Dubai is an up-and-coming business location and at the same time one of the most visited cities in the world. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the Middle East and offers enormous potential.
But what is it actually like to emigrate to Dubai? What advantages and disadvantages does the city in the United Arab Emirates offer? In this article, we objectively compare the most important pros and cons when it comes to emigrating to Dubai.
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Advantages
Why should you emigrate to Dubai in the first place? Here’s an overview of the top 10 benefits the UAE city offers expats.
1. religious independence
Dubai is basically a Muslim city, but people belonging to all religions live and practice their religion freely! There are a number of mosques, churches and temples in Dubai. During Ramadan, however, it is somewhat difficult for non-Muslims to find restaurants where they can eat during the fasting period.
2. living
Dubai offers great residential potential. Thanks to the many residential complexes and communities, there is something for everyone. From modern high-rise buildings to townhouses and villas with gardens, you can find anything you want.
Here is also an article on Buying an apartment in Dubai.
3. business opportunities
The economy in Dubai is expanding rapidly. If you start a business and it becomes successful, you can make a lot of money. As the economic center of the world, there is an endless list of services, goods and expertise needed in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.
4. tax exemption
The Dubai government is often accused of making the poor from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and other non-rich countries work almost as slaves in order to create an Arab miracle. These people only earn a few hundred dollars a month.
But it is quite difficult to blame the sheikhs, because every year unskilled workers come to the UAE in search of a better life. They agree to work hard on construction sites in Dubai because the low wages on offer are still more than they can expect when they return home.
Highly qualified professionals here not only enjoy an excellent salary, but also additional bonuses such as health insurance, paid tickets for home visits, an apartment and car provided by the company, etc.
Business people who start a company here can also receive excellent financial benefits. The standard of living for locals and tourists is extremely high here, so with the right business approach you can expect to make excellent profits. The UAE is a tax-free country, so both business people and employees can rest assured that taxes won’t eat up most of their income.
Dubai’s other financial advantages include a well-developed banking sector. Expats need not worry about the security of their savings.
For further information we have compiled a Dubai Tax Guide written.
5. excellent healthcare system
As soon as seven disparate emirates formed a single country, the ruler began to solve important issues to ensure the normal life of the citizens. One of the most important issues was the creation of a healthcare system virtually from scratch.
The visit of the US missionary hospital contributed significantly to the development of the UAE’s medical system in the initial phase. The country’s first medical facility was established in Dubai. Over the decades, the government succeeded in building a great healthcare system with hundreds of hospitals and pharmacies, expensive equipment and excellent specialists with Western training.
Locals have the opportunity to use free medicine, but expats do not have this right. Therefore, they have to pay a lot of money for treatment. Fortunately, immigrants can save considerably on treatment if they take out annual health insurance. Often this document is included in the social package that the employee receives from the employer.
6. entertainment
When you live in Dubai, you will never be bored as there are more activities, events, services and facilities than you can enjoy in a lifetime. There is always something new to do, try, taste, see, discover or experience in Dubai. Weekends are the best part of living in Dubai. If you live there, you can spend your weekends in numerous places.
7. luxurious lifestyle
The quality, luxury and attention to detail in Dubai make it a pleasant place to live, work and explore. When you travel or return home, you will constantly compare everything to what you get in Dubai – from shabby service to shabby hotel rooms.
8. ease of obtaining a residence visa
Migrants working abroad often complain that they have to stay there illegally because the legislation of many countries does not provide for temporary visas. The United Arab Emirates has solved this problem by introducing residence and investor visas. These documents allow business people who have opened a company in the UAE, employees of companies in Dubai and expensive real estate owners to live in Dubai. The validity of the various visas ranges from 3 to 10 years with the possibility of extension.
Entrepreneurs and property owners apply for their visa independently. Employees must wait until the company they will be working for issues such a document.
A residence and investor visa does not require a large package of documents (mainly identity documents are required). The processing time for the visa is usually one to two weeks.
9. leisure offer
If you love to enjoy the sunlight, you will be able to do so to the fullest in Dubai. The climate in Dubai is hot almost all year round. This allows expats to enjoy outdoor activities for most of the year. And even when it’s too hot to do more than just sit around, you can still have plenty of fun at night. The nightlife in Dubai is lively, but it doesn’t start until after 9pm and goes late into the night. Renowned entertainment programs and parties are constantly being advertised. Check out our top 10 list of the best nightclubs in Dubai. I’m pretty sure you won’t find a more vibrant nightlife anywhere else in the region.
