Nurses’ salaries in Dubai are attractive because the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has no income tax. Dubai and Abu Dhabi attract workers from all over the world, so the job market is active and many vacancies are advertised. Many employers are looking for nurses and midwives—from public hospitals to private clinics and local entrepreneurs running medical networks.
Nurses’ pay in the UAE (baseline, AED)
Starting after licensure (RN): usually AED 6,000–9,000.
Experienced nurses (several years): around AED 8,000–12,000.
Specialists (e.g., ICU, ER, OR): often AED 10,000–15,000 or more with shift differentials.
Senior/Charge (team management): from AED 12,000+; at top facilities you approach the highest salaries in the field.
There is no unified minimum wage for expats in the UAE, so offers and rates depend on the facility, department, and your experience.
Salary + “package” — what’s included?
Most job offers come as a package:
base salary + housing (or a housing allowance) + health insurance + transport/bus + one annual flight ticket + paid leave + end-of-contract gratuity.
This makes it easier to calculate how much you actually keep “to live on.” Housing is the biggest expense, so the housing allowance matters a lot.
First time in Dubai? Check accommodation in Dubai.
Public vs. private sector
Public (DHA in Dubai): stable policies, predictable benefits.
Private (hospitals/clinics): wider pay spread; easier to land offers tailored to your skills and availability.
Requirements & hiring — a guide for jobseekers
If you’re looking for a nursing job abroad, prepare:
an up-to-date CV, your degree (Bachelor of Nursing), and your license to practice (e.g., obtained in Poland),
documents proving your work experience (it’s easier for experienced nurses to negotiate pay),
readiness to obtain DHA licensure in the UAE (this is essential to work legally).
Job ads often mention a contract with the option to extend after the first year.
Pro tip: while job hunting, talk to people already working in the UAE who can share their experience—they’ll help you read the packages and flag what to watch for in a medical services contract.
Also read: Average salaries in Dubai (comparison with other professions—UK vs. UAE, industries, etc.).
How to compare offers? (short checklist)
Department (e.g., ICU) and rosters for nights/holidays.
Housing: company accommodation or an allowance?
Health insurance: only for you or for your family as well?
Salary vs. cost of living: always calculate “take-home after housing.”
Licensing status (DHA) and support with relocation paperwork.
For a comparison with other professions (e.g., software engineer, accountant), see the broader pay overview: Average salaries in Dubai—we also cross-link back to this text there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average nurse’s salary in Dubai?
Most often AED 8,000–12,000 for experienced RNs; starting salaries are AED 6,000–9,000.
How much does a new nurse earn in the UAE?
Typically AED 6,000–9,000 base + a package (housing/insurance).
Do nurses get housing and insurance?
Very often yes—it’s standard in the UAE.
Do ICU specialists earn more?
Yes. ICU departments and night shifts increase your pay.
Summary
A nurse’s salary in Dubai depends on the department, your experience, and DHA licensure. Look at the whole package (salary + housing + health insurance), not just the base rate. That way you can easily calculate what’s left for living expenses—and whether the offer is right for you.
