Dubai—an oasis paradise on Earth—is full of opportunities and exciting experiences. This global hub is renowned for its modern architecture, luxury lifestyle, and dynamic job market, and at the center of its heart is its tax-free environment.
Impressed by Dubai's overworldly experience? Then, put your belongings in a case to travel through the article that encompasses a complete guide on moving to Dubai from the UK.
If you are a resident of the UK, you might find your relocation to Dubai daunting, but once you have gathered knowledge about every intricate detail regarding Dubai, Dubai will certainly live up to your expectations.
From reasons why Dubai is a preferred choice for relocation from the UK to the requirements of moving to Dubai from the UK, this article has been compiled so you can feasibly navigate the process.
This expat guide is sufficient to acknowledge how to move to Dubai from UK, including key requirements, living conditions, and employment opportunities.
Why Move to Dubai from the UK?
1. Work Opportunities
The robust job market of Dubai, especially in sectors like hospitality, construction, technology, and finance, has upscaled the position of Dubai worldwide. Undertaking only the tourism sector, it has accounted for 11.5% of the city’s total GDP. Moreover, the tax-free environment significantly contributes to drawing UK residents to Dubai.
As reported, more than 5,000 British enterprises operate in the UAE, and 1.5 million British visitors visit the country annually. In addition, Dubai is home to around 120,000 British nationals, and the figure is expected to surge in the coming years as people find the city more attractive and standardized than most utterly expensive cities.
2. Strategic Location
Another incentive to move to Dubai from the UK is the city's prime location, which serves as the intersection between Asia and Europe. This stimulates international travelers and businesses to relocate and earn.
3. Quality of Life
Comparing Britain's cold storms to the UAE's sandstorms is akin to comparing Antarctica and Africa. British nationals may find the living challenging. However, the standardized quality of life Dubai has generated for the nationals, expats, and tourists is beyond any comparison.
Dubai is an excellent location with top-notch healthcare centers and modern infrastructure. In addition, the consistent development of British educational institutions has opened a new ray of hope for drawing more UK nationals towards the city.
Furthermore, expats can find a world of cuisines and entertainment venues at the tips, and the moderate breezes originating from the city’s pristine shoreline triple the joy of relocation.
Visa Requirements for Moving to Dubai from UK
1. Visa and Immigration Requirements
Undoubtedly, visa and immigration requirements are the first things people would like to know while considering relocation from the UK as a world of advantages has stipulated unique visa types to meet the demand for expat relocation.
Several visa types, including a work visa and a golden visa, are at the top, and it completely depends on the purpose of the expat and which visa he/she desires to acquire.
With due diligence, the UK national can obtain a visa from the UAE embassy in London that aligns with the demands and requirements of the expats. Besides several types of visas available for UK nationals, we have gathered 2 of the most trending UAE visas for expats;
Work Visa
Work Visas are typically sponsored by the employer in Dubai, and their issuance is verified by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
This visa allows individuals to live and work in the UAE, but the essential requirement is to secure a job offer from a UAE-based company. Moving forward, you will need an employer contract from the company you will work with, and then the employer will apply for the work visa on your behalf.
DLD Golden Visa
The Dubai Land Department designed the Golden Visa program to allure potential investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals.
This long-term visa is valid for up to 10 years and guarantees security and stability for expatriates. The golden visa comes with a plethora of benefits, some of which include feasible access to the UAE’s investment and business market and an easy sponsorship plan for family members.
Emigrating to Dubai from the UK: What to Expect
1. Cultural Adaptation
Not only is Dubai's culture distinctive from that of the UK, but there is also a complete diversity in laws, regulations, language, and religion.
- Religion: Dubai follows Islam as an official religion. UK nationals are expected to maintain those laws and respect local culture and traditions.
- Language: Arabic is an official language in the UAE, and you may also need to learn it to properly familiarize yourself with Dubai’s dynamism.
- Difference between Illegalities: Dubai often imposes serious penalties on certain issues, such as the prohibition of drug dealing, public dancing, display of affection, etc., which may not include any serious charges in the UK.
- Diverse Environment: Besides the Arabic people, you may also meet several individuals with conversed languages such as African, Indian, Spanish, French, and German.
2. Cost of Living When Moving to Dubai from UK
Before moving to Dubai from the UK, it is essential to budget for utilities, accommodation, groceries, and recreational activities.
- Cost of Living Comparison of Dubai and London: Assuming life as tenants in both cities, the expected expense of life in Dubai can cost around AED 23,000, while the same standard would be accessible in London at AED 31,716.
Note: The actual cost of living in Dubai can vary further depending on the lifestyle you desire to build in UAE.
Moving to Dubai from Uk for Work
1. Job Market Overview
Dubai’s loyalty to foreigners is certain, and UK nationals can find plenty of world-class opportunities based on their qualifications and living standards. With a competitive job market and numerous opportunities, skilled professionals can look for jobs in various leading sectors of Dubai;
- Construction: With highly sophisticated and developed construction projects, Dubai is open to various services in the construction sector, particularly for engineers and project managers. British nationals can partake in committed architectural projects with brilliance to bring further innovations.
- Finance: Dubai International Financial Hub (DIFC) is the leading financial district in Dubai, helping to broaden business prospects with a myriad of contented opportunities for investors and employees. By the end of 2023, DIFC accounted for 5,523 registered companies, boosting the Gulf’s rank on the global financial level.
