Moving to the UAE

As one of the top destinations for expats worldwide, moving to the United Arab Emirates is an exciting and transformative step. The country masterfully combines cutting-edge development with rich traditional culture, creating a unique environment where ancient customs meet futuristic innovation. The seven emirates, most famously Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but also including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, each offer distinct experiences and opportunities for expatriates from around the world.

While interpretations of Islamic law vary across the emirates, living in the UAE provides unparalleled access to modern innovation in business, technology, and lifestyle. From world-class infrastructure and tax-free salaries to year-round sunshine and a thriving international community, the UAE has established itself as one of the most attractive relocation destinations globally. Whether you are moving for career advancement, lifestyle change, or new adventures, understanding what to expect will help ensure a smooth and successful transition.

Key Points: Moving to the UAE

• Visa requirements: You need employer sponsorship for a work visa – the most common route for UK expats. The process typically takes around 2-6 weeks and includes mandatory medical screening.
• Cost of living: High but offset by tax-free salaries. Expect AED 52,000-64,000 (£10,353-£12,740) per year for Dubai 1-bedroom rent, plus AED 1,000 (£199) per month utilities. The average expat salary ranges from AED 15,000-45,000 (£2,983-8,948) per month, depending on experience.
• Best areas: Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai for city life; Arabian Ranches and The Springs for families; consider Sharjah or Ajman for affordable options with easy commutes.
• Essential first steps: Open a bank account (requires Emirates ID), get a local SIM card (Etisalat or Du), register with a doctor, and enrol children in international schools early due to waiting lists.

Arriving in a new country can feel overwhelming, especially after a 7-hour flight from the UK. Here is exactly what to do on your first day to get settled smoothly and start your UAE journey on the right foot:

At the Airport:

• Immigration: Have your passport and visa approval notification. The process typically takes 20-30 minutes at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports, though longer during peak early morning European flight arrivals.
• Currency exchange: Exchange £200-300 to get AED 1000-1,500 at airport counters. Rates are reasonable, and you will need immediate cash for taxi and first purchases. Better rates are available at the city exchange houses later.
• SIM card: Purchase immediately at Etisalat or Du kiosks before leaving the terminal. Tourist plans cost AED 50-100 (£9.90-19.90) with data, calls, and texts. Essential for navigation and communication.
• Transportation: Pre-book hotel pickup for stress-free arrival, or use official airport taxis. 

First Day Essential Tasks:

• Check into temporary accommodation and rest – time difference from the UK is 3-4 hours, and jet lag may affect you.
• Register your local address with the employer as required for residence visa processing.
• Locate nearest supermarket: Carrefour (widest selection), Lulu (budget-friendly), or Spinneys (British products). Stock water, toiletries, and familiar snacks.
• Download essential apps: Google Maps, Careem/Uber for rides, Talabat/Deliveroo for food, the Dubai Metro app if in Dubai, and WhatsApp for communication.
• Adjust to the climate: Temperatures reach 35-45°C. Drink 3-4 litres of water daily, use indoor spaces during midday heat (11 am-4 pm), and avoid outdoor activities during peak sun initially.

Moving to the UAE from the UK requires expert guidance to navigate complex visa requirements, cultural differences, and logistical challenges. Gerson Relocation has decades of experience successfully relocating families and professionals to the UAE. Here is what sets us apart:

• UAE Visa Expertise: Our visa & immigration services offer support with obtaining your work visa, residence permit, and Emirates ID application, liaising with UAE authorities and your employer.
• Door-to-Door Service: Complete move management from UK home to UAE residence, including packing, shipping, customs clearance, storage if needed, and delivery with unpacking.
• Settling-In Support: Home search assistance, school enrollment guidance, banking setup support, and cultural orientation sessions.
• Pet Relocation: Full documentation, microchip verification, veterinary certificates, and flight arrangements for cats and dogs meeting UAE requirements.
• Transparent Pricing: BAR Overseas member offering quality service at fair prices with no hidden fees.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Transit insurance protects your belongings throughout your international journey.
• Dedicated 24/7 Support: Personal move coordinator available throughout your relocation.

