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Top UAE EOR Services

7 Best Employers of Record (UAE) Reviewed by Experts in 2025

Hire in the United Arab Emirates with full compliance using these top EOR services.

Rodrigo Vázquez-Mellado
Written by
Rodrigo Vázquez-Mellado
HR and B2B software analyst and advisor, tech writer and editor, former conversational designer
Contributing Experts
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Last Updated: Oct 17, 2025
TOP
For UAE EOR with full entity control, transparent pricing, and a polished contract & payroll platform.
Deel
4.4
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
For UAE EOR with full entity control, transparent pricing, and a polished contract & payroll platform.
Deel
4.4
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
UAE EOR solution with owned entity, broad global reach, and built-in compliance control.
Remote
4.2
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
UAE EOR solution with owned entity, broad global reach, and built-in compliance control.
Remote
4.2
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
Affordable EOR for UAE hiring with strong visa support and 24/7 service
Remofirst
4.1
Popularity Score
4.3
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
Affordable EOR for UAE hiring with strong visa support and 24/7 service
Remofirst
4.1
Popularity Score
4.3
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
All-in-one HCM platform for shift-based workforces
Workforce
4.1
Popularity Score
4.2
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
All-in-one HCM platform for shift-based workforces
Workforce
4.1
Popularity Score
4.2
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
Best recruiting automation platform for structured hiring at scale
Greenhouse
4.5
Popularity Score
4.4
User Score
4.6
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
Best recruiting automation platform for structured hiring at scale
Greenhouse
4.5
Popularity Score
4.4
User Score
4.6
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
Employee communication platform with social intranet
Workvivo
4.1
Popularity Score
4.8
User Score
4.3
Product  Score
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TOP
Employee communication platform with social intranet
Workvivo
4.1
Popularity Score
4.8
User Score
4.3
Product  Score
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Top UAE EOR Services

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RipplingBest UAE EOR for teams already using Rippling’s global HR and/or IT stack.
MultiplierTransparent global EOR with strong UAE support and competitive pricing.
BorderlessAI‑native EOR platform promising fast onboarding, zero deposits, and UAE compliance control
G-PMature EOR provider with UAE coverage, AI support, and enterprise‑grade compliance
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TOP
For UAE EOR with full entity control, transparent pricing, and a polished contract & payroll platform.
Deel
4.4
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
For UAE EOR with full entity control, transparent pricing, and a polished contract & payroll platform.
Deel
4.4
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
UAE EOR solution with owned entity, broad global reach, and built-in compliance control.
Remote
4.2
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
UAE EOR solution with owned entity, broad global reach, and built-in compliance control.
Remote
4.2
Popularity Score
4.6
User Score
4.5
Product  Score
Learn More
TOP
Affordable EOR for UAE hiring with strong visa support and 24/7 service
Remofirst
4.1
Popularity Score
4.3
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Visit Website
TOP
Affordable EOR for UAE hiring with strong visa support and 24/7 service
Remofirst
4.1
Popularity Score
4.3
User Score
4.0
Product  Score
Learn More
Over 3 million HR leaders trust our advice

Introduction to Top UAE EOR Services

An employer of record (EOR) in the UAE is a third-party organization that hires employees on your behalf, allowing you to legally employ talent in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate without setting up a local entity. These services handle payroll, visas, compliance, and end-of-service benefits so that companies can expand faster and with less legal risk.

EORs are especially useful in the UAE due to strict labor laws, visa sponsorship requirements, and distinctions between mainland and free zone jurisdictions. Choosing the right provider means finding one with strong local expertise in Emirati labor law and immigration processes, transparent pricing, and the ability to scale with your business needs.

We’ve been writing about EOR companies since 2020, but this guide shares our top-rated UAE-focused employer of record services. We reached this selection based on hands-on testing, verified customer feedback, and detailed feature comparisons to help you make an informed decision.

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Our Criteria: Here's How We Chose The Top UAE EOR Services

We identify the best employer of record services for hiring in the UAE through a structured, multi-phase evaluation. Each vendor featured in this guide has been vetted using first-hand product testing, verified feedback from UAE-based users, and close analysis of their compliance capabilities.

Testing and Local Workflow Review

We’ve demoed and tried dozens of global EOR platforms to see how they perform specifically in the UAE. Our team reviewed how each provider handles visa sponsorship, employment contracts, payroll, and benefit enrollment for both mainland and free zone jurisdictions. These workflows were tested from both the employer’s and employee’s perspectives.

We paid close attention to:

  • How quickly the provider could generate compliant UAE employment agreements
  • Whether WPS registration and salary disbursement followed local requirements
  • If end-of-service gratuity, medical insurance, and statutory leave were handled correctly
  • How the platform supported Arabic documentation and local employee onboarding

Pre-Screening Based on Core Capabilities

From our initial testing pool, we applied three key filters to identify the strongest options:

  • End-User Experience: Platforms must be easy to use for both HR teams and UAE-based employees, with dashboards that provide visibility into onboarding, payroll, and visa status.
  • Compliance and Payroll Coverage: Each provider must demonstrate fluency in UAE labor law, visa processing, end-of-service entitlements, and required benefit administration.
  • Local Operations or Entity Ownership: Vendors with a direct presence or legal entity in the UAE were prioritized over those who rely entirely on third-party partners. This often correlates with faster response times, more accurate documentation, and better overall accountability.

Final Scoring Based on Product, Support, and Fit

Each short-listed provider was scored using a rubric that includes:

  • UAE-specific compliance coverage and support documentation
  • Onboarding timelines and visa processing efficiency
  • Feature depth for payroll, contract management, and employee benefits
  • Quality of support, including local time zone availability and responsiveness
  • Feedback from verified customers hiring in the UAE

Only those providers that scored highly across all criteria were included in this guide.

