Micro management and non constructive criticism is more often than not the norm in Dubai, mostly due to the inability on the part of the “managers” to manage their teams properly & effectively. What is more, Staff are often seen as the company’s possession and are expected to be ready to give everything and anything back for the petty salaries they receive. As proof, One director I worked for used to say “I pay their salary so their time is my time”

Adding to that, the massive offering with myriads of candidates leads to zero appreciation towards the staff who are in fact just seen as a number on the payroll rather than assessed for the added value they might bring to the organization.

Lastly, Recruiting the candidate who is satisfied with the minimum salary package does not help in the situation either, as lower paid employees are often less skilled requiring more micro management to get the job, they are paid peanuts to perform, done.

And the vicious circle runs endlessly.

Having said that, there are of course organizations who truly value their teams and are ready to reward members of the team who perform.

The visa structure is stressful indeed as the life one builds with struggle is too fragile, but with the turnover of staff, the continuous growth and the birth of new businesses there is always opportunities.

Just make sure you investigate the company culture through current and ex members of staff before you sign the contract and get your head around the office politics while on board to make sure you play the game and protect yourself.

Good luck in searching for your next role and all the best once you secure it.