Navigating the UAE visa system is essential for a legal and smooth relocation. The process involves several steps and different visa types depending on your situation. UK nationals cannot work in the UAE without proper employment authorisation.

The employment visa process typically follows these steps: 

1. Your UAE employer applies for an employment entry permit through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
2. Once approved, you enter the UAE and undergo mandatory medical screening, including chest X-ray and blood tests. 
3. You then apply for your Emirates ID (the national identification card) and undergo biometric enrollment. Once processed, your residency is granted digitally and linked directly to your passport number and Emirates ID. The entire process takes 2-6 weeks and requires employer sponsorship throughout.

For families, once you hold a residence visa, you can sponsor dependent visas for your spouse and children. The Golden Visa program also offers 5 or 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with specialised talents, providing long-term stability without continuous employer sponsorship. All visa holders must undergo periodic medical examinations and visa renewals, typically every 2-3 years for standard employment visas.

Customs procedures and requirements are always subject to change, so consult your shipping agent for up-to-date information.

If you obtain a Residence Permit, used household items and personal effects can be transported duty-free in and out of the UAE. New household items may incur a fee. More than UAD 100,000 (GBP 19,740) in cash must be declared upon arrival or departure.

Restricted Items

The UAE Customs Ministry must be contacted to request approval before you import any of the following items:

• Political or religious literature
• Firearms or weapons of any kind, including toys
• Any alcoholic beverages, including wines, beyond the standard duty-free allowance
• Narcotics and drugs
• Items made of ivory or from endangered animals
• Broadcast transmission and reception sets
• Counterfeit money
• Statues, figurines, or any artwork that might be considered erotic, according to Islamic guidelines
• Pornographic material
• Pork meat and products

You will need a health certificate to bring any plants or plant material when moving to the UAE, and medications and food items will need to be inspected by the Ministry of Health, so it’s important to pack these separately.

Also to be packed separately for entry to the UAE are printed materials, pictures, video materials, compact discs and computer software. These items are all subject to confiscation and censorship, so they must be easily accessed and examined.

Consult the Federal Customs Authority (FCA) for up-to-date details and read the Customs Guide.

Your employer may have placed a weight or volume restriction on the size of your household shipment, which could affect your decision to include your vehicle in your shipment. We advise checking this before transporting your car to the UAE. 

If you do decide to import your car, it will need to conform to specifications for use in the UAE. An invoice and certificate of origin will also be required. You will also need a visa to show a UAE residential address when importing cars. Specifications also stipulate that it’s not legal to import or operate a vehicle with windows tinted more than 30 per cent. As driving is on the right side of the road, cars with the steering wheel on the right side are not permitted to be registered in the UAE, even if they’ve been converted to the left. They should also be given protective undercoatings, as there are corrosive salts in the air and constant erosion due to blowing sand. 

Registration of second-hand vehicles requires a lot of documentation, including registration forms, passports, driver’s licenses, insurance, employer’s letters and more. Buying a new car in the Emirates is fairly easy and inexpensive.

It is not encouraged that you take your pet with you when you move to the UAE. Pets are not favoured by the culture or the climate. Documentation and other requirements for cats and dogs include:

• Health Certificate from home country veterinarian 
• Record of vaccinations, including rabies shot within 1 year but at least 30 days before travel 
• Copy of the owner’s passport
• A microchip must be implanted in the pet 
• Animals must be at least three months of age 

You should check with the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water (MOEW) or the UAE Embassy in your home country for more up-to-date and detailed information on permits and quarantine periods.

Accommodation represents the largest portion of living expenses in the UAE. The rental market dominates, with most expats choosing to rent rather than buy, particularly for the initial years. Understanding the market helps you find suitable housing within budget while avoiding common pitfalls.

In Dubai, expect to pay AED 52,000-64,000+ (£10,353-£12,740) annually for a 1-bedroom apartment in popular expat areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, or Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Family-sized 3-bedroom villas in communities like Arabian Ranches, The Springs, or Dubai Hills Estate range from AED 120,000-180,000+ (£23,860-£35,790) annually. Abu Dhabi offers 15-20% lower rental costs, while Sharjah and Ajman provide 30-40% savings for those willing to commute 20-30 minutes to Dubai (though this can be significantly longer during peak travel times).

