Your First 90 Days in a New Job in Dubai: A Success Checklist for

Landing a job in Dubai is an exciting milestone. As an expat professional entering one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs, your first 90 days are critical for setting the tone of your long-term success.

Whether you're working in finance, tech, logistics, or hospitality, adapting quickly and integrating effectively will help you thrive in your new role—and in the broader UAE work culture.

Here’s a comprehensive success checklist for expats to navigate the onboarding period in Dubai, offering actionable steps and insights drawn from local norms, HR expectations, and real-world professional experiences.

1. Understand Your Employment Contract and Visa Status

Before stepping into your new role, ensure that:

Your employment visa is active and valid.
You’ve received a written employment contract detailing salary, benefits, working hours, and leave entitlements.
Your Emirates ID, medical insurance, and labour card are in process (typically handled by HR).

Tip: Visit the official UAE Government Portal for up-to-date labor law guidance.

2. Familiarize Yourself with Dubai’s Work Culture

Dubai’s workplace culture is fast-paced, respectful, and diverse. As a new expat, take note of:

Hierarchy matters: Respect for seniority and titles is important.
Modesty and professionalism: Dress codes are often smart and modest.
Time zone awareness: Fridays are now standard working days in most private sectors, with Saturday and Sunday as the weekend.

Pro Tip: Learning some basic Arabic is always a plus!

3. Embrace Structured Onboarding and HR Orientation

The UAE has modern HR practices, and most companies offer structured onboarding, which often includes:

Introductions to key teams and leaders
Access to systems, logins, and compliance protocols
Training on company values, safety, and DEI

Ask HR for a digital onboarding kit or checklist if one isn’t provided proactively.

4. Set Performance Goals Early On

In your first month:

Schedule 1:1s with your manager to define KPI expectations.
Understand performance review cycles.
Align your personal goals with the team’s quarterly or yearly roadmap.

Clear expectations = stronger early performance = quicker wins.

5. Start Networking, both Internally and Externally

Dubai’s career ecosystem is built on relationships. As a newcomer:

Connect with peers over coffee or team lunches.
Join industry events, local chambers of commerce, or business councils.
Explore networking platforms like LinkedIn UAE.

ManpowerGroup Middle East Tip: Create a professional elevator pitch, Dubai professionals meet talent from all over the world daily.

6. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities as an Employee

Stay informed about:

Annual leave (usually 30 calendar days)
End-of-service benefits (gratuity)
Work hours (typically 8 hours/day)
Health and safety protocols

Learn more via MOHRE - UAE Ministry of Human Resources

7. Take Advantage of Company Benefits

Many expat roles in Dubai come with:

Relocation allowance
Health insurance (mandatory)
Housing support or stipend
Flight reimbursements

Be sure to clarify any entitlements during your onboarding or with HR.

8. Manage Your Finances from the Start

Open a UAE bank account early and understand your salary payment cycle (WPS-compliant). Consider:

Transferring funds via trusted remittance services
Tracking costs (rent, transport, groceries)
Using budgeting apps tailored for the UAE market

9. Stay Culturally and Socially Active

Adjusting to life in Dubai doesn’t stop at the office:

Join expat communities (Internations, Meetup groups)
Attend free seminars or exhibitions at Dubai World Trade Centre
Explore the city: from desert safaris to global dining scenes

10. Keep Learning & Stay Open to Change

Dubai’s business climate moves quickly. Continuous upskilling is vital:

Take short courses on LinkedIn Learning
Stay updated on UAE economic trends and industry news
Attend webinars and thought leadership sessions

🔗 Looking to switch or grow your career already? Explore job opportunities at ManpowerGroup Middle East or follow our latest updates on LinkedIn.

Ready to Succeed in Your First 90 Days?

Your journey in Dubai is just beginning. Whether you're here to grow professionally, build global experience, or set roots in the UAE, the first 90 days are your launchpad. Stay proactive, network wisely, and keep learning.