How to Successfully Move to Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving to a new city is a well-thought-out process, and when it comes to Dubai, meticulous planning is key due to its dynamic business landscape and cosmopolitan allure. In this blog, we aim to provide a pragmatic and professional perspective, ensuring your move is not just a transition but a well-executed strategy.

Welcome to Dubai

Congratulations on your decision to move to Dubai! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your arrival and settling in:

Checking out From the Airport: Upon arrival, provide a health certificate as a mandatory requirement for entering Dubai.

Getting a New Emirati Sim Card:

• Visit outlets for mobile phone companies like Du, Etisalat, and Virgin Mobile inside the airport.
• Inquire about tailored plans for short visits or tourism.
• Provide your entry visa and a copy of your valid passport to obtain a new SIM card.
• Once you have the new SIM, enjoy services like calls, SMS, internet browsing, and app downloads.
• Note: SIM card outlets are available not only at the airport but also in malls, attractions, and various areas across the city.

Providing Your Entry Permit

The entry permit allows expats to come to the UAE for residency visa procedures.

• Validity: 2 months for typical visa types, 6 months with multiple entries for Golden Visa holders.
• Types: Visit visa, Tourist visa, Transit visa.

The sponsor, which can be your employer, relative, or others, is responsible for issuing the entry permit.

Getting a Residency Visa and Emirates ID

After leaving the airport gates, prioritise obtaining your residency visa to enjoy city services. The process is straightforward and necessary for a smooth stay in Dubai. Once you have your residency visa, acquire an Emirates ID for identification and access to city services.

Find Your New Home

After completing your paperwork, the next crucial step is finding your new home. In Dubai, renting is a popular choice among expats, offering flexibility and convenience. However, if you’re considering a permanent stay or real estate investment, there are also many properties available for sale. Navigating this process is made easy with K Estates.

Why We Recommend Leasing

• Flexibility: Renting gives you flexibility in choosing your home’s location, unit type, and the duration of your stay. This is especially beneficial if you are new to the city.
• Adaptability: In case your work location changes or your family joins you, leasing allows for easy relocation or moving to a larger unit.

Essential Tips for Expats Renting a Home in Dubai

• Set a Budget.
• Understand Leasing Terms.
• Clarify Additional Costs.
• Furnished Unit Checklist.
• Maintenance and Pet Policies.
• Research the Community.
• Seek Expert Advice.
• Ask for Recommendations.
• Online Community Research.
• Negotiate Wisely.

Top Residential Areas for Rent and Sale

• For Individuals or Newlyweds: Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), City Walk.
• Family-Friendly Communities: Palm Jumeirah, Mirdif, Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR), Mudon, Dubai Hills Estates, Arabian Ranches.

Explore the diverse properties for rent and sale in Dubai on K estates for a comprehensive view of available options.

Start Working in Dubai

Understanding Work Procedures in Dubai for Expats is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

Get Your Paperwork Ready:

1. Work Permit:

• Your employer is responsible for obtaining the work permit.
• Required Documents: Colored picture, passport copy, signed Employment Offer form, academic documentation, professional license.
• Additional requirements for nationals from specific countries.

1. Residence Visa for Working in UAE:

• Issued by the employer or sponsor for permanent residency.
• Validity: 2 to 4  years, depending on the employment contract.
• Check visa status on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
• After visa issuance, you can obtain an Emirates ID.

Working Regulations:

1. Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday are working days.
• Saturday and Sunday make up the weekend.
• Aligns with international working standards.
• Official holidays and events are granted to employers.

1. Salaries in Dubai:

• Average monthly salary: AED 10,000 to AED 20,000.
• Actual salary varies based on factors like field, job position, and entity size.
• Minimum wage across various sectors is around AED 5,000.

Enjoy Living in Dubai

Before moving to Dubai, whether with your family or alone, it’s beneficial to familiarise yourself with the city’s culture and the costs associated with living there.

Dubai Insights:

• Safety: Dubai is known for its safety, boasting low crime rates, making it one of the safest cities globally.
• Weather: The climate is predominantly hot and humid, with a more pleasant winter season from December to March.
• Respectful Behavior: Racist or verbal comments are not tolerated, and defamation can result in imprisonment or a ban from the country.
• Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in public areas is prohibited, allowed only in licensed venues.
• Social Etiquette: Men should avoid initiating handshakes with women unless the woman initiates it first.
• Pensions: Many private companies in Dubai typically do not offer pensions.
• Understanding Culture: Families moving from the UK or other Eastern countries should be aware of cultural differences as Dubai is considered an Arab country.