Rental contracts typically require payment of 1-4 cheques annually in advance, with many landlords preferring single cheque payments for the full year. Expect additional costs that include a security deposit (usually one month’s rent), real estate agent commission (5% of annual rent), and connection fees for utilities and services. Most apartments come unfurnished, though furnished options exist at a 15-25% premium. When viewing properties, verify cooling system condition (critical for summer), parking availability, and proximity to schools if you have children. Traffic congestion makes location relative to work and schools more important than absolute distance.

The UAE offers a high standard of living with world-class amenities, but this comes with relatively high costs compared to the UK. However, the absence of income tax significantly increases take-home pay, with most expats finding they have substantially more disposable income despite higher expenses.

Beyond accommodation, expect monthly expenses of approximately AED 1,000-1,500 (£199-299) for utilities (electricity, water, cooling, internet), AED 4,500 (£895) for groceries for a family of four, and AED 250-700 (£49.80-139.20) for transportation costs. Dining out is popular and relatively affordable, with casual meals costing AED 40-80 (£7.95-15.91) per person and mid-range restaurant dinners AED 150-250 (£29.80-49.70) for two people. International school fees represent another major expense for families, ranging from AED 40,000 to over AED 100,000 (£7,954-19,885) annually, depending on curriculum and school reputation.

The average expat salary ranges from AED 15,000-45,000 (£2,983-8,948) per month, significantly higher than UK equivalents for similar roles. Combined with zero income tax, most professionals find that their purchasing power increases dramatically. Employer packages often include housing allowances, annual flight tickets home, education allowances for children, and health insurance, further improving the financial position. Save on VAT compared to the UK (5% vs 20%), though imported Western products carry premium prices. Local and regional products offer excellent value.

The financial sector in the UAE is extremely strong, with UAE banks holding one of the largest equity shares in the Middle East. Local and international banks provide full personal banking services with a good supply of ATMs in the city. Expats moving to the UA will require a valid employment visa and identification card to open a bank account, which then allows mobile payment platforms to be used. 

Money can be moved freely in and out of the country thanks to the lack of foreign exchange policies; however, cashing personal cheques can pose an issue. In more rural areas, cash is a more definite way to ensure payment is accepted.

The United Arab Emirates currency is the dirham (AED) and is fixed to the U.S. dollar. Every dirham is 100 fils, and denominations include 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 dirham notes. Notes have both English and Arabic written on them, while coins are in Arabic only. 

In terms of exchange rates, you may want to check your local bank and resources for the best deal. In the UAE, banks on the street will usually offer the best rates and often have desks at major hotels and airports.

Find out if we could help you and your business get the most out of your money with Gerson’s International Currency Services.

The UAE provides excellent healthcare through a primarily private insurance-based system. Medical facilities feature modern equipment, and many doctors are UK, US, or Western-trained, ensuring high-quality care with English as the standard communication language.

In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, employers are legally required to provide health insurance coverage as part of employment packages. Insurance typically covers GP consultations, specialist appointments, emergency care, hospitalisation, and prescription medications, though coverage levels vary by policy tier. You will typically choose hospitals and clinics from your insurance provider network, paying either upfront with insurance reimbursement or using your insurance card for direct billing. Co-pays apply for certain services.

Top hospitals include Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, American Hospital Dubai, and Mediclinic City Hospital, offering specialties comparable to leading UK facilities. Dental and optical care usually require separate insurance policies, not included in standard health coverage. Prescription medications are widely available at pharmacies, with many UK brands accessible, though some under different names. The system differs significantly from the NHS – there are no GP gatekeepers, and you can book specialist appointments directly through your insurance network.

For families relocating with children, understanding education options is critical. The UAE hosts numerous international schools offering various curricula, though securing places requires early planning due to high demand and waiting lists.

International schools dominate expat education, offering British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), French, German, and other national curricula. British curriculum schools are most popular with UK expats, following the National Curriculum and GCSE/A-Level system. Top schools include Dubai English Speaking School, JESS (Jumeirah English Speaking School), and Repton School Dubai. American curriculum schools follow US standards with SAT/AP examinations.

