Living In Dubai: A Guide To Moving To Dubai As An Expat

Are you considering upping sticks and moving to the modern paradise of Dubai?

In this guide, we’ll look at everything from how to relocate to Dubai, to the cost of living and even how to get a job in Dubai. We’ll also break down the tax laws and visa requirements to help you move to Dubai for the first time. Let’s dive in.

In this article on moving to Dubai

1. Moving and living in Dubai: what to expect?
2. Accommodation and cost of living in Dubai
3. Jobs in Dubai and visa requirements
4. Health insurance requirements for a Dubai visa
5. Bank accounts and taxes for expats in Dubai
6. Healthcare in Dubai
7. Education and school system in Dubai
8. Your handy “moving to Dubai, UAE” checklist

An areal view of Dubai’s famous man-made Palm Island / GETTY IMAGES

Expat life in Dubai: Your guide to moving to Dubai

The beating heart of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has fast become one of the most attractive destinations for expats. Combining strong career opportunities with a high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, year-round sunshine and tax-free salaries, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to make the emirate their home.

If you’re moving to Dubai from the UK or the US, you’ll be joining a large and well-established international community. People from all over the world live and work in Dubai, helping to create a diverse, multicultural environment where newcomers can quickly feel at home.

There are cultural adjustments you’ll need to make living in Dubai

Here’s everything you need to know about culture in Dubai

Moving and living in Dubai: what to expect?

With strong career opportunities, world-class infrastructure and a high standard of living, it’s no wonder Dubai is a favourite among British and other expats. The city is home to excellent private healthcare, internationally recognised schools and a vibrant social scene, making it attractive to professionals, entrepreneurs and families alike.

Both geographically and culturally close to Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Dubai has become an integral node in the world’s global trade network. A relatively new city, Dubai’s culture is heavily influenced both by its immense expat community (around 85-90% of its 3.8 million population are expats) and by its Islamic monarchy, which is ruled over by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Ruler of Dubai) and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum (Crown Prince). While technically governed by Sharia law, Dubai is known to be somewhat lenient, especially to its non-Muslim expat community.

Dubai has a hot desert climate, with long, sunny summers and warm winters. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, while rainfall is typically scarce throughout the year. Although severe storms and flooding affected parts of the city in 2024, these events were considered exceptional, and infrastructure improvements have since been made to strengthen Dubai’s resilience to future extreme weather.

One of Dubai’s biggest attractions is the lifestyle it offers. Tax-free salaries, modern amenities, world-class shopping, beaches, restaurants and entertainment mean many expats enjoy a high standard of living. While costs have risen in recent years, Dubai can still compare favourably with other major international cities, particularly for higher earners.

If you’re moving to Dubai from the UK, you’ll be joining a large and well-established international community. People from all over the world live and work in the emirate, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. That said, many expats experience some degree of culture shock. Although Dubai is one of the more liberal cities in the region, it remains part of the UAE, where local laws and cultural customs may differ from those in Western countries.

Taking the time to understand local etiquette, including expectations around dress, public behaviour, alcohol consumption and online conduct, can help you settle in more easily and avoid unintentionally breaking local laws. Respecting these customs is an important part of living successfully in Dubai.

Language in Dubai

Arabic is the official language of Dubai. Most signs and local television channels and newspapers will use Standard Arabic, while outside you may hear lots of different variations of Arabic dialect, especially Egyptian Arabic. Therefore, if you hope to truly integrate yourself into Arabic culture, you may wish to learn at least conversation-level Arabic.

Having said that, almost everyone in Dubai speaks English as a second language. Hospitality and service workers will usually speak to you in English, and many businesses will use English as a first language around the workplace. Furthermore, because there are so many expatriates from all over the world, you will also find pockets of people conversing in languages from India, Africa and East Asia, plus French, German and Spanish.

It can be a challenge if you aren’t familiar with the local language

Which languages are the best to learn as an expat?

Is Dubai safe for expats?

