Dubai is becoming one of the key spots on the world map for people to live, work, or set up a business in a dynamic and fast environment.
Apart from the iconic skyline and secure surroundings, tax-free incomes make it an excellent working place for professionals, business owners, or investors. According to the statistics, 85% of the present Dubai population constitutes foreigners, and this percentage is increasing every year as more and more people get attracted by the enormous number of opportunities this city gives.
In addition to the aforementioned benefits for entrepreneurs and investors, Dubai does not levy personal income tax, and it promotes a business-friendly environment with streamlined company formation procedures and direct access to international markets. This has helped place Dubai not only as a hub for entrepreneurship and investment but also at the center of innovation and expansion.
Table of Contents
Dubai Residency Visa Options
Employment Visa
This is by far the most popular visa option for individuals who are relocating to Dubai with the intention of working in the city. It is essential that an individual be sponsored by an employer and must have a confirmed job offer with a Dubai-based company.
Eligibility
In order to obtain a work visa in Dubai, you need to have a confirmed job offer from any company based in Dubai which would act as your visa sponsor handling major portions of the visa application and hence makes the process to shift to UAE much smoother.
Investor Visa
Ideal for individuals looking to invest or set up a business in Dubai, particularly in free zones where owners can also acquire residency visas.
Eligibility
One must either invest in an existing business or establish one’s company. Free zones in the UAE offer very attractive packages for business owners to make it so easy to secure their residency visas while at the same time enjoying 100% ownership, tax exemptions, and the process of setting up is done in a most straightforward manner.
Freelancer Visa
Suited for self-employed professionals within the media, technology, educational, among other sectors. This visa can be accessed through different free zones in Dubai.
Eligibility
One must have a freelance license if one wants to work as a freelancer in Dubai. This kind of facility is extended at a variety of free zones which covers IFZA, RAKEZ, JAFZA, Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City.
Getting a freelance license helps one run his/her freelance business legally and allows one to take advantage of the tax-free prospect and trade with professional networks.
Pre-Move Planning Checklist for Dubai
Valid Passport
A valid passport is one of the basic requirements for processing a visa. The passport should have a minimum validity of six months based on the date of entry into Dubai. This is a standard requirement for visa processing by the UAE authorities. Ensure your passport meets this requirement to avoid having your visa application delayed. Renew it in case it is close to expiry.
Visa Application
Choose the category of the UAE visa which suits your requirements — the UAE employment visa, investor visa, freelancer visa, or family sponsorship visa. Start preparing your visa application documents in good time as visa processing period for the UAE varies. Copies of passports, photos, and medical certificates are some of the documents that would be required.
Reviewing Employment Contract
If you are moving to Dubai for work reasons, thoroughly check your contract of employment. See that you are comfortable with the salary package, working hours, benefits, etc. Most of the Dubai employers have such lucrative offers with added advantages of paying accommodation allowances, transportation, annual airfare, and health insurance. All these have to be well stipulated in your contract for clarity and calmness.
Health Insurance Requirements
Health insurance in Dubai is mandatory for all residents. If your employer does not provide coverage, you must purchase a plan that complies with UAE health insurance requirements. Ensure your plan covers both emergencies and routine healthcare and check which hospitals and clinics are included in the provider’s network.
Securing Accommodation in Dubai
Choosing the right place to live is essential for settling in. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Renting vs. Buying: Renting offers flexibility, while buying may be a better option if you’re planning a long-term stay. Dubai has specific freehold areas where expats can buy property.
Popular Areas for Expats: Popular neighborhoods include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, and Business Bay, each offering unique advantages.
Documents Required for Renting: You’ll need a valid passport, UAE residency visa, Emirates ID, and a salary certificate to rent property in Dubai.
Cost of Living in Dubai & Financial Considerations
Dubai’s cost of living varies based on lifestyle and location. Here’s a breakdown of key expenses:
- Housing: Rental prices vary by neighborhood. A one-bedroom apartment in prime areas like Downtown Dubai can range between AED 70,000 to AED 100,000 annually.
- Utilities: Monthly utility bills typically range from AED 500 to AED 1,000, and internet services cost around AED 300 to AED 500.
- Groceries and Lifestyle: Grocery expenses for a couple average AED 1,500 to AED 2,500 per month, while dining out at mid-range restaurants costs around AED 100 per person.
Transferring Money Internationally in and out of Dubai
Most international banks deal with remittance to Dubai, where the bureaucratic process takes long and transfer fee is minimum. The remittance will take about 3–4 days to be processed and in total, approximately one week. Such process durations often result in frustration and dissatisfaction because they take too long. To make matters worse, after all this processing time and waiting, the application might even be rejected for some reason. Due to high fees and processing times, most expats and companies in Dubai usually turn to alternative methods. They usually do fast and low-cost money transfers through Western Union, Wise, and PayPal. Plus, besides the low transfer fees, these methods have a more competitive exchange rate compared to traditional banks.
Some of the reliable remittance services you can use to send money to Dubai at low fees and competitive rates are Al Ansari Exchange and UAE Exchange. Their international fund transfer services at pocket-friendly rates make cross-border payment management quite easy and efficient for a lot of people and businesses.
Transferring Money Internationally in and out of Dubai
Dubai boasts a highly developed public transportation system, including the Dubai Metro, buses, and taxis. If you plan to drive, you can easily convert your international driving license into a UAE license.
If you have an international driving license, converting it to a UAE driving license is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Gather Necessary Documents: Collect your original driving license, valid passport, UAE residency visa, and passport-size photos.
Visit the RTA Center: Head to the nearest Road and Transport Authority (RTA) center in Dubai.
Submit Your Application: Fill out the UAE driving license application form and pay the applicable fees.
Complete an Eye Test: You might be required to take a vision test at an RTA-approved clinic.
Receive Your UAE Driving License: Once approved, you’ll get your UAE driver’s license quickly.
Final Relocation Checklist
Before making the move, ensure you’ve completed the following steps:
Secure the appropriate residency visa.
Arrange accommodation and sign a rental contract.
Select a suitable health insurance plan and complete your medical test.
Set up a local bank account in Dubai and apply for your Emirates ID.
Familiarize yourself with Dubai’s culture and customs for an easy transition.