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Compare the Top UAE EOR Services

Popularity Score
Best for
Key Differentiator
Pricing
Free Trial
Customers
Users Score
Product Score
4.4
Guaranteeing a smooth transition from UAE contractor to full-time
Own UAE entity and real-time compliance monitoring
Starts at $599/employee/month
Get pricing info
No
Well in the thousands
4.6
4.5
4.2
A flat rate and fully compliant UAE employer of record
No third-party reliance, strong data security
Custom Pricing
Get pricing info
No
N/A
4.6
4.5
4.1
Budget-conscious global teams hiring in the UAE
Transparent pricing with 24/7 support and visa help
From $199/month per employee
Get pricing info
No
N/A
4.3
4.0
Phil Strazzulla
HR Tech Expert, Harvard MBA, Software Enthusiast

Need Help? Get Custom Recommendations for Top UAE EOR Services

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Detailed Reviews of the Best Top UAE EOR Services

Deel

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Deel
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Popularity Score
4.4 / 5
User Score
4.6 / 5
Product Score
4.5 / 5

Why we picked Deel

We selected Deel for this guide because it combines operational maturity, full entity control in the UAE, and a modern platform that’s one of the top EORs in the world. It provides balance between localized compliance strength and a system that scales across many countries and services. While they started in EOR & Global Payroll, they have for long expanded into a full-stack international human resources platform.

PROS

  • Deel operates a wholly owned UAE entity, giving it direct control over compliance, visa processing, and local employment obligations.
  • Onboarding in the UAE is relatively fast: Deel cites an average of 20 days to fully onboard employees already based in the emirates.
  • Payroll in AED is supported, and benefits packages are preconfigured for UAE norms, including health insurance, social security for nationals, and other statutory coverage.
  • Transparent pricing and clear employer cost models reduce surprises. In its UAE hiring page, Deel breaks down employer cost estimates (e.g. ~0.06% surcharge for expat employees plus mandatory health insurance).
  • The contract creation process is streamlined: their platform auto‑saves drafts, enforces compliance rules (e.g. disallowing C‑level titles without change), and embeds compliance checks in each step.
  • Deel’s reputation and user feedback in HR communities often emphasize reliability and smoother transitions versus competitors.
  • Excellent 24/7 customer service with fast onboarding (2-3 days) and local payroll experts in each jurisdiction.
  • Deel HR is free for companies of all sizes.
  • Seamless integration with platforms like QuickBooks, BambooHR, and Greenhouse, plus custom integration options.
  • User-friendly, self-service features enable quick setup; identity verification often takes under 24 hours.
  • Automated invoices simplify payments, provided they're in English.

CONS

  • While Deel has many UAE capabilities, it does not provide publicly visible SLA guarantees for visa processing, free zone authorities, or document turnaround times.
  • Pricing can escalate when additional service modules or premium support are included. Our comparisons show that Deel is more expensive than most EORs.
  • In more complex cases or fringe jurisdictions (e.g. unique free zones or fringe visa categories), Deel’s standard model may need to lean on local partners or exceptions, which introduces variability.
  • Some user reviews have flagged issues with onboarding support or navigating the platform’s increasing complexity in large deployments.
  • Key features like onboarding automation are add-ons, which may increase costs.
  • Limited flexibility in modifying contracts or service agreements; changes often require an addendum.
  • Invoices cannot be generated in languages other than English.

Deel Review

Deel is one of the strongest EOR options for the UAE, particularly for companies that value control, compliance, predictability, and an all-in-one global HR tool. Its ownership of a UAE entity gives it a compliance backbone that many EORs relying purely on partnerships lack. The onboarding timeline (typically 20 days) is competitive, and its platform capabilities support standard UAE payroll workflows (AED salary, health insurance, national social security) and contract handling.

To give you an example of how onboarding looks like with Deel, we’ve always found their contract builder especially well thought through. Drafts are auto-saved, compliance rules (e.g. restricting C-level titles) are built in, and you can tailor benefits options inline. The fact that employer cost formulas are visible for UAE hires builds confidence in budgeting and reduces surprises.

However, the lack of explicit public SLAs for visa timing, free zone nuances, or document approval speed means that prospective clients should press Deel for proof, especially if they intend to hire at scale or in specialized jurisdictions. Some negative reviews in HR circles point to cases where expectations set by sales were not met in execution, so checking reference customers is wise.

All told, if you're expanding into UAE and want a mature EOR with strong compliance controls, Deel is among the safest plays — especially if your organization also operates elsewhere and wants one consolidated global platform. As stated before, they are an ever-expanding product. Recently-added modules include compensation management, IT, and performance. The same goes for their benefits offering, which is always growing. They are a truly global-focused HR suite, which is great if you’re looking to cover more than the UAE EOR with the same tool.

Deel Customers

Deel is used by thousands of companies globally across multiple industries. However, we did not find UAE‑specific client names or case studies publicly referenced.

Deel Pricing

While Deel does not publish a fully transparent UAE‑specific rate, its global EOR pricing is often cited at $599 per employee per month as a baseline.

The employer cost in the UAE page breaks down certain surcharges: for expatriate employees, an employer cost ~0.06% surcharge plus mandatory health insurance is cited.

Buyers should always ask for a complete RUAE (Recruiting, UAE) package including visa costs, document approvals, free zone fees, and local benefits.

How has Deel Changed Over Time?

Ever since we’ve been writing about the tool (around early 2021), Deel has expanded beyond core EOR & international payroll services to become a more complete global HR platform, with several updates directly supporting UAE-based hiring and compliance:

  • Anytime Pay allows EOR employees in supported countries to access earned wages before payday at no cost
  • Compensation management includes global salary banding, pay equity controls, and centralized compensation reviews
  • Benefits administration now offers more customization for health coverage and allowances.
  • Off-cycle payroll and bulk actions simplify terminations, adjustments, and cross-entity transfers.