Yes. Dubai is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, with low levels of violent crime and theft. The UAE consistently ranks among the world’s safest countries in international safety indices, and many expats report feeling comfortable living, travelling and going about their daily lives in the emirate.

What about regional conflicts?

Dubai is located in a region that can experience periods of geopolitical tension, the city itself has historically remained stable and is considered a safe destination for expats and international businesses.

However, regional security situations can change, so it’s sensible to monitor travel advice from your government’s foreign affairs department and stay informed about local developments.

While crime rates are low, expats should still take sensible precautions, particularly in busy tourist areas, and remain aware of scams and fraud, which can occur in any major city.

One of the biggest adjustments for many newcomers is adapting to local laws and cultural expectations. Although the UAE has introduced a number of legal and social reforms in recent years, some laws and customs remain more conservative than those found in countries such as the UK and US.

For example, it is illegal to be drunk or behave disorderly in public, and the UAE takes a zero-tolerance approach to illegal drugs. Online activity is also regulated, with laws restricting content that could be considered offensive, defamatory or critical of the state.

LGBTQ+ travellers and residents should also be aware that same-sex sexual activity remains illegal under UAE law, and same-sex marriages are not recognised.

As with any international move, it’s worth familiarising yourself with local laws before relocating to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unintentionally breaking the rules.

Safety is one of the most important factors for expats

What are the safest countries in the world?

Is it safe to live in Dubai as a woman?

Yes. Many women living in Dubai report feeling safe both during the day and at night, and the city is generally regarded as one of the safest destinations in the region for both female residents and solo travellers. As with anywhere, it’s still sensible to take normal precautions, particularly when travelling alone or late at night.

While Dubai is relatively cosmopolitan, it is still part of the UAE, where local laws and cultural customs may differ from those in Western countries. Dressing modestly is appreciated, particularly when visiting government buildings, mosques and more traditional areas.

In shopping malls, restaurants, hotels and most tourist districts, dress codes are generally much more relaxed. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and hotel or residential swimming pools but should not be worn elsewhere in public.

Want more expat content?
Subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter!

• X/Twitter
  This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Enter your email address

Accommodation and cost of living in Dubai

Cost of living in Dubai

While Dubai is far from the cheapest expat destination, it’s still more affordable than many Western cities including London (28.8% lower), Paris (20.1% lower) and New York (37.3% lower). Of course, the real benefits of living in Dubai are the zero income tax rates, which means expats could earn 20-45% more compared to the same salary earned in the UK.

See the table below to get an idea of the average cost of living in Dubai:

Amenity

Average cost in Dubai (US$)*

Milk (1 litre)

$1.77

Loaf of bread

$1.39

Rice (1kg)

$2.56

12 eggs

$3.52

Local cheese (1kg)

$13.31

Chicken fillets (1kg)

$8.62

1.5 litre bottle of water

$0.65

Bottle of wine

$16.34

Imported beer (0.33 litres)

$3.24

*As of June 2026, Numbeo

Eating out in Dubai is generally a similar price to Western countries, with certain items – such as alcohol – coming in more expensive. You will also discover a much larger price range when it comes to restaurants, ranging from ordinary diner-style eateries to super-luxe restaurants that carry enormous price tags.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay eating out in Dubai:

Amenity

Average cost in Dubai (US$)*

Meal, inexpensive restaurant

$12.80

Meal for 2, three courses

$81.69

Fast food meal deal

$9.53

Domestic beer (0.5 litre)

$13.61

Imported beer (0.33 litre bottle)

$12.93

Cappuccino

$6.05

Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)

$1.44

Water (0.33 litre bottle)

$0.85

*As of June 2026, Numbeo

People living in Dubai might be more prone to vitamin D deficiency

Discover the reasons why and how you can maintain adequate levels

Cost of accommodation in Dubai

As a rapidly growing city, Dubai is one of the world’s leading hotspots for real estate. As such, you will find no shortage of housing, and whether you’re renting or buying there is likely to be something to suit your needs, taste and budget.

