Get all the answers to common FAQs about moving to Dubai

• Before Moving
• While Moving
• After Moving
• Other Moving to Dubai FAQs

Are you considering moving to Dubai? The second-largest emirate in the UAE is a genuinely multi-cultural metropolis that welcomes expats from all over the globe. Suppose you want to make this city your new home. In that case, it makes sense that you’d like to know what it’s like to live here, including details about the relocation process, visa applications, finding accommodation and employment, setting up bank accounts, cost of living, etc. In this article, we answer all that and more as we delve into a comprehensive list of FAQs about moving to Dubai.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE MOVING TO DUBAI

What are the different types of visas and entry permits?

The UAE government issues different types of visas and entry permits:

• Employment Visa:
  • This type of visa is given to those who have signed an employment contract with a company registered in Dubai.
  • You can read our comprehensive guide on work visas in Dubai to learn more about the process, eligibility criteria, and requirements.
• Business Visa:
  • Foreign entrepreneurs who want a long-term visa for themselves and their dependents can apply for the UAE Business Golden Visa, which offers residency for up to five to ten years in the country.
• Green Visa for Investors:
  • This visa is given to investors participating in or establishing commercial activities in the country. This visa replaced the previous residence visa, which was valid for only 2 years.
• Student Visa:
  • A student visa is granted to international students over 18.
  • Outstanding students who score at least 95% or a GPA of 3.75 can obtain a 5-year Dubai student visa.
  • Generally, a student visa’s validity is one year. It can be renewed if the student’s course is continuing.
  • Essential steps to apply for a student visa include approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), passing a medical fitness test, and submitting a sponsorship from a parent/relative or the university.
  • Golden Visa is issued to outstanding students.
• Dependent Visa:
  • If your spouse, parents or children hold a valid residence visa in Dubai, you are eligible for a dependent visa.
  • Men who want to bring their spouses to Dubai must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 4k or AED 3k with accommodation.
  • Those who wish to sponsor their parents must have a minimum wage of AED 20k per the Dubai government policy.
  • Women can also support their families, provided they get a monthly payment of AED 10k or AED 8k with accommodation. They also need special permission from the Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD).
• Freelance Visa:
  • This type of visa is granted to independent contractors.
  • You can apply for a freelance visa Dubai to work independently in the education, media or tech sectors.
• Green Visa:
  • Green visa holders are eligible to work in the UAE for five years without being sponsored by an employer.
  • Freelancers, skilled workers and investors/partners are eligible for this visa. Here is everything you need to know about the UAE Green visa.
• UAE Retirement Visa:
  • It is issued to elderly foreigners who want to retire in the country and have the necessary financial means to do so.

What are the documents required to initiate the visa process in Dubai?

While your sponsor will take care of your visa, here is a list of documents needed as part of the application process: 

• Submit a copy of your passport, photographs and educational certificates attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) to apply for a residency visa.
• Provide a passport, photographs and a letter of acceptance from the relevant UAE educational institution to apply for a student visa in Dubai.

What are the most important things you should know before moving to Dubai?

If you’re moving to Dubai:

• Familiarise yourself with some common Arabic phrases. While English is commonly spoken across the UAE, learning a few Arabic words and commonly used terms is a good idea. Our guide to common Arabic phrases used in Dubai might be helpful.
• Dubai’s climate is hot, so you have to prepare accordingly. All indoor entertainment venues, shopping malls and homes are centrally air-conditioned in Dubai. Furthermore, there are several ways to beat the heat in your home in Dubai.
• You must be familiar with the dress code in Dubai.
• Dubai is a diverse city with people from around the world living here.
• Understand that Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drug and substance abuse.

If you want to know more, here are some things to consider before moving to Dubai.

How to find a job in Dubai?

Many top job sites in the UAE, such as Dubizzle Jobs, LinkedIn, Bayt, Laimoon and NaukriGulf, can help you find a job in Dubai. You can also contact the different recruitment agencies in Dubai to help you find employment opportunities according to your interests and career goals.

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILE MOVING TO DUBAI

What are the things you can’t bring to Dubai?

Items banned by Dubai airport authorities include:

• Sharp objects like scissors, blades, hammers, nails and drills
• Electrical cables, packing or measuring tapes
• Bags with long straps attached

You can check the complete list of banned items at the Dubai Airport for further details.

What kind of documents must you bring while moving to Dubai?

Make sure to bring important documents such as:

• Attested educational certificates
• Attested marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Attested birth certificate
• A valid driving licence (you can convert it to a UAE driving license)

Ensure you attest/certify your documents in your home country before leaving.

THINGS TO FOCUS ON AFTER MOVING TO DUBAI

Where to find accommodation in Dubai?

Another FAQ about moving to Dubai is usually about accommodation. Dubai has several housing facilities, ranging from high-end developments to more affordable ones. While areas like Dubai Marina and Arabian Ranches have considerably higher rents, accommodation in Mirdif, Deira, International City and Al Nahda generally costs less.

You can search for your new apartment, townhouse or villa on Bayut, one of the leading property portals in Dubai.

What types of residential properties are available for expats in Dubai?

