chat-icon
night work permit for business
Lifestyle
Jul 30, 2025

How to Secure a Night Work Permit for Overnight Business

7 min read

Do you run a business that operates outside standard hours in the UAE? And you would like to keep it running all night? If it’s a “YES” to both questions, then keep your eyes glued for the important information that follows.

If you have employees or a business that runs overnight, then you’ll need a “night work permit for businesses” to operate during the hours between 9 PM to 6 AM, especially if the business is located in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Whether you run an inventory management, work in maintenance, or are a cinematographer, this night work permit keeps your business running smoothly while also ensuring compliance with UAE laws.

In this piece, we’ll discuss the essentials of securing a night work permit in the UAE, covering the required documents you’ll need, fees to be paid, and other details that are a must-know.

Business Night Work Permit in Dubai

Things are fast and super efficient in Dubai. In just 24 hours or within one working day, business owners can obtain their night work permit in Dubai. For convenience, you can submit all employee and business information through the Dubai Police digital platforms at once.

Documents Required to Obtain a Night Work Permit

When applying for the night work permit, you’ll need the following documents:

  • Shopping mall permit or permit for the business establishment

A completed form from the Dubai Police website with details captured from your:

  • Emirates ID
  • Email Address
  • Shop name
  • Contracting company name
  • Work category and type
  • Selected date and time

This must be completed for every employee working night hours with the company. “What are the night shift rules in UAE?” You can’t forget this as the night work permit for businesses only covers activities like cinematography, maintenance, inventory management, and billboard installations, and not commercial activities in Dubai.

night work permit dubai

If you own a commercial business you’d like to keep open during night hours, make proper inquiries from the Dubai Police Department to help you navigate this process.

Cost of Application

Night work permit cost in Dubai includes a set of fees that can be paid using debit/credit cards, cash, or even Apple Pay.

Payable fees include:

  • Service Fee - AED 100
  • Knowledge Fee - AED 10
  • Innovation Fee - AED 10

How to Apply for a Night Work Permit in Dubai

It’s pretty easy to apply for night work permits in Dubai. Business owners can apply through:

  • Dubai Police App (iOS and Android)
  • Dubai Police Website
  • Dubai Police Stations
  • Smart Police Stations

Once the documents are verified and approved, the permit lasts up to 14 days from the specified start date. It’s important to apply only when you need it to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Night Work Permit for Businesses in Abu Dhabi

If you’re in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and would like to apply for a night work permit, it’s even simpler and faster. Night work permits are granted within 4 hours and no additional fees are incurred.

Documents Required for Application

If you’re applying for this kind of work permit in Abu Dhabi, here are some of the documents you’ll need:

  • Copies of your ID card
  • Copies of valid residency permits for the workers
  • A compiled list of the employees submitted in Arabic (nationality, name, and ID card number)
  • A copy of the signature authorization
  • A letter from the Central Bank and the automated alarm number (for banks, gold shops, and currency exchanges)
  • Valid trade licenses for the store and contracting company
  • A no-objection letter from the commercial center to cover the extended working hours
  • For contract duration less than 6 months, attach a copy of the specified date and duration

You can submit these documents at any service center or on the UAE Pass platform.

Application Steps

  • Visit any service center or the UAE Pass platform
  • Fill the form and submit the requested documents
  • Receive your temporary night work permit within few hours and enjoy its benefits

Getting Your Business Permit

Getting a night work permit for businesses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is convenient and fast, taking only 4-24 hours to obtain a temporary permit. Businesses looking to operate during hours between 9 AM and 6 PM are required to register and obtain the permit, but this doesn’t cover commercial activities.

What are the night shift rules in UAE

If you’re in Dubai, you can apply through the Dubai Police and for individuals in Abu Dhabi, they can use the UAE Pass platform or service centers across the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a Night Work Permit?

Night work permit in Dubai allows businesses to operate during nighttime hours. It’s a temporary permit allowing holders to run their business between 9 PM to 6 AM

  • How do I apply for a Night Work Permit?

Applications can be completed through submission of required documents via the Dubai Police website, or the UAE Pass platform for individuals in Abu Dhabi.

  • How long does it take to obtain?

It’s smooth and fast. Temporary permits are issued within 4 to 24 hours.

  • Who needs a Night Work Permit?

The permit applies for all other businesses except commercial activities.