Your Ultimate Guide to a Hassle-Free Move to Dubai

Dubai's luxurious lifestyle, safety, and tax-free income attract expats to move here. The city is a hub of endless opportunities alongside top-notch facilities. A survey shows that around 85% of the population in Dubai comprises expats. So, if you have landed on this blog, we anticipate you are also planning to move to Dubai. That is why we are providing essential considerations in this guide to make your move to Dubai hassle-free from beginning to end.

Gather Basic Information

Before moving to Dubai, you must educate yourself on the basics to understand what living here will be like. Here they are:

• The primary languages in Dubai are English and Arabic.
• Monday is the working day, not Sunday.
• Acquiring a driving licence is easy if you already have one in your home country.
• 5% VAT applies to most goods and services.
• Medical costs can be high, so you must have a health insurance plan.
• You don't need to follow a dress code but should still dress appropriately.
• The driving side in Dubai is left.
• The total population of Dubai is 3.05 million, according to World Population Review.

Be Prepared to Apply for a Visa

If you are coming to the country expecting to look for work when you arrive. In that case, you should be aware that for most employment visa or labour card applications, you will need to have your education degree or certificate attested by the degree-rewarding institute or authority, your country's foreign office and the UAE Embassy in your homeland. It will be easier, quicker and cheaper to carry this out before you leave home for the UAE. If you do not have time to do this and have no one in your home country to do it for you, bring the certificate with you, as there are firms in the UAE that you can pay to do it.

Understand the Living Cost

Understanding the cost of living in Dubai before you move is wise. The phrase "The deeper the well, the sweeter the water" applies here, as the more you invest—whether in time, money, or effort—the greater the rewards. Dubai can be expensive, but the quality of life, amenities, and growth opportunities make it worthwhile for those who are prepared for the costs. Below is an overview of basic expenses in Dubai and how much they cost on average.

To understand the cost of living in detail, check our Comprehensive Guide to the Cost of Living in Dubai.

Buy or Rent a Property Through a Reputable Broker

Should you rent a property or buy one? Renting is a popular option for expats who move to Dubai for the first time. You can also opt for short-term rentals while you look for a long-term residency. On the other hand, if you choose to buy a property in Dubai, you will be eligible for a two-year Investor Visa or a ten-year Golden Visa, depending on the property's value. Expats can buy properties in freehold areas, including Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), and Palm Jumeirah. The list of freehold areas in Dubai is updated each year. Buying or renting a property depends on your circumstances and preferences.

Whether you are renting or buying, understand that the real estate industry in Dubai and the UAE is now more regulated than before. So, getting services from a reputable broker like Betterhomes ensures a smooth and secure process. Contact us to explore the best properties in Dubai and receive expert guidance tailored to your needs!

Manage Utilities Connections

When moving to Dubai, setting up your utility connections is important to ensure a smooth transition into your new home. Here are the concerned bodies for setting up the utilities:

Electricity and Water: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)

Gas: Contact your building management or a local supplier like Emirate Gas and Smart Gas.

Internet, TV, and Phone: Du and Etisalat

Chiller and Air Conditioning: Empower and Emicool

When setting up your utilities, ensure you have ready all the necessary documents, such as your tenancy contract, passport, and Emirates ID.

Check out our blog on setting up the utilities in Dubai. 

Conclusion

Dubai offers a high standard of living and numerous opportunities. The city's prosperous job market, strong economy, and high quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work. Before you make the move, make sure to take note of the key points mentioned in this blog. Whether you are looking for career growth or a fresh start, Dubai is a city that supports and enhances your ambitions.