Your handy checklist for moving to Dubai from India

• Things to Know
• Visa Requirements
• Accommodation
• Lifestyle
• Getting Around
• FAQs

Expats are drawn to Dubai because of its thriving job market, high standard of life and attractive tax benefits. The city’s status as a major global business hub offers ample employment opportunities, particularly in finance, technology and hospitality sectors. Moving to Dubai from India is a dream come true for many. The emirate’s modern infrastructure and luxurious lifestyle appeal to Indians seeking a higher standard of living. And that’s why MyBayut brings you a comprehensive list of things to consider before moving to Dubai from India.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE MOVING TO DUBAI FROM INDIA

The absence of personal income tax and the relatively straightforward residency regulations make Dubai an appealing destination for Indians.

But before delving into the do’s and don’ts, here’s what you must know before moving to Dubai from India.

• Begin by securing a job or business opportunity in Dubai, often a prerequisite for obtaining a residence visa.
• Once you have a job offer, you must gather and authenticate necessary documents such as your passport, birth certificate and educational certificates.
• It’s crucial to apply for a UAE residence visa and an Emirates ID, which is required for many daily transactions.
• Arrange for temporary or permanent accommodation, and consider opening a local bank account to manage your finances.
• Familiarise yourself with Dubai’s healthcare system by securing health insurance, which is mandatory for residents.
• Make arrangements to transfer your personal belongings and ensure they comply with Dubai’s import regulations.
• Understand the local customs and laws to adapt quickly and integrate smoothly into your new environment. You can read our guide on rules for expats in Dubai to ensure you are aware of the pitfalls.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

Understanding the visa requirements is crucial for a smooth relocation for those settling from India to Dubai. The application process involves several key steps and requirements.

Generally, visa sponsorship plays a significant role, and eligibility can vary depending on the visa type. For employment and residency visas, sponsorship must be provided by a Dubai-based employer or a family member residing in the UAE.

When moving from India to Dubai, the applicant must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of application. Additionally, various supporting documents are required. These may include proof of employment, educational qualifications or family ties. The process often includes obtaining a medical fitness certificate and undergoing a background check.

Indians can apply for tourist visas via airlines, travel agencies or online portals. Meeting these requirements ensures compliance with UAE immigration laws and facilitates a successful transition when moving to Dubai from India.

If you have a valid USA visa, green card or a UK or European Union residence visa (valid for at least six months after you enter the UAE), you can get a 14-day visa on arrival.

TYPES OF VISAS YOU CAN APPLY FOR WHEN MOVING TO DUBAI FROM INDIA

You can consider different types of UAE visas when moving to Dubai. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your move.

EMPLOYMENT VISA

Obtaining an employment visa is essential for settling from India to Dubai if you wish to work. This visa requires securing a job offer from a Dubai-based employer, who will sponsor the visa application.

You must provide documents such as your passport, job offer letter and educational certificates to apply. The employer will handle the visa processing. This includes obtaining a work permit and residence visa, allowing you to live and work in Dubai legally.

RESIDENCE VISA

A residence visa is necessary for those moving to Dubai from India. To qualify, you need a sponsor, which can be an employer or a family member residing in Dubai.

Required documents include a valid passport, proof of employment or family relationship and a medical fitness certificate. The residence visa allows you to live in Dubai and facilitates obtaining an Emirates ID, which is required for various administrative purposes.

INVESTOR VISA

Indian nationals planning to invest in Dubai’s business or real estate sectors can apply for an Investor Visa. This type of visa requires proof of investment, such as documents related to business registration or property purchase.

The application process involves demonstrating the financial viability of the investment. Required documents include proof of investment, passport and relevant business or property documents.

STUDENT VISA

A student visa is required for educational purposes for those moving to Dubai from India. This visa is typically sponsored by the academic institution you are enrolled in.

To obtain a student visa, you must provide an admission letter from a Dubai-based school or university, your passport and proof of financial support to cover living and educational expenses. The institution will assist in processing the visa application.

DEPENDENT VISA

This visa allows spouses, children and sometimes other dependents to live in Dubai while the primary visa holder works or resides in the UAE. To apply, the sponsoring family member must provide proof of relationship, a valid residence visa and sufficient financial means to support the dependents.

Additional documents typically include the dependents’ passports, marriage and birth certificates. The application process involves submitting these documents to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, ensuring compliance with local regulations for family sponsorship.

Upon arrival, you must undergo a medical test in Dubai to process these visas. If your passport expires post-re-location, here’s the process of Indian passport renewal in Dubai.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR MOVING FROM INDIA TO DUBAI

One of the handiest tips for migration to Dubai from India is to get your documentation in order. Here’s what you’ll need.

• Valid Passport: Ensure it has at least six months of validity
• Visa Application Form: Completed and signed as per the type of visa
• Job Offer Letter or Sponsorship Letter: For employment or family sponsorship
• Passport-sized Photographs: As per UAE visa specifications
• Educational Certificates: Required for employment or specific visa types
• Medical Fitness Certificate: To prove you meet health requirements
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial documents to show you can support yourself
• Proof of Accommodation: Lease agreement or hotel booking for initial stay
• Birth Certificates or Marriage Certificates: For family or dependent visas

FINDING ACCOMMODATION IN DUBAI

When you arrive in Dubai, your company will likely book you a hotel room or apartment. However, you will have to find somewhere to move soon!

Luckily, Dubai has a booming real estate market with numerous options for all budgets and preferences. But before anything else, you must decide whether you should rent or buy.

