Job Description

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) is responsible for managing all government-related processes, licensing requirements, visa procedures, and regulatory compliance for the company. The role serves as the primary liaison between the organization and UAE government authorities, ensuring that all legal documentation, permits, and employee-related transactions are completed accurately and on time. The PRO also supports business operations by maintaining strong relationships with government entities and ensuring compliance with UAE labor and immigration regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Government Relations & Regulatory Compliance

• Act as the company’s official representative with UAE government departments and regulatory authorities.
• Process and renew trade licenses, establishment cards, food permits, municipality approvals, and other business-related licenses.
• Liaise with authorities including:
  • Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
  • Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
  • Abu Dhabi Municipality
  • Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)
  • Relevant Economic Departments and Free Zone Authorities
• Ensure the company complies with all applicable UAE laws, regulations, and government requirements.

Visa & Immigration Management

• Process employment visas, residence permits, Emirates ID applications, labor contracts, and visa renewals.
• Coordinate visa cancellations, transfers, and status changes for employees.
• Maintain accurate records of employee immigration and labor documentation.
• Monitor visa expiry dates and ensure timely renewals.

Food & Beverage Licensing Support

• Coordinate approvals and permits required for restaurant, café, catering, and food production operations.
• Assist with food safety inspections, permit renewals, and compliance documentation.
• Follow up on municipality approvals related to food handling, hygiene, signage, and operational permits.
• Support the opening of new outlets by obtaining necessary government approvals and registrations.

Documentation & Administration

• Prepare and submit official applications, letters, and government forms.
• Maintain records of licenses, permits, employee documents, and regulatory certificates.
• Ensure all company legal documents are updated and stored securely.
• Track renewal schedules and notify management of upcoming deadlines.

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Develop and maintain professional relationships with government officials and external stakeholders.
• Provide guidance to management and employees on government procedures and compliance matters.
• Coordinate with HR, Finance, Operations, and Legal departments regarding regulatory requirements.

Reporting & Compliance Monitoring

• Prepare periodic reports on visa status, license renewals, and compliance activities.
• Monitor changes in UAE labor, immigration, and business regulations and advise management accordingly.
• Support audits and inspections conducted by government authorities.

Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Business Administration, Public Administration, Human Resources, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum 2–5 years of UAE experience as a Public Relations Officer (PRO), preferably within the food & beverage, hospitality, or retail sector.
• Valid UAE driving license is preferred.
• Fluency in English; Arabic language skills are highly advantageous.

Key Competencies

• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws, immigration regulations, and government procedures.
• Experience handling visa processing, labor permits, and business licensing.
• Familiarity with food and beverage regulatory requirements in the UAE.
• Excellent communication and relationship-management skills.
• Strong organizational and documentation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and government transactions simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and UAE government online portals.