While theoretical training is established in schools, internships provide practical experiences for students and recent graduates. Internships act as a bridge between academic education and the professional world. These programs help students identify, strengthen, and develop their skills by providing practical experience, as well as offering an opportunity to build a network and enhance their resumes. This allows students and graduates to appear more competitive in the job market. But what are the internship regulations in the UAE and what conditions exist for interns? The United Arab Emirates has established various laws for conducting internships and related activities for students and learners. These laws have been created to inform both the intern and the employer of their rights and responsibilities. Age Restrictions In the UAE, children under 15 years old are not allowed to work. Teenagers between 15 and 18 years old can work under certain conditions. These individuals must obtain a work permit for minors for their legal employment. Students and learners aged 15 and above can train or work in various institutions, provided that there is a formal written contract specifying their training and employment conditions. Internship Contract Various institutions can train students aged 15 and above, provided that there is a written contract. This contract must include the following: Job description and type of work Educational fields Amount of salary (if applicable) Daily working hours Duration of the internship period Weekly holidays and official holidays Bonuses (if applicable) and specific benefits granted to the intern Companies can employ students aged 15 and older for internship periods of up to three months during summer and school holidays, unless other decisions are made. Required Documents for Internship To intern or be employed in the UAE, it is essential to provide specific documents. These documents include: Written consent from parents or legal guardians Emirates ID Proof of student status Valid residency visa for foreign students Health certificate (if necessary) Working Hours and Breaks Companies that employ teenage students for internships must adhere to specific regulations: Companies must not employ teenage students in jobs mentioned in "Decree 2018." Teen interns should not be engaged in night work or work that continues around the clock. The maximum working hours for teenage students should be 6 hours a day, with at least one hour of break for meals, rest, or prayer. Teen students should never be asked to work overtime or work during holidays. Students must learn proper health and safety measures under supervision. Institutions must inform the parents or legal guardians of the student in case of illness or absence. Prohibited Jobs For individuals under 18 years old, certain jobs are considered prohibited, including: Hard and dangerous work in mines and refineries Work in metal and glass furnaces Welding, processing chemicals, and manufacturing explosives Work in bakeries, cement factories, and charcoal production Transporting passengers and cargo in hazardous locations such as ports and docks Internships for University Students The Ministry of Higher Education in the UAE has provided an opportunity for Emirati students in higher education institutions to find industrial internships through online portals. These programs are designed to enhance students' academic and practical knowledge in various industries.