Internships provide students and recent graduates in the UAE with essential practical experience, bridging the gap between theoretical learning in schools and professional life.
These opportunities help students understand their strengths, develop skills, build networks, and enhance their resumes, making them more competitive in the job market. But what are the rules and regulations governing student internships in the UAE?
The UAE has implemented several resolutions allowing students to work and receive training at various establishments, ensuring that both interns and employers understand their rights and obligations.
Age Limitations
- Under 15 Years Old: Employment is not permitted.
- Ages 15 to 18: Teenagers can work, provided they meet certain conditions and obtain juvenile work permits.
- 15 Years and Above: Students can work and receive training with a formal written contract detailing the terms of employment and training.
The Contract
Establishments can train students aged 15 and above if they provide a written contract that includes:
- Nature of work
- Training areas
- Wage (if any)
- Daily working hours
- Length of the training period
- Weekly and other holidays
- Bonus value (if any) and other privileges
Students can be recruited during school holidays for up to three consecutive months unless otherwise decided.
Required Documents
Students must provide the following documents to be trained or employed:
- Written consent from the parent or legal guardian
- Emirates Identity Card (EID)
- Proof of student status
- Valid UAE Residence Visa for expatriate students
- Physical fitness certificate (for employment)
- No-objection certificate/letter from the educational institute (for training)
Working Hours and Breaks
Companies must adhere to the following regulations when employing or training juvenile students:
- Prohibited Jobs: Students cannot work in certain hazardous jobs, including mining, oil refining, and chemical manufacturing.
- Night Work: Students cannot work at night in industrial projects.
- Working Hours: Maximum of six hours per day with breaks totaling at least one hour.
- Overtime: Students cannot work overtime or on holidays.
- Occupational Safety: Students must be trained in and monitored for proper occupational health and safety measures.
- Guardian Notification: Guardians must be informed of any issues like sickness or misconduct.
Experience Certificate
At the end of the training or employment, companies should provide an experience certificate noting the student’s responsibilities and performance appraisal.
Internship Opportunities for Emirati Students
The Ministry of Education offers internships to high-performing Emirati students through an internship portal, which includes opportunities with 30 global multinational companies and top UAE government-owned companies in the private sector.
Internships are vital for students to gain practical experience, and the UAE has established clear guidelines to ensure these experiences are safe, educational, and beneficial for all parties involved.
