What is Relocate2UAE?

Relocate2UAE is an independent UAE relocation information platform founded by expats in Abu Dhabi. We provide free guides, tools, and verified partner connections for families and professionals moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other Emirates. We do not provide regulated relocation services ourselves.

Is Relocate2UAE completely free?

Yes. All guides, calculators, and relocation resources are free to access. We earn referral commissions from vetted partners, but users never pay us directly.

Who should use Relocate2UAE?

Families relocating for work, remote workers seeking UAE residency, entrepreneurs setting up companies, and professionals moving from the UK, Ireland, Europe, or the US.

Do you cover both Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Yes. We cover all seven Emirates, with deep city-specific guidance for Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

How do you vet your partners?

Partners are vetted for licensing, reputation, and experience. This includes RERA, KHDA, ADEK, MOHRE, and GDRFA-regulated providers.

How current is your information?

Content is reviewed quarterly and updated for 2025. We monitor UAE government authorities and regulatory changes continuously.

Can expats buy property in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Yes, expats can buy freehold property in designated areas. Dubai freehold areas include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Ranches, and Dubai Hills Estate. Abu Dhabi freehold areas include Al Reem Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, and Al Raha Beach. Property ownership grants eligibility for long-term residence visa (renewable). No restrictions on nationality for most freehold areas.

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Dubai?

Dubai rental prices vary by area. Studios: AED 25,000-60,000/year. 1-bedroom: AED 45,000-90,000/year. 2-bedroom: AED 70,000-140,000/year. 3-bedroom: AED 100,000-200,000/year. Premium areas (Dubai Marina, Downtown, JBR) are 30-50% more expensive than mid-range areas (Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Sports City). Budget areas (International City, Discovery Gardens) offer 40-50% savings.

What is EJARI and do I need it?

EJARI is Dubai's mandatory rental contract registration system managed by Dubai Land Department (DLD). All Dubai rental agreements must be registered on EJARI within 48 hours of signing. Cost: AED 220 for registration. Required for: DEWA connection, Emirates ID application, school enrollment, and visa processing. Your landlord or agent typically handles EJARI registration. Keep EJARI certificate for all official procedures.

How do I pay rent in UAE - monthly or annually?

UAE rent is typically paid annually or in multiple cheques (2-4 payments). Most common: 1 cheque (full year, 5% discount), 2 cheques (every 6 months), 4 cheques (quarterly). Monthly payments are rare and usually cost 10-15% premium. Post-dated cheques are standard practice. Keep sufficient funds as bounced cheques are illegal in UAE. New tenants may need to pay first year upfront plus 5% security deposit.

What are the best family-friendly areas in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Dubai: Arabian Ranches (villas, community feel, international schools nearby), Dubai Hills Estate (modern, parks, family amenities), Jumeirah Village Circle (affordable, family-friendly), The Springs/Meadows (established, good schools). Abu Dhabi: Yas Island (entertainment, schools, beaches), Al Reem Island (modern towers, sea views, schools), Khalifa City (spacious villas, family-oriented), Al Reef (affordable villas, community). Consider proximity to schools, supermarkets, parks, and your workplace.

What is the Founder Launch Partner program?

The Founder Launch Partner program offers 40-50% discounted rates and extended payment terms for service providers joining Relocate2UAE before March 2026. This limited-time offer helps us build our initial partner network with premium UAE businesses across education, housing, business setup, financial services, lifestyle, hospitality, and healthcare categories.

Who can become a partner with Relocate2UAE?

We partner with licensed UAE businesses serving expats and relocators including international schools, real estate agencies, business setup consultants, financial advisors, lifestyle brands, hotels, and healthcare providers. All partners undergo verification by our Abu Dhabi-based team to ensure quality and licensing compliance.

How much do partnership tiers cost?

Standard rates: Bronze AED 1,500-3,000/month, Silver AED 4,000-7,000/month, Gold custom pricing. Founder Launch Partners (until March 2026) receive 40-50% discount: Bronze from AED 750/month, Silver from AED 2,000/month, Gold 50% off custom rates.

What audience will I reach as a partner?

Relocate2UAE attracts 2,000+ monthly visitors actively researching and planning their relocation to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These are high-intent users making real decisions about housing, schools, banking, business setup, and lifestyle services - not casual browsers.

