Moving to the UAE or Saudi for restaurant work? Here’s what to expect

Every year, thousands of hospitality professionals relocate to the UAE and Saudi Arabia for higher earnings, career growth and the chance to work in some of the most dynamic restaurant environments in the world. The opportunities are real, but so are the adjustments. If you’re considering a move to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Riyadh, it’s important to know what life and work in the Gulf are really like.

At Radiant Hospitality, we guide candidates through this transition every day. Here’s the insight you need to make an informed decision.

Why the UAE and Saudi are top destinations

The Gulf’s luxury dining sector is growing fast. Dubai and Riyadh are now hotspots for fine dining, international franchises and ambitious local concepts. Salaries are tax-free, relocation packages are common and the sheer number of openings makes this one of the easiest regions to grow a career in hospitality.

This is also a market that rewards initiative. We’ve seen waiters promoted to supervisors within a year and commis chefs running CDP stations after a strong season. Consistency and commitment don’t go unnoticed.

What kinds of jobs are available

Expats fill a wide range of kitchen and FOH roles, from commis chefs through to head chefs, and from baristas to hosts and supervisors. Employers also need staff for pre-openings, where you’ll help set up systems, train teams and build culture from scratch. Across the board, presentation, calm under pressure and strong communication skills matter. Fluency in more than one language is always an advantage.

The visa and contract process

Employers normally handle your visa. Once hired, you’ll get a formal offer letter and contract with your job title, salary, benefits and terms. Most contracts run one to two years and include extras like annual flights, duty meals, medical cover and either company housing or a housing allowance.

Read your contract carefully. Know your probation period, how service charge and gratuities are structured and how overtime and leave are handled. If something isn’t clear, ask. Good employers expect professionalism and will show it in return.

Accommodation, transport and cost of living

In the UAE, many jobs are live-out, with a housing allowance. Sharing apartments with colleagues is common, and while public transport is available, late-night and split shifts often mean relying on shuttles or taxis.

In Saudi, live-in contracts are more common for line-level staff. You’ll usually stay in staff housing close to your venue, with transport included. Life is more structured, but many candidates find they save more due to lower expenses and fewer distractions.

Work culture: pace and pressure

Hospitality in the Gulf moves quickly and expects precision. You’ll work with colleagues from all over the world, and both cooperation and cultural sensitivity are essential. Punctuality, grooming and discipline are non-negotiable. Managers pay as much attention to your attitude and your ability to fit into a team as to your technical skills.

In Saudi, you’ll also need to adapt to cultural norms. Prayer times shape shift patterns, Ramadan changes service entirely and gender roles may affect how teams are structured. Respect goes a long way here—if you’re observant and adaptable, you’ll adjust smoothly.

Lifestyle and social life

Life outside work varies between the two markets. In the UAE, especially Dubai, you’ll find a busy, international social scene with cafés, beaches, gyms and nightlife—but costs are high, and savings require discipline.

In Saudi, life is quieter and more private, with most socialising happening in compounds or staff housing. Entertainment options are growing, but alcohol remains banned and dress codes are more modest. Many professionals welcome the calmer lifestyle and stronger saving potential.

Common challenges and how to handle them

Homesickness hits many candidates early on. Staying connected with family, getting involved with your team and exploring your city on days off can help. Cultural adjustment takes patience too. Be respectful, avoid comparisons to home and focus on understanding local values.

Shared housing can be another hurdle. Respect personal space, keep common areas clean and deal with issues calmly. Staff accommodation isn’t glamorous, but it’s temporary and part of the trade-off for a career move abroad.

Why so many professionals build long-term careers here

The Gulf rewards consistency. Commis chefs become CDPs, baristas grow into trainers and FOH staff move up to management. Even if you don’t stay forever, a few years in the UAE or Saudi can transform your CV, raise your profile and open doors in other markets.

How Radiant Hospitality supports you

We don’t stop when you receive an offer. Our team helps you understand contracts, prepare for relocation and adapt to your new environment. We’re honest about what to expect, we prepare you properly and we check in after placement to make sure you’re on track.

Ready to make the move

Relocating to the UAE or Saudi can be a career-defining step. The standards are high and the work is demanding, but the rewards are real—financially, professionally and personally.

If you’re ready to take that step, Radiant Hospitality will make sure you arrive prepared and supported.