Salary Negotiation in Dubai: 5 Scripts to Get a Higher Offer (2025)

You’ve aced the interview. You’ve beaten the competition. Then, the HR manager calls with the good news:

"Congratulations, we’d like to offer you the job. The salary is AED 10,000."

Your instinct might be to say "Yes!" immediately. But in the UAE job market, the first offer is rarely the best offer.

In 2025, recruitment experts in Dubai estimate that candidates who negotiate increase their starting package by 10% to 15%. That could mean an extra AED 15,000 to AED 20,000 in your pocket every year.

At CareerArab, we have compiled the ultimate guide to salary negotiation in the UAE, including 5 copy-paste scripts you can use today.

The Golden Rule: Understand "Basic" vs. "Allowances"

Before you use any script, you must understand how UAE salaries work. Your paycheck is not just one number; it is split into two parts:

Basic Salary (Usually 50-60%): This is the most important number. Your End-of-Service Gratuity is calculated only on your basic salary.
Allowances (40-50%): This covers Housing, Transport, and Utilities.

Pie chart infographic showing typical UAE salary breakdown into basic salary, housing, transport, and other allowances

Warning: A job offering AED 15,000 with a low basic salary (e.g., AED 5,000 Basic + AED 10,000 Allowances) is worse than a job offering AED 14,000 with a high basic salary. Always negotiate to keep your Basic Salary high.

5 Scripts to Negotiate a Higher Salary

Script 1: The "Market Research" Method

Best for: When you know you are being underpaid based on market averages.

The Script:

"Thank you so much for the offer. I am genuinely excited about the team and the projects we discussed.
However, based on my research of the current UAE market for [Job Title] roles with my level of experience, the typical salary range is between AED [X] and AED [Y].
The current offer of AED [Offer Amount] falls slightly below this bracket. Given my certification in [Mention a specific skill] and my track record of [Mention a past success], would it be possible to adjust the Basic Salary to bring the total package closer to AED [Your Target]?"

Script 2: The "Cost of Living" Adjustment

Best for: Expats relocating to Dubai or Abu Dhabi who need to cover rent and school fees.

The Script:

"I am very keen to join the company. However, after reviewing the cost of living in Dubai—specifically the recent 15% increase in rental prices—the proposed housing allowance of AED [X] would make the relocation difficult for my family.
To ensure I can fully focus on delivering results in this role without financial stress, I would need the total package to be adjusted to AED [Your Target]. This would allow me to secure suitable accommodation near the office."

Script 3: The "Gratuity & Long-Term" Play

Best for: When the total salary is okay, but the "Basic Salary" is too low.

The Script:

"The total monthly figure looks acceptable, but I noticed that the Basic Salary is set at only 40% of the total package.
As I am looking for a long-term career with [Company Name], the financial structure is important to me. Could we restructure the offer so that the Basic Salary represents 60% of the total? This would make me much more comfortable signing the contract today."

Script 4: The "Non-Monetary" Compromise

Best for: When the company says "We have zero budget for salary increases."

The Script:

"I understand that the budget is fixed for this fiscal year. Since we cannot move on the monthly salary, could we look at other parts of the compensation package to bridge the gap?
I would be willing to accept the current salary if we could include:
Full medical insurance coverage for my spouse and children.
One day of remote work per week to save on commuting costs.
If we can agree on these terms, I am ready to accept."

Script 5: The "Walk Away" (High Risk, High Reward)

Best for: When you have another offer or are willing to stay at your current job.

The Script:

"I really appreciate the time you’ve taken, and [Company Name] is my top choice.
However, I have received another offer that is significantly higher, at AED [X]. I would prefer to join your team because of the culture/growth opportunities, but the financial difference is too large to ignore.
If you can match this figure, I will decline the other offer and sign with you immediately. If not, I will unfortunately have to decline."

3 Mistakes to Avoid in Dubai Negotiations

Negotiating After Signing: Once you sign the MOHRE Offer Letter, it is legally binding. You cannot negotiate afterwards.
Being Rude: The UAE business culture values respect. Be firm but polite. Never say "This offer is insulting."
Ignoring the "Total Package": Don't just look at the cash. Does the company offer an annual flight ticket home? Do they pay for your children's school fees? In UAE, these "hidden" benefits can be worth AED 50,000+ per year.

Final Verdict

Negotiating is not about being greedy; it is about knowing your value. A professional negotiation actually earns you respect from your future employer.

Ready to find a job to use these scripts on? Check our latest listings in Dubai Jobs and Abu Dhabi Jobs.