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Dear DK Jangir: Thank you for your question. Distance learning is becoming very popular even in Dubai and online certificates are considered just as credible as if you were attending a university or college campus. Distance learning can be done by correspondence, CD-ROMs, online coursework or combination of more than one method. Some U.S. universities allow students to complete studies and exams without having to travel to the U.S; some request that you travel for some courses or sit for exams on campus.

You can visit the links below for information on accredited institutions:

http://www.elearners.com/colleges/
http://www.petersons.com/distancelearning
http://www.collegeanduniversity.net/index.cfm

Thank you and Good luck!

Dear Musatafa: Thank you for your question. This is a broad question which can make or break the interview. The employer wants to know what you can do for the company.

It is useful to refer to the job posting and figure out what requirements the employer is targeting. On a sheet of paper make two sections. On one section list the employer’s requirements; on the second section make a list of how you can fulfill those requirements. It won’t come easy, so take some time and think things through before you jot down possible answers.

You have to focus on selling yourself; use your skills and elaborate on them. Don’t sell yourself short. Focus on details such as the following: you never miss deadlines; you have a good sense of humor; you have great attention to details, etc and expand on them. Instead of answering: “I am a hard worker and I would be pleased to work for your company.” You can answer: “I have the skills you need to get the job done on time.” You can also use an example of the skills you used to get a particular project completed on a deadline.

Hope this helps!

Dear Zubair: Thank you for your question. There is a lot of paperwork involved when moving to a new place, including Dubai. If you are starting a job there, most employers will require you to have all your education certificates certified, notarized and attested in your home country where they were issued. At some stage, you will require the following documents as well:

Valid Passport (meaning valid for up to 6 months or more)
Birth Certificate
Marriage certificate/Divorce papers (if applicable)
Driving license
Education certificates
School records (children’s school records, if applicable)
Power of attorney

As a fresh graduate, you have more to offer an employer than you think. First, you are most likely single, which means it will be easy for you to relocate and settle yourself without having to worry about a family. Second, since you are fresh out of school, you have up-to-date skills to offer employers. In your resume, you may want to underscore projects you worked on in school. For example, coursework develops your report writing, written/communication skills; lab work develops technical and scientific skills.

No doubt, the employer will examine your degree but also your demonstrative personal skills and abilities. Employers will also refer to your generic skills such as communication skills, teamwork or interpersonal skills, analytical skills or managing skills. As a fresh graduate, be prepared to start at the bottom. You may have to look at an entry level position and then work your way into positions with more responsibility. For example, if you want a management position in Telecommunications or Financial Organization you may need to start your career in a call centre. But remember, the employer will be watching so be sure to show-off your skills and you will see yourself climbing the ladder in no time.

Good Luck

Dear Ismail: Thank you for your question. According to the Immigration Department, any expatriate employee who cancels the residence visa will get a six month ban. However, depending on the relationship with your employer, you may be able to get a No Objection Letter. If you obtain a NOB letter, you may be able to avoid getting a ban. There is a list of professionals issued by the Dubai Immigration Department who are exempt from the visa ban or they can get their visas transferred without being hit with a ban. So far the categories are listed below:

1) Engineers.

2) Doctors.

3) Agricultural advisors.

4) Qualified accountants and auditors.

5) Administration officers who are graduates.

6) Technicians in electronics, scientific equipment and labs.

7) Licensed drivers for driving heavy vehicles and buses, if transfer their sponsorship to similar party.

8) Persons working in private oil companies when transferred between companies.

I would recommend you to get in touch with the Dubai Immigration Department for up to date information about the No Objection Letter and the list of ban exempt professions.