my skill levels in UAE?” refer back to this guide or check directly with MOHRE or Taheel.
