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Moving to the United Arab Emirates from the UK

7th August 2024

Moving to the United Arab Emirates from the UK is a big decision. Not only is it on the other side of the world, but the culture, laws, lifestyle and climate are very different to what we are used to in Britain. This blog explores several aspects of moving to the UAE, aiming to help answer any questions you may have.

Why move to the UAE from the UK?

You may be wondering why so many Brits move to the United Arab Emirates? Or is it worth moving from the UK to the UAE? There are several reasons to move to UAE from the UK, whether you relocate for work, education, retirement, or leisure. 

Career Advancement

Moving abroad to the UAE presents many career advancement benefits. With English as the predominant language in the business world, you can easily integrate into the professional environment. The UAE also boasts a booming economy, offering ample opportunities for international trading and exposure to diverse markets. This environment encourages professional growth, allowing expats to expand their skill set. The UAE’s higher earning potential reflects its robust job market, where you can take advantage of the expertise and experience.

Weather

With 11 hours of sunshine a day and an average summer temperature of 26-40 degrees, the United Arab Emirates generally has great weather all year round. Even winter months boast an incredibly mild 14-25 degrees, with little rain throughout the year. This great climate means that you can enjoy beaches and outdoor spaces all year round, without worrying about being caught in the rain or cold! 

Social Life

The United Arab Emirates offers a diverse range of activities for residents. Whether you want to explore vibrant social scenes, are a foodie, or are a sports enthusiast, there’s something to suit every interest. Private beach clubs are a great sport for relaxing against the coastline, while high-end shopping centres are for those with a taste for luxury and fashion. The arts scene boasts a variety of galleries showcasing local and international talent. Many of the venues across Dubai also host women-only events.

Education

The education system in the United Arab Emirates offers excellent options for families seeking quality international schooling. Many English-speaking schools in the UAE follow the UK education system. However, unlike those available in the UK, these schools are not free to attend. Despite this, you will have access to great educational opportunities when moving to the UAE

Tax-Free

One of the notable financial benefits of living and working in the UAE there is no income tax. This means that individuals, whether employed, self-employed, or freelancers, can enjoy their entire income without deductions. However, it’s important to note that while income remains tax-free, businesses may still be subject to taxation, although specific regulations and exemptions are in place.

Visas

Depending on your reasons for moving to the United Arab Emirates, you may want to apply for different types of residency. The best way to know what type of visa is best for you is to research or speak to the UAE Embassy in England. To start you off, let’s take a look at some of the options available. 

Work Visa

To live and work in the United Arab Emirates, you must obtain a residence visa. This visa is valid for two years if you are employed in the private sector and three years if you are employed in the public sector. Upon arrival in the UAE, you must get a probationary work permit, valid for up to three months. You can obtain this permit from the Ministry of Labour. It is important to note that Dubai and the rest of the UAE have slightly different rules and regulations for work and residence visas.

Other Visas

If you’re looking to move to the UAE for leisure for longer than the permitted 90 days or if you have specific purposes for your visit beyond leisure, such as visiting family or pursuing educational opportunities, you’ll need to apply for a different type of visa. Options include a tourist visa, which typically allows for a longer stay than the visa on arrival, or a visit visa, which is suitable for those visiting family or friends in the UAE. Depending on the purpose and duration of your stay, each type of visa may have its own requirements, such as proof of accommodation, financial means, or sponsorship. Talk to the UAE embassy in England and do your own research before applying for a visa to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information. This will help you avoid any potential issues or delays and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience during your time in Dubai.

 

Healthcare 

Moving from the UK to the UAE involves many adjustments, one of the most critical being healthcare. You need to know here to ensure you and your family stay covered and healthy.

Mandatory Health Insurance

Private healthcare insurance is not just recommended but mandatory for foreign residents or expats in the UAE. Failure to get insurance can result in fines of up to AED 500 per month (approximately £108). The healthcare system in the UAE is funded partly by taxes and partly by health insurance schemes. The cost and coverage of medical services vary across the different emirates.

Private Insurance Options

Expats should get private insurance from companies that operate nationwide. If you’re employed, your employer or sponsor is responsible for providing health insurance for you and, in many cases, your family. Choosing an international health insurance provider is advisable for those not employed or planning to travel extensively through the MENA region. Private health insurance costs differ significantly depending on the yearly coverage plan, from AED 5,500-10,000 (£1,100-2,171) for individuals to AED 10,000-18,000 (£2,100-£3,900) for families. Leading providers with expat-friendly policies include APRIL International and Orient Insurance.

Accessing Healthcare Services

Private insurance gives you access to public and private healthcare facilities. A health card is required for appointments at public hospitals. You can apply for this card online or at a ‘typing centre’ with a valid Emirates ID. You can also use your passport and a valid entry visa or residence permit if you don’t have an Emirates ID.

Health Card Application

To apply for a health card, you’ll need the following:

• Information on your local health centre
• Full name in English and Arabic
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Mobile number and email address

For British expats, the health card costs AED 115,000 (£24,000) and is valid for one year. To maintain access to public healthcare services, remember to reapply each year.

 

Locations

Whether you’re moving for work or leisure, to retire, by yourself or with your family, there are plenty of different areas across the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai

Dubai offers an array of accommodation options and exciting activities, including shopping, exploring iconic landmarks like the man-made islands and stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, enriching museums, and abundant business and career prospects with room for growth. For families seeking an ideal neighbourhood, Mirdif stands out with its excellent schools, recreational facilities, and tranquil atmosphere, ensuring safety and peace of mind. Conveniently located near major roads and accessible by various forms of public transportation, Mirdif provides easy connectivity to the city centre. Motorcity, on the other hand, caters to expats and families preferring apartment living, offering a dynamic urban lifestyle. For those craving a serene environment, Green Community emerges as a traffic-free oasis, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere amidst lush greenery.

Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, the housing options off the island have significantly expanded, offering newer developments and a plethora of amenities for residents. Al Reem Island stands out as an ideal choice for families, boasting modern high-rise buildings with contemporary apartments. The area is full of renowned nurseries catering to the needs of young families. On the other hand, Al Mushrif epitomises Abu Dhabi’s suburban charm, making it particularly attractive for young families and retirees alike. Nestled away from the bustling city centre, this neighbourhood offers essential amenities and ample outdoor spaces, creating a serene and comfortable living environment.

Fujairah

Fujairah, although less renowned compared to other UAE cities, is rapidly gaining traction among expatriates as a modern metropolis with unique appeal. Boasting the lowest cost of living rates in the country, Fujairah also offers a refreshing contrast with its cooler climates, making it a coveted destination. Dibba Al Fujairah, nestled within this vibrant city, stands out for its welcoming, family-friendly ambience. Here, residents enjoy the convenience of urban living and the tranquillity of a close-knit neighbourhood. With pristine beaches and renowned diving sites, Dibba Al Fujairah offers ample opportunities for leisure and adventure, catering to both residents and visitors alike.

Ras Al Khaimah

This region is the agricultural hub, boasting diverse crops like onions, cabbage, tomatoes, dates, and bananas, ideal for farming and agricultural work. Its booming economy provides numerous job opportunities for expats, while its rich culture and history offer stability and safety with low crime rates. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, sailing, and golfing in this scenic area.

 

Ready to begin your new life in the United Arab Emirates? Contact a member of our team today to get started!