Manpower Supply in Dubai vs Direct Hiring: Which Workforce Model Is More Cost-Effective?
For short-term, seasonal or project work, manpower supply in Dubai is usually the more cost-effective model, because the supplier carries the visa, onboarding, payroll and end-of-service costs and you pay only for the months you need the workers. For core roles you expect to keep for years, direct hiring usually costs less overall, because a supplier's margin keeps running for as long as the worker stays. Key Facts With manpower supply, the supplier is usually the legal employer and holds the worker's work permit; you direct the day-to-day work. Agencies supplying or recruiting workers in the UAE must be licensed by MOHRE. UAE law does not allow recruitment costs to be charged to the worker; the employer or supplier pays them. End-of-service gratuity is 21 days' basic wage per year for the first five years and 30 days per year after that, capped at two years' wages. Probation in the UAE can last up to six months. UAE labour law recognises full-time, part-time, temporar...