Annual fees range from AED 40,000 (£7,954) for primary years at mid-tier schools to over AED 100,000 (£19,885) for secondary years at premium institutions. Many employer packages include education allowances covering partial or full fees. Start the application process 6-12 months before the required start date, as popular schools maintain waiting lists. Schools require previous academic records, recommendation letters, and often assessment tests for entry. Consider school location carefully relative to your accommodation, as school runs through Dubai traffic can consume 45-60+ minutes each way.

The UAE is an Islamic country where understanding and respecting local customs is essential for smooth integration. While major cities like Dubai feel cosmopolitan and welcoming to diverse cultures, core Islamic values underpin daily life and legal frameworks.

Dress modestly in public with shoulders and knees covered; tight or revealing clothing should be avoided outside private venues. Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can be illegal – even holding hands can attract attention in conservative areas. Alcohol consumption is only legal in licensed venues (hotels, restaurants, licensed stores) and never in public. During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is illegal and disrespectful – most restaurants close during the day or screen their dining areas. More behavioural rules in the UAE are listed below:

• Never lose your temper, but stand your ground in negotiations. 
• Stay consistent and patient in your responses. 
• Do not show another person the soles of your feet – keep them firmly planted on the ground. 
• Do not cross your legs. 
• Avoid verbal commitments unless you are ready to stand by them in writing. 
• Avoid saying “no” directly. Evasive remarks are preferred and will be construed as a “no.” 
• Normal tourist–style photography is usually permitted, but avoid taking pictures of mosques, military installations, and Emirati women.

Friday is the Islamic holy day (Yawm al-Jumu’ah), with different working hours and business closures. The weekend is Friday-Saturday rather than Saturday-Sunday. Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and exchanging items, as the left hand is considered unclean in Islamic culture. Remove shoes when entering homes. In traditional settings, women and men may socialise separately. Despite strict laws, enforcement in expat-heavy areas like Dubai Marina is more relaxed while still respecting core Islamic values. Showing respect for local culture builds positive relationships and ensures legal compliance.

The UAE has a culture of being generous hosts. This means that it is impolite to refuse an invitation to a host’s home, even if you don’t ever finalise plans for the visit. Equally, if someone is being evasive and vague about meeting up, don’t push them, as this is the polite way to refuse an invitation. 

Native cuisine derives from Persia and consists often of carefully prepared poultry, lamb or beef paired with rice and fresh herbs. Seafood is common, and fresh vegetables, as well as dates and spices, are in abundance. Pork is widely forbidden in Islamic law. Buying food at supermarkets is common, but there are also open-air markets called souks – take cash here for haggling for everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to gold and carpets. Make sure to disinfect food bought here, despite laws regulating freshness. 

Bargaining is part of general practice in many places, except supermarkets, and with the right attitude, can add to the fun of shopping.

Driving – If you want to drive in the Emirates, you will need to obtain a local driving license. Requirements for these will differ in different areas. It may also be possible to exchange an existing foreign license. For short–term stays, a temporary driving license for use in hire cars is also available.

It is common for expats living in the UAE to procure a car when they relocate, so remember that you will require third-party liability insurance. Infrastructure and roads are generally of good quality, but you must remember to give way to pedestrians and animals. Carefulness is vital as speeding and aggressive driving are common. Signage, though normally in English as well as Arabic, can be scarce, so plan your journeys well before starting out.

Taxis – For people who do not want to drive, the taxi service in the Emirates can be a good alternative. They are highly visible in cities and very affordable. It’s a good idea to have instructions in Arabic in case the driver does not speak English. There are safety tips, such as not engaging the driver and avoiding taking Taxis alone at night. Limousines are also popular for business trips and expats. Uber is used extensively in the UAE.

Public Transport – There is an efficient network of buses throughout the Emirates; however, they are slow and rarely used by expats living in the UAE. There are websites for each bus service of the main Emirates, i.e. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The Dubai Metro is fully automated, and various types of one-off or regular tickets are available, with bus and taxi connections at each station. The abra is also available for trips between Deira and Dubai, with other water transports also available elsewhere. For more details on marine transport, visit the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website.