Best For

Deel is a solid bet for most EOR cases, but their UAE expertise and scope makes them particularly well-suited for this use case. As mentioned before, they are also ideal for managing a varied combination of international hiring arrangements. Think of them like a global HR tool, where you can manage contractors, full-time and part-time employees almost anywhere in the world almost as easy as you would if everyone was in the same city.

Deel in action
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Remote

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Remote
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Popularity Score
4.2 / 5
User Score
4.6 / 5
Product Score
4.5 / 5

Why we picked Remote

Remote is one of the few global EOR providers that owns and operates its own legal entity in the UAE, allowing them to directly manage local compliance, payroll, and visa sponsorship without third-party intermediaries. Their platform combines strong automation with built-in legal intelligence, and their UAE pricing is among the most transparent in the category. For companies already using Remote in other countries, expanding into the UAE feels operationally seamless thanks to unified workflows across contracts, onboarding, and payroll.

PROS

  • Remote owns and operates its UAE legal entity, reducing reliance on local partners
  • UAE payroll is handled in AED with WPS registration support
  • The platform supports both contractors and full-time employees in the UAE
  • Transparent pricing is listed publicly for payroll and employer obligations
  • Built-in compliance tools and contract templates reduce manual setup
  • G2 reviewers praise its usability, global reach, and risk mitigation features
  • Fast and compliant payroll in 170+ countries.
  • Live chat support with local payroll experts.
  • Flexible, localized benefit packages.
  • Flat-rate pricing structure, no deposits or hidden fees.
  • Mobile app streamlines expense reimbursement with autofill from receipt photos.

CONS

  • No public SLA disclosures for UAE visa timelines or free zone-specific processes
  • Some users report limited customization for niche workflows or integrations
  • Free zone hiring and government document processing may require manual intervention or clarification
  • Doesn’t have a free trial.
  • Redundant for organizations solely recruiting within the U.S.
  • Help center documentation isn’t easiest to understand.

Remote Review

Founded in 2019, Remote has established itself as a compliance-first global EOR provider — and its UAE service stands out thanks to direct local control. Unlike providers that rely on opaque local partners, Remote owns its legal entity in the UAE, which allows them to issue contracts, run WPS-compliant payroll in AED, and sponsor visas without outsourcing those responsibilities.

This model offers clear advantages. Employers can onboard full-time team members or transition contractors in the UAE, with Remote managing core compliance, mandatory benefits, health insurance, and documentation. Their UAE country page even includes transparent payroll cost estimates, which helps prospective buyers avoid the ambiguity common in this market.

From a usability standpoint, Remote’s platform streamlines hiring workflows across regions. Users on G2 routinely cite the platform’s simplicity and cross-border functionality as key strengths. For companies already using Remote in other markets, adding UAE coverage is a low-friction step. That said, some buyers have flagged platform limitations around deeper customization or real-time integration — issues more common in complex enterprise environments.

Additionally, Remote does not publish visa processing SLAs or turnaround times for UAE-specific cases like free zone employment or multi-entity transfers. Buyers hiring at scale or under tight timelines should confirm these details directly with their sales team.

Ultimately, Remote is a strong option for businesses that want direct compliance control in the UAE within a broader global HR framework. Its combination of owned infrastructure, clear pricing, and scalable tech makes it one of the most dependable EORs for Emirati expansion.

Remote Customers

Remote serves thousands of companies globally and is well-reviewed across G2 and other platforms. No UAE-specific logos or case studies are publicly confirmed.

Remote Pricing

$29 USD per employee/month for UAE payroll-only services, based on their public country page. EOR pricing tends to start at $699 per employee per month, but may vary depending on visa support, and benefits administration. Custom quotes are required for full employment packages.

How has Remote Changed Over Time?

In 2025, Remote transitioned from a global EOR provider into a broader HR platform with the launch of its own HRIS, designed to support everything from hiring to offboarding across international teams. This shift gives employers a single system to manage UAE-based staff alongside global counterparts.

  • Launched a native HRIS with modules for time off, org charts, and people data
  • Introduced Remote Perform for performance reviews and feedback cycles
  • Expanded global benefits and equity management tools
  • Rolled out deeper integrations across payroll, hiring, and compliance workflows

Best For

Companies expanding into the UAE that want full legal compliance without setting up a local entity.

Remote in action
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Remofirst

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Remofirst
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Popularity Score
4.1 / 5
User Score
4.3 / 5
Product Score
4 / 5

Why we picked Remofirst

Remofirst is a reliable choice for cost-effective UAE hiring. It’s one of the most affordable global EOR options on the market and includes visa sponsorship, contract management, onboarding, and payroll in one easy-to-use platform. Clients benefit from 24/7 support and a dedicated account manager—rare at this price point. UAE-specific insights, like required insurance, end-of-service benefits, and visa obligations, are handled by in-country teams.

PROS

  • Transparent, low-cost EOR pricing from $199/employee/month
  • Strong coverage of UAE labor requirements including visa sponsorship and EOSB
  • Support for employees and contractors alike
  • Local currency payroll and UAE-specific benefits
  • All customers get a dedicated account manager and 24/7 support
  • Equipment provisioning and time-off tracking included
  • Employers are able to pay Remofirst in USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, and SGD.
  • In turn, Remofirst pays each global employee in their local currency.
  • Over 150 countries serviced
  • Since it’s a young product, the UI looks quite modern, sleek, and generally easy on the eye.

CONS

  • Platform integrations are still limited
  • Some services depend on local third-party partners
  • Lacks advanced features available in more expensive platforms
  • As a younger company than others in the industry, Remofirst are still rolling out new integrations and features from their roadmap every month. Hence, these are somewhat limited for now.

