Ready to bid farewell? Here’s your essential leaving Dubai checklist
Saying goodbye to Dubai, a place where dreams come true for many, can be pretty tricky. When one decides to say farewell and move on from the city, certain steps must be taken to ensure a smooth transition. So, here’s the ultimate leaving Dubai checklist to guarantee a smooth exit.
Leaving Dubai Checklist
Leaving Dubai due to the end of your visa or work contract can seem like one big, daunting task. Some expats decide to return home or want to seek new adventures in another country. Regardless of the reason, there is a lot to consider before bidding goodbye to Dubai. This moving out of Dubai checklist will ensure you don’t miss out on any critical tasks before leaving the UAE.
Cancelling your Visa
UAE visa cancellation has to be the first thing on your moving out of Dubai checklist – make sure to cancel your and your dependents’ visas. Inform your employer and hand over your passport temporarily to initiate the process. This step is mandatory to avoid potential legal complications and delays in your exit.
Additionally, it’s important to check your UAE visa status after you apply for the cancellation to determine whether your application has been approved. You will have 30 days to leave the country after the cancellation. Staying in the UAE after this grace period expires will lead to hefty overstaying fines.
Collect all your dues
Once your resignation has been accepted, you will be required to work for a statutory period. You should apply for your gratuity payment (if applicable) during this period. Give yourself and the company enough time to go through the whole procedure.
Debt Clearing and Sorting Out Finances
Another important step on the checklist for leaving Dubai is debt clearing. Non-payment of debt is a criminal offence, and it could lead to arrest and potentially a prison sentence. Immigration officials can stop you from boarding a plane if you have any liabilities.
Before exiting the country, you must repay all loans and close all active credit cards.
Inform Your Landlord
If you’re moving out of a rental apartment in Dubai, inform your landlord and discuss terminating the lease. Ensure you obtain an Ejari cancellation certificate and reclaim your security deposit, especially if you end the tenancy early.
Bank Account Closure in Dubai
Next on our list of things to do before leaving Dubai is to close your Dubai-based bank accounts. The procedure to close a bank account in Dubai is simple. You need to take your passport and Emirates ID to the branch and fill out and submit a closure form. The bank could transfer your money to another bank (outside of the UAE) or hand you cash.
Settle Utility Bills
Another item to tick off on the expat leaving Dubai checklist is settling your utility bills. Contact your phone, TV, internet, water and electricity providers to obtain final bills and initiate service disconnections. Note that DEWA disconnections typically require in-person visits to their offices, while other services can be disconnected at customer service centres.
Ending your Tenancy Agreement
If you move out at the end of your contract, things will be easier. You can inform the landlord about your intentions as per the stipulated time in the contract. However, breaking a tenancy agreement is not straightforward.
There are different ways you can deal with the clauses in the agreement. You might have to pay an extra month’s rent if it is within the contract period. Negotiate with your landlord to find a solution that works for everyone. Make sure to abide by all the RERA rules for tenants.
School Transfer Certificate
Collecting the school transfer certificate in Dubai should also be on a parent’s moving out of Dubai checklist. You must submit it when applying for admission to a new school. You will also need to contact the school authorities to know whether the tuition fees paid in advance will be returned if you leave before the academic year ends.
Housemaid Job Transfer
Informing your housemaid about moving out is one of the important things to do before leaving Dubai. When terminating employment, provide ample notice to allow the maid sufficient time to find a new position. Necessary transfer documents can be obtained from any typing centre in Dubai. Submit the completed paperwork to the GDRFA Residency section to receive a refund of the initial deposit.
Pet Relocation
Are you planning to relocate your pet from Dubai? Proper planning is key to a stress-free move. Our blog provides a comprehensive guide on the health certificates and export permits required to bring your furry companion to your new home.
Tax
You should seek expert advice from tax lawyers or accountants to ensure no tax liabilities before you leave the country.
Shipping Companies
Consider getting quotes from multiple shipping companies in Dubai, especially if you own a lot of furniture. Shipping your belongings might be more cost-effective than buying new items. Also, research different international moving companies to find the best deal. When reviewing quotes, pay close attention to the terms and conditions.
Additionally, you can learn how to pack on your own when moving.
A Final Look
Before departing Dubai, take a moment to conduct a final inspection of your home. Confirm that all belongings are packed, appliances are turned off, and taps are securely closed. This will give you peace of mind as you embark on your new journey.
FAQs
Can I leave Dubai with debt?
Typically, you can leave the UAE with minor outstanding debts. However, exceptions exist, such as having a court judgment against you or a travel ban imposed due to significant unpaid debts. It is best to pay up, if possible, rather than risk your future.
Can I leave Dubai and come back?
You can return to the UAE if your visa is still valid. No additional formalities are required for stays outside the UAE of less than 180 days. However, for stays exceeding 180 days, your employer must apply for a re-entry permit.
How much money can you leave Dubai with?
Passengers entering or leaving the UAE must declare any cash or financial instruments that exceed AED 60,000 or its equivalent in other currencies. This declaration must be made to customs authorities upon arrival or departure.
This wraps up our guide checklist for leaving Dubai. If you own a vehicle, consider advertising it for sale. Remember, you must pay all outstanding traffic fines and cancel your Salik tag before exiting the country.
If you are planning to move from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, our guide contains all the information to make your move a hassle-free experience.
Planning well ahead is the secret to a calm and smooth relocation. If you have decided to leave Dubai on a particular date, starting the process six months in advance might be wise. Have plenty of time so you are not flustered at the end.
Doing so will allow you to reflect on your time in this incredible city. This would be the time to meet up with family and friends. How about organising a dinner at your favourite fine-dining restaurant in Dubai? Similarly, you can redo your favourite things to do in Dubai. Who knows when you will return here next?
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