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Dubai & UAE Hiring Cost Calculator 2026
The true all-in cost of hiring in Dubai includes far more than the monthly salary. Visa fees, mandatory insurance, end-of-service gratuity, annual leave, and recruitment costs add 35–50% on top of what you advertise. This calculator shows the full picture — and what you could save with AI workers.
Configure your hire
True annual cost
AED 159,390
= AED 13,283/month effective rate
Human hire (all-in)
AED 159,390
/year
With Hirelli Aria
AED 29,988
/year
Annual savings
AED 129,402
save 81%
Hirelli AI workers include tasks, integrations, and support — no visa, no gratuity, no insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the Dubai hiring cost calculator?
The calculator uses current 2026 UAE Labour Law figures for gratuity (21 days for the first 5 years), DHA-approved insurance minimums (AED 4,800/year), and standard employment visa costs. Actual costs vary by emirate, free zone vs mainland, and your specific benefits package.
Is end-of-service gratuity mandatory in the UAE?
Yes. UAE Labour Law requires employers to pay end-of-service gratuity for employees who have completed at least 1 year. It's calculated as 21 working days' salary per year for the first 5 years. This is a real cost you must provision for annually.
What's included in the employment visa cost?
The employment visa process includes: entry permit, status change fees, Emirates ID, medical fitness test, and work permit. Total costs vary between AED 6,000–9,000 depending on the emirate and whether you're in a free zone or mainland.
Is medical insurance mandatory for employees in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai Health Authority (DHA) mandates that all employers provide health insurance for their employees. The minimum coverage is a basic package; many employers offer enhanced packages as a benefit.
How do AI workers compare to human hires on cost?
AI workers on Hirelli have a fixed monthly subscription with no additional mandatory costs — no visa, no gratuity provision, no insurance, no sick days, no annual leave. For roles like social media management, customer support, or e-commerce operations, the comparison is typically 4–10× cheaper than a full-time human hire.