RENTING A PROPERTY IN DUBAI

Several first-time expats prefer renting a property in Dubai. Regarding budget, it’s easy to overspend and be influenced by prestigious addresses or Burj Khalifa views. However, a rule of thumb to stick to is not spending more than 35% of your monthly income on rent.

You can rent affordable apartments in Dubai and save significant money. You can also read more about best place to live in Dubai for Indian families.

You will also have to shell out money for DEWA utilities (that’s your electricity and water), internet/phone deposits, agency commissions and security deposits. Make sure you have enough money set aside! It is also worth familiarising yourself with Dubai’s tenancy laws to avoid unpleasant surprises!

BUYING A PROPERTY IN DUBAI

Homeownership is widespread in Dubai. Many options exist, from villas and townhouses in well-established neighbourhoods such as Arabian Ranches and apartments in Dubai Marina to off-plan projects.

Indians in Dubai make up the largest group of foreigners who invest in Dubai property. If you are unsure about your long-term future in the emirate, don’t forget that you can always rent out your property when you leave, making it a fantastic extra source of income.

LIFE AFTER MOVING TO DUBAI FROM INDIA

The city offers a blend of exciting opportunities and unique challenges. Embracing the cosmopolitan lifestyle, new residents quickly immerse themselves in a vibrant cultural melting pot with access to modern amenities and a high standard of living.

Now that you’ve finally made the move, let’s look at how to settle in Dubai from India.

EDUCATION FOR INDIANS IN DUBAI

Dubai prides itself in offering quality education. Several schools in the city offer a wide range of curricula for you to choose from. Here’s what the top schools in Dubai offer its students.

• High Standards of Education: Dubai boasts a rigorous education system with high academic standards and a focus on international curricula, ensuring students receive a quality education.
• International Curricula: Schools in the city offer a range of curricula, including British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB) and others, catering to diverse educational preferences.
• Accredited Institutions: Many schools are accredited by international educational bodies, ensuring adherence to global standards.
• Modern Facilities: The institutes have state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced technology, science labs and sports amenities.
• Highly Qualified Teachers: Educators in Dubai are often experienced professionals with international qualifications.
• Extracurricular Opportunities: A wide array of extracurricular activities are available, including arts, sports, and cultural programs, which enhance students’ overall development.
• Diverse School Options: Indian families can choose from private and international schools offering different programs and teaching philosophies.
• Focus on Innovation: Many schools emphasise STEM education and innovative teaching methods, preparing students for future challenges in a rapidly changing world.

FOOD FOR INDIAN EXPATS IN DUBAI

There’s one thing you won’t miss in the city, and that’s Indian cuisine! From street-side chaat and biryani to Jain food and South Indian thalis, there are plenty of Indian restaurants in Dubai serving food from all corners of India.

No matter where you live, you will find an Indian restaurant nearby. For instance, there are some fantastic Indian restaurants in Downtown Dubai.

If it’s groceries that you’re looking for, there are plenty of supermarkets in Dubai for expats that stock native ingredients. For fresh produce, LuLu Hypermarket is a firm favourite among Indian expats in Dubai.

HEALTH

Here is what you need to know about health services in Dubai.

• Dubai has no unified public health service. Every sponsor is responsible for providing health insurance to those they give a visa. This means that if you are sponsoring your spouse or children, the burden is on you to provide them with medical insurance. Some companies often offer insurance for dependents as well.
• If you intend to bring any medication to Dubai, check the banned substances list issued by the UAE government. Some medicines might be exempt if you get a doctor’s note along with you. Remember that some drugs sold over the counter in India could be regulated in Dubai, and you could face trouble when trying to bring them into the country.
• Thanks to the number of clinics and hospitals in Dubai, obtaining a prescription will be a painless process if you need specific medication, albeit under a different trade name.

GETTING AROUND

The public transport system in Dubai is one of the best in the world. The city has a well-established public transport system, including buses, the Dubai Metro, and taxis.

If you prefer driving, you must apply for a Dubai driving licence after completing the required classes.

FAQs ABOUT MOVING TO DUBAI FROM INDIA

DO I NEED TO LEARN ARABIC TO LIVE IN DUBAI?

You do not need to learn Arabic to get by in Dubai. Most residents communicate in English, Hindi or Urdu. But it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Arabic phrases.

DOES MY SPONSOR HAS THE RIGHT TO HOLD MY DOCUMENTS?

No. Remember that your sponsor has no right to keep your passport in their custody – your documents are yours and yours alone.

WHAT IS THE COST OF MOVING TO DUBAI FROM INDIA?

The cost of moving to Dubai from India can vary widely depending on several factors, including your household size, the type of accommodation you choose and your lifestyle. Generally, relocation expenses include visa fees, shipping costs for your belongings and accommodation expenses, which may consist of a deposit and rent for the first few months.

Additionally, you should budget for initial living costs such as utilities, groceries, and transportation. The total cost can range from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000 or more, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

WHAT IS THE VISA COST FROM INDIA TO DUBAI?

The cost of obtaining a visa from India to Dubai varies based on the type of visa. For a standard tourist visa, prices generally range from AED 300 to AED 1,000, depending on the duration of stay and processing speed. Employment visas, typically sponsored by an employer, can cost between AED 1,000 and AED 3,000.

HOW FAR IS DUBAI FROM INDIA?

Flight durations typically range from 3 to 4 hours from Indian cities to Dubai, making it a relatively short and convenient journey.

With that, we will round up our list of tips for migration to Dubai from India. To get you started, here’s a look at popular areas to rent in Dubai according to salary.

Disclaimer: Visa rules are subject to change and can vary from company to company. To get up-to-date information on visa procedures and fees, please get in touch with your employer/sponsor.