Introduction
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a top destination for expatriates seeking lucrative employment opportunities, tax-free salaries, and an elevated lifestyle. With cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah becoming global business hubs, the country continues to attract professionals from across the globe. However, one major concern among job seekers is the cost of living, especially housing. That’s why jobs with accommodation in UAE are highly sought after.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the different types of jobs that offer accommodation, industries that commonly include housing as part of the benefits, pros and cons of such employment packages, and tips on how to land one of these coveted positions.
Why Accommodation Matters in UAE
The UAE, particularly cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is known for its high standard of living—but that also comes with a price. Monthly rents for even modest apartments can consume a significant portion of your salary. For this reason, many expatriates prioritize employment packages that include free or subsidized housing.
Key Advantages of Jobs with Accommodation:
Cost Savings: Free housing means more disposable income.
Convenience: No need to deal with landlords, brokers, or utility bills.
Security: Employee accommodations are often located in secure areas.
Community: Living in company-provided housing builds camaraderie among colleagues.
Industries Offering Jobs with Accommodation in UAE
While not all industries provide accommodation, several sectors are known for including housing in their employment contracts. Here are the top ones:
- Construction and Engineering
This sector has long offered accommodation due to the remote nature of worksites and rotational shifts.
Roles: Civil engineers, foremen, safety officers, site supervisors, laborers
Accommodation Type: Labor camps, shared apartments, villas near worksites
- Hospitality and Tourism
Hotels, resorts, and restaurants often include housing in their packages, especially for staff working in high-end establishments.
Roles: Hotel staff, chefs, housekeeping, front desk, waiters
Accommodation Type: Staff housing or shared hotel apartments
- Healthcare
Hospitals and clinics in the UAE, especially in remote or underserved areas, often provide housing.
Roles: Nurses, medical technicians, general practitioners
Accommodation Type: Apartment blocks owned by the hospital or clinic
- Security Services
Security companies regularly provide accommodation due to 24/7 rotational shifts and need for quick deployment.
Roles: Security guards, supervisors, CCTV operators
Accommodation Type: Company-owned dormitories or shared units
- Oil and Gas
This high-paying sector often comes with perks like accommodation, especially in offshore or desert locations.
Roles: Rig workers, engineers, safety inspectors
Accommodation Type: Camp housing or furnished apartments
- Domestic and Support Services
This includes housekeeping staff, drivers, and nannies—roles that almost always come with housing due to the nature of the job.
Roles: Maids, chauffeurs, personal assistants
Accommodation Type: Live-in quarters within employer’s premises
Popular Cities with Jobs Offering Accommodation
While jobs with housing are found across the Emirates, the concentration varies by city.
Dubai
As the commercial capital, Dubai offers housing-inclusive jobs mostly in the hospitality, construction, and security sectors.
Abu Dhabi
Home to many government projects and oil companies, Abu Dhabi offers a higher percentage of jobs with free housing.
Sharjah & Ajman
Known for being cost-effective, jobs in these cities often include housing, especially for manufacturing and logistics staff.
Ras Al Khaimah & Fujairah
In these quieter Emirates, accommodation is more commonly included due to limited private housing options nearby industrial zones.
Who Should Look for Jobs with Accommodation?
While everyone can benefit from free housing, certain groups stand to gain the most:
Freshers: Those new to the UAE often find accommodation-inclusive roles more manageable.
Blue-collar workers: The savings on rent are significant relative to income.
Remote workers: Those posted to rural or offshore sites usually receive free housing.
Families: Some companies even provide family accommodations for higher-tier positions.
Where to Find Jobs with Accommodation in UAE
Finding such jobs requires targeting the right platforms and using the right keywords. Here are the top sources:
- Job Portals
Bayt.com
GulfTalent
Indeed UAE
Naukri Gulf
Dubizzle Jobs
Use search phrases like:
“Jobs with accommodation in Dubai”
“Free housing jobs UAE”
“Company accommodation provided”
- Recruitment Agencies
Rwad Al-Mustqbl HR Consultancy
TASC Outsourcing
Adecco Middle East
Al-Futtaim Group Recruitment
- Company Websites
Some large employers list benefits on their careers page. Look for:
Emaar Properties
Jumeirah Group
ADNOC
Etihad Airways
Tips to Secure a Job with Accommodation
- Highlight Flexibility
Employers offering housing often prefer adaptable workers who can live in shared environments or different locations. - Tailor Your Resume
Mention any previous experience working in remote areas or shared accommodations. - Ask During the Interview
If the job post doesn’t mention accommodation, ask directly during the interview or negotiation phase. - Be Open to Contract Roles
Many short-term roles come with housing benefits, especially in construction and oil fields.
Pros and Cons of Jobs with Company Accommodation
✅ Pros:
Zero rent and utility costs
Closer proximity to the workplace
Better savings potential
Built-in community with coworkers
❌ Cons:
Limited privacy, especially in shared housing
Lack of control over location and furnishing
Potential restrictions on guests and lifestyle
Sometimes located in remote areas
Real-Life Examples of Jobs with Housing
Example 1: Security Guard in Dubai
Salary: AED 2,000 + Accommodation + Transport
Employer: Private security firm
Location: Jebel Ali
Shift: 12 hours
Accommodation: Company-provided shared room in labor camp
Example 2: Hotel Housekeeper in Abu Dhabi
Salary: AED 1,800 + Accommodation + Food
Employer: 5-star hotel group
Shift: Rotational
Accommodation: Hotel-provided staff quarters
Example 3: Civil Engineer in Ras Al Khaimah
Salary: AED 6,000 + Accommodation + Transport
Employer: Contracting company
Accommodation: Furnished 1BHK in staff villa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it legal for employers to deduct accommodation expenses from salaries?
Yes, but only if this is clearly stated in the contract. Most companies offering free housing do not deduct from the salary.
Q2. Can families live in company accommodation?
It depends on the job grade and the employer. Senior-level staff may be provided with family housing.
Q3. Are there any visa restrictions for company accommodations?
No. Accommodation benefits are tied to the job offer and not the visa itself.
Q4. Can I leave company accommodation and find my own?
In many cases, yes—but you may lose the housing benefit or receive a fixed allowance instead.
Conclusion
Jobs with accommodation in the UAE present an incredible opportunity for job seekers to save money, live comfortably, and reduce the stress of relocating. From construction workers to hotel staff, many industries provide housing perks to attract skilled professionals and labor. If you’re planning a move to the UAE or switching jobs within the region, focusing on employment opportunities that include accommodation can significantly enhance your overall work-life experience.
Make sure to tailor your job search using the right platforms and keywords, and always clarify accommodation details before signing your employment contract.