Remofirst Review

Remofirst is a modern, low-cost EOR provider that enables companies to hire employees or contractors in the UAE without setting up a local entity. Their UAE offering includes everything from onboarding and payroll to benefits and visa sponsorship, making it a compelling choice for teams new to the region.

The platform’s workflows are intuitive. Managers can select the UAE, enter role and compensation details, and receive an all-in employment cost that includes salary, social contributions, and Remofirst’s flat fee. Once onboarding is complete, the employee gains access to a self-service portal for contracts, time off, and payslips. Payroll is centralized, with automatic invoicing and monthly summaries available at the click of a button.

Where Remofirst stands out in the UAE is with local legal support and transparency. The company actively publishes hiring guides, visa information, and benefits breakdowns for Emirati employment. Their local teams act as visa sponsors, helping collect, upload, and process required documents on behalf of employers.

While the platform doesn’t have as many integrations or advanced features as some competitors, it offers a modern UX and helpful features like automated bonus tracking, team management, and equipment provisioning. This makes it a strong fit for cost-conscious companies scaling into the UAE with basic but essential compliance needs.

Remofirst Customers

Remofirst is used by companies like Microsoft, Mastercard, Labster, ZocDoc, and QED. UAE-specific clients are not named publicly, but documentation and workflows confirm local operations.

Remofirst Pricing

EOR plans start at $199/employee/month. Hiring contractors is free. Pricing includes onboarding, payroll, and basic benefits administration, with add-ons available for equipment, insurance, and additional services.

How has Remofirst Changed Over Time?

Since our last review, Remofirst has introduced better team and notification management, expanded visa and benefits documentation for UAE employers, and added more automation to their onboarding workflows. New users can now create custom teams and manage roles and visibility across their global workforce.

  • Added team management and notification controls (Aug 2025)
  • Expanded UAE hiring and visa content
  • Enhanced employee self-onboarding tools

Best For

Remofirst is a good fit for startups, SMBs, and distributed teams that need an affordable way to hire in the UAE without sacrificing service quality. It supports both contractor and full-time hiring and scales well for lean HR teams or early-stage expansion.

Remofirst in action
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Rippling

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Rippling
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Popularity Score
4.2 / 5
User Score
4.2 / 5
Product Score
4.1 / 5

Why we picked Rippling

We chose Rippling for UAE hiring because of its integrated approach to global HR and IT operations. Its unified system simplifies the experience for companies already managing employees across multiple countries. Furthermore, Rippling has always had an entity-first approach to their EOR offering; they do have an entity wherever they let you hire through this modality.

PROS

  • UAE EOR is embedded within Rippling’s global HR and IT platform, reducing system fragmentation for international teams.
  • Contractor support and transition to full employment available in AED, with compliance guardrails to prevent misclassification.
  • Payroll in AED with Wage Protection System (WPS) registration is supported, helping companies meet UAE labor requirements.
  • End-of-service gratuity, annual leave, and other UAE statutory benefits are included in the employment framework.
  • Payroll, expense tracking, device management, and reporting are centralized in one dashboard, even for UAE-based staff.
  • Automated workflows and modular design let employers layer services—such as IT or expense management—on top of EOR, without re-entering employee data.
  • All-in-one platform for employee management + PEO services offered, and even a suite of other IT products 
  • With 500 integrations, it’s very likely that they integrate with other key tools from your tech stack.
  • Operates globally with any currency
  • Workflow automation
  • Analytics opportunities
  • Provides a holistic view of company outflows—headcount costs included

CONS

  • UAE EOR services are delivered via third-party partners, not through a Rippling-owned entity.
  • Visa sponsorship, WPS compliance, and other local obligations are less transparent than with UAE-specialist EORs.
  • Users report a steeper learning curve and heavier setup workload than with simpler, EOR-first providers.
  • Pricing can rise quickly when adding required local services or modules beyond core employment.
  • Total buy-in to Rippling is essential 
  • Very SMB-oriented, in case you’re a larger company. 
  • New features tend to be buggy in ways that tech teams are not accustomed to fixing

Rippling Review

Rippling brings a suite‑centric approach to UAE hiring: not just EOR, but HR, IT, payroll, benefits, and more built on a single employee data graph. That interconnected design means anything you upload—such as bank details, job titles, or employment start dates—instantly syncs across modules. If you later add the IT module to manage devices for UAE-based staff, for instance, all employee records are already there.

In the UAE context, Rippling supports employment contracts aligned with both mainland and free zone requirements. Their platform includes payroll in AED and registration with the Wage Protection System (WPS), which is required by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). We also confirmed that Rippling administers end-of-service gratuity, paid time off, maternity/paternity leave, and statutory medical coverage—important for ensuring local compliance from onboarding through offboarding.

Where Rippling may fall short is entity transparency. It does not publicly state whether it owns its UAE legal entity or relies on third-party partners, which can affect processing speed and accountability. There’s also limited public information on visa timelines, document SLAs, or free zone-specific workflows. For businesses prioritizing deep local control, that may warrant a conversation with the vendor.

However, for companies already using Rippling elsewhere—or planning to consolidate global HR and IT systems under one roof—Rippling’s modular, data-driven platform offers a distinct advantage. Its ability to support UAE hiring within a broader infrastructure is a major selling point for distributed teams aiming to scale without fragmenting systems or workflows.

Rippling Customers

Public customer examples include Superhuman, Checkr, Expensify, and Dwell, but Rippling does not disclose UAE-specific case studies at this time.

Rippling Pricing

UAE EOR pricing starts at $500 per employee per month, according to public data.

Visa sponsorship, medical coverage, and local benefits may incur additional fees depending on the contract scope.

How has Rippling Changed Over Time?

In mid‑2025, Rippling launched App Studio, a drag‑and‑drop, no‑code app builder that lets teams build custom internal tools using live employee data, embedded permissions, and workflow logic. For example, their New Hire Roster app uses real‑time employee profiles to automate onboarding tasks without duplicating data.

