Internships are crucial for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience and bridge the gap between education and the professional world. In the UAE, there are rules and regulations in place to govern student internships to protect the rights of both interns and employers. It is essential to understand the guidelines surrounding student internships to ensure compliance with the law.
In the UAE, children under the age of 15 are not allowed to be employed. Teenagers aged 15 to 18 can work under certain conditions and must obtain juvenile work permits. Students aged 15 and above can work and receive training at businesses, but a formal written contract outlining the terms of their employment and training is necessary. The contract should include details such as the nature of work, training areas, wage (if any), daily working hours, and the length of the training period.
Companies are allowed to recruit students aged 15 and above during their academic year holidays for a period not exceeding three consecutive months unless otherwise specified. Students must provide certain documents such as a written consent from their parent or legal guardian, Emirates Identity Card (EID), proof of student status, valid UAE Residence Visa for expatriate students, and a physical fitness certificate from a competent medical doctor.
Employers must comply with regulations regarding working hours, breaks, and the type of work assigned to juvenile students during their internship. They must ensure the students receive proper training in occupational health and safety measures and provide a safe work environment. The company should also notify the student’s guardian in case of sickness or absence during working hours and provide the student with an experience certificate at the end of their training or employment.
It is important to note that internships do not have to be paid, but companies are encouraged to reimburse interns for any expenses related to the internship. Additionally, the trained or employed student is not entitled to end-of-service gratuity and other leaves, except as specified in the contract. There are also prohibited jobs for students under the age of 18, including working underground in mines, in furnaces, at oil refinery plants, and in factories related to explosives and hazardous materials.
In the UAE, the Ministry of Education offers internships to Emirati students who excelled in higher education institutes. Through the internship portal, students can find opportunities at key companies in knowledge-based industries. These internships provide valuable hands-on experience and help students develop essential skills for their future careers. By following the regulations and guidelines set by the UAE government, both students and employers can benefit from a successful and productive internship experience.
