Moving To Dubai
Thinking of relocating to the oasis paradise of Dubai in UAE?
Dubai is a city that in a very short time has become one of the most metropolitan cities in the world.
Moving to Dubai is a wonderful experience both culturally and in terms of modernity and amenities.
With no income tax, Dubai is a very attractive place for global businesses, residents and visitors.
Moving to Dubai can be an exciting opportunity for you.
What to Expect After Relocating to Dubai
- Its central location between Asia and Europe makes living in Dubai a cultural cornucopia for expats. 85% of the city is expat from all around the globe, with around 71% originating from Asian countries.
- Dubai is situated in a desert climate with temperatures regularly in the 40s ℃ (100s ℉). Sandstorms are common, and rain is rare. Leave the winter digs behind when moving to Dubai.
- Dubai has a welcoming culture, which is why nearly 12% of Dubai’s GDP is based on tourism and expat entrepreneurs businesses. Expect to see travelers from all over the world after relocating to Dubai.
Why Should You Move to Dubai?
Moving to Dubai has its pros and cons that you should carefully weigh before considering relocation to Dubai. Crime rates are especially low in Dubai meaning the city is considered quite safe for expats, even when compared to other developed nations. This is thanks to its strong social laws, though these can come with some potential drawbacks.
Common allowances in other countries may be considered illegal in Dubai.
When moving to Dubai, you should be aware of the main illegal actions to avoid.
This includes swearing, commenting adversely in relation to the UAE government, drinking without an alcohol licence, or other social interactions.
Many laws apply only to women. This includes wearing clothing that covers arms and legs while in public, and only wearing bathing suits while at swimming pools.
Arabic is the official language in the city, but those moving to Dubai, know that English is an extremely common secondary language for most residents.
Also, Educational standards in the city are extremely high, and most expats in Dubai will not pay income taxes, making it very attractive for entrepreneurs considering relocating their business to Dubai, UAE and expat business investors.
- Tax & Accounting
- Relocation & Shipping
- Visa & Immigration
- Property & Real Estate
- Language & Culture
- Health & Wellness
For those that want to move to Dubai, the first and maybe most attractive aspect of living in the city is Dubai taxes for expats.
UAE does not tax individuals but instead taxes companies based in or relocating to Dubai, foreign banks, and certain goods. Corporate taxes remain low for companies that do not extract natural resources.
This makes Dubai particularly attractive to expats wanting to work in or relocate their business to Dubai, UAE
- Corporate Taxes: Applies to businesses and banks conducting activities with a commercial license in the UAE. This does not apply to capital gains or income made by an individual.
- Excise Taxes: Applies to goods considered adverse to human health. This includes carbonated beverages, energy drinks, sweetened drinks, and tobacco related products like cigarettes and vapes.
- VAT: These are taxes levied at the point of sale for goods and services sold in the UAE. Currently, the VAT is at a rate of up to 5%.
There are no specific taxes in Dubai for expats or entrepreneurs moving their business to Dubai UAE.
Several shipping companies exist that can help expats relocate their goods to Dubai, but keep in mind that larger items may not fit in the relatively small apartment sizes you may encounter. Average one bedroom apartment sizes in Dubai are less than 700 square feet. You can leave the winter clothes behind as well during relocation to Dubai.
Because the UAE is located on the coast, sea freight is a much more convenient option to relocate your staff to Dubai than it normally would be in a city located further inland, but the air freight is still faster, if more expensive.
So you are relocating your business to Dubai? Check out our E-Team member in Dubai, Interem, a global relocation company that will assist you with corporate and business relocations to Dubai.
Visas in the UAE come in 30 day, 90 day, and 180 day variants depending on your country of origin.
- 30 day visas apply to people moving to Dubai from China, Canada, Ukraine, the USA and more.
- 90 day visas apply to those moving to Dubai from France, Russia, Norway, North Korea, and more.
- 180 day visas apply to those moving to Dubai from Mexico.
As for how to move to Dubai on a more permanent basis, there are several immigration options for expats from all over the world.
- Applying for a student visa or family reunification visa, both of which allow an expat move and to live in Dubai.
- Acquiring an employment visa from a local company by obtaining a job offer from them.
