If you're familiar with my own story, you might already know that one of the most concerning aspects of becoming a trailing spouse was the impact it would have on my own career plans. It took a huge amount of effort on my part, and support from those around me to have the confidence and self belief to continue on the path I started back home, despite the financial, regulatory and emotional challenges that the move presented.
If you've moved to the UAE as a trailing spouse, having left the independence and security of your own career behind, I hope this post will help you find the courage to follow your own path. I hope I can help you understand the system here to create a new opportunity of your own.
Dubai has a highly competitive job market, intricate regulations for employment and business creation, and a global workforce from a wide range of economic backgrounds, It’s understandable that finding meaningful work might seem impossible at first, especially if the career you had back home doesn't offer comparable benefits and compensation.
If you're expecting a quick fix, you might find yourself in a job that doesn't light you up. But if you're prepared to take control and look ahead, you'll find there are many options out there and with some hard work and determination, I know you can build a career you can be proud of.
Network, Network, Network!
Dubai’s job market is built on connections. It really is all about who you know and nurturing relationships. Dubai is all about working hard to play hard, and this is highlighted by the pure quantity of networking events being held all over the city and in every industry you can think of. Many opportunities in Dubai arise through word-of-mouth and personal recommendations, so building your network is crucial. Depending on your professional background, this might feel uncomfortable at first, but once you get through the first couple of events, it actually becomes quite fun and you just never know what opportunities might come up.
LinkedIn is widely used in the UAE, so update your profile, engage with posts, and connect with industry leaders in your field. Dubai also has numerous co-working spaces where you can meet like-minded professionals, including other ambitious trailing spouses who may have valuable insights to share.
Research Job Market Trends and Key Industries
Dubai is a hub for industries like finance, technology, hospitality, healthcare, and education. Consider how your specific skills and experience align with market demands and update your CV to include these keywords. Conduct research into which sectors are currently hiring and where your expertise can fill a gap. Bare in mind, recruiters are getting hundreds of applicants per position, many of which are inappropriate, so make sure its very clear from a glance at your CV that you're qualified and experienced in your field.
Consider Self-Employment and Freelancing Options
If formal employment proves challenging or if you're looking for more flexibility, freelancing or starting your own business may be an ideal solution. The UAE has set up several Free Zones, which are economic areas that offer business-friendly incentives, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and flexible visa options for business owners.
Even if your residency is sponsored by your spouse, you can still obtain a freelance permit or a business licence to work in your own right. A freelance permit allows you to operate legally as a self-employed individual for companies inside and outside of the UAE. Setting up a company in a Free Zone may require a little initial investment, but it can provide the foundation for you to work independently and set your own rates. It would be wise to also consider the cost of having a business bank account which is a requirement for business owners.
Understand the Competitive Landscape
Dubai’s job market brings together professionals from all over the world, including many from countries with lower economic benchmarks, who may accept lower wages. If you come from a higher-income background, you may find that certain positions are priced below your expectations. However, rather than lowering your rates, consider positioning yourself as a specialist or finding a niche that allows you to charge according to the value of your experience.
Emphasise your unique skills, qualifications, and work experience when competing in this market. For example, if you have niche expertise or specialised certifications, highlight these in your CV and during interviews to differentiate yourself from others in the field. Target organisations that recognise the value of experience and are willing to invest in employees with a global perspective.
Expand Your Skills and Knowledge
If you're finding that your industry is particularly competitive, now might be the time to consider how you can update your skills to set you ahead of other candidates. Being a trailing spouse can provide a pause in your career, which gives you time for focused growth, both in your personal life and your career.
If you're planning to continue on the professional trajectory of you prior career, then you can figure out what additional skills or qualifications can take you a step higher. Alternatively, if you're considering a career change, what course or training could you do now to maximise your standing in that new field. It's important to remember that when you start something new, you are bringing with you all the professional experience and expertise you've developed throughout your working life, so make sure to add this unique combination of skills to conversations when networking.
Explore Remote and International Job Opportunities
With remote work now widely accepted under the Virtual Work Visa, you may be able to find employment with companies outside the UAE, while residing in Dubai. This could allow you to bypass some of the challenges of Dubai’s job market altogether, giving you the flexibility to earn from a global position while living locally. As a trailing spouse, this may even mean you don't even need to quit your current position, if the company is prepared to keep you on in your new circumstances. It would be wise to obtain tax advice if you work for a company from your home country and where the income you receive is taxable to.
When applying for remote roles, consider how you can adapt to different time zones and communicate effectively across borders. Highlight your location as an asset, showcasing your ability to bridge cultures and bring an international perspective to any team. You might be perfectly placed to collaborate in both eastern and western time-zones.
Use Online Platforms to Market Your Skills
Freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal allow you to reach clients worldwide, with Dubai as your base. Through these platforms, you can market your skills and offer services that meet global demand. This approach gives you the freedom to set your rates according to the global market rather than local benchmarks and to target clients who value quality and expertise over lower costs, however, as these are global platforms, you may still experience the issue of being priced out.
Tailor your profile to emphasise specialised skills or unique approaches that set you apart. For instance, if you have technical skills in an in-demand industry, highlight these clearly. Many clients are willing to pay more for professionals who bring experience and expertise.
Career Opportunities as a Trailing Spouse
As a trailing spouse, there are many challenges we face that can leave you feeling underwhelmed and like a spare part, but just because your spouse has been given a great opportunity, doesn't mean you have to leave your ambition at home. It might require a shift in mindset, a willingness to network and learn, and the persistence to carve out a place for yourself.
Consider this journey to find career opportunities as a trailing spouse, as a way to redefine your career goals, explore different avenues, and embrace a new chapter of professional growth. The skills, connections, and resilience you gain in Dubai will be invaluable assets, not just locally but anywhere in the world.
With all these options and decisions to make, you might find this the perfect time to invest in some support. I can help you get on the right path to find a meaningful career here in Dubai that aligns with your current and future aspirations. Click on the link below to book a free 1:1 consultation with me.
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