Moving to Dubai: What You Need to Know

Dubai is a popular destination for people looking to move abroad, with its high standard of living, tax-free income, and excellent job opportunities.

However, like any big move, there are pros and cons. Before you pack your bags and head to Dubai, it’s essential to research the cultural norms, visa requirements, and cost of living. In this guide, we’ll cover the pros and cons of moving to Dubai, things to consider before you go, finding somewhere to live, and something you must have in place before taking a property, whether you’re moving to Dubai for work or looking for a new adventure, read on to discover what you need to know.

Dubai is a city that has rapidly become a popular destination for people who are looking to move abroad. However, like any big move, there are pros and cons. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your Dubai move.

Pros:

• High standard of living: Dubai offers a very high standard of living, with modern infrastructure and excellent healthcare facilities.
• Tax-free income: Dubai is a tax-free haven, which means you can earn a higher payment without worrying about taxes.
• Excellent job opportunities: Dubai is a global business hub with many options for people with diverse skills and backgrounds.
• Vibrant cultural scene: Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and offers a vibrant arts and culture scene.
• Access to world-class amenities: Dubai offers top-notch amenities, from world-renowned restaurants to luxury shopping malls.

Cons:

• High cost of living: Dubai has expensive rents and expensive groceries.
• Extreme weather: Dubai’s weather can be severe, with sweltering summers and mild winters.
• Cultural differences: Dubai is an Islamic country, and there are strict cultural norms that you will need to adhere to.
• Traffic: Dubai’s traffic can be notoriously bad, making commuting challenging.
• Housing shortages: Dubai is experiencing a housing shortage, which can make finding suitable accommodation difficult.

Things to consider:

• Visa requirements: Before you move to Dubai, ensure you have the correct visa. Your visa type will depend on your job and personal circumstances.
• Healthcare: Healthcare in Dubai can be expensive, so ensure you have adequate health insurance.
• Finding accommodation: Finding suitable accommodation in Dubai can be a challenge. Consider whether you want to rent or buy and whether you want to live in the city centre or suburbs.
• Cost of living: Dubai is expensive, so ensure a realistic budget.
• Cultural norms: Dubai has strict cultural criteria, so research these before you arrive.
• Transportation: Dubai has a modern transportation system, including a metro system and taxis, but traffic can be challenging during peak hours.

Finding somewhere to live:

To move to Dubai, you must find somewhere to live. There are a few options, depending on whether you are looking for short-term or long-term accommodation.

Short-term accommodation:

• Hotels: Dubai has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury, which can be a good option if you need temporary accommodation while you look for a permanent home.
• Short-term shared accommodation: Want to live with other people for a short period in their homes – Check out Facebook community pages like Dubai Rental Properties. 
• Airbnb: Many Airbnb options in Dubai offer a more home-like experience than a hotel.

Long-term accommodation:

• Renting: Renting is a popular option in Dubai but it can be expensive. Make sure you research rental prices in the areas you are interested in.
• Buying: Buying property in Dubai is possible, but there are restrictions for non-UAE nationals. Ensure you understand the rules and regulations before starting your property search.

Things you must have in place before taking a property:

• Visa: Ensure you have the correct key before signing a rental or purchase agreement.
• Deposit: You will usually need to pay a deposit before you can move into a property.
• Tenancy contract: If you are renting, make sure you have a tenancy contract outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy.
• DEWA connection: DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) is the utility provider in Dubai. You must set up an account before accessing electricity and water in your new home.
• Home insurance: Home insurance is not mandatory in Dubai, but it is recommended to protect