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  • By Travis Kliever
  • Updated March 6, 2024
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Travis Kliever
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Travis is a global business development advisor. He has spent the last 14 years supporting business establishment and development in North America, Southeast Asia, and throughout the world. With multiple degrees from the University of Oregon, Travis currently splits his time between the US, and Bali, Indonesia. At RemotePad, Travis writes about remote work, hiring internationally and PEO/EOR business models.
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Employer of Record (EOR) in Dubai

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A Dubai EOR solution is a service provided by companies operating in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), that enables businesses to hire and manage employees in compliance with local labor laws and regulations.

Key Takeaways

  • A Dubai Employer of Record (Dubai EOR) enables international companies to hire in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), quickly and more cost-effectively than setting up a local entity.
  • Dubai EORs have a range of benefits, but also some potential disadvantages for some companies.
  • Choose carefully to ensure you pick the Dubai EOR that is right for you.

What is a Dubai Employer of Record?

When a company wants to expand its operations or hire employees in Dubai, setting up a legal entity and establishing a presence can be complex, time-consuming, and costly. The EOR service simplifies this process by acting as an intermediary between the employer and the employees, handling all the administrative and legal responsibilities associated with employment.

The HR services offered by a Dubai EOR are similar to those provided by a Dubai PEO, and sometimes those two terms are used interchangeably. 

By utilizing a Dubai EOR service, companies can benefit from faster market entry, reduced administrative burden, and increased flexibility in managing their workforce. It allows businesses to focus on their core operations while ensuring compliance with local employment regulations in Dubai.

Top 5 Dubai Employer Of Record Companies

1. Connect Resources

Connect Resources is a well-known EOR and HR outsourcing agency in Dubai, offering an extensive range of services, including payroll outsourcing, executive search, HR consultancy, and Emiratization support. Their local expertise and professional network make it easier to recruit talent that fits perfectly into the specific needs of a business. They are also experts in handling the legal and bureaucratic elements of hiring in Dubai.

💡 Find out why Connect Resources is the top-ranked Dubai EOR in our in-depth 2023 Connect Resources review.

2. Horizons

Horizons: Horizons (formerly New Horizons Global Partners) is a leading Dubai Employer of Record ensuring that all Dubai employees are hired and paid in full accordance with Dubai labor laws and regulations.

💡 Read more in our detailed 2023 Horizons review.

3. MercansMercans is a global PEO, EOR and payroll provider that provides comprehensive solutions for global employment and business expansion. When hiring in Dubai, Mercans offers valuable services like visa processing, in-country legal compliance, payroll, and human resources support. This can be particularly useful for businesses who want to establish or expand their presence in Dubai without getting caught up in complex legal requirements.
4. HLB HamtHLB Hamt is one of the leading auditing, accounting and consulting firms in Dubai and the UAE. It also provides EOR services. They are particularly helpful when hiring in Dubai due to their extensive local knowledge and its broad range of services. They understand the business culture, legal requirements, and market dynamics in Dubai, which helps them effectively manage the hiring process.
5. Kinza HRKinza HR is a leading Dubai EOR with a deep knowledge of Dubai hiring and visa issues. Kinza HR understand local legal requirements and can support your company through the Emiratization process.

What services does a Dubai Employer of Record provide?

A Dubai EOR typically provides a range of services to support companies in managing their employees and ensuring compliance with local labor laws. The specific services offered may vary depending on the EOR provider, but here are some common services provided by Dubai EORs:

  1. Employee Onboarding: The EOR handles the hiring process, including employment contract preparation, offer letters, and documentation required for legal compliance.
  2. Payroll Management: The EOR takes care of payroll processing, including calculating salaries, deductions, and taxes. They ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time, while adhering to local regulations.
  3. Employee Benefits Administration: The EOR manages employee benefits, such as health insurance, pensions, and other statutory benefits. They handle enrollment, contributions, and compliance with local regulations.
  4. HR Administration: The EOR handles various HR functions, including maintaining employee records, managing time and attendance, and administering leave and vacation policies. They may also provide HR support and guidance to both the employer and employees.
  5. Compliance and Legal Support: The EOR ensures compliance with local labor laws and regulations, such as obtaining work permits, visas, and other necessary documentation. They handle tax withholdings, social security contributions, and other statutory obligations.

It’s important to note that the services provided by a Dubai EOR may vary, and it’s recommended to consult with specific EOR providers to understand the comprehensive range of services they offer.

What are the benefits of a Dubai EOR?

Engaging a Dubai EOR can offer several benefits for companies looking to expand their operations or hire employees in Dubai. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Simplified Market Entry: Setting up a legal entity and establishing a presence in Dubai can be complex and time-consuming. EOR services simplify the market entry process by providing an existing legal framework for hiring employees without the need to establish a separate entity.
  2. Compliance with Local Laws: Dubai has specific labor laws and regulations that companies must adhere to when hiring employees. EORs have a deep understanding of these laws and ensure compliance, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties or legal issues.
  3. Administrative Efficiency: EORs handle various administrative tasks, such as payroll processing, employee benefits administration, and HR administration. This frees up your time and resources, allowing you to focus on core business activities while the EOR takes care of the administrative burden.
  4. Expertise and Local Knowledge: EORs have expertise and local knowledge in employment practices, labor laws, and cultural nuances in Dubai. They can provide guidance and support in navigating the local business landscape, helping you make informed decisions regarding employment and HR matters.
  5. Flexibility and Scalability: EOR services offer flexibility in scaling your workforce up or down as per your business needs. Whether you need to hire a small team or a large workforce, EORs can handle the process efficiently and adapt to your changing requirements.
  6. Cost Savings: Engaging an EOR can result in cost savings compared to setting up and maintaining a separate legal entity in Dubai. EORs typically have established infrastructure and processes in place, reducing the need for significant upfront investments.