- Technology: Dubai is evolving as a tech innovation sector. The Cooper Fitch 2024 UAE Salary Guide has demonstrated that data science, software development, and artificial intelligence are among the top 10 demands for professionals in the UAE. This ultimately becomes an attractive point for UK nationals.
- Hospitality: Dubai, the iconic tourism hub, is currently in need of hospitality services, and there are 1364 hospitality jobs available.
2. Sources of Finding a Job
Several platforms are accessible to those seeking a job in Dubai. Some of the compiled job platforms include;
- Online Job Portals: Finding employment in Dubai has become very flexible, with numerous authentic platforms listing jobs with detailed requirements and descriptions. Some of the portals include Work Emirates, GulfTalent, Bayt, and LinkedIn.
- Networking: Residents of Britain or other countries can also connect to their field professionals to gather information on current jobs in Dubai. Moreover, industry events are also beneficial for finding perfectly aligned employment.
- Recruitment Agencies in Dubai: Numerous agencies exist in Dubai to help you find a suitable job based on your expertise. Some popular agencies include Silicon Valley Associates Recruitment Agency, Michael Page Middle East- Recruitment Agency, and Innovations Group.
3. Employment Contracts, Corporate Culture, and Salaries in Dubai
- Corporate Culture: People have found the working environment of Dubai quite satisfactory and highly professional. It is pleasing to know that co-workers in Dubai are also competent and working towards a more family-friendly environment in corporations.
- Ensured Job Security: After securing a job in Dubai, an employment contract will be issued from the employer, containing details regarding the salary, working hours, benefits, and leave privileges.
- Working Hours & Public Holidays: The working day may last an average of 8-9 hours, with Friday and Saturday being weekend days. Moreover, public holidays account for 14 days annually, adding a supplementary advantage for leisure activities.
- Average Salary: According to the report released by 6figr.com, the average pay exceeds that of many Western countries and will account for AED 15000 in 2024. However, the expected salaries depend on a number of other factors, including qualification, sector, nationality, and experience.
- Additional Benefits: In addition to the tax-free income, Dubai offers additional benefits like health insurance, housing allowances, and yearly airfares.
How to Move to Dubai from UK
1. Documentation
Before moving to Dubai from the UK, ensure that you acquire all the necessary documents, including:
- Valid Passport: A requisite with a validity of at least six months from the entry date.
- Educational Certificates: Attestation of the diplomas and degrees is crucial.
- Employment Visa: If you have already secured a job in Dubai, you will need to verify it through the employment contract, which will lead to an Employment Visa.
- Medical Records: The UAE government has specified medical records as one of the most essential requirements for visa processing.
2. Health Insurance
Health insurance is obligatory for living in Dubai and is often part of the employment package. In addition, it is necessary to review your health insurance to check its comprehensive medical coverage, including inpatient and outpatient services.
Healthcare services in Dubai can cost a premium part of your expenses, while the average health insurance plan in the UAE varies between AED 600 and AED 15,000 for an individual per month.
3. Housing Options When Moving to Dubai from UK
Dubai’s rising demand for residency may appear challenging, but you can still find your perfect accommodation in several areas with various property options. There are plentiful property opportunities for both small and large families, with numerous ranges in sizes, bedrooms, and other demands. Some of the popular residential communities for expatriates include;
- Jumeirah: This area is recommended for families considering relocation to Dubai from the UK. It offers a mix of townhouses and villas.
- Downtown Dubai:Downtown Dubai, Dubai’s most demanding and luxurious place and home to the tallest Burj Khalifa, has remained a pivotal area for high-net-worth individuals seeking relocation.
- Dubai Marina: Relocating to Dubai Marina community has lots of benefits, as it is well-regarded for luxurious life. Moreover, the waterfront living and luxury apartments are perfect for small or large families.
- The Green and The Views: This area is popular for expats who cherish nature’s surroundings and green spaces.
4. Education
Schooling is another consideration when moving to Dubai from UK with family. However, the number of international schooling opportunities and multiple curriculum offerings have eased the selection process. Some top considerations for British-curriculum-based schools in Dubai include;
- King’s School in Dubai has estimated fees of AED 46,096/yr for EYFS 1.
- GEMS Wellington International School has an average fee of AED 45,250/yr for EYFS 1.
- Dubai British School - another British curriculum school with an average fee of AED 59,700/yr.
5. Relocating your Belongings
There are numerous companies in Dubai that specialize in safely relocating belongings. It is advisable to opt for a reputable company like Pick&Move that can proficiently manage your household goods or any type of logistics.
Closing In
Dubai is desirable for all because of the diverse personal and professional opportunities available here. In short, we can conclude that moving to Dubai from the UK is a rewarding experience, specifically if you want a dynamic, vibrant, and quality lifestyle. However, understanding visa requirements, living conditions, and the job market is essential before relocating to Dubai.
Navigating these factors will ensure a smooth transition to the new life waiting to begin in the gleaming nature of Dubai. In addition to various opportunities, UAE Golden Visa is the cherry on the top for long-term residency and stability in Dubai.
Taking notes from this comprehensive guide will pacify your soul and mind a little as you thoroughly prepare for the relocation. You can begin your new chapter of life with Dubai as your home, but effective planning and budgeting play a crucial role in making an informed decision.
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