10. (Political) security
Almost all major cities, especially those with large numbers of migrants, have security problems. Dubai has not followed their example and is still one of the safest cities in the world.
Serious crimes such as murder or rape are extremely rare here. Most incidents are petty thefts, which are only typical of certain, not very affluent neighborhoods.
A sufficient number of police officers are constantly patrolling the city, so you can move around here day and night. In addition, Dubai has quite severe penalties for criminals who stop people who want to break the law. For families with young children, it is particularly pleasant to live in such a safe city.
In terms of political security and economic stability, it is an almost completely different world compared to European countries. High inflation rates, immigration problems, the threat of equalization of burdenswar participation, cash ban, asset register and law to combat the concealment of assets are now a reality in Germany and Austria (and the rest of the EU).
In Dubai, there are no such problems and the geographical distance, as well as the political and economic independence, offer protection against such dangers.
Disadvantages
Living in Dubai also has potential disadvantages. These are individual and everyone has to weigh them up for themselves. Here are 7 disadvantages of Dubai.
1. internet censorship
When you surf the Internet, you may not be able to access many websites because they are banned in Dubai due to offensive content. D
2. climate
On the one hand, it’s good that you don’t have to suffer from severe frost, cold wind, heavy snowfall, constant rain, sudden changes in temperature, etc. in Dubai. Also, you can save a lot on your wardrobe because you don’t have to worry about warm shoes and outerwear that have never been cheap.
On the other hand, we can hardly describe the weather conditions in Dubai as favorable. The local winter is still quite pleasant (the average temperature is +25°C), but the summer is quite hard to bear for the untrained. The summer months are characterized by extremely high temperatures (+35°C – +45°C) and high humidity, although it can go months without rain. Sandstorms, which cause respiratory illnesses, are also a nuisance.
Fortunately, all rooms in Dubai are air-conditioned. If you spend less time outside in summer, you will find it much easier to bear the heat.
4. driving can be stressful and dangerous
Driving in Dubai is not easy because of the many traffic cameras and even if you make a small mistake, you can end up paying a lot of fines. Nevertheless, for most drivers it is hell on earth. If you pick up a newspaper or surf the internet, you will hear about many accidents on Dubai’s roads. And with the high volume of traffic, driving can be as stressful as it is dangerous.
5. untested laws
If you have the wrong passport or are the wrong gender in the wrong place at the wrong time, you may be disadvantaged and treated unfairly. This reality is usually not talked about, and certainly not questioned – and for some it is unpleasant.
6. bureaucracy
Bureaucracy and constantly changing business laws make it difficult for everyone. It takes quite a long time to get your legal matters done in Dubai. The legal procedures are very lengthy and nerve-wracking. It’s important to have an understanding and well-informed employer, as well as friends abroad and locally who can help you navigate the bureaucracy you’ll have to deal with.
7 Difficult to find a job in Dubai
Due to the large number of expats and the high competition, it is difficult to find a job in Dubai. The offices are always overcrowded and you won’t find a vacancy for years. Dubai is usually known for high salaries and a high standard of living, which is why many expats from all over the world have come to Dubai to make their fortune.
Requirements
In order to emigrate to Dubai, you need a visa. This can be obtained in various ways. In our “Dubai visa” article, you can find out everything you need to know. Basically, the most common type is a work visa in the form of employment with (your own) company or Setting up a company in Dubai.
You also need a certain income. Of course, you can also rent and live in Dubai at very reasonable prices. However, if you want to live according to European standards and upwards, you will need at least around €5,000 per person per month.
Checklist
1. Legal and Immigration:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity.
- Visa: Apply for the appropriate visa (employment, residence, or investment).
- Medical Test: Required for a residence visa.
2. Financial Preparations:
- Bank Account: Consider opening an international account or research UAE banking options.
- Savings: Have sufficient funds for initial expenses (housing, transport, etc.).
- Tax Implications: Understand the UK’s tax obligations for expatriates.