Beyond that, recent updates include enhancements to Workforce/Budget headcount planning, advanced workflow triggers, look-up fields between modules, and richer permission controls.

No specific UAE‑localized feature was publicly announced in the past five months, though these platform advances indirectly bolster EOR and HR capabilities globally.

Best For

Rippling is best for international companies interested in a broader HR and IT suite and looking to expand into the UAE through the same platform and service.

Rippling in action
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Multiplier

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Multiplier
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Popularity Score
4.3 / 5
User Score
4.3 / 5
Product Score
4.4 / 5

Why we picked Multiplier

We included Multiplier because it blends a strong, scalable global tech platform with competitive pricing and direct claims of UAE compliance; as they have specialized in Asian and Middle Eastern jurisdictions since their inception. We also find them appealing for the way they offer broad coverage without hiding costs, competitive prices, and globally-recognized support.

PROS

  • Transparent, all-in pricing without hidden markups is a major selling point for buyers wary of opaque EOR cost structures.
  • Strong platform usability and automation: onboarding, contract generation, policy management, and payroll tend to be streamlined from user feedback.
  • Broad global support and scalability: with operations in 150+ countries (including UAE), Multiplier often handles companies expanding across multiple markets.
  • Active local labor law coverage: their UAE page emphasizes that they manage UAE-specific compliance, visa sponsorship, benefits, and local employment regulations. 
  • Multiplier
  • Responsive customer support in user reviews: reviewers mention quick response times and resolution of issues within 1–2 business days.
  • Multi-currency payments in local currencies
  • Multi-lingual contracts made instantly
  • Compliance, payroll, onboarding, and timesheets, all in one platform

CONS

  • Some platform reviews note limited customization of reports or deeper analytics.
  • For rapidly scaling startups, the pricing may become relatively high as headcount grows, especially if add-ons or local regulatory extras are charged separately. 
  • Users comment that while Multiplier is good for global payroll, sometimes service responsiveness or platform latency can be an issue in certain regions, although no direct mentions of issues within the UAE were found.
  • Limited integrations. As of Summer 2024, Multiplier only integrates with BambooHR, Personio, Workday, and HiBob for HCM-type tools, although they are working on adding more.

Multiplier Review

Multiplier positions itself as a full-stack EOR solution with presence in the UAE, promising legal compliance, visa support, benefits management, and accurate payroll in AED. According to their team, Multiplier can handle employment contracts, statutory entitlements, and immigration services, providing everything you’d need for core UAE hiring operations.

In practice, the strength of Multiplier’s platform has long been evident to us. We’ve always appreciated how smoothly it handles global workflows, and our secondary sources often praise how onboarding, contract setup, and payroll run via unified dashboards without redundant data entry across geographies. Some users contrast this favorably with older, more siloed systems.

From the standpoint of UAE statutory entitlements, Multiplier states that it handles local benefits including paid leave, health insurance, and other standard obligations. While explicit mention of gratuity / end-of-service is less visible on their public pages, their promise of full compliance strongly implies they manage the full employment lifecycle. Their regional presence and claims suggest they strive to stay current with UAE labor law changes and free zone differences; however, we could not confirm precise SLA metrics for visa processing or free zone law handling.

For businesses expanding into the UAE, Multiplier is a strong contender. Its balance of transparency, usability, and breadth makes it especially viable for firms that will hire in multiple markets. But if your priority is deep local contro, especially for free zone complexities, fast visa timelines, or highly customized compliance, you’ll want to ask Multiplier for UAE-specific performance data before committing.

Multiplier Customers

Multiplier Pricing

Public comparisons list a starting rate of ~US $400 per employee per month (all-in) for standard EOR services.

Because local UAE functions (visa sponsorship, medical insurance, free zone handling) may carry additional fees, buyers should request a detailed quote to ensure there are no hidden add-ons.

How has Multiplier Changed Over Time?

Best For

Multiplier is a strong bet for organizations with a mixed bag of hiring needs in the Middle East and Asia Pacific.

Multiplier in action
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Borderless

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Borderless
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Popularity Score
4.1 / 5
User Score
4.7 / 5
Product Score
4 / 5

Why we picked Borderless

Borderless AI combines aggressive speed and modern automation with a global compliance backbone. Its AI tools (like HRGPT) assist in generating contracts, checking local law compliance in real time, and reducing manual review overhead. For UAE hiring, those features help navigate shifting regulations faster than many traditional EORs, and their zero pre‑funding model improves working capital flexibility.

PROS

  • AI-powered contract generation and compliance checks reduce manual effort
  • Zero deposit or pre-funding requirements; pretty cash-flow friendly 
  • Owned infrastructure in many jurisdictions (including UAE) to avoid partner‑based delays
  • Modern UI and speedy onboarding
  • HRGPT agent delivers quick, reliable, and personalized answers on contracts, policies, and compliance.
  • Payroll processes are among the fastest in the industry, with no requirement to pre-fund salary deposits.
  • Questions and technical issues are handled by in-country Borderless account and success managers.
  • They have partnered with local experts from the Big Four accounting firms for accounting and tax compliance.
  • Both the web platform and the mobile app are intuitive, quick to figure out, and easy on the eye.

CONS

  • Relatively new provider (founded 2022) with a shorter track record than EOR incumbents
  • Public SLA transparency for UAE visa processing, free zone workflows, or document timelines is limited
  • Customization and integrations may lag behind more mature platforms
  • No direct integrations with major HRIS platforms, which could limit larger teams seeking ecosystem compatibility.
  • Reporting and analytics features remain basic, offering limited drill-down capabilities for detailed audits or trend analysis.

Borderless Review

Borderless AI positions itself as a next-generation EOR built around AI and speed. Their UAE landing page emphasizes full managed EOR services, compliance monitoring, and support for local labor law in the United Arab Emirates.