Having said that, accommodation in Dubai can be expensive, particularly if you want to live in the city centre. If you’re moving to Dubai with a job, many Dubai-based companies will provide long-term accommodation for you as part of your international transfer.

See the table below to get an idea of the cost of accommodation in Dubai:

Type of accommodation

Average rent per month in Dubai (US$)*

1 bedroom apartment (city centre)

$2,421.57

1 bedroom apartment (outside of city centre)

$1,434.73

3 bedroom apartment (city centre)

$4,513.80

3 bedroom apartment (outside city centre)

$3,070.52

*As of June 2026, Numbeo

Can expats buy property in Dubai?

Yes, expats can own freehold properties in designated areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah, with full ownership rights and no residency requirements. The process is fairly straightforward, and mortgage financing is also available for those who qualify.

Investing in Dubai real estate can also offer residency benefits for expats. Buyers of properties worth AED 750,000/US$205,000 may be eligible for a 2-year residence visa, while those purchasing homes valued at AED 2 million/US$545,000 could qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa.

Top tips for choosing where to live in Dubai

Choosing where to live in Dubai is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when moving to the city. With a wide range of neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles, budgets, and needs, it’s essential to consider factors like commute times, rental costs, and nearby amenities.

Here are some key tips to help you find the perfect home in Dubai:

1. Choose your location based on proximity to your job, or schools if you have children, as traffic congestion is a common problem. It is also worth noting that the accommodation in Dubai city centre and popular areas can be very expensive, which may limit your options.
2. While expats can be found in all areas of the city, Dubai Marina is seen by many as the best place to live as an expat, and Jumeirah or Umm Suqeim are well-suited to families. You may want to do some initial research into the different areas of Dubai before you move.
3. Additionally, it is worth noting that accommodation is typically paid for up-front in one annual payment – which may come as a shock to those who are used to paying monthly. Thankfully, landlords are becoming more flexible with different payment options.
4. Make sure you are aware of all fees and maintenance charges upfront, and factor-in additional utilities costs, as well as registering your tenancy online to make use of your full tenant’s rights.
5. Many expats choose to drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water. If you’re unsure about the quality of the water in your accommodation, it’s safest to use bottled water or a reputable water filtration system for drinking.

Purchasing your own home is one of the greatest joys in life

Where are the best countries to buy property abroad?

Silhouetted camels in the Arabian desert with the Dubai skyline sitting in the background / GETTY IMAGES

Jobs in Dubai and visa requirements

The United Arab Emirates is one of the richest countries in the world and one of the most open to foreigners. Eight out of ten jobs in the country are held by expats and the state actively promotes the creation of new jobs.

While you won’t necessarily need to be working in order to live in Dubai, it’s highly recommended you secure a job offer before jumping on the plane. Read our full guide on how to get a job abroad.

Not only will a job help you to pay the surprisingly high rents in Dubai, your employer will also be liable to cover the cost of your visa and medical insurance. You will also need proof of employment in order to do many things locally, such as open a bank account.

Job opportunities in Dubai

Dubai’s job market is vibrant and diverse, with several industries experiencing significant growth and demand for skilled workers. While the oil and gas sector remains a key industry across the UAE, strategic incentives have also led to expansions in various other sectors, including:

• Financial services – Dubai has solidified its status as a global financial hub, with a 50% surge in hedge funds in 2024, bringing the total to 75 firms. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is now home to nearly 7,000 finance companies.
• Tourism – Tourism accounts for about 11.7% of Dubai’s GDP, a figure that grew 26% in the last year, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. Employing over 800,0000 people, Dubai’s tourism sector is always on the lookout for expat workers.
• Real estate – Dubai’s real estate sector experienced a 3.6% growth in the first nine months of 2024, contributing AED 27.288 billion to Dubai’s GDP and accounting for 8% of the emirate’s economic output.
• Education – The UAE’s education sector is undergoing significant expansion to meet the needs of a growing population. Projections indicate that by 2027, approximately 150,000 new students will enrol in UAE schools, requiring up to 50 new schools. Teachers are treated incredibly well in the UAE and can often receive generous living packages to support their move.
• Healthcare – The UAE’s healthcare sector is also expanding, with the government investing heavily in new healthcare infrastructure and services. The UAE Global Hospitals Programme is set to build up to 10 new hospitals in the coming years to fill healthcare gaps and meet the needs of a growing population.

