Guide on moving to Dubai, the step-by-step and how to make the best of it.
No one can escape the charm and allure of Dubai. Those who visit, always return for more and settle long-term in the city. Those who have never been to Dubai, dream of taking the journey at the first opportunity. Dubai is unlike any other metropolis in the world. It is a place of contrast, an energetic city, fascinating and safe, above all. The city holds exceptional potential to become number one for living standards and happy life. UAE is hosting over 200 nationalities living and working in the country. They all enjoy life to the fullest in spite of the busy and very hectic everyday routine.
So, if you contemplate relocating to Dubai, bear in mind that it is a very fast-paced city and you will not escape the everyday hustle and bustle. However, Dubai is the destination choice for millions, the city of the future. The diversity of lifestyles, the tax-free salaries, and exotic places are plenty of reasons to attract many. Dubai is multi-faceted and has plenty to offer to people from all walks of life.
Are you ready?
Start your research
Facing such a major life decision as relocating, requires preparation and proper research. It is important to understand where and how you fit it, family, pets, and all. UAE is home to over 9 million residents and is more ethnically diverse than ever before. Statistics show that 69% of the population are males and only 31% females.
Dubai is home to the largest number of inhabitants, at 3.42 million. It is important you read about the many cultures living here and the ways of life. Climate, rules, laws, and cost of living. If the means allow, take a week off before you permanently move to Dubai, and visit the city, explore and learn what to expect. Prepare to meet people from all over the world, interact with different cultures and religions, habits and beliefs. Furthermore, you will be pleasantly surprised to see that English is widely spoken and services everywhere are impeccable. However, the cost of living is expensive and during the summer months, you will struggle to endure the burning heat and humidity.
Getting visa
UAE does not offer permanent residency or citizenship. However, expats can reside long term within UAE providing they renew their residency visas every two years. For most expats, the visa will be issued based on long-term employment, business ownership, or family sponsorship. Some highly talented and skilled residents can also qualify for a ten-year Golden Visa. For example, bright students, outstanding doctors, or researchers can all apply for the Golden Visa which will be renewed automatically after 10 years. Many nations will get a 30-day visa on arrival at the airport or land border, which is free of charge.
The most popular visa type is the work visa for which your employer is obliged to pay and offer full sponsorship, taking care of all formalities, including health insurance cover for you. Other visas for relocating to Dubai are student visas, investor visas, or dependent visas. In the latter case, your sponsor needs to earn at least $1000 dollars, for you to qualify for a dependent visa.
International moving company
It may be a small suitcase for some people, but others need to pack their whole life, family, and pets altogether when relocating. Once you find the right shipping provider, you can let them do all the heavy lifting while you focus on other matters regarding your move. Before you choose moving services, make sure the company has an office branch in Dubai and reliable representatives. Check their credentials or simply choose the best quality mark: For example, the International Association of Movers represents thousands of companies in over 170 countries. Other companies to consider are Aires and Agility.
These companies are reliable and will take care of all the logistics. For instance, they will arrange all documents and insurance, arrange a warehouse for storage, unpack your belongings and dispose of debris. Price will depend on the set of services you choose. Furthermore, other criteria will also determine the cost. For instance, the further you travel in the distance, the more you will pay. The volume of cargo and choice of transport matter as well. Air transport is more expensive. An all-inclusive service charge can be as much as $10,000.
Accommodation
Dubai offers several types of accommodation. Once you arrive, you can check into a hotel until you finalize the details of your accommodation. You will not be able to rent a place long-term without a tenancy contract so you need to have a bank account and proof of employment. While such formalities take time, you can always consider renting a room on sharing accommodation basis. Monthly cost can reach up to $1000.
When you are ready to rent your own place, you will need to submit documents, prior to moving in. For example, a copy of passport, Emirates ID, tenancy contract, and ejari will be sufficient. However, some landlords or agencies might ask for two or three months’ rent in advance, to cover the security deposit. You must make sure to get it back once you decide to move out, even if it will not be in full amount.
Guide on moving to Dubai – Best Areas to live in
Depending on your personal circumstances and preferences, there are many attractive areas where you can settle in Dubai.
Best for families with kids and pets are Dubai Hills Estate and Arabian Ranches. Plenty of natural surroundings, parks, and golf courses attract many families here. Both communities offer outstanding facilities and have great schooling options and healthcare.
If you are a lover of outdoor activities and beach adventure, JBR is a great choice for you and kids who will enjoy all the aqua parks. Dubai Marina is the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts and single professionals. Trendy clubs, bars, restaurants, buzzing atmosphere all year round. Shopping addicts will surely settle down in the most popular district of Dubai – Downtown. Dubai Downtown has an irresistible charm and is highly favored by many expats. Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa place you at the center of everything with a spectacle of lights and glamour typical of Dubai hospitality. If you still find it hard to decide, get in touch with us. We will select from many excellent rental options for you.
Guide on moving to Dubai – Schooling options
Presuming you already made arrangements for yourself to find suitable employment, now is time to focus on the kids. UAE has a good education system and private schools usually run on a Western curriculum. Schooling fees vary greatly in Dubai, so make sure you do thorough research before you enroll the kids. Additionally, check via KHDA, the Dubai school regulator, for ratings and fees. However, on average, you can expect to pay around AED 30,000 yearly, per child.
