Guide to top expat recruitment agencies in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates remains one of the top expatriate destinations for British professionals. As well as offering low taxation, a high standard of living and a hot climate, it also has a strong, thriving economy that can help bolster global careers.
Many expatriates will be offered a position through their current employment, but if you want to live the UAE dream, your first port of call is one of the many dedicated recruitment agencies in the region to help find the right role for you and your career progression.
Here we run down some of the top expat recruitment agencies in the UAE.

Bayt

Bayt is a large online recruitment agency for the Gulf and Middle East, and it claims to be the Middle East’s number 1 job site – it’s certainly the largest online recruiter. It lists jobs from a number of high-profile companies and has a wide range of search options to help you narrow down potential opportunities, such as by skill, region and salary. There are thousands of jobs at any one time, and you can upload your CV to the website too, so that potential employers looking for new talent can connect.

Hays

Hays is a well-known recruiting expert around the world. According to its global website, it placed 77,000 people into permanent roles last year. The company has been recruiting in the UAE for the last decade and is now one of the top recruitment agencies in the Middle East. On the website, you can search by job title or keyword, or simply browse open roles by expertise. There is a team of experienced recruiters available for more in-depth advice and job seeking.

NADIA

NADIA is a very well-established recruitment agency, having been working in the region since 1983. In its time, it has placed more than 230,000 employees into positions across the Middle East and has a deep understanding of the employment and recruitment opportunities in the UAE. You can register with the website to search for jobs, be notified of new listings and upload your CV.

BAC Middle East

Based in Dubai, BAC was established in 1979 and remains one of the go-to recruiters for some of the biggest employers in the UAE. Over its many years of experience, it has built up an unparalleled network, connecting both expatriate and local talent with the right companies. Candidates can register with the website to upload a personal profile and CV, review job applications, save job searches and set up email alerts.

Charterhouse Middle East

Charterhouse operates in a number of countries around the world and has a good reputation for talent acquisition and job placement. It promises to be different to other recruiters by offering a personal touch over automated online services. It picks its clients carefully, getting to know them, which helps both the employer and the potential candidates to make the perfect match. They work with you to find the right opportunities to suit your skills and personality, so you can find a long-term placement you’re happy with.
If you’re considering a move to the UAE, make sure you read our guides on moving to Dubai and moving to Abu Dhabi for more information on these popular expatriate destinations.