MOHRE Skill Levels 1 to 9: What Each Level Covers
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) classifies UAE jobs into nine skill levels. The level attached to your occupation appears on your labour contract and labour card, alongside an occupation code, and it can affect how your work is treated for visa and residency purposes.
| Level | Occupation group |
|---|---|
| 1 | Legislators, managers and business executives |
| 2 | Professionals in scientific, technical and human fields |
| 3 | Technicians in scientific, technical and humanitarian fields |
| 4 | Clerical support workers |
| 5 | Service and sales workers |
| 6 | Skilled agricultural, forestry and fishery workers |
| 7 | Craft and related trades workers |
| 8 | Plant and machine operators and assemblers |
| 9 | Elementary occupations |
What Levels 1 to 3 Require
Levels 1 to 3 are treated as the skilled tiers and generally call for a diploma, degree or higher. Some professions, such as doctors and nurses in level 2, also need a professional licence, and skilled occupations may require the qualification to be attested by the competent authorities. MOHRE does not treat workers as skilled for certain purposes if they earn below AED 4,000 a month or lack a degree.
Levels 6 to 9
Workers in these levels may need to complete MOHRE’s mandatory orientation on UAE labour laws and rights, known as Tawjeeh.
Why Your Level Matters
- Workers at skilled levels can receive a longer grace period after their residence visa is cancelled.
- Higher levels can make it easier to meet family sponsorship requirements, subject to salary and other criteria.
- Highly skilled professionals with degrees or specialised certifications often qualify for long-term residency such as the Golden Visa.
How to Find Your Level
Check your labour contract or labour card for the skill level and occupation code. You can also search the occupations listed under each level on the job descriptions page at mohre.gov.ae.
For how skill levels affect visa rights and grace periods, read MOHRE skill levels, visa rights and grace periods. Looking for work? See the UAE job seeker visa.
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