- Through the application of an investor visa for those interested in starting a business in Dubai.
- Through an investment program located in Dubai.
It is important to note that expats in Dubai face several additional fees when buying property here. There is a 2% agency fee and a 4% transfer fee when expats buy a property in Dubai through an agency, which is typically advised. Normal down payments are at least 25% of the property’s asking price, and depending on your loan, interest can be around 3 to 4%. Property purchasing prices in Dubai typically average from around $160,000 to $580,000, though prices can reach the tens of millions.
Prices in Dubai are currently lower than they were in the 2010s due to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Rentals in the UAE for expats are usually signed for one year contracts and are very difficult to break. The average cost of rentals in Dubai is still relatively inexpensive compared to metropolitan areas in western countries.
- The price of a one bedroom apartment in Dubai ranges from $15,000 to $26,300 annually.
- Two bedrooms apartment price in Dubai are from $21,500 to $38,100.
- Three Bedroom price in Dubai are from $28,585,000 to $51,700.
- House prices in Dubai can range from $52,600 for three bedrooms to $81,300 for five bedrooms.
Dubai is a touristic city and has a laid back, luxurious, and opulent lifestyle, which inspires and encourages many expats to move to Dubai. The city grew quickly, meaning most architecture feels futuristic or at least modern, and the blend of traditional Arabic culture and modern western business activities drives most offerings to be cozy, pleasurable, and self-indulgent.
Most of Dubai’s culture revolves around traditional Arabic offerings and the religion of Islam. Opulent mosques are common, and religious architecture is some of the most beautiful in the world. Modern entertainment includes traditional sports, water sports, motor sports, and desert excursions. Food is distinctly international to cater to the large expat population, but traditional Bedouin cuisine is also common.
Arabic is the official language of Dubai, but most people speak English as a second language. English is the language of business as well, this will not be an issue for expats moving to or considering relocating business to Dubai.
Other common languages include Hindi, Urdu and Filipino.
Dubai is a city of resorts, and its citizens and expat entrepreneurs moving to Dubai can enjoy all of the perks of living in a warm climate on the coast.
The city has multiple health centers and wellness focused resort complexes. Holistic wellness retreats are also common and can help expats focus on weight loss, health management, fitness, and other goals with the aid of international licensed professionals. Spas, yoga, and detox clinics are also on offer.
Dubai offers universal health care in the form of the Dubai Health Authority, though expats in Dubai are usually required to have private coverage for health related issues.
Frequently Asked Question
- What Is the Cost of Living in Dubai?
While rent in Dubai is expensive for the region, the cost of living is actually relatively inexpensive compared to western cities. A single person living in Dubai can expect to pay around $1,000 a month in average living expenses without rent. A family of four should expect around three times that price at about $3,300.
- What Are the Best Places to Live in Dubai?
Before moving to Dubai with your family consider the best places to live in:
- Dubai Marina– In the center of Dubai, this region features international shopping and a wide variety of restaurants. With high-rises and waterfronts, this area is a good choice for young singles and couples relocating to Dubai.
- Downtown Dubai – This is the location of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall – the world’s tallest building and largest mall. Traffic is an issue as this is the heart of the city, but living here is to be at the center of it all. This is an option for those who move a business to Dubai.
- Mirdif – While near the airport, this spread out neighborhood is peaceful and a good choice for expats moving to Dubai with families. It is characterized by villas and apartments with yards and parks. Traffic is again an issue here during rush hour.
- Arabian Ranches– A more suburban choice located further from the city. Here you can find parks and greenery alongside excellent schools, health facilities, hospitals, cafes, and restaurants. Another good choice for expats with families, but costs are on the high end.
- Is Rent Expensive in Dubai?
Dubai ranks fourth in the world for the amount of money spent on rent.
- Why Is Dubai So Wealthy?
Dubai is part of the UAE, the third highest GDP country ($57,744 per capita) in the world. This is largely due to taxes on and production of raw materials such as petroleum, petrochemicals, aluminum, and cement.
- What Is a Good Salary for Living in Dubai?
The average monthly salary in Dubai is close to $6,000 a month as of July 2021. This is lower than some other nations like the USA or the UK, but because of the lower cost of living, this amount is more than enough to live comfortably in the city.