A student in Dubai just dropped some real talk on their Instagram stories, calling out something a lot of students have been quietly dealing with — unpaid internships.
It’s a struggle
In their story, the student opened up about how frustrating it is to pour time, energy, and money into building a future in Dubai — only to end up stuck in unpaid internships. While companies cash in on fresh talent and creativity, students are left hustling for free.
“I’m currently studying in Dubai and truly value the global exposure and academic opportunities the city offers. That said, I feel it’s important to highlight a serious issue that many students here are facing.”
The financial burden of gaining experience
The student went on to highlight the gap between Dubai’s high cost of living and the reality of unpaid internships. “A lot of us pour serious time, money, and energy into building our future here… only to be met with internship offers that don’t pay a dirham.”
The message also called out how unpaid internships add extra pressure on students already juggling steep tuition fees and everyday expenses. “Not only does this system undervalue the skills and effort we bring to the table, but it also puts a serious financial strain on students trying to stay afloat in a pricey city.”
A call for support
“The story wrapped up with a powerful call for awareness and unity. I’m putting this out there to shine a light on the issue and rally support from students and professionals who stand for fairness and ethical values.”
Why paid internships matter:
“They open doors for a more diverse range of candidates — especially those who can’t afford to work unpaid.
They champion fairness, because real talent and hustle deserve recognition, not exploitation.
They invest in the future by nurturing long-term talent, helping Dubai grow as a powerhouse for skilled professionals.”