How can you get a job abroad as an expat?

Read our step-by-step guide to getting a job abroad

Dubai visa requirements

As already mentioned, if you plan to work in Dubai, it’s highly recommended that you find a job before you move, as you could benefit from generous relocation packages.

However, you can also enter the country as a tourist and search for jobs while you’re out there. Once hired, your employer will process your work visa by submitting required documents, including your passport, photographs, medical exam results, and signed contract, to the UAE Immigration Service.

Moving to Dubai from the UK?

UK passport holders receive a 30-day visa on arrival, but make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.

A residence visa is valid for two years in the private sector and three years in the public sector, with the option for renewal. Holding a residence visa allows you to:

• Open a bank account
• Obtain a driving license
• Sponsor visa applications for immediate family members

Visa processing typically takes two to three weeks with employer sponsorship, but may take longer without it.

Once you receive your residence visa, you can sponsor visas for your family. Upon their arrival, they get an entry residence visa (usually free), and you have 30 days to obtain their residence stamp.

Dubai remote work visa

If you’re planning to work remotely, Dubai offers a remote work visa for those employed abroad or self-employed. This visa allows you to live in Dubai for up to a year, rent a home and enrol children in schools. However, you cannot work for a Dubai-based employer.

Working illegally in the UAE carries severe penalties

• Employers: Up to two months in prison and fines of up to US$82,000
• Employees: Two to three months in jail, deportation, and fines of US$27 per day of illegal stay

Visa costs in Dubai

The costs of obtaining a visa in Dubai can vary greatly depending on your employment status, the length of your stay and your age. If applying for a work visa, you may also have to pay for medical tests as part of the process.

Learn more about the different types of visas and apply through the official Government of Dubai portal.

Health insurance requirements for a Dubai visa

If you are planning to move to Dubai as an expat, you will need proof of private health insurance coverage in order to apply for a visa.

This is a non-negotiable stage in the process, so it’s good to be prepared.

Here’s what you need to know about taking out health insurance to secure a visa for Dubai:

Is health insurance mandatory to obtain a visa for Dubai?

Yes, if you are moving to Dubai as a permanent resident, for employment, or to retire, you will need to take out an approved health insurance policy prior to your application for a visa.

How much health insurance do I need?

Your health insurance policy must provide at least AED150,000/US$40,000 of emergency medical coverage.

Your policy must also include:

• Inpatient and outpatient cover
• Maternity services for women
• Mental health cover

Each policy must be valid for at least one year from the application date and must include an option for annual renewal.

Do I need health insurance from a specific provider?

Yes, you must choose your policy from one of Dubai’s approved list of health insurers. If you are looking for an approved health insurer, William Russell’s international health insurance policies are officially underwritten and issued by the Dubai Insurance Company, which is fully licensed by the Central Bank and regulatory authorities in the UAE.

Do different visas have different health insurance requirements?

Yes, there are different health insurance requirements, although most policies are generally the same – offering the full level of coverage as a rule of thumb. The biggest difference is who will be responsible for providing your coverage.

If you are moving to Dubai to work with an employment visa, your employer is responsible for providing your health insurance policy. If you are arriving on a domestic visa, or if you are the spouse or dependent of a Dubai resident, it will be up to your sponsor to provide your policy. And, if you are an investor, a retiree arriving on a Golden Visa, a domestic worker or arriving on a Green Visa, you will be responsible for providing your own health insurance. 