Dubai has an extensive portfolio of residential properties to cater to various budgets and preferences. You can find apartments, villas, townhouses and even short-term rentals in Dubai at reasonable prices. Each property type has sub-categories, so check out our detailed guide about the different residential properties in Dubai to know more.

What is the cost of living in Dubai?

The cost of living in Dubai depends on multiple factors. Much of your budget will be used to pay for housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare and schooling expenses.

• Areas like Downtown Dubai and Arabian Ranches generally have higher rents, while accommodation in Deira, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Al Nahda costs less. 
• Your utility costs (electricity/water, TV, internet, and mobile phone bills) will largely depend upon your consumption.
• Transportation costs will depend upon your vehicle type and how frequently you travel.
• When it comes to schools, Indian schools are more affordable compared to IB, British or American schools.

To know a complete breakdown of charges, read our comprehensive guide on the cost of living in Dubai.

How do you get a SIM card in Dubai?

Three leading telecom providers in Dubai offer a SIM card in Dubai. These include du, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile.

They also offer prepaid and post-paid plans for texts, calls and mobile data. You can buy a new sim from their respective kiosks at the Dubai International Airport or their dedicated branches across the UAE.

How to pay for all utilities in Dubai?

You can download the DubaiNow app to pay all your bills. Launched by Smart Dubai, DubaiNow provides access to over 120 city services from over 30 government and private entities. Using this app, you can top up your phone credit (Du, Etisalat), Nol Card (Dubai Metro) and Salik (electronic toll system in Dubai).

You can also use the specific service’s website or set up payments using your bank account.

How much is the average education cost in Dubai?

The average tuition fee for most schools in Dubai starts from AED 40k annually, depending upon the curriculum, extra-curricular activities and other campus facilities. The tuition fee for universities also varies depending on the faculty chosen.

What types of restaurants are available in Dubai?

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures. Since people of over 200 nationalities live and work in the city, you will find an impressive variety of cuisines. From American to Indian, you can find almost any cuisine in Dubai. While some eateries are expensive, there are also various mid-range and cheap options. To choose the best options, check out our ultimate list of restaurants in Dubai.

Is it expensive to eat out in Dubai?

Meal prices can vary in Dubai as the city has budget-friendly, mid-range and upscale restaurants. In a mid-range restaurant, the average cost of food in Dubai ranges from AED 100 to AED 150 per person. Most restaurants introduce deals and discounts from time to time. Moreover, there are food delivery apps in Dubai, such as Talabat, Careem and Eateasy, that also offer discounts, helping you save money.

What is the healthcare system in Dubai like?

There are various government/private hospitals, clinics and pharmacies across Dubai.

Dubai Hospital, Rashid Hospital and Al Maktoum Hospital are some of the options in our list of government hospitals in Dubai. At the same time, healthcare groups such as Aster, Medcare and NMC Healthcare have a vast network of clinics in Dubai.

The government hospitals offer free emergency treatment to everyone; however, other hospitals in Dubai charge a considerable amount of money, which is covered mainly by the medical insurance provided by the sponsor. However, you may have to pay for health insurance for your dependents.

How do you move around in Dubai?

There are several modes of public transportation in Dubai, such as Dubai Metro, bus, Dubai Tram, taxis and marine taxis. Residents also use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem. Additionally, there is an option to apply for a driving licence in Dubai or convert your licence if you already have one.

Where to shop in Dubai?

There are several malls in Dubai, ranging from high-end options such as the Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall to more budget-friendly choices like Al Ghazal Mall and Karama Centre.

Does Dubai have any tourist spots?

Dubai ranks among the top tourist destinations in the world. It is packed with record-breaking attractions, including the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa and the largest man-made island, Palm Jumeirah. Our comprehensive list of tourist attractions in Dubai will help you plan a perfect weekend break.

ANSWERS TO MOVING TO DUBAI FAQS

How much does it cost to move to Dubai?

The cost of moving within Dubai depends upon the distance, property size, urgency of the move, and additional services requested. On average, moving into a two-bedroom apartment costs around AED 1,500 to AED 3,000.

Dubai has several moving companies, including Trukkers, EasyTruck, East West Movers and Packers and The Box. You can refer to our list of movers and packers in Dubai and choose the one that best suits your requirements.

Where to find moving boxes in Dubai?

You can buy moving boxes in Dubai from grocery stores, packaging companies and online marketplaces. Currently, Dubizzle, The Box Shop, duboxx, ACE and Noon offer moving boxes in Dubai.

Is it worth moving to Dubai from India?

Definitely! Dubai offers tons of job opportunities and family-friendly conveniences. You can find everything here, from Indian restaurants to Indian schools. Check our guide to ensure a well-planned move to Dubai from India.

And there you have it – the list of most common FAQs about moving to Dubai. We hope this guide will help you enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Dubai.

Moving to Abu Dhabi and need help with your furniture? Let these furniture movers in Abu Dhabi handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on settling into your new home.

On the other hand, for folks who plan to leave the city soon, we’ve prepared a leaving Dubai checklist that ensures you experience a safe and smooth transition.

Please contact us in the comments section below if you have any more queries. Start your new chapter in Dubai with confidence and ease.