Moving to Dubai From the UK

With a warmer climate, a high standard of living and a dynamic job market, we can see why our removals to Dubai service is popular. Dubai is also known as a safe city with low crime rates, making it an appealing destination for families or solo travellers. 

If you’re considering moving to Dubai from the UK, you’re not alone. Around 240,000 British expats live in the UAE city, making the British one of the largest expatriate communities there. 

In this blog, we’ve covered everything you need to know for your move to Dubai. From healthcare and government to salaries and taxes, find out more about moving to Dubai. 

Types of Dubai Visas

You will need a valid visa if you plan on visiting, living or working in Dubai from the UK. you can get a visa on arrival if you’re just visiting which is valid for 30 days. Student Visas are also available if you plan on studying in Dubai. 

Long-term Visit visas are for those who plan on living in Dubai for just 3 months. This can be extended after 90 days, but if you’re planning to move long-term, one of the following will be best suited: 

Employment visa

The most popular way to get a visa to live and work in Dubai is through the UAE Employment Visa. If you have secured a job in Dubai, your employer will act as your sponsor so you can gain a residence visa. Your employer will usually cover the application fees and visa costs.

The duration of the visa varies between 2 and 3 years and will depend on whether you work for a mainland or free zone company. Your visa will last for 2 years if you’re an employee of a mainland company and 3 years for a free zone. 

Golden visa 

The UAE Golden Visa is available for investors, entrepreneurs and those with specialised talents. You can gain long-term residency for either 5 or 10 years. 

To be considered for this visa, you have to invest £438,500 (2 million AED) into a business or property. If you’re an entrepreneur, your business must bring in £220,000 (1 million AED) per year in revenue. 

Green visa

The Green Visa is a fairly new option for skilled professionals and investors to gain permanent residency in Dubai. You do not need a sponsor for the Green visa and it grants you 5 years of residency in the city.

For skilled workers, you must have a minimum monthly salary of £3,200 (AED 15,000), educational qualifications and a valid contract in a skill. The UAE government website has a full list of UAE Green visa accepted occupations.

You can also sponsor your family which includes parents, spouses or children. The process to renew this visa is designed to be straightforward, so long as you continue to meet the criteria. 

UAE Citizenship

Getting UAE Citizenship is challenging, but in recent years the UAE has introduced different pathways to open up the process to investors, healthcare professionals and those with exceptional talent. You can gain UAE Citizenship by descent, marriage, naturalisation, and more recently through exceptional merit.

Applicants can apply for citizenship via exceptional merit and must be nominated by either UAE royals or officials and have approval from the Cabinet. The following categories can apply for UAE Citizenship:

• Doctors who are members of reputable organisations, made a recognised contribution to research and have over 10 years of experience
• Those who have a minimum of one UAE Ministry of Economy approved patent
• Individuals classed as innovators in their specific field with one approved patent, an international award and government agency recommendation
• Significant investors in UAE real estate that make notable contributions to the UAE economy.

Emirates ID

If you are living in Dubai via a residency visa, you’ll need to apply for an Emirates ID. It’s a legal requirement for everyone living in Dubai and means you can set up essential services and utilities in Dubai. Your Emirates ID is essential in opening a bank account and setting up essential utilities like gas and electric.

You can apply for your Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security website.

Opening a Bank Account in Dubai

Opening a bank account in Dubai as a non UAE national is fairly straightforward. Non residents can do this too, but the process may be more difficult and you’ll be limited on account options. To open a bank account in Dubai as a British expat, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

• Have a valid UAE residency visa
• Proof of having a minimum salary of typically AED 3,000 – 10,000 (Around £600-£2,000)
• Some banks may ask for a minimum opening balance.

You’ll need to provide the following required documents to open a Dubai bank account:

• Copy of your passport highlighting the visa page
• The original and a copy of your Emirates ID
• Proof of your address via a bill, employer letter or rental contract
• Proof of salary from your employer to show monthly salary
• 3-6 months of recent bank statements, typically if you’re opening a savings or investment account.

To learn more, read our blog on opening a bank account in Dubai.

Work and Salaries in Dubai

Dubai offers a dynamic job market with opportunities across various sectors. While many salaries can vary significantly based on experience, qualifications, and industry, the average monthly salary in Dubai is AED 13,530.90 (approximately £2,783.92).

