Looking for a rewarding career in aviation without becoming a pilot? dnata, a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, offers thousands of ground-level opportunities that keep Dubai’s airports running smoothly every single day. From baggage handling to inflight catering, cargo operations to passenger services, dnata careers put you at the heart of one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.
This guide covers everything job seekers need to know about dnata careers in 2026: available positions, realistic salary expectations, employee benefits, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step application process.
dnata Careers 2026: Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | dnata (Dubai National Air Travel Agency) – Part of Emirates Group |
| Founded | 1959 in Dubai, UAE |
| Global Presence | 35+ countries, 174 airports, 6 continents |
| Employees Worldwide | 51,000+ professionals |
| Core Services | Ground Handling, Cargo, Inflight Catering, Travel Services, Airport Lounges |
| Salary Range | AED 3,500 – AED 20,000+ per month depending on role and experience |
| Experience Required | Entry-level to senior positions available. Freshers welcome for many roles |
About dnata: Why It’s a Top Employer in UAE Aviation
dnata began in 1959 with just five employees handling air travel services in Dubai. Today, it has grown into one of the world’s largest aviation services providers, serving over 300 airlines globally and handling more than 200,000 aircraft movements annually in Dubai alone.
As a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, dnata benefits from the stability and reputation of one of the Middle East’s most respected corporate entities. The company produces over 114 million inflight meals annually through its global catering network and manages nearly 1.9 million tonnes of cargo each year in Dubai.
Airlines Served: 300+ worldwide
Airports Operated: 174 across 35 countries
Annual Meals Produced: 114 million (global catering)
UAE Meals: 65+ million annually for 120+ airlines
Cargo Handled: 3+ million tonnes annually
Travel Bookings: 1.9 million holidays created yearly through dnata Travel
Types of dnata Jobs Available in Dubai 2026
dnata operates across four main business divisions, each offering distinct career paths. Understanding these divisions helps you target the right opportunities for your skills and interests.
1. Ground Handling Careers
Ground handling forms the backbone of airport operations. These roles ensure aircraft are serviced quickly and safely between flights.
Ramp Agent – Loading/unloading baggage and cargo
Passenger Service Agent – Check-in, boarding assistance
Baggage Handler – Managing luggage systems
Load Controller – Calculating aircraft weight and balance
Flight Dispatcher – Coordinating flight operations
Airport Driver – Transporting crew and equipment
Ground Crew Supervisor – Team leadership
2. Cargo Operations Careers
Dubai serves as a global cargo hub, and dnata handles a significant portion of freight moving through the region. Cargo roles suit those who enjoy logistics and physical work.
Cargo Agent – Processing shipments
Cargo Loader – Moving freight to/from aircraft
Warehouse Operator – Managing storage facilities
Freight Coordinator – Documentation and scheduling
Cargo Operations Supervisor – Overseeing cargo teams
3. Catering and Retail Careers
dnata Catering operates from over 60 locations globally, with UAE facilities producing 65+ million meals annually. These roles combine hospitality skills with aviation operations.
Catering Assistant – Meal preparation and packing
Chef/Cook – Culinary preparation for airlines
Kitchen Porter – Kitchen support operations
Quality Controller – Food safety compliance
Catering Loader – Delivering meals to aircraft
Catering Manager – Overseeing kitchen operations
4. Travel Services Careers
dnata Travel manages corporate travel, holiday packages, and event planning across multiple brands including Emirates Holidays and Arabian Adventures.
Travel Consultant – Booking flights and hotels
Customer Service Agent – Handling inquiries
Visa Processing Officer – Document handling
Corporate Travel Coordinator – Business travel management
Tour Operations Specialist – Package tour coordination
dnata Salaries in Dubai 2026: What to Expect
Salaries at dnata vary based on role, experience, and department. The following ranges reflect typical monthly earnings for positions in the UAE.
| Position | Monthly Salary (AED) | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| Ramp Agent | 3,500 – 4,500 | Entry Level |
| Cargo Assistant | 4,500 – 5,500 | Entry Level |
| Ground Handling Staff | 5,000 – 6,500 | Entry to Mid |
| Passenger Service Agent | 4,500 – 6,500 | Entry to Mid |
| Catering Assistant | 3,800 – 5,000 | Entry Level |
| Airport Driver | 4,000 – 6,000 | Entry to Mid |
| Flight Dispatcher | 7,000 – 9,500 | Mid Level |
| Team Leader/Supervisor | 8,500 – 12,000 | Mid to Senior |
| Operations Manager | 15,000 – 25,000+ | Senior Level |
Employee Benefits at dnata Dubai
Beyond competitive salaries, dnata offers a comprehensive benefits package that makes it attractive for both UAE residents and international candidates.