Costs of Living:

Dubai is perceived as an expensive city, especially for those with minimum wages. Here’s an overview of average costs:

• Housing: 15% to 30% of monthly salary.
• Food and Transportation: Around 15%.

Commute Around the City:

Dubai offers various transportation options, including the metro, tram, buses, private cabs, and taxis/Uber. Public taxis are generally more budget-friendly than app-based services. Payment is facilitated through the Nol Smart Card, providing ease and sometimes offering fare discounts. 

Driving in Dubai: Getting a License and Car Insurance:

If you plan to drive in Dubai, obtaining a driving license and car insurance is essential. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:

Driving License Guide:

• Age Requirement: You must be 21 years or older.
• Service Fee: Pay the required service fee, typically around AED 500.
• Health: You should not have any health condition that impairs your ability to drive.
• Exam: Pass the driving exam conducted by the Emirati government.

Car Insurance:

• When purchasing a car, it is mandatory to obtain car insurance through the Roads and Transportation Association (RTA) website.
• Different types of insurance packages are available, with Third-Party Liability Insurance being the most common and the minimum required.

Explore the Services in Dubai

Now that you’re familiar with essential aspects like residency, work, and costs, let’s delve into some of Dubai’s top services.

Healthcare Services: Dubai provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to expats through specific healthcare cards, offering a 50% discount on basic services.

Education in Dubai: Expats in Dubai have the flexibility to enroll their children in either governmental or private educational institutions, adhering to UAE’s education regulations.

Online Services: Dubai is renowned for its digitalization, with most services accessible through online portals and apps. Here are key apps for various services in Dubai:

• Dubai Now: A unified portal for over 120 governmental and private services.
• Salik: A traffic system app enabling automated toll fee payments.
• Dewa: This app is dedicated to water and electricity services.

Have Fun in Dubai

Get ready for some fun and entertainment in Dubai, the ultimate hub for leisure and home to iconic attractions. Explore diverse and exhilarating destinations in the city:

• Burj Khalifa: Soar to new heights and enjoy breathtaking views from the world’s tallest building.
• Museum of Future: Immerse yourself in innovation and futuristic exhibits at this cutting-edge museum.
• IMG World of Adventures: Experience thrills and excitement in one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks.
• Green Planet: Discover a lush tropical rainforest in the heart of the city, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Enjoy a world of entertainment with theme parks offering a range of experiences.

Shopping in Dubai 

For the avid shopper, Dubai’s malls boast various top brands. Explore the best shopping destinations:

• Dubai Mall: A shopping paradise with a diverse range of retail outlets and entertainment options.
• Mall of the Emirates: Shop till you drop in this iconic mall featuring luxury brands and unique experiences.
• Dubai Festival City: A vibrant shopping destination with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment.
• Dubai Marina Mall: Enjoy shopping with a stunning waterfront view in this chic and contemporary mall.

Nature Escapes

If you’re a nature lover, Dubai has you covered with its cool parks. Take a break and enjoy green spaces for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or even yoga:

Explore the serene beauty of Dubai’s parks and find tranquility in the midst of the bustling city. Dubai offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for everyone, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in this vibrant city.

Moving to Dubai: A Comprehensive Checklist

Relocating to Dubai is a significant endeavour, and staying organised is key. Here’s a checklist to ensure a smooth transition:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the UAE.

• Work Permits and Visas: Obtain necessary work permits and visas, a process that may take weeks or months.

• Vaccinations and Health Checks: Complete required health checkups and vaccinations before arriving in the UAE.

• Budgeting: Consider moving costs, including shipping, flights, initial accommodation, and expenses for building or securing a new residence.

• Savings: Save for initial expenses like rental deposits and leased car charges, which may not be immediately reimbursed by your employer.

• Tax Planning: Understand your home country’s tax obligations upon relocation and notify the relevant tax authorities.

• Schools: If you have children, start researching and applying to schools well in advance, as the wait for international schools can be long.

• Banking: Set up a bank account, either in your home country or within weeks of arrival.

• Accommodation: Decide whether to rent or purchase a residence. Explore neighborhoods, learn about rental properties, and understand pricing policies.

• Healthcare: Secure health insurance that is valid in the UAE, as it is a mandatory requirement.

• Driving License: Check if your existing driving license is valid in the UAE or if you need to obtain a local license.

• Cultural Research: Familiarise yourself with the customs, culture, and laws of the local population to facilitate a smooth transition.

With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared from your arrival in Dubai to settling into your new home. Whether it’s for work or living, moving to Dubai is a significant step that’s undoubtedly worth the effort.