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.

Sharjah Relocation Guide UAE's Cultural Capital & Family Hub

Comprehensive Sharjah relocation guidance for families seeking cost-effective living in the UAE. Discover why Sharjah emirate offers the best value for housing, quality international schools, and family-friendly communities while maintaining easy access to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Get expert support with Sharjah work visas, affordable housing, and SPEA school applications.

30-40%

Lower Housing Costs

150+

International Schools

Largest UAE Emirate

Zero

Alcohol Permitted

Why Choose Sharjah for UAE Relocation?

Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates, offers exceptional value for expat families seeking affordable UAE living without compromising on quality. Known as the UAE's cultural capital, Sharjah provides 30-40% lower housing costs compared to Dubai, excellent SPEA-approved international schools, and family-oriented communities with a conservative, family-first atmosphere.

Strategic location benefits: Many expats live in Sharjah while working in Dubai, enjoying significant cost savings. Commute times from Sharjah to Dubai range from 20-40 minutes depending on your neighborhood and work location. Popular Sharjah communities like Al Majaz, Al Khan, Muwaileh, and Al Nahda offer modern housing, waterfront living, parks, and easy highway access to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Real Sharjah living guidance: I'll help you understand Sharjah's unique regulations (including alcohol restrictions), the best neighborhoods for families, SPEA (Sharjah Private Education Authority) school system, and how to maximize savings while accessing Dubai employment opportunities. When you need specialized help with UAE visa processes, banking, or healthcare, I'll connect you to trusted specialists.

Complete Sharjah Relocation Checklist

Sharjah residence visa (or Dubai/Abu Dhabi visa if working there)

SPEA-approved international school admissions

Affordable housing: Al Majaz, Al Khan, Muwaileh, or Al Nahda

UAE bank account setup (any UAE bank works in Sharjah)

Sharjah driving license and vehicle registration

Health insurance and medical setup (Sharjah or Dubai facilities)

Understanding Sharjah regulations and expat community

Sharjah vs Dubai Cost Comparison

Housing Costs

2BR Apartment - Sharjah

45,000-70,000 AED/year

2BR Apartment - Dubai

80,000-120,000 AED/year

Save 30-40% on housing

School Fees

Sharjah Schools

15,000-40,000 AED/year

Dubai Schools

25,000-80,000 AED/year

More affordable education options

Annual Savings

Average Family (2 kids)

50,000+ AED

By living in Sharjah while working in Dubai, families typically save 50,000-80,000 AED annually on housing and schools alone

View complete UAE cost of living comparison →

Best Sharjah Neighborhoods for Expat Families

Al Majaz & Al Khan

Premium waterfront living with Khalid Lagoon views, modern high-rises, parks, shopping at Al Majaz Waterfront, international schools, and easy access to Dubai. Popular with young families and professionals.

Avg Rent: 50,000-80,000 AED/year (2BR)

Commute to Dubai: 25-35 minutes

Muwaileh & Al Zahia

Family-friendly villa communities with gardens, excellent schools (GEMS schools, Wesgreen), parks, retail centers, and quieter residential atmosphere. Ideal for families with children seeking space and community.

Avg Rent: 45,000-70,000 AED/year (2BR apt/villa)

Commute to Dubai: 30-40 minutes

Al Nahda (Sharjah Side)

Budget-friendly option on Dubai border with closest commute to Dubai, affordable housing, schools, shopping at Sahara Centre, and diverse expat community. Perfect for cost-conscious families.

Avg Rent: 40,000-60,000 AED/year (2BR)

Commute to Dubai: 20-30 minutes (shortest!)

Other popular areas: Al Taawun, University City, Sharqan, Al Qasimia, Mughaidar

International Schools in Sharjah (SPEA-Approved)

British Curriculum Schools

GEMS Our Own English High School - Established British curriculum school
Westminster School Sharjah - Premium British education
Wesgreen International School - Cambridge curriculum with strong academics

American & IB Curriculum Schools

American International School Sharjah - US curriculum
Sharjah American International School - WASC-accredited
Victoria International School - IB World School

Get help with Sharjah school admissions →

Compare UAE Emirates for Relocation

Dubai Relocation

More expensive but maximum career opportunities and lifestyle options

Abu Dhabi Relocation

Government sector, ADNOC, and capital city stability

Northern Emirates

Even lower costs in RAK, Fujairah, Ajman, and UAQ

Essential Sharjah & UAE Relocation Guides

Before You Arrive

Pre-departure UAE checklist

First 30 Days

Your UAE arrival action plan

UAE Salary Guide

Salary expectations and benefits

Driving in UAE

Sharjah-Dubai commute tips

Considering Sharjah for Your UAE Relocation?

Let's discuss if Sharjah is the right fit for your family. I'll help you understand the cost savings, commute realities, school options, and what daily life is really like in Sharjah's family-friendly communities. Get honest advice about living in Sharjah while working in Dubai.

Book Free Sharjah Relocation Consultation

UAE relocation experience | Cost-saving strategies | Trusted Sharjah partner network