Tax-Free Salary: All earnings in UAE are tax-free
Travel Discounts: Discounted or free airline tickets through Emirates Group
Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for employees and dependents
Housing Allowance: Accommodation support or company-provided housing for eligible roles
Transport: Shuttle services to Dubai Airport or transport allowance
Annual Leave: Paid vacation plus public holidays
End of Service Gratuity: As per UAE labour law
Training Programs: Structured development and certification opportunities
Career Progression: Internal promotion pathways across departments
Eligibility Requirements for dnata Jobs
Requirements vary by position, but most dnata roles share common eligibility criteria.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18-45 years for most operational roles |
| Education | High school diploma minimum for entry-level. Degree preferred for supervisory/management roles |
| Language | English fluency required. Arabic is an advantage |
| Physical Fitness | Required for ground handling, cargo, and catering roles. Medical examination mandatory |
| Work Permit | Valid UAE work permit or eligibility for visa sponsorship |
| Background Check | Security clearance required for airport access |
| Driving License | Valid UAE license required for driver positions |
How to Apply for dnata Careers: Step-by-Step Process
dnata maintains a straightforward online application system. Follow these steps to submit your application correctly.
-
Visit the Official Careers Portal
Go to dnata.com/en/careers or the dedicated careers portal at careers-dnata.icims.com. This is the only official channel for applications.
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Search Available Positions
Use filters to narrow results by location (Dubai, UAE), job category (Ground Handling, Cargo, Catering, Travel), and brand. Review job descriptions carefully before applying.
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Create Your Profile
Register with your email address to create a candidate profile. This allows you to save applications and track their status.
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Prepare Your Documents
Have ready: updated CV, passport copy, educational certificates, relevant work experience letters, and any professional certifications.
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Complete the Application Form
Fill in all required fields accurately. Incomplete applications are often rejected automatically. Double-check contact details.
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Submit and Track
After submission, save a copy of your application. Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted within 2-4 weeks.
Tips to Get Hired at dnata Dubai
Competition for dnata positions can be intense given the company’s reputation. These strategies improve your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions About dnata Careers
Does dnata hire freshers with no experience?
Yes, dnata regularly hires freshers for entry-level positions such as ramp agents, baggage handlers, catering assistants, and customer service roles. These positions include comprehensive training programs to develop necessary skills.
What is the hiring process timeline at dnata?
The typical process takes 3-6 weeks from application to offer. This includes initial screening, interviews (phone and in-person), assessments, medical examination, and background verification for airport security clearance.
Does dnata provide visa sponsorship for international candidates?
Yes, dnata sponsors employment visas for qualified international candidates selected for positions. The HR team handles visa processing as part of the onboarding process.
What are the working hours at dnata Dubai?
Airport operations run 24/7, so most operational roles involve shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays. Office-based positions typically follow standard business hours. Shift patterns are usually communicated during the interview process.
Can I transfer between dnata departments or locations?
Yes, internal transfers are encouraged. dnata operates in 35+ countries, and employees can apply for positions in other departments or international locations after completing minimum service periods.
What benefits do dnata employees get on Emirates flights?
As part of the Emirates Group, dnata employees receive discounted or complimentary travel on Emirates airlines. Specific benefits depend on role and length of service.
Is previous airport experience required?
Not for most entry-level positions. While airport experience is advantageous, dnata values transferable skills from hospitality, logistics, customer service, or food service industries.
How can I check my dnata application status?
Log into your candidate profile on the careers portal to view application status. If shortlisted, HR typically contacts candidates via email or phone within 2-4 weeks.
Related Aviation Careers in Dubai
If you’re interested in airport careers beyond dnata, explore these related opportunities:
Dubai Airport Jobs 2026 – General airport vacancies
Emirates Careers – Airline positions at Emirates
Air Arabia Careers – Budget airline opportunities
Dubai Duty Free Careers – Retail positions at airports
Dubai Airport Jobs for Freshers – Entry-level airport roles
Start Your dnata Career Today
dnata offers one of the most accessible entry points into the aviation industry. With positions ranging from entry-level ground handling to senior management, the company provides clear career progression for dedicated employees. The combination of competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the prestige of working with the Emirates Group makes dnata careers highly sought after in the UAE job market.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate looking for your first job or an experienced professional seeking a career change, dnata’s diverse operations across ground handling, cargo, catering, and travel services offer something for almost every skill set.
For more UAE job opportunities and career guidance, explore JobSutra.xyz – your resource for verified employment listings across the Gulf region.
Disclaimer: Information is based on publicly available data as of January 2026. Salary figures are estimates and may vary based on role, experience, and negotiation. Always verify current openings and requirements through dnata’s official careers portal.
Fraud Warning: dnata does not charge any fees for job applications or interviews. Be cautious of unofficial recruitment advertisements on social media. Apply only through official channels at dnata.com or their verified LinkedIn page.
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