How do I apply for partnership?

Submit the partnership application form with your company details, service category, and business information. Our Abu Dhabi team reviews applications within 2-3 business days and schedules a free consultation call to discuss partnership tiers, pricing, and onboarding.

UAE Housing Solutions

Find your perfect home in the UAE with comprehensive housing services for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Northern Emirates. From luxury apartments in Dubai Marina to family villas in Abu Dhabi and affordable housing in Sharjah, we help expat families navigate the UAE property market with confidence through trusted real estate partners.

Dubai Properties

Premium apartments and villas in Dubai Marina, JBR, Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and family-friendly communities like Arabian Ranches, The Springs, Jumeirah Village Circle. Access to top international schools and Dubai Metro connectivity.

60,000-200,000+ AED annually (1-3BR)
Metro, tram, and highway connectivity
International schools and nurseries nearby
Premium amenities and lifestyle options

View Dubai neighborhood guide → Get housing support →

Abu Dhabi Properties

Modern apartments and villas on Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island cultural district, Yas Island, and traditional neighborhoods like Khalifa City, Al Reef, and Al Raha Beach. Perfect for ADNOC professionals and government sector employees with proximity to ADEK schools.

50,000-150,000+ AED annually (1-3BR)
Cultural attractions (Louvre, future Guggenheim)
Government job proximity (ministries, ADNOC)
Waterfront and villa communities

View Abu Dhabi area guide → Get housing support →

Sharjah & Northern Emirates

Affordable family housing in Sharjah (Al Majaz, Muwaileh, Al Nahda), Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah with 30-50% lower costs than Dubai. Excellent value for families working in Dubai but prioritizing housing savings and SPEA-approved schools.

25,000-80,000 AED annually (1-3BR)
Family-friendly, conservative communities
20-90 minute commute to Dubai (depending on area)
Cultural heritage and affordable lifestyle

Compare UAE housing costs → Get housing support →

Our UAE Housing Process

1

Requirements Assessment

Understand your budget, preferences, commute needs, and family requirements.

2

Property Search

Curated property shortlist based on your criteria with virtual and in-person tours.

3

Lease Negotiation

Negotiate terms, security deposits, and contracts on your behalf.

4

Move-In Support

DEWA connection, internet setup, and move-in coordination.

Rent vs Buy in UAE: What's Best for Expats?

Renting (Most Common)

Lower upfront costs (1-6 cheques annually)

Flexibility to move between areas

Maintenance typically included

No equity building

Buying (Growing Trend)

Build equity and potential appreciation

Can sponsor family immediately

No annual rent increases

Higher upfront investment required

Read complete UAE housing guide with rental and buying advice →

Essential UAE Housing Resources

UAE Housing Guide

Complete rental and buying process

Dubai Areas

Neighborhood comparison tool

Abu Dhabi Areas

Abu Dhabi communities guide

Cost Comparison

Housing costs by emirate

Ready to Find Your UAE Home?

We'll connect you with trusted real estate specialists and property developers including Aldar Properties (Abu Dhabi), Emaar (Dubai), and local agents who have access to the best properties across all emirates. Get personalized support from vetted professionals who understand expat housing needs, school proximity, and commute considerations.

Book Free Housing Consultation Read Housing Guides

Free partner introduction • No obligation • Based on your specific requirements

Need Help Finding UAE Housing?

Get personalized guidance on housing search, neighborhood selection, rental vs. buying decisions, and property viewings. We'll help you find the perfect home in UAE.

Area Selection

Find the right neighborhood

Property Search

Villas, apartments, townhouses

Agent Referrals

Trusted real estate partners

Contract Review

Lease agreement guidance

Get Housing Help via WhatsApp

Quick response times • Expert housing guidance

Ready to Find Your UAE Home?

Download our free UAE Relocation Starter Pack with housing guides, area comparisons, rental checklists, and property search resources.

Get Free Starter Pack Chat on WhatsApp

100% Free

Instant Access

Expert Support

Housing Information

Explore our comprehensive housing guides and resources

UAE Housing Resources

Access detailed information about housing areas, rental costs, and property options across the UAE

Browse Housing Guides