12-Jan-2025 45 Days in Dubai Without a Job: What to Do When Your Dubai Job Hunt Hits a Wall

Moving to Dubai with big dreams and a burning desire to succeed is a bold step. You’ve left your home country, cut ties with your comfort zone, and are now in the competitive job market of this bustling city. For the first 45 days, your focus is singular: apply, apply, and apply. But what happens when those applications don’t yield the results you expected? When the silence from employers becomes deafening, it’s time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate.

 

Instead of continuing to send out resumes into the void, take a step back. Disconnect from the application process and focus on strategies that can significantly enhance your job search. Here are 6 unconventional strategies to consider after 45 days of no success:

 

1. Audit Your Job Search Strategy

You’ve been applying non-stop, but have you stopped to analyze what’s working and what’s not? Create a spreadsheet to track your applications, roles applied for, companies, response rates, and interview outcomes. Identify patterns. Are you targeting the right roles? Is your resume tailored to each job? This audit will help you spot gaps and refine your approach.

 

2. Leverage the Power of Informational Interviews

Instead of waiting for job postings, proactively reach out to professionals in your desired industry. Request informational interviews to learn about their career paths, company culture, and industry trends. These conversations can uncover hidden opportunities and expand your network. Plus, they position you as a curious and proactive candidate instead a job seeker.

 

3. Build a Personal Brand Online

Your online presence matters. Create content related to your field, write LinkedIn articles, share industry insights, or post about your job search journey. Engage with posts from companies and professionals you admire. A strong personal brand can make you stand out and attract recruiters. Use this calendar as a starter!

 

4. Volunteer or Freelance to Gain Local Experience

If you’re struggling to land a full-time role, consider volunteering or freelancing. Many organizations in Dubai welcome skilled volunteers or freelancers. This not only adds local experience to your resume but also helps you build connections and demonstrate your value.

 

5. Reconnect with Your Network Strategically

Networking is key in Dubai’s job market. Reconnect with former colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances who are based in the UAE. Attend industry events, webinars, or meetups. Be genuine in your interactions, ask for advice, not just job leads. A strong referral can often open doors that applications alone cannot.

 

6. Reevaluate Your Target Companies and Roles

After 45 days, it’s time to reassess your target companies and roles. Are you aiming too high or too broad? Research smaller companies, startups, or niche industries that align with your skills. Sometimes, the best opportunities are found in less obvious places.

 

The job search process in Dubai can be overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to grow and adapt. If you haven’t landed a job in 45 days, don’t lose hope. Use this time to rethink your strategy, enhance your skills, and build meaningful connections. Remember, success often comes to those who are willing to pivot and try something new. By implementing these 6 strategies, you’ll not only improve your chances of landing a job but also gain valuable insights and experiences that will serve you well in your career. 

 

So, take a deep breath, step back, and approach your job search with renewed focus and determination. Your dream job in Dubai is within reach, you just need to approach it differently.


 

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