One of Borderless’s standout features is HRGPT, an AI assistant integrated into the platform that can generate compliant employment contracts in minutes and answer HR/compliance questions referencing real-time law across jurisdictions. Their team assured us that contracts and onboarding in UAE can be done in “minutes to days” rather than weeks, which may certainly appeal to rapid scaling teams.

Another differentiator we’ve always appreciated in them is the zero deposit / no pre‑funding model — Borderless claims clients don’t need to put down large security deposits or fund payroll in advance, which alleviates cash flow constraints.

Throughout the two demos we conducted of the tool, we’ve found it to be quite intuitive, easy on the eye (which is saying a lot for a global payroll tool), and very easy to understand workflows. Users also praise their prompt support and ease of onboarding as common positives.

However, some criticisms do surface. Because Borderless is newer, there is less public proof of long-term performance in highly regulated or complex environments, particularly in UAE free zones or niche industries. SLA transparency for local document approvals, visa times, or free zone authority handling is limited in their documentation. Also, advanced features or deep custom integrations may require support or engineering effort.

For UAE hiring, Borderless’s speed, AI features, and modern model make it compelling — especially for companies comfortable innovating. But for teams that require ironclad guarantees or extreme custom compliance, it’s critical to press Borderless for UAE-specific performance metrics, client references, and the extent of its local legal footprint.

Borderless Customers

Borderless has public clients such as Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, WineDirect, ShiftKey, and other global brands.

Borderless Pricing

Using an UAE EOR with Borderless AI would start at $579 per employee per month, according to their published rates.

How has Borderless Changed Over Time?

In mid 2025, Borderless launched HRGPT, an AI assistant that generates compliant contracts, handles real-time HR questions, and enables employee self-service for tasks like PTO and benefits. This update, along with prior improvements like no-deposit payroll, Google Calendar integration, and entity setup automation, shows why we keep recommending Borderless; they continue to push the boundaries of EOR automation.

Best For

Borderless AI is a strong fit for startups and growing companies hiring globally that want fast onboarding, automated compliance support, and freedom from pre-funding payroll. It’s especially appealing to lean teams that value modern tools like an AI assistant to handle HR questions and generate country-compliant contracts.

Borderless in action
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G-P

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G-P
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Popularity Score
4 / 5
User Score
4.7 / 5
Product Score
4.3 / 5

Why we picked G-P

G‑P offers one of the most established EOR platforms on the market, and their UAE support reflects years of refinement across compliance, onboarding, and contractor management. Through their proprietary platform, G‑P Meridian, businesses can onboard Emirati employees using locally compliant contracts, process payroll in AED or other currencies, and access HR and legal experts with local knowledge of labor law and visa regulations. Their recent push into AI—with features like G‑P Gia, an intelligent hiring assistant—adds automation to a service known for its reliability and regional breadth.

PROS

  • Owned legal infrastructure and regional experts for local UAE labor law compliance
  • Built-in AI tools like G‑P Gia assist with contract setup, policy guidance, and hiring workflows
  • Supports payroll in over 180 currencies, including AED and even crypto in some cases
  • Full employment lifecycle support: onboarding, payroll, benefits, and offboarding
  • Clear communication about UAE-specific challenges, such as free zone vs. mainland regulations
  • Enterprise-ready with SOC 2 and GDPR compliance across the platform
  • Their G-P Meridian platform is heavily focused on the EOR space, but it’s offered in several plans that can cater to varying needs, even those that might only need to hire people as contractors.
  • Using their tool also implies access to a team of HR and legal professionals with significant experience in each country they operate in.
  • Their UX has evolved continuously and gotten more intuitive and modern each time we delve into the product.

CONS

  • No public pricing or SLA disclosures for UAE-specific timelines (e.g., visas, free zones)
  • Users report limited customization in some HR workflows unless on higher-tier plans
  • Heavy platform reliance may limit flexibility for companies with unique tool stacks or integrations
  • Customizing a contract is only possible with the G-P Meridian Prime plan.
  • Features like background checks, equity management, and IT equipment— to name a few— are only available as add-ons.
  • There is no way to try out the software product unless you sign up for a demo and request a proposal.

G-P Review

G‑P (formerly Globalization Partners) is one of the most seasoned EOR providers in the market, and their presence in the UAE reflects the operational maturity buyers often seek when navigating complex jurisdictions. Whether hiring in Dubai’s free zones or on the mainland, G‑P offers localized support through their in-house legal and HR network, all connected to their G‑P Meridian platform.

The G‑P Meridian platform is built to manage global hiring end to end— contracts, onboarding, payroll, and offboarding— all with a compliance-first foundation. Their AI assistant, G‑P Gia, adds another layer of support by helping users answer country-specific questions, generate compliant contracts, and resolve HR issues faster. These tools are especially helpful in the UAE, where employment practices can differ sharply between free zones and federal jurisdictions.

G‑P’s contractor support and benefits management are also well regarded, and G2 reviewers consistently praise their customer success teams for responsiveness and legal insight. Still, platform customization and integration flexibility are more limited unless buyers opt for their higher-tier offerings.

Unlike newer EOR vendors, G‑P rarely relies on third parties to execute employment in key regions, and their UAE service is no exception. But while their site references the complexity of Emirati compliance, there are no public timelines for visa processing or onboarding durations—meaning prospective buyers should ask directly about SLA commitments for the UAE.

G-P Customers

G‑P serves enterprise and mid-market clients including Zoom, Udemo, Distek, and Neurala. Specific UAE customers have not been publicly named, though their regional office and documentation confirm active coverage in the UAE.

G-P Pricing

While not publicly disclosed, pricing depends on country, headcount, visa requirements, and platform tier. A demo is likely required for a custom quote.

How has G-P Changed Over Time?

