Finding a Job as a Barber in Dubai: My Experience & Advice from Experts

Assalamu Alaikum! My name is Shahroz, and welcome back to BoaBlog. Today, I am at a salon to get a haircut, and I want to address a question many of you have been asking: What is the job market like for barbers and hairstylists in Dubai?

I specifically want to answer this for my brothers in India and Pakistan—like Hasan Prince, who has been waiting for this reply. I’m sorry for the delay; life has been busy, but today we are going to dive deep into the “salon scene” here.

The Cost of a Haircut in Dubai

In Dubai, haircut prices usually start from 5 Dirhams and can go up to 1,000 Dirhams—there is no upper limit! It mostly depends on the location.

Bachelor/Budget Areas: You can find cuts for 5 to 10 Dirhams.
Production City (My Location): I am at Al Madina Salon. Here, the price is 20 Dirhams.

Insights from the Experts: Omar and Ahmad

I spoke with my regular stylist, Omar, and a senior stylist, Ahmad, who has over 12 years of experience. Although Omar was a bit camera-shy, he shared some vital information about the business side of things.

1. How to Find a Job

If you are new to Dubai, the best way to find work isn’t through complex documentation—it’s through a physical visit.

The Strategy: Walk directly into shops, show them your work, and explain your experience level.
Trial: Usually, the shop owner will ask you to show your skills on a customer. If you satisfy the customer, you are likely to get the job.

2. Visas and Salaries

This varies from shop to shop:

Visa Costs: Some shops provide a “Full Visa” (they pay everything). Others might ask you to pay 50% of the fee, and some may require you to pay 100%.
Earnings: You can work on a fixed salary or a commission basis. According to Omar, the commission model is often better because your earning potential is unlimited.

3. The Importance of Experience

Ahmad emphasized one major point: Experience is non-negotiable. * If you come with only one year of experience, it might be difficult. You need to be an expert because customers in Dubai come from all over the world—the UK, Philippines, Egypt, India, Pakistan, and more.

You need to be able to handle all hair types and styles.

The Culture in Dubai

One of the most beautiful things about working in a salon here is the atmosphere. Ahmad mentioned that despite the politics you see in the news, in a Dubai salon, Indians and Pakistanis live and work together with immense love and respect.

Language: You don’t necessarily need to know Arabic or perfect English. Most customers speak Hindi or Urdu, and your colleagues will always help you out.

The Reality Check: Struggle vs. Success

Don’t come to Dubai thinking it’s all about the Burj Khalifa and luxury cars from day one.

The First Year: Expect to struggle for the first year. You will need to work hard, be punctual with your duties, and prove your talent.
The Reward: Once you find your “set hand” (a loyal customer base), the earnings and lifestyle are much better than what you would find back home.

My Recommendation: Al Madina Salon

If you are in Dubai Production City, visit Al Madina Salon. The owner, Bilal Bhai, is a very down-to-earth person who genuinely wants to help people. The shop is clean, professional, and the staff are experts.

Pro Tip: If you visit, tell Omar you are from “BoaBlog.” He already does a great job, but you might just get that extra special treatment!

Conclusion

If you have a talent for hair and are willing to put in the work, Dubai is a land of opportunity. Don’t just stay in the “clouds”—be practical, work hard, and the results will follow.

If you have more questions, leave a comment! I will try our best to answer them.

Until next time, take care and keep me in your prayers.

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