Remember

Employers are not legally responsible for providing health insurance to the spouses or dependents of workers, so if you are bringing your family to Dubai you will need to provide their health insurance too.

Are there penalties for failing to be insured?

Yes – if you are living in Dubai as a resident, it’s your duty to remain insured at all times. If you are found to be uninsured, the government can impose strict penalties under Law No.11 (2013) and Executive Council Resolution No.7 (2016). These include:

Violation

Penalty

Failure to provide proof of health insurance

AED500/US$130 per month per uninsured person

No emergency cost coverage

AED1,000/US$270

Repeat violation within 12 months

Fine doubled, up to AED500,000/US$135,000

What is an embassy and what does it do for expats?

We look at some of the services you can expect from your embassy

Dubai might be a playground for the international jet set but the biggest star is the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world / GETTY IMAGES

Bank accounts and taxes for expats in Dubai

How do I pay taxes in Dubai?

One of Dubai’s biggest attractions for expats is that there is no personal income tax. This means that salaries earned in Dubai are generally not subject to UAE income tax, and there is also no capital gains tax for individuals.

However, that doesn’t mean you’ll pay no tax at all. The UAE applies a 5% VAT to most goods and services, and residents may also pay municipality or housing fees, which are often linked to the annual rental value of a property and collected through utility bills.

If you run a business, it’s also worth noting that the UAE introduced a federal corporate tax in 2023. While this doesn’t affect most employees, it may apply to companies and some self-employed individuals, depending on their circumstances.

It’s also important to remember that moving to Dubai doesn’t automatically end your tax obligations elsewhere. Depending on your nationality and where you’re considered tax resident, you may still need to report your income or pay tax in your home country.

For example, US citizens generally remain subject to US tax filing requirements regardless of where they live, while other countries have their own residency rules.

If you’re planning to relocate, it’s worth seeking professional tax advice before you move and understanding how your home country’s tax rules apply to your situation.

How do I open a bank account in Dubai?

Opening a bank account in Dubai is not difficult and you should make it your number one priority when you arrive.

To open a bank account, you will need five things:

1. Your passport
2. Proof of employment
3. A no-objection letter from your employer stating your job role and salary
4. Proof of address
5. One form of local identification, such as an Emirates ID

All you need to do is visit a local branch or book an appointment online. Westerners will find a number of banks they are familiar with, including BNP Paribas, Natwest, Credit Agricole, Barclays, Citibank and HSBC. Existing customers of these banks may be able to transfer their account to Dubai without any hassle.

There are also a number of local banks that cater to the local population. These include a wide range of Islamic banks.

Poor diet and a lack of exercise are major concerns in Dubai

But could living in Dubai ruin your diet?

Healthcare in Dubai

Dubai’s healthcare system is well-developed, with both public and private medical facilities offering high-quality care. In 2025, the UAE’s Health Care Index stood at 70.70, with CEO World ranking the UAE healthcare system 17th best in the world.

Dubai’s healthcare system is divided into public and private sectors. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) manages government hospitals and clinics, where UAE nationals receive subsidised treatment. Expats can also access these services but must apply for a DHA health card to receive care at reduced rates. However, most expats prefer private healthcare due to the shorter waiting times and access to specialised treatments.

See the table below to get an idea of the average cost of healthcare in Dubai:

Treatment

Cost in Dubai (US$)*

GP consultation

$41 to $136

Specialist consultation (such as with a cardiologist or a dermatologist)

$82 to $190

Emergency medical care

$136 to $545

Diagnostics and test (including blood tests, X-rays, CT scans and MRIs)

$217 to $681

Minor surgeries and treatments (such as mole removal)

$409 to $1,090

Major surgeries (such as knee replacements or heart surgeries)

$8,170+

*Source: Northwest Clinic UAE

Do I need health insurance in Dubai?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all Dubai residents. In fact, you will not be able to renew your residency visa if you do not hold a valid health insurance policy.