Since SSR’s last review in 2023, G‑P has shifted further into AI-led HR. Their G‑P Gia assistant helps employers generate compliant contracts, surface local labor law requirements, and support employee self-service across jurisdictions. G‑P has also expanded its Meridian platform’s contractor support, added expense tracking, and grown its UAE and MENA presence through regional HR specialists.

Best For

G‑P is best suited for mid-sized to enterprise companies expanding into the UAE that require high levels of compliance assurance, legal oversight, and support for both employees and contractors. They will also resonate with those eager to inject AI capabilities into all of the above.

G-P in action
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FAQs About Using an EOR in the UAE

What are free zone variations when hiring in the UAE?
Each UAE free zone has its own employment rules, visa processes, and dispute systems. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), for example, follow distinct labor laws separate from the mainland. Your Employer of Record (EOR) should know which zones they operate in and how compliance differs.

What is mainland employment in the UAE?
Mainland employment refers to work governed by the UAE’s federal labor law, which applies outside of free zones. It covers contracts, working hours, insurance, and end-of-service benefits (EOSB). Unlike free zones—which have their own authorities and rules—mainland employees are subject to national laws, and EORs must be licensed to operate under them.

How long does visa processing take when hiring in the UAE?
Visa processing usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the emirate and whether the EOR company uses direct or third-party sponsorship. Steps include entry permit, medical exam, Emirates ID, and residence visa.

Do I need to localize employment contracts in Arabic?
English contracts are common, but Arabic versions may be required—especially in mainland hires or certain free zones. A good EOR will localize contracts as needed for compliance.

Are end-of-service benefits (EOSB) mandatory in the UAE?
Yes. EOSB is a legal requirement and must be paid to full-time employees upon termination. Your EOR should calculate and manage this by default.

Pro Tips on Top UAE EOR Services

Choosing an EOR Provider in the United Arab Emirates: A Quick Guide

We wrote this as a reference sheet when evaluating potential EOR partners. Keep it handy during calls to make sure you're covering all the important bases. It helped us choose the companies here, but if used as a checklist, it can certainly help determine which one is the perfect fit for you. 

What to Look For:

UAE Labor Law Knowledge

Your EOR should know the ins and outs of UAE employment law, including contract terms (typically up to 3 years), probation periods (6 months max), and end-of-service benefits. If you're hiring in a free zone like DIFC or ADGM, make sure they understand those specific rules too—they're different from mainland regulations.

Ask them: "How do you handle contracts and end-of-service benefits? What's your experience with [specific free zone if applicable]?"

Accurate Payroll & End-of-Service Benefits

You need an EOR that gets payroll right every month and correctly calculates gratuity payments (typically 21 days of basic salary per year for the first 5 years of service).

Ask them: "Walk me through how you calculate end-of-service benefits and manage final settlements. Show me your leave tracking system."

Visa Sponsorship & Immigration Support

For most international hires, the EOR will be the legal sponsor handling work visas, residency permits, medical screenings, and Emirates ID. The whole process needs to wrap up within 60 days of arrival, so coordination matters.

Ask them: "What's your typical timeline for visa processing? How do you keep us updated during the immigration process?"

Health Insurance & Benefits

Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Your EOR should provide compliant plans and manage statutory leave (30 days annual leave, 90 days maternity leave, etc.). Some also help with housing or flight allowances.

Ask them: "What health insurance plans do you offer? Can we customize benefits packages for our team?"

Data Security & Compliant Contracts

The UAE has its own data protection law, so your EOR should use secure systems and provide proper employment contracts (in English and Arabic) that meet local legal standards.

Ask them: "How do you protect employee data? Can we review a sample employment contract?"

Support & Communication

With a diverse workforce across time zones, you want an EOR with local expertise and responsive support, ideally available when you need them or with a reasonable reply time based on SLAs. 

Ask them: "What are your support hours? Will we have a dedicated contact person? What's the typical response time considering our time zone difference?"

Clear, Transparent Pricing

A good EOR breaks down all costs upfront: visa fees, Emirates ID, insurance premiums, and their service fees. Watch out for vague answers about pricing—that's where hidden costs sneak in.

Ask them: "Can you provide an itemized quote showing all fees and costs? Are there any additional charges we should expect?"

Pro Tip: You can always verify an EOR's credentials with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation if you want additional peace of mind.

How Much Does an EOR Service in the UAE Cost?

Using an Employer of Record in the UAE typically costs between $199 and $699 per employee per month in provider fees. In addition to this, employers must cover mandatory local costs like health insurance, visa sponsorship, and end-of-service benefits (EOSB), which usually amount to 10–20% of the gross salary depending on the role and emirate.

Here’s a snapshot of starting UAE EOR pricing from top vendors:

  • Remofirst: $199
  • Multiplier: $400
  • Rippling: $500
  • Deel: $599
  • Remote: $599 (annually) or $699 (month-to-month)
  • Oyster: $699
  • G‑P (Globalization Partners): Custom pricing
  • Borderless: Custom pricing

Example Cost Breakdown:
Hiring a full-time software engineer in the UAE with a $4,000/month gross salary through an average EOR provider may look like this:

  • EOR Service Fee: $500
  • Mandatory Employer Costs (EOSB, visa, insurance): ~$600
  • Total Monthly Cost: ~$5,100

Actual costs vary based on the employee’s location (mainland vs. free zone), benefits offered, visa type, and EOR provider tier. Always ask for an itemized quote.

Read More: How Much Does an Employer of Record Cost in 2025?

Benefits of Using an Employer of Record in the UAE

Hiring in the UAE can unlock access to a skilled, multilingual workforce in a business-friendly region—but the legal, visa, and payroll complexities can be significant. An Employer of Record (EOR) helps companies expand into the UAE without setting up a local entity, handling compliance, payroll, and HR on your behalf.