3. Housing:
- Research Areas: Popular options include Marina, Downtown, or Jumeirah.
- Rental Contracts: Typically require a year upfront or postdated cheques.
- Utilities: Set up DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) account.
4. Employment:
- Offer Letter: Secure your job and confirm terms (housing allowance, insurance).
- Work Permit: Your employer typically sponsors this.
5. Health Insurance:
- Mandatory: Health insurance is required by law.
- Coverage: Check employer-provided insurance or get private insurance.
6. Schooling (if applicable):
- Research Schools: Options include British curriculum, IB, or American schools.
- Admissions: Apply early; spots fill up quickly.
7. Transportation:
- Driving License: Convert your UK license to a UAE license if eligible.
- Car Purchase/Lease: Decide on buying or leasing a vehicle.
8. Cultural and Legal Awareness:
- Cultural Norms: Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws.
- Alcohol License: Apply for a permit if you plan to purchase alcohol.
9. Packing and Shipping:
- Essential Items: Pack light; Dubai has a wide range of goods.
- Cargo Services: Research international shipping companies for larger items.
10. Mobile and Internet:
- SIM Card: Get a prepaid or postpaid plan from Etisalat or Du.
- Internet Connection: Arrange for home internet once housing is sorted.
11. Networking and Settling In:
- Social Groups: Join expat communities or interest groups.
- Legal Requirements: Register tenancy contracts and other required documents.
12. Other Essentials:
- Emirates ID: Mandatory for all residents, issued after your residence visa.
- Banking: Open a local bank account after securing your visa and Emirates ID.
- Shopping: Explore cost-effective options like Carrefour or Lulu for daily needs.
Pro Tip: Ensure all important documents (certificates, marriage licenses) are attested by the UAE embassy before departure.
Cost of living in Dubai
As described above, the costs are highly variable. There are no upper limits. At the same time, you can also live in Dubai with very little money. However, the quality of life varies greatly. Accordingly, we recommend a solid income of €5,000 net / month upwards if you want to enjoy a normal European standard as a single person. (1 BDR apartment in a good location, car, leisure activities and eating out regularly).
Experience
In our experience, Dubai is a great city to which many Europeans rightly emigrate. The city by the sea not only offers tax advantages, but also a great quality of life if you have the budget for it.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions about emigrating to Dubai.
Life in Dubai for a woman is now very similar to life in the UK. There are still many myths, but women are allowed to do everything that men are allowed to do and are certainly treated equally.
The exception here are religious places such as mosques or similar.
A lot of families are moving to Dubai from the UK every single year. The tax benefits, the stable economy, great health care and the excellent school system make it amazing place for raising a family.
Additionally it is very easy to get a VISA for the whole family in Dubai.
Particularly popular residential areas for UK families in Dubai are Creek Harbour, Dubai HillsMarina and Emaar Beachfront. These are in a very good location and have great infrastructure for families. In addition, the prices are still affordable.
Dubai is a great city to live in with children and teenagers. In addition to the first-class multilingual kindergartens, schools and universities, the city impresses with its exceptionally high level of safety and infrastructure.
In addition, many communities now have parks, playgrounds and plenty of green open spaces.
The cost of housing in Dubai varies greatly compared to European cities. As a rule, you can expect to pay around AED 100,000 (€25,000) per year for a one-bedroom apartment in a good location. Or comparatively a purchase price of around AED 1,600,000 (€400,000). You can find real estate here: dubaiimmobillien.com.
Working in Dubai can be a blessing or a curse. Basically, a strong distinction must be made between entry-level jobs and management/executive level jobs.
Simple jobs are usually very poorly paid, you often have to work (unpaid) overtime and constant availability is often a prerequisite.
On the other hand, there are higher management or executive positions that pay extremely well and on which there is no income tax.
It is even better for the self-employed, because the lack of income tax and low corporation tax of 9% allow high income at a private level.
Summary
The bottom line is that Dubai has many advantages and explains why so many people emigrate to the country. However, you should be aware of the disadvantages and weigh up for yourself which side outweighs the other.
If you are interested in emigrating to the UAE or Dubai, we will be happy to assist you. Starting with company formation about bank account to health insurance and VISA . Simply contact us by e-mail or arrange a free initial consultation.
