One of the most frequent questions new doctors ask us at Allocation Assist is:
“What are the working hours like in Dubai and the UAE, and is there a real work-life balance?”
My name is Emilie Davies, CEO and Founder of Allocation Assist Middle East. For more than 10 years, we’ve been helping doctors relocate and secure their dream life in one of the most progressive regions in the world, Dubai and the UAE.
Over the years, we have assisted 400+ doctors in securing opportunities across top-tier hospitals in both the private and government sectors. Because we stay actively connected with our network of doctors, who are now thriving here, we receive ongoing feedback about their working hours, lifestyle, and overall experience.
This article shares a summarised, first-hand overview of what our doctors have reported about their working hours and work-life balance in Dubai and the UAE.
Working Hours: What Our Doctors Experience Across 36 Hospitals
Our doctors are currently working across 36 hospitals throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Fujairah, in both government and private sectors. Here’s what they shared with us:
Public Sector (Government Hospitals)
Regions: Fujairah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai
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Typically 40 to 45 hours per week
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5-day work week
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Shifts commonly 8 to 9 hours per day
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Some doctors complete longer shifts or on-call duties, including 24-hour shifts or night calls
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Flexible arrangements available during probation and annual leave periods
Private Sector (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah)
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Ranges between 40 to 55 hours per week
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Usually 5 days per week
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Shifts vary between 8 to 12 hours
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Some specialties require longer shifts
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Schedules may be rotating or fixed
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Some doctors work weekends or take regular on-call duties
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On-call hours may extend during busy periods or emergencies, especially in ENT, cardiology, and obstetrics and gynecology
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Workload varies significantly depending on specialty and hospital
Annual Leave and Public Holidays
Most doctors in both private and government sectors receive:
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30 days paid annual leave
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10 days study leave
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8 to 10 public holidays per year
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Reduced working hours throughout the holy month of Ramadan
Why Doctors Still Report Better Quality of Life
Although the contractual working hours may be slightly longer than in some other countries, every doctor we introduce to the UAE comments on their significantly improved quality of life.
This is due to several factors.
1. Exceptional Working Conditions
Hospitals in the UAE offer outstanding resources and support.
Most importantly, when doctors finish their shift, they are genuinely off. They are not taking work home or dealing with after-hours burdens.
2. Affordable Household Support
Doctors in Dubai and the UAE can easily access:
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Nannies and childcare services
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Drivers and chauffeurs
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Housekeeping and cleaning services
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Personal assistants and concierge services
These services help doctors reclaim time for rest, family, and personal wellbeing.
3. Lifestyle and Community Amenities
Most residential communities in Dubai and the UAE offer:
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Shops, salons, and daily essentials within walking distance
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Beautiful, well-maintained parks and green areas
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24/7 security
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Child-friendly and pet-friendly spaces
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Gyms, swimming pools, and often jacuzzis, saunas, and steam rooms
These amenities support a healthy lifestyle and make daily life more convenient and enjoyable.
“Once You’ve Been Dubai’ed…”
After living here for a while, it is incredibly easy to get used to this lifestyle.
As the saying goes, “Once you’ve been Dubai’ed, it is difficult to go back to normal life.”
Personally, I even find it hard to leave the UAE for just a week. Every time I travel, I am reminded of how grateful I am to live here. Dubai and the UAE welcome everyone with open arms. It is a special place where you can genuinely call home and build the life you have always dreamed of.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you want to explore how to secure your dream job in Dubai or the UAE, you can book a free consultation with our team today through our website. We would love to help you begin your journey.