It’s important to note that the specific benefits may vary depending on the EOR provider and your unique business requirements. Before engaging an EOR, thoroughly assess the benefits they offer and ensure they align with your company’s goals and objectives.

What are the disadvantages of a Dubai Employer of Record?

While Dubai Employers of Record (EOR) offer several benefits, it’s important to consider potential disadvantages as well. Here are some of the disadvantages associated with engaging a Dubai EOR:

  1. Limited Control: As the legal employer of your employees, the EOR assumes certain responsibilities and controls employment-related matters. This can result in a loss of direct control over certain aspects of HR and employee management. You may have to rely on the EOR’s policies and procedures, which may not align perfectly with your company’s preferences.
  2. Additional Costs: Engaging an EOR comes with a cost, which may include service fees, administrative charges, and other expenses. It’s essential to carefully assess the pricing structure and understand the cost implications to ensure it aligns with your budget and financial expectations.
  3. Potential Service Limitations: EOR providers may have limitations in terms of the range of services they offer. Some providers may focus primarily on payroll and compliance, while others may offer a broader range of HR services. It’s crucial to understand the specific services provided by the EOR and ensure they meet your requirements.
  4. Cultural Differences: Dubai has a unique cultural context, and EORs may have different cultural perspectives or approaches to employment practices. It’s important to ensure that the EOR understands and respects your company’s values and cultural norms to maintain a harmonious work environment.
  5. Transition Challenges: If you decide to discontinue the engagement with an EOR and establish your own legal entity in Dubai, there can be transition challenges. The transfer of employment responsibilities, contracts, and compliance obligations from the EOR to your company can involve time, effort, and potential legal complexities.

It’s important to consider these potential disadvantages alongside the benefits when evaluating whether engaging a Dubai EOR is the right choice for your company. Assess your specific needs, conduct thorough due diligence, and consult with legal and HR professionals to make an informed decision

How to engage a Dubai Employer of Record

To engage a Dubai EOR and benefit from their services, you can follow these general steps:

  1. Research and Identify EOR Providers
    Conduct thorough research to identify reputable EOR providers in Dubai. Look for companies with experience in providing EOR services, a strong understanding of local labor laws, and positive client reviews.

  2. Compare and Evaluate
    Review the proposals received from different EOR providers. Assess their capabilities, pricing structures, service levels, and their ability to meet your specific needs. Consider factors such as their expertise in your industry, their reputation, and their responsiveness.

  3. Due Diligence
    Conduct due diligence on the shortlisted EOR providers. Verify their credentials, such as licenses, certifications, and track record. Request references from existing or previous clients to gauge their satisfaction level and the provider’s reliability.

  4. Finalize the Agreement 
    Once you have chosen an EOR provider, negotiate the terms and finalize the agreement. Ensure that all services, costs, and contractual obligations are clearly documented. Review the contract thoroughly and seek legal advice if necessary.

  5. Onboarding Process
    Work closely with the EOR to provide the necessary information and documentation required for the onboarding process. This may include employee details, contracts, payroll information, and compliance-related documentation.

  6. Ongoing Collaboration
    Maintain regular communication with the EOR to address any issues, provide updates on employee status, and seek support when needed. Collaborate with them to ensure smooth operations, compliance, and efficient management of your workforce in Dubai.

Remember that the engagement process may vary slightly depending on the specific requirements and processes of each EOR provider. It’s essential to maintain open and transparent communication throughout the engagement to ensure a successful partnership

Dubai Employer of Record — our take

A Dubai EOR can be a valuable solution for companies looking to expand their operations or hire employees in Dubai. By partnering with an EOR, businesses can benefit from simplified market entry, compliance with local labor laws, administrative efficiency, expertise in local regulations, flexibility in scaling their workforce, cost savings, risk mitigation, and employee support.

By carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of this solution for your company, and considering the offerings of the leading providers, you can work out which Dubai Employer of Record is best for you. 

FAQs

No, EOR services in Dubai are not limited to specific industries. EORs can support companies across various sectors, including technology, finance, hospitality, retail, healthcare, and more. Whether you are in manufacturing, services, or any other industry, you can engage an EOR to manage your employment needs in compliance with local labor laws.

The timeline for engaging a Dubai EOR can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of your requirements and the responsiveness of the chosen EOR provider.
Generally, the engagement process can take a few weeks to a couple of months. It involves initial consultations, proposal reviews, contract negotiations, onboarding processes, and the necessary documentation for employee hiring and compliance. It is recommended to start the engagement process well in advance to allow sufficient time for all necessary procedures and ensure a smooth transition.

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