Here’s what you gain by working with an EOR in the UAE:

  • Faster Market Entry: With an EOR, you can start hiring in the UAE within days, not months. No need to register a company, navigate local bureaucracy, or wait for licensing. This is especially useful for testing the region or hiring remote Emirati talent.
  • Visa and Immigration Handling: Your EOR acts as the legal sponsor, guiding employees through visa applications if they need them. This can include medical checks, Emirates ID registration, and more, ensuring full compliance with UAE immigration rules.
  • Payroll and EOSB Compliance: UAE payroll laws include mandatory health insurance and end-of-service benefits (EOSB). A reliable EOR automates salary payments, calculates EOSB accruals, and keeps your payroll compliant with local standards.
  • Localized Contracts and Benefits: EORs offer compliant employment contracts tailored to mainland or free zone regulations. Many also provide competitive benefits packages and ensure mandatory offerings like health insurance are covered.
  • Reduced Legal and Financial Risk: By taking on legal responsibility for the employee, the EOR reduces your exposure to non-compliance penalties, visa issues, and labor disputes; all common risks for foreign companies hiring locally.
  • Lower Cost Than Entity Setup: Registering a UAE company can take months and require significant capital outlay. An EOR avoids those upfront costs and provides a flexible solution for long-term or trial hiring.

For companies expanding into the Middle East or tapping into UAE-based talent, partnering with an EOR is often the most efficient way to hire quickly, legally, and with confidence.

Pitfalls of Using an EOR in the UAE and How to Avoid Them

All of the above said, while using an Employer of Record (EOR) in the UAE can make hiring a breeze, it's good to be aware of a few potential bumps in the road. We've seen some of these pop up on social media or among the users we interviewed for this guide, so let's delve into the key things to watch out for: 

1. Getting Salary and Settlements on Time

Pitfall: Sometimes, employees might experience delays or even issues with getting paid, especially after resigning. As an employer, you'll want to avoid disputes, so it's key to make sure those end-of-service benefits (like 21 days' basic salary for each of the first five years) are paid right on time, as per Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021.

Pro Tip: 

Employers can help by making sure your EOR provides clear payroll audit reports.

Also, check out reviews to make sure the vendor’s track record is near spotless. If there are complaints, there should be official replies providing a solution. As a last tip, if there are any delays, don't hesitate to reach out to MOHRE (80084).

2. Visas and Sponsorship

Pitfall: Mismanaged visa timelines can delay onboarding and jeopardize legal work status. In the UAE, employees must obtain a valid work permit within 60 days of entry. If the EOR doesn’t handle this properly, the employee may be forced to leave the country or face fines—disrupting both their livelihood and your hiring plan.

Pro Tip:
For employees:
Ask your EOR if they’ll sponsor your visa directly, and clarify how long the full process takes, including medicals and Emirates ID issuance.
For employers: Choose an EOR with deep UAE immigration expertise, including support for both mainland and free zone visas (like those in the DIFC). Delays here can quickly turn into compliance issues. 

3. Transparent Fees, No Surprises!

Pitfall: Employers might sometimes face unexpected costs, like higher-than-anticipated visa or payroll fees. Employees might also find some unclear deductions.

Pro Tip: Both employers and employees should always ask for a detailed, itemized quote (for example, visa fees typically range from AED 200-5,000, and insurance from AED 700-10,000 per year). If an EOR's pricing seems vague, it might be best to look elsewhere.

4. Getting the Support You Need

Pitfall: Slow responses from an EOR can be frustrating for everyone, especially when you're onboarding or dealing with a dispute.

Pro Tip: Choose EORs that offer 24/7 support and give you a dedicated contact person. It's a good idea to test their responsiveness before you commit!

Bonus Tip: Always double-check your EOR's credentials with MOHRE and keep an eye on social media for real-time feedback. This helps ensure everything is perfectly aligned with UAE laws, including data protection (Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021).

EOR vs. PEO in the UAE

While Employer of Record (EOR) and Professional Employer Organization (PEO) models both support global hiring, they’re not interchangeable in the UAE.

The key difference? A PEO requires your company to already have a legal entity in the UAE. In contrast, an EOR becomes the legal employer, sponsoring visas, running payroll, and ensuring compliance—without you needing to set up locally.

For most foreign businesses hiring in the UAE, the EOR model is more practical. It eliminates the need for licensing, registration, or in-country infrastructure, which can be time-consuming and expensive to establish.

For a deeper comparison of the two models, see our full breakdown here: EOR vs. PEO – What’s the Difference?

Final Thoughts on Choosing an EOR in the UAE

Hiring in the UAE through an Employer of Record can help you access top talent while staying compliant with complex local laws. Whether you're entering the region for the first time or scaling an existing operation, the right EOR partner can reduce risk, streamline hiring, and handle the heavy lifting on visas, payroll, and labor law.

If you're still unsure which provider is the best fit, we offer free 1:1 EOR software advice to help HR and finance teams make informed decisions. You can book a 30 minute consultation, free of charge, and get a shortlist tailored to your needs.

You can also explore our broader Employer of Record Buyer Guide for more vendors and deeper insight into how EORs work across different regions. While not UAE-specific, it’s a great resource if you’re hiring globally.

About the Author

Rodrigo Vázquez-Mellado
HR and B2B software analyst and advisor, tech writer and editor, former conversational designer
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Rodrigo has worked in tech since 2015 across various marketing and product roles. All the while, he's stayed active as a journalist, musician, and avid traveler. He's been a writer and editor at SSR since 2020, covering software niches like payroll, HCM, workforce planning, AI Recruiting, and whatever spikes his interest. He's always on the lookout for the right software and tools—whether it's for managing business processes or to fuel his many hobbies. Rodrigo studied Journalism at the University of North Texas and Marketing and Communications at Tec de Monterrey. You can see more of his writing at: http://rvmrosas.com/

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