UAE Relocation FAQs: Moving to Dubai & Abu Dhabi 2025

The UAE offers several visa types: Employment visas (most common), Golden Visa for investors and skilled professionals, Family/Spouse visas, Retirement visas for those 55+, and Tourist visas for short stays. Each has specific requirements and benefits.

→ Read our complete UAE Visa Requirements Guide 2025 for detailed information on each visa type, eligibility criteria, application process, and costs.

Check the UAE Government Portal for official requirements, or visit MOHRE for employment-related visas.

Dubai is typically 15-20% more expensive than Abu Dhabi. Monthly costs for a family of four: Dubai AED 15,000-25,000, Abu Dhabi AED 12,000-20,000. Housing is the biggest expense (40-50% of income). Single professionals need AED 8,000-12,000 monthly in Dubai, AED 6,000-10,000 in Abu Dhabi. These include housing, utilities, food, transport, and entertainment.

→ Use our interactive Cost of Living Calculator to get personalized budget estimates based on your family size, location preferences, and lifestyle choices.

Top expat-friendly banks include Emirates NBD (largest network), First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) (premium services), ADCB (government salaries), and Mashreq Bank (international services). Most require salary certificates and Emirates ID. Minimum salary requirements vary from AED 3,000-10,000 depending on the bank and account type.

→ See our complete UAE Banking Guide with detailed comparison of banks, account opening procedures, requirements, and tips for expats.

Top school groups include GEMS Education (largest network, British/American curricula), Aldar Academies (Abu Dhabi-based, excellent facilities), British International School, and American School of Dubai. Fees range from AED 20,000-100,000 annually. Popular curricula include British (GCSE/A-Levels), American (High School Diploma), and International Baccalaureate (IB).

→ Explore our Dubai International Schools Guide with detailed fees, KHDA ratings, admission requirements, and curriculum comparisons to help you choose the best school for your children.

Job search duration varies by industry and experience level. Typically 2-6 months for most professionals. Use platforms like LinkedIn Jobs UAE, Bayt.com, GulfTalent, and Naukrigulf. Networking is crucial - attend industry events and join professional associations. Having a UAE phone number and address speeds up the process significantly.

Health insurance is mandatory in UAE. Most employers provide basic coverage, but you may need to upgrade for comprehensive care. Annual premiums range from AED 1,500-8,000 per person. Top hospitals include Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, American Hospital Dubai, and Mediclinic. Without insurance, consultations cost AED 200-500, and procedures can be expensive. Many expats opt for international insurance for worldwide coverage.

Essential documents include: Valid passport (6+ months validity), attested educational certificates, attested marriage certificate (if applicable), medical records, police clearance certificate, passport photos, and digital copies of everything. Documents must be attested by your home country's foreign ministry and UAE consulate. Keep originals safe and carry certified copies for daily use.

→ Download our complete Before You Arrive Checklist with detailed document requirements, attestation process timeline (2-6 weeks), and step-by-step preparation guide from 6 months before your move.

Yes, expats can buy freehold property in designated areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Popular areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and Al Reem Island Abu Dhabi. Property ownership grants long-term residence visa for you and family. Minimum investment varies by location, typically AED 1-2 million. You'll need Emirates ID, passport, and salary certificate. Consider RERA-registered agents for legal compliance.

→ Read our UAE Housing & Real Estate Guide for complete information on buying vs renting, mortgage options (80% LTV, 3-5% rates), popular expat areas with rental costs, and RERA regulations.

Process varies by nationality and existing license. Some countries allow direct transfer (US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), others require theory and practical tests. You'll need Emirates ID, passport, salary certificate, eye test, and current license translation. Cost ranges from AED 300 (transfer) to AED 3,000+ (full training). Visit RTA centers in Dubai or relevant authorities in other emirates. Budget 2-8 weeks depending on your situation.

→ See our complete UAE Transportation & Driving License Guide with country-specific conversion procedures, RTA test requirements, costs breakdown, and car buying/leasing options.

Also check: First 30 Days in UAE Guide for step-by-step arrival checklist including license conversion.

UAE is one of the world's safest countries with extremely low crime rates. The Global Peace Index consistently ranks UAE in the top 25 safest countries globally. Strict laws ensure public safety, and there's virtually no petty crime. Women can travel alone safely, and children can play outdoors freely. Emergency services are excellent, and the multicultural environment is very welcoming to international families.

Relocate2UAE is an information platform that connects you with trusted partners when you need hands-on support. We can introduce you to vetted education consultants, business setup specialists, visa service providers, and real estate professionals. All connections are free - you work directly with the specialists for any services you need.