For UAE-based businesses, expanding your team with the best international talent requires navigating MOHRE’s visa quota system. This system, managed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), includes quotas for specific professions, industries, and, recently, gender-based allocations. These quotas ensure a balanced, skilled workforce in line with the UAE’s economic and cultural goals.
In this guide, we’ll break down MOHRE’s gender-based visa quotas, why they matter, and how to successfully request quota modifications.
What is a Visa Quota in MOHRE?
MOHRE visa quotas set limits on the number of foreign employees a company can sponsor. These quotas apply to different job roles and are set based on industry needs and the UAE’s broader workforce strategies. Recently, gender-based quotas were introduced to help companies better align talent requirements with operational and client expectations.
Why Gender-Based Quota Modifications Matter for Your Business
The UAE has recognized the value of gender diversity across industries. Gender-based quotas allow companies to designate specific roles as male or female based on operational needs or client expectations, such as:
- Female-Dominated Roles: Professions like “Customer Service Manager” and “Receptionist” often require female employees due to client-facing requirements.
- Male-Dominated Roles: Roles like “Electrical Engineer” and “Heavy Truck Driver” typically align with male candidates due to physical demands.
Aligning job roles with gender requirements can simplify hiring and ensure better role suitability.
MOHRE Gender-Based Quota Table for Common Professions
Here is a table summarizing gender-based role suggestions according to MOHRE guidelines, based on operational needs and industry norms.
| Code | Profession | Suggested Gender |
|---|---|---|
| 112003 | Managing Director | Neutral |
| 121101 | Finance Manager | Neutral |
| 121102 | Accounts Manager | Neutral |
| 121201 | Human Resource Manager | Female |
| 121202 | Customer Service Manager | Female |
| 121901 | Administration Manager | Neutral |
| 122101 | Marketing Manager | Neutral |
| 122102 | Sales Manager | Neutral |
| 214202 | Project Engineer | Male |
| 215101 | Electrical Engineer | Male |
| 215201 | Electronic Engineer | Male |
| 243102 | Marketing Specialist | Female |
| 243301 | Medical Sales Representative | Female |
| 251101 | Systems Analyst | Neutral |
| 311301 | Electrical Engineering Technician | Male |
| 321201 | Medical Laboratory Technician | Female |
| 331301 | Assistant Accountant | Female |
| 332201 | Commercial Sales Representative | Neutral |
| 411001 | Office Clerk | Neutral |
| 412001 | Secretary | Female |
| 431101 | Accounting Clerk | Female |
| 522102 | Storekeeper | Neutral |
| 741101 | Electrician | Male |
| 832202 | Light Vehicle Driver | Male |
| 911201 | Cleaner | Female |
Note: This table is intended as a general guideline. Some roles may vary depending on your specific business needs or sector requirements.
How to Modify Your Visa Quotas in MOHRE for Gender Requirements
If your company needs to modify quotas based on gender, MOHRE offers a process to facilitate this:
- Review Existing Quotas: Start by checking your MOHRE account for your current visa quota limits.
- Identify Gender Requirements: Use the quota table above to identify roles that may need gender-specific considerations.
- Submit a Modification Request: Clearly specify the job title and required gender in your application, including a justification for each role.
- Await MOHRE Approval: MOHRE will assess the request based on your industry and operational needs, and if approved, the modified quotas will be updated in your account.
Conclusion
Visa quota modifications are essential for UAE businesses aiming to attract the right talent. Using MOHRE’s gender-based quota options allows companies to align hiring with both operational needs and cultural standards. By following the quota modification process, businesses can simplify hiring, improve job role suitability, and enhance productivity.
