Step-by-Step Guide to Emirates ID, Residence Visa, and Settling in Dubai or Abu Dhabi
Navigate your UAE relocation with confidence. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to accomplish in your first month, from airport arrival to complete settlement. Essential checklist for moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the United Arab Emirates.
Moving to the UAE is an exciting journey. This guide will help you prioritize tasks, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure a smooth transition into your new life in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.
Days 1-7
Immediate essentials: SIM card, accommodation check-in, basic orientation, and initial medical checks.
Days 8-14
Official registrations: Emirates ID application, medical tests, and residence visa stamping.
Days 15-21
Financial setup: Bank account opening, salary transfers, and credit applications.
Days 22-30
Settling in: Utilities setup, school enrollment, driving license, and community integration.
Your first week is all about getting the essentials in place. Focus on immediate needs like SIM cards, accommodation, and employer registration to ensure comfort and connectivity in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Purchase a SIM card immediately at the airport or from major providers (Etisalat, du). You'll need your passport and may need proof of address later for registration.
💡 Quick Tip:
Tourist SIM cards are available at the airport for immediate connectivity. Convert to a regular plan once you have your residence visa.
Check into your hotel or temporary housing. If your employer provides accommodation, coordinate check-in timing and confirm all amenities are working.
📋 Checklist:
Contact your HR department to confirm your arrival, schedule orientation, and receive your onboarding package with essential documents for residency processing.
📄 Documents to Collect:
Download taxi apps (Uber, Careem), learn Metro routes if applicable, or arrange company transportation. Consider getting a Nol card for public transport in Dubai.
🚗 Transportation Options:
Take time to orient yourself. Locate essential services like supermarkets, pharmacies, ATMs, hospitals, and places of worship within walking distance or a short drive.
🗺️ Places to Find:
This week focuses on completing mandatory government registrations and medical requirements for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID application.
Visit an approved medical center for mandatory health screening including blood tests, chest X-ray, and general health check. This is required for residence visa processing.
🏥 What to Bring:
⏱️ Processing Time: Results typically ready in 48-72 hours
Your employer will typically handle this application. You'll need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and eye scan) at an authorized typing center or GDRFA office.
📋 Application Process:
⏱️ Processing Time: Typically 5-10 working days for delivery
Once medical results are clear and Emirates ID is applied for, your employer will process the residence visa stamping in your passport. This makes your UAE residency official.
✅ What Happens:
⏱️ Processing Time: 3-7 working days after approval
Your employment contract must be registered with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Your employer handles this, but ensure you receive a copy.
📄 Important Details:
Begin looking for permanent accommodation if not provided by your employer. Research different neighborhoods, visit properties, and understand rental contracts (Ejari).
🏠 Rental Tips:
Focus on financial arrangements, permanent housing, and integrating into UAE life with essential services like bank accounts, driving license conversion, school enrollment, and utilities setup in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Once you have your Emirates ID and residence visa, open a local bank account. Most employers require this for salary transfer. Compare banks for best benefits and services.
🏦 Required Documents:
💳 Popular Banks:
Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, ENBD, FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank), Dubai Islamic Bank
If you're from an eligible country, you can convert your home license directly. Otherwise, you'll need to complete driving lessons and tests at an RTA-approved center.
🚗 Direct Conversion Countries:
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU countries, Japan, South Korea, and others. Check RTA website for full list.
📋 Conversion Requirements:
Sign your tenancy contract and move into permanent accommodation. Ensure Ejari registration is completed (mandatory legal requirement for all rentals in Dubai).
📝 Move-in Checklist:
💡 Tip: Keep Ejari certificate - you'll need it for school enrollment, car registration, and visa applications
Register utilities in your name (if not included in rent). Set up internet, transfer SIM to permanent plan, and subscribe to any needed services like TV or streaming.
🔌 Essential Services:
Research and apply to schools early - many popular schools have waiting lists. UAE offers diverse curricula (British, American, IB, Indian, etc.) at various price points.
📚 Enrollment Requirements:
💡 Tip: School fees are typically paid in 3 terms. Budget accordingly and inquire about sibling discounts
Confirm your employer-provided health insurance coverage, add family members if needed, and understand your policy benefits, network hospitals, and claim procedures.
🏥 Key Points to Verify:
Connect with expat communities, professional networks, and social groups. This helps with settling in, making friends, and getting local advice and recommendations.
🤝 Where to Connect:
You've completed the essential first 30 days. You're now officially settled in the UAE!
Save these essential emergency numbers, government contacts, and resources for quick reference during your first month in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and across the UAE.
Register with your country's embassy or consulate upon arrival.
Now that you know what to do in your first 30 days, explore these related guides to settle in successfully
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