FAQ & Advice
Get answers to the most common questions about living, working, and moving to the UAE. Your trusted resource for practical advice.
Moving to UAE
What visa do I need to move to the UAE?
The visa you need depends on your purpose: employment visa (job offer required), investor visa (minimum investment), Golden Visa (long-term for qualified individuals), family visa (sponsor required), or freelancer visa (self-employment). Each has specific requirements and benefits.
How long does the visa process take?
Typically 2-4 weeks once all documents are ready. Employment visas are usually fastest (1-2 weeks), while Golden Visas may take 4-6 weeks. Document attestation can add 2-4 weeks to the overall timeline, so start early.
Do I need to attest my documents?
Yes, educational certificates, marriage certificates, and some personal documents must be attested by your home country's foreign ministry and UAE embassy/consulate before submission.
Can I move to UAE without a job?
Yes, through investor visas, Golden Visa (if you qualify), freelancer permits, or family sponsorship. However, having a job offer makes the process much easier and provides immediate income and benefits.
What's the minimum salary requirement?
Varies by emirate and visa type. For family sponsorship: Dubai (AED 4,000+), Abu Dhabi (AED 4,000+), Sharjah (AED 3,000+). Employment visas have no strict minimum, but higher salaries get better visa categories.
How much money should I bring initially?
Budget AED 15,000-30,000 for initial costs including housing deposit (5-10% of annual rent), DEWA/utility deposits, Emirates ID fees, and living expenses for the first month while you get settled.
Daily Life in UAE
Is it safe to live in UAE?
UAE is one of the world's safest countries with very low crime rates. Women can travel alone safely, and violent crime is extremely rare. The legal system is strict, which contributes to the high safety levels.
What's the cost of living like?
Moderate to high, depending on lifestyle. Housing is the biggest expense (40-60% of income). Dubai is most expensive, followed by Abu Dhabi, then Sharjah and Northern Emirates. No income tax helps offset higher costs.
Do I need to speak Arabic?
No, English is widely spoken in business, hospitality, and among expats. However, learning basic Arabic phrases is appreciated and helpful for daily interactions with local service providers.
What about alcohol and nightlife?
Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, and clubs. You need an alcohol license to buy from stores (available to non-Muslims with residence visa). Nightlife exists but is more regulated than Western countries.
How's the weather year-round?
Hot and humid in summer (June-September, 35-45°C), pleasant in winter (November-March, 20-30°C). Most activities happen indoors during summer months due to extreme heat.
What should I wear?
Modest, conservative clothing is recommended. Business: formal attire. Casual: shoulders and knees covered in public areas. Beach/pool areas: swimwear is fine. Avoid tight or revealing clothing in traditional areas.
Work & Business
How do I find a job in UAE?
Use LinkedIn, Bayt.com, GulfTalent, and company websites. Networking is crucial - attend industry events and join professional groups. Consider recruitment agencies for specialized roles. Apply directly to companies of interest.
What are typical working hours?
Sunday to Thursday, 9 AM to 6 PM (9-hour days including 1-hour lunch). Some companies work Saturday half-days. During Ramadan, working hours are reduced. Friday is the weekend day for most businesses.
Can I freelance in UAE?
Yes, with proper licensing. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates offer freelancer visas for qualified professionals. You'll need relevant qualifications, portfolio, and minimum income requirements vary by jurisdiction.
How do I start a business?
Choose between mainland (local sponsor required) or free zone (100% ownership). Free zones are popular for foreign investors. Costs range from AED 15,000-60,000+ depending on business type and location.
What are employee benefits like?
Typically include health insurance, annual leave (22-30 days), flight tickets home, and end-of-service gratuity. Many packages include housing allowance or accommodation. Benefits vary by company and seniority.
Is there income tax?
No personal income tax in UAE. This is a major financial benefit for expats. However, UAE introduced 5% VAT in 2018 on most goods and services. Corporate tax applies to businesses earning over AED 375,000.
Family & Kids
How are the schools in UAE?
Excellent international schools following British, American, IB, and other curricula. School fees range from AED 20,000-80,000+ annually. Apply early as good schools have waiting lists. KHDA (Dubai) and ADEK (Abu Dhabi) provide school ratings.
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes, if you meet minimum salary requirements and have proper accommodation. You can sponsor spouse, children under 18 (or until education completion), and sometimes parents. Requirements vary by emirate.
What about healthcare for families?
High-quality healthcare available. Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Most employers provide family coverage. Excellent hospitals and clinics with international-trained doctors are available.
Are there activities for children?
Abundant family activities: theme parks, water parks, beaches, malls with entertainment, sports clubs, music/art classes, and cultural events. Most communities have playgrounds and family-friendly facilities.
What about childcare/nurseries?
Many nurseries and childcare centers available from 6 months onwards. Costs range from AED 2,000-6,000+ monthly. International curricula available. Many offer flexible timing for working parents.
Can my spouse work?
Yes, if they have appropriate qualifications and find employment. They'll need their own work visa or can be included under certain Golden Visa categories. Freelancer permits are also available for qualified spouses.
Money & Banking
How do I open a bank account?
Visit bank with Emirates ID, passport, visa page, salary certificate (if employed), and minimum opening balance (varies AED 500-5,000). Popular banks: Emirates NBD, ADCB, HSBC, Mashreq. Process takes 1-2 weeks.
Can I get a credit card?
Yes, with employment letter and minimum salary (usually AED 5,000+). Banks offer various cards with benefits. Building credit history takes time, so start with basic cards and upgrade later.
How do I transfer money internationally?
Banks offer wire transfers, or use services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or digital services like Wise (formerly TransferWise). Compare rates and fees. UAE Exchange and Al Ansari Exchange are popular local options.
What's the currency and exchange rate?
UAE Dirham (AED) is pegged to USD at approximately 3.67 AED = 1 USD. Cash, cards, and digital payments widely accepted. Most places accept major credit cards and contactless payments.
Should I invest or save in UAE?
Many investment options available: savings accounts, fixed deposits, mutual funds, stocks, real estate. Consult financial advisors for personalized advice. Consider your residence status and long-term plans.
How much should I budget monthly?
Single person: AED 8,000-15,000+. Family of 4: AED 15,000-30,000+. Includes housing, food, transportation, utilities, entertainment. Lifestyle choices greatly impact budget requirements.
Practical Matters
How do I get a driving license?
If from GCC, US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, or Japan: direct exchange possible. Others: driving course required (20-40 hours). Costs AED 1,500-5,000+. Valid international license can be used temporarily.
What about mobile phones and internet?
Two main providers: Etisalat and du. Monthly plans from AED 100-300+ with data, calls, and SMS. Internet speeds are excellent. Most people use postpaid plans for better rates and services.
How's public transportation?
Dubai: Metro, buses, trams are efficient and affordable. Abu Dhabi: Growing bus network. Taxis and ride-hailing (Careem, Uber) widely available. Many people prefer cars for convenience.
What utilities do I need to set up?
Electricity/Water (DEWA in Dubai, ADWEA in Abu Dhabi), internet, cable TV, and gas (if applicable). Deposits required. Budget AED 300-800+ monthly depending on usage and property size.
How do I find housing?
Use Dubizzle.com, Bayut.com, or real estate agents. Typical process: choose area, view properties, negotiate, pay security deposit (5-10% of annual rent), sign lease. Peak seasons are September-November and January-March.
What about pets?
Pets allowed with proper documentation and vaccinations. Import permits required. Pet-friendly housing can be limited and more expensive. Veterinary care is excellent but costly. Consider climate challenges for outdoor pets.
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