Can You Work in the Pharmaceutical Field in the UAE After a BSc in Pakistan?

After obtaining a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Pakistan and gaining relevant experience in the pharmaceutical and pharmacy sectors, you may wonder if you can secure a job in the UAE. Unfortunately, the process of finding employment in the pharmaceutical field in the UAE is more stringent, requiring specific qualifications.

Requirements to Work in the UAE

For pharmaceutical professionals to work in Dubai or any other regions of the UAE, they must meet certain criteria. These include holding a degree or diploma in pharmacy that is recognized and accredited. Simply having experience in the field, even with a BSc in a related field from Pakistan, may not be sufficient.

Pharmaceutical and pharmacy technicians in the UAE must possess:

A degree or diploma in pharmacy from an accredited institution .Decimal certification for pharmacy technicians

Without the appropriate educational qualifications, it can be challenging to secure a job in the field of pharmaceuticals in the UAE. However, there is potential for employment in retail pharmacy settings, but this is not a guarantee.

Current Landscape of Pharmaceutical Jobs in the UAE

Value-added tasks and responsibilities in the pharmaceutical sector in the UAE are more stringent than those found in other locations. Here are some insights into the current job market:

1. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: There are very limited pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in the UAE, and these are typically located in other Gulf countries. Therefore, career opportunities in manufacturing might be limited.

2. Pharmacy Sales: A few sales professionals can find work without a pharmacy qualification. However, this is not common, and such roles often require additional training and certification.

3. Hospital Pharmacies: Hospitals in the UAE do require pharmacists for their pharmacy departments. However, these positions are highly competitive and usually require advanced qualifications and certifications.

Challenges and Opportunities

The educational and professional pathways in the UAE are designed to meet the high standards expected in the pharmaceutical industry. While it may be more challenging to secure a role directly with a BSc from Pakistan, there are still opportunities:

1. Pharmacy Store Employment: Many pharmacy stores in the UAE might consider hiring individuals with relevant experience, despite lacking a formal degree. However, this is not a long-term solution and should be viewed as a temporary step.

2. Further Education: Consider enrolling in a pharmacy program or pursuing a diploma in pharmacy from an accredited institution in the UAE. This can pave the way for a more stable and long-term career in the field.

3. Pharmaceutical Sales: As mentioned, some pharmaceutical sales roles do exist without formal qualifications, but these are typically in training and can be transitioned into more specialized positions with the right certification.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s BSc degree in a related field can certainly provide a strong foundation for a career in the pharmaceutical industry. However, the competitive and stringent nature of the job market in the UAE, especially regarding educational qualifications, may require further steps to secure a stable position.

By exploring additional educational opportunities and considering the specific job roles available, you can increase your chances of a successful career in the pharmaceutical field in the UAE.