Your Ultimate Guide to Moving from the UK to Dubai

Relocating from the UK to Dubai opens up a world of experience full of opportunities. Whether you are moving over there for work, for your business, lifestyle, or personal reasons, a bustling job market and opulence await you in that lovely place.

However, for relocating to a country where you have never experienced staying before, you do have to plan and organize. And for this purpose, here is a checklist put in place to guide your smooth relocation.

On top of this, if you want to buy a property or seek help in finding your way in the real estate market in Dubai, Brighton to Burj is your go-to Dubai real estate consultant. Our team will be with you every step of the way to make your transition to Dubai smooth.

1. Research and Understand Dubai's Culture and Lifestyle

You have to be exposed to the culture of Dubai before making your move, such that you know the lifestyles of its people and customs so as to settle more amicably and not suffer cultural misunderstandings. Dubai is a melting pot where a mix of traditional norms blends with modernity in everyday living.

Cultural Sensitivity: Dubai is a Muslim city, and hence, it's important to show respect for the local cultures, especially when there is religious observance such as Ramadan. Dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection.

Language: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood in business and even in everyday life.

Workplace Etiquette: While the work culture in Dubai can be formal with strict hierarchy and authority, at the same time, it is fast-paced and quite rewarding.

2. Secure Your Visa and Residency Permit

Like the US and other countries, so also Dubai requires its expatriates to obtain valid visas before living and working in this great city. Depending on your situation, there are many types of visas to consider when planning your move to Dubai:

Employment Visa: If moving to Dubai is on behalf of your employer, the employer would typically sponsor your work visa and residency permit.

Investor Visa: If you intend to invest or start a business in Dubai, you can live and work here on an investor visa.

Family Visa: If you have dependents, you are able to sponsor your spouse and children for a family residency visa.

Retirement Visa: Dubai also provides a retirement visa for the eligible expats above 55 years of age.

Get going with applying for a visa at the earliest so as to have plenty of time. Do not expect or make any mistake that would attract late submission at the last minutes.

3. Suitable Residence

Obtaining proper residence has been one of the basic steps in settling in the city of Dubai. Today, the entire city extends a wide number of housing. From luxurious apartment in landmarks like Palm Jumeirah to affordable ones in community living like in Jumeirah Village Circle.

Here's what you need to do:

Location: The location of your home would depend on factors like closeness to work, schools in case you have kids, and your preferred lifestyle. Popular areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and JLT (Jumeirah Lake Towers).

Rental or Purchase: Deciding whether you wish to rent or buy property is your decision. Rental contracts in Dubai are usually one-year, and properties are leased unfurnished.

Engage a Real Estate Consultant: A trusted real estate consultant like Brighton to Burj can help navigate the property market and identify a home that fits into your budget and lifestyle. We can assist in identifying the best places to live, negotiating contracts, and understanding the legalities of a property transaction.

4. Set Up Your Finances

Dubai operates under a tax-free salary system, an attraction for many expatriates, yet you must plan your finances before moving.

Bank Account: You will need a local bank account to receive your salary, pay bills, and make everyday transactions. Most of the major banks in Dubai offer expatriate services, although you may need to provide your passport, residency visa, and proof of address with your application.

Currency: The currency in Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED). It is worth getting familiarized with the exchange rate to plan finances accordingly.

Transferring UK Funds: You may also want to consider transferring savings or investments that you may have in the UK to your Dubai account. Find a good exchange rate and a good transfer service to reduce fees.

Credit History: If you are going to borrow money or credit in Dubai, your UK credit history may not be directly transferable. You may have to build up a local credit history.

5. Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare in Dubai is excellent, but you will need to ensure that you have the proper health insurance coverage.

Health Insurance: Most employers in Dubai offer health insurance; however, if you're self-employed or moving to Dubai without a job, you'll have to get your own. Make sure the health insurance covers both inpatient and outpatient treatments.

Register with Health Authorities: If you are planning to stay in Dubai for a long time, then you will have to register with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the health authority of the emirate you will live in.

Medications: If you take prescription medication, then make sure that it is available legally in Dubai. Some over-the-counter medicines in the UK are banned or restricted in the UAE, so check the laws before bringing them along with you.

6. Tidy up Your Education, if applicable.

If you have children then finding the correct school would be a first priority in Dubai. A number of international schools provide curricula from the UK, the US, and IB plus other systems, competition for place in the higher schools will be fierce therefore consider starting as early as you can into the application procedure.

Research Schools: Research schools that will provide the curriculum you want for your child. Review their rankings and locations.

School Fees: Prepare for the cost of education in Dubai, which varies greatly between schools. This should be factored into your budget.

Registration in School: Once a school is chosen, ensure your child is registered early due to the existence of waiting lists in most schools.

7. Shipping and Moving Your Belongings

One has to make arrangements on how one's possessions are going to be shipped when moving from the UK to Dubai. Several options exist and are as follows:

Air Freight vs Sea Freight: While sea shipment is cheaper, it takes long, while air shipment is fast but expensive. Pick either of these two depending on your timeline and budget.

Moving Companies: Engage a reputable moving company that specializes in international moves. They can help with packing, customs clearance, and ensure your goods reach the destination safely.

Customs Regulations: Ensure you comply with UAE customs regulations on importing goods. Some items, such as alcohol and pork products, are prohibited in the UAE.

8. Sorting Out Transportation

Dubai's public transport system is good but most expats prefer driving. Here's what you need to know:

Driving License: If you are a UK license holder you can usually exchange it for the UAE license without needing a driving test. The RTA Dubai has more specific requirements so check with them.

Public Transport: The Dubai metro system is wide reaching and cheap, buses, and taxis are also all over the city.

Car Rental or Purchase: If you like driving, you may either rent or buy a car. Do your homework in knowing how to go about car ownership, including its insurance and registration.

9. Getting Connected: Utilities and Internet

You'll need utilities such as electricity, water, and internet.

Utility Providers: DEWA is the electricity and water authority. You can get an online account or visit their office to get connected.

Internet and Phone: Etisalat and du are the internet, landline, and mobile providers. Be sure to choose a plan that suits your needs and budget.

10. Finalize Your Legalities and Paperwork

Ensure that all the necessary paperwork is done before you officially make a move. This may include:

Passport and Visa: Ensure that your passport is valid, and visa and residency paperwork is done.

Marriage and Birth Certificates: Keep on file important documents like marriage and birth certificates, especially if you are bringing your family with you.

Legal Will: A legal will for your property and assets should be considered in case you have property here in the UK or even in Dubai.

Brighton to Burj: Your Trusted Real Estate Consultant

If you are looking forward to investing in a property in Dubai, Brighton to Burj is your real estate consultancy service provider. Our consulting team can guide you toward the perfect home in Dubai if you're searching for an apartment, villa, or commercial property. We give you comprehensive services ranging from search for property to legal aid to make your transition into Dubai smooth and hassle-free.

Contact Brighton to Burj today and get started in your search in Dubai to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Contact Brighton to Burj

Moving from the UK to Dubai is opportunity-laden, but it requires careful planning and preparation. From obtaining a visa and securing accommodation to organizing finances and healthcare, each point is key to the success of relocation. This checklist provides the groundwork needed for a smooth transition to Dubai-with such organization and specialists like Brighton to Burj at your side, it will be as easy as pie to enjoy all the wonderful things this dynamic city has to offer.