Creating a social network is vital for settling into life in the UAE and combating potential isolation. The large, diverse expat community makes connections easier, with numerous organisations, clubs, and groups specifically designed to help newcomers integrate.

Start with InterNations, the largest expat network operating in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, hosting regular networking events, activity groups, and social gatherings. The British Club Dubai offers a home-away-from-home for UK expats with sports facilities, social events, and family activities. Dubai Rugby Club welcomes non-players and provides excellent social opportunities beyond sports. For specific interests, join groups like Dubai Expat Women, Meetup.com activity groups (hiking, photography, dining), book clubs at local libraries, or fitness communities at gyms.

Professional networking thrives through organisations like the British Business Group Dubai, Chamber of Commerce events, and industry-specific associations. Many compounds and residential communities organise coffee mornings, barbecues, and social events, helping neighbours connect. Facebook groups like “Dubai Expats,” “British Expats UAE,” and area-specific groups provide advice, recommendations, and friendship opportunities. Make an effort to attend events in your first months – the expat community is welcoming, and friendships form quickly among people sharing the relocation experience.

The UAE climate presents a significant adjustment, particularly during summer months (May-September) when temperatures regularly exceed 40-45°C with high humidity. Understanding how to adapt your lifestyle ensures you stay comfortable and healthy year-round.

Adjust your daily routine to work with the climate, not against it. Schedule outdoor activities for early morning (5-8 am) when temperatures are coolest for running, walking, or children playing outside. Use midday and afternoon hours (11 am-5 pm) for indoor activities – malls, gyms, cafes, museums. The city is designed for this lifestyle with world-class air-conditioned facilities everywhere. Evening temperatures remain warm but bearable for outdoor dining and walks (after 7 pm).

Dress appropriately with light colours that reflect the sun rather than absorbing the heat, breathable natural fabrics like cotton and linen, and loose-fitting clothes allowing air circulation while maintaining modest coverage. Always carry water and drink continuously – 3-4 litres daily minimum to avoid dehydration. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential for any outdoor time. Many expats leave the UAE during peak summer (July-August) for holidays, taking advantage of the UK summer and escaping extreme heat. By September, temperatures moderate and outdoor life resumes with beach season, outdoor dining, and desert trips becoming enjoyable again.

While many expats initially plan short 2-3 year assignments in the UAE, the quality of life, career opportunities, and tax benefits often extend stays significantly. Understanding long-term options helps you plan strategically for your future.

The Golden Visa program offers 5 or 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, individuals with specialised talents, and outstanding students, providing stability independent of employer sponsorship. This opens opportunities for business ownership, property investment, and long-term wealth building. Career progression in the UAE often accelerates compared to the UK, with flatter hierarchies and performance-based advancement. Use your UAE experience to develop skills in international business, cross-cultural management, and emerging market expertise valuable globally.

Build savings aggressively by taking advantage of tax-free income and lower-cost financial products. Consider property investment once you understand the market, with attractive rental yields in established areas. Plan eventual repatriation carefully – reverse culture shock affects many long-term expats returning to the UK after years in a tax-free, service-rich environment. Maintain UK ties, including property, pensions, and professional networks. Consider how your UAE experience positions you for your next career move, whether returning to the UK in a senior role or relocating to another international destination. The UAE can be an excellent strategic step in a global career path.

Ready to Start Your UAE Journey?

Moving to the UAE from the UK is a significant decision. With decades of specialised UAE relocation experience, Gerson Relocation has helped thousands of British families make smooth, successful transitions. We handle everything from initial planning and shipping logistics to visa support and settling-in assistance.

Get started today with a free, no-obligation quote. Our UAE relocation specialists will assess your needs and provide a comprehensive proposal.

Contact Gerson Relocation:

• Request a free quote online through our website
• Call our UK office to speak with a relocation specialist
• Email us with your move details for a detailed consultation
• Schedule a video move survey to discuss your specific requirements

Let’s talk!