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Moving to the UAE

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 18, 2023

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to UAE for its tax-free income, modern infrastructure, and high quality of life. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in UAE are Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. People can find a place to live in UAE by searching online for rental properties, using a real estate agent, or asking friends and family for recommendations.

What do I need to know before moving to the UAE?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to the UAE, they said:

"Make sure you negotiate with your employer to cover your accommodation or include high accommodation allowance. Living in a compound in a villa is the best choice - one can find many European expatriates to be among with," said one expat in Abu Dhabi.

"You will need to make a trade-off between living "on-island" at a higher cost for a smaller place, or "off-island" for more space and a yard. Since social isolation is a big hazard, I would put a very high priority on living "on-island" rather than out in the boondocks where you need to drive long distances for amenities," remarked one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi.

"Before moving to the UAE, expats should be aware of the local laws and customs. It is important to respect the local culture and dress modestly in public. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in the UAE, as it is generally higher than in other countries. Additionally, expats should research the job market and the availability of housing in the area they are moving to. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before arriving in the UAE," explained one expat living in UAE.

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How do I find a place to live in the UAE?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"The best way to find a place to live in the UAE is to research online. There are many websites that list available properties for rent or sale in the UAE. Additionally, you can contact a real estate agent who can help you find a suitable property. You can also look for classified ads in newspapers and magazines, or ask friends and family for recommendations. Once you have identified a few potential properties, it is important to visit them in person to get a better feel for the area and the property itself," said one expat in UAE.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in the UAE?

"Villa; no. Most live in apartments or townhouses; some live in villas (equivalent to a single family house)," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

"Expat homes and apartments in the UAE tend to be luxurious and modern, with high-end amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and spas. Many expats choose to live in villas or townhouses, which offer more space and privacy than apartments. Expat homes and apartments are often located in gated communities, providing a safe and secure environment. Many expats also enjoy the convenience of living close to shopping malls, restaurants, and other amenities," said one expat in UAE.

What is the average cost of housing in the UAE?

If you are thinking about moving to the UAE, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in the UAE varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in the UAE is quite high, with prices ranging from around AED 40,000 to AED 200,000 per year. Buying a property in the UAE can be even more expensive, with prices ranging from AED 500,000 to AED 10 million or more," said one expat in UAE.

"Much Much higher. A four-bedroom house or apartment in a convenient area can cost $100,000 a year. Most expats negotiate a relocation package where their employer pays for their housing," remarked one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi.

Should I buy or rent a home in the UAE?

If you have not spent a lot of time in the UAE, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in the UAE can be a great investment, as the real estate market is booming. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as the down payment, closing costs, and ongoing maintenance. Renting a home in the UAE can be a more cost-effective option, as it eliminates the need for a large down payment and allows for more flexibility in terms of location and length of stay. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in the UAE should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat who made the move to UAE.

What should I pack when moving to the UAE?

We asked people living in the UAE to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"I would definitely bring some shampoos from Europe as the quality of them over here is doubtful unless you buy them in salons. I would take many of my own language books to read - however one can easily find English good literature. I would take hair color as I am blond and the choices of blond hair colors in shops is poor. I would take plenty of patience over here especially while driving. Leave clothes, shoes, bags and cooking pots home," said one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in the UAE?

We asked people in the UAE if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Do not park our car outside the yellow lines I got a parking ticket at 7:30 in the morning 200 aed," replied a member in Dubai.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting the UAE. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local laws and customs, such as not drinking alcohol in public or consuming pork products. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about the UAE or its people," commented one expat who made the move to UAE.

Why do people move to the UAE?

When we asked people why foreigners move to the UAE, they responded:

"Work. There are a ton of job opportunities and most companies provide really favorable employment packages," commented one expat who moved to Dubai.

"The UAE offers expats a high quality of life, with excellent infrastructure, modern amenities, and a safe and secure environment. The country also boasts a vibrant culture, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. Additionally, the UAE has a strong economy and offers a range of job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their career. The country also offers tax-free salaries, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Finally, the UAE is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population and a welcoming atmosphere," said one expat.

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How are healthcare services the UAE?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the UAE, they replied:

"The medical care in the UAE and in Dubai was mostly really good. We had a range of private and government hospitals and clinics available to us. The staff were international, as were the hospitals. There were a range of well known American, Canadian and English hospitals," replied one expat when asked about moving to Dubai.

"Advanced recon on the ground is very important. Do not expect to find the perfect doctor straight away. The American hospitals are the most expensive but usually have the best standards of care. Find a doctor whom you like and stick with that person. If your company does not provide medical insurance, there are plenty of options to receive based on budget," stated one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi.

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What are medical services in the UAE like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the UAE, they replied:

"I am a mental health patient and I got a relapse episode here. The medication provided to me has massively improved my life," commented one expat living in Dubai.

"The UAE has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. The public healthcare system is free for UAE citizens, while expats and visitors can access private healthcare services at a cost. The UAE also has a number of specialist medical centers, offering treatments such as fertility, oncology, and cardiology. The country is also home to a number of international hospitals, providing world-class medical care," commented one expat who moved to UAE.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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