If you’re taking up a job in Dubai, your employer must legally provide you with basic health insurance, however this cover is often limited and family health insurance plans may not be an option. Because of this, many expats in Dubai choose to invest in comprehensive international health insurance.

This gives them access to a wider range of services, including dental, maternity, and specialist care. Given the high healthcare costs in Dubai, securing a robust health insurance plan is strongly recommended.

It’s important to understand Dubai’s healthcare system

Here’s what you should know before you move

Education and school system in Dubai

Like other countries, Dubai has both a public and private education sector. The public education system is open to all residents, however, lessons will typically be taught in Arabic with English as a second language.

Furthermore, all public schools will be gender segregated, so if you have children of different genders, they will need to attend different schools.

For this reason, many expatriate families prefer to send their children to one of the 220+ international schools in Dubai.

International schools in Dubai

Dubai has a diverse range of private international schools catering to different curricula. Many schools follow the British education system, offering the National Curriculum of England, while others follow US, Indian, IB (International Baccalaureate), or UAE public school syllabus.

Many Dubai international schools also incorporate local curriculum requirements, giving students the opportunity to study Arabic, Islamic Studies, or UAE Social Studies.

School tuition fees vary depending on facilities, and teaching styles, so be sure to do your research and visit potential schools before enrolling your child.

Higher education in Dubai

Dubai is home to a number of rising universities, but as of 2025 none rank among the world’s top 200. Notable universities include Zayed University (#351 in the Times Higher Education World Rankings 2025), American University in Dubai (#601-610 in QS World Rankings 2025), and the University of Sharjah (#434 in QS World Rankings 2025).

Many of Dubai’s universities are international branch campuses which offer globally recognised degrees. These include Heriot-Watt University Dubai (branch of Heriot-Watt University, UK), University of Wollongong Dubai (branch of the University of Wollongong, Australia) and BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus (branch of Birla Institute of Technology and Science, India).

Thinking of moving to another country with your family?

Discover the best countries in the world to raise a family

Your handy “moving to Dubai, UAE” checklist

☐ Do you have an offer of employment?

☐ Has your employer sent you a copy of your employment contract, plus a no-objection letter? (you will need these to help you set up a bank account when you arrive)

☐ Will your employer be covering your health insurance, or will you need to arrange this separately?

☐ Have you taken out an international health insurance policy to cover other members of your family?

☐ Have you ensured you are eligible for a UAE residency visa? Could your employer help you to apply for one?

☐ Have you found a place to live?

☐ If your property is unfurnished, have you found a company that can supply your home with essential furniture ahead of your arrival?

☐ Have you received your tenancy agreement as proof of address? (You will need this to do many other things like set up a bank account)

☐ Have you asked your landlord or property manager to set up your home Wi-Fi ahead of your arrival?

☐ Have you calculated a budget that takes into account expenses such as rent, council and rental taxes plus other fees? (e.g. school fees)

☐ If you are relocating with children, have you arranged a place for them at an international school? Remember, waiting lists can be long…

☐ Do you have everything you need to set up a local bank account?

☐ Have you arranged to get a local SIM card for your mobile phone?

☐ Have you learned some basic Arabic phrases to help you get by in day-to-day life?

Be prepared if you’re thinking of moving abroad

Whenever you decide to move, make sure you have the confidence of international health insurance to keep you and your family healthy.

Since 2006, we’ve been designing and providing insurance plans for people living and working in Dubai and across the UAE, with our insurer Dubai Insurance Company.

Speak to us today to find out why we’re the partner of choice for people living and working in Dubai.

---

Terms & conditions apply to our insurance products and services. You can find full details of what our plans cover (and what they don’t cover) in our plan agreements.

Want to know more about international health insurance before your move to Dubai?

Learn More

This article is part of our series of guides to expat life. It’s just for general information, and we don’t provide professional advice on moving abroad (we’re an expat insurance provider). We update this article regularly to keep it useful as possible, but if you want to know more – please seek independent advice.