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Overall there is not a large temping sector in the Middle East. Due to most nations in the region regulating immigration carefully and almost every foreign employee having to come into a country on a work permit, individuals should avoid travelling to the UAE or Saudi Arabia in attempt to look for jobs. However with a large job market offering positions in the oil industry, construction or Dubai’s growing tourism industry, opportunities still exist and some freelance and short term contract work may be available.

Whilst most job contracts for foreigners are drawn up before the individual enters a Middle Eastern country, there are often a large number of additional short term contracts and freelance work available once in a nation. In Dubai work visas are still available and many may find that after a contract has finished a close knit and friendly expatriate community will help find additional work for them on a temporary basis.

Meanwhile as tourism grows and nations such as Dubai realise the importance of attracting youngsters, especially those who may be travelling the world on gap years, a number of options for temping and freelance work exist. Whilst often paying extremely low wages, set by Asian individuals generally willing to work for less than their Western counterparts, vacancies may be found via newspapers or agencies for office, retail, port delivery or tourist work. In Dubai, where a vibrant nightlife is also to be found, workers may find positions in restaurants and nightclubs, with the latter often providing hostess jobs for women.

Temping and freelance work remains a relatively small niche sector in the Middle East due to their immigration regulations, and for those searching for jobs in the UAE or Saudi Arabia options can be limited. Individuals are advised to find contract positions before moving or they may face an uncertain future attempting to find work.