According to the latest ONS data, the average UK salary is £2,297 after taxes per month. This puts Dubai salaries around 20% higher than the UK average, making it an attractive destination for many professionals. One of the significant advantages of working in Dubai is the tax-free income. This can substantially increase your take-home pay.

Jobs in demand in Dubai include roles in technology and IT, healthcare, finance, banking and construction. It’s recommended to find work in Dubai before moving there as this will help you gain a Visa. You can look at current job listings on websites like Reed, Indeed or on the Dubai Government’s careers page.

Here’s a comparison of average salaries for some popular jobs in Dubai and the UK

Job Title	Dubai Salary (Converted from AED)	UK Salary (£)
IT Specialist	£40,000 – £100,000	£30,000 – £50,000
Doctors	£72,000 – £150,000	£33,000 – £240,000
Nurse	£30,000 – £60,000	£25,000 – £45,000
Teachers (Private Schools)	£40,000 – £65,000	£25,000 – £35,000
Accountant	£40,000 – £100,000	£30,000 – £50,000
Engineer (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)	£150,000 – £300,000	£35,000 – £70,000
Sales Manager	£85,000 – £150,000	£35,000 – £60,000
Marketing Manager	£50,000 – £120,000	£30,000 – £50,000
Human Resources Manager	£50,000 – £100,000	£30,000 – £45,000
Chef	£30,000 – £70,000	£20,000 – £35,000
Customer Service Representative	£15,000 – £30,000	£15,000 – £25,000
Drilling Engineer	£40,000 – £45,000	£52,000 – £57,000
Pilot	£50,000 – £55,000	£48,000 – £52,000
Wealth Manager	£55,000 – £140,000	£30,000 – £35,000
Radiologist	£85,000 – £95,000	£70,000 – £75,000
Construction Manager	£37,000 – £42,000	£55,000 – £60,000

While the salary comparison between the UK and Dubai provides a general overview, it’s essential to note that individual circumstances can vary. Factors such as experience, qualifications, industry, and specific job roles can significantly impact salary levels. It’s recommended to conduct thorough research and consider your personal goals and preferences when making a decision about relocating to Dubai for work.

Taxes in Dubai

One of the main draws of moving to Dubai from the UK is that they don’t impose personal income tax, even on British or other foreign expats. Another tax benefit of living in Dubai is no Capital Gains Tax is charged on the sale of investments or property within Dubai, unlike in the UK. This tax may still be charged if you sold property in the UK while living in Dubai.

The Double Taxation Agreement between the UK and UAE means you won’t be taxed twice on the same income. If you are being taxed in both countries, the agreement works by offsetting taxes in one country against those owed in the other.

You will have to pay Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services, which is 5%. This is much lower than the UK’s 20% VAT charge. If your business has profits of AED 375,000 (£80,000) or more, you’ll be charged a federal corporate tax of 9%.

Cost of Living in Dubai

For comparison, the cost of living in Dubai is 42% cheaper than in London, UK.

Looking at the UK on average, rent in Dubai is notably higher than in the UK, but you’ll be able to buy property much cheaper. Although daily expenses like groceries are similar, Dubai offers cheaper utilities and significantly lower private preschool fees. A higher monthly average salary and no income tax help balance these costs.

Below we’ve compared the cost of a variety of everyday services and items in Dubai with UK prices. 

Item	Dubai	UK
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre	AED 7,944.80 (£1,683.09)	£1,071.06
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre	AED 17,586.42 (£3,725.33)	£4,971.94
Monthly salary after tax	AED 13,530.90 (£2,783.92)	£2,412.36
3 course meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant	AED 300 (£63)	£60
1 litre of milk	AED 7.24 (£1.53)	£1.24
1kg chicken fillets	AED 31.46 (£6.66)	£6.63
Monthly travel pass	AED 300 (£63.60)	£70
Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment	AED 749.81 (£158.86)	£246.16
Monthly gym membership	AED 322.59 (£68.33)	£32.90
Monthly private preschool	AED 2,936.46 (£622.32)	£1,263.35

Property Prices in Dubai

Rent prices are 57% higher in Dubai than in the United Kingdom, averaging AED 7,944.80 (£1,684.32) for a city centre apartment. It’ll cost you AED 10,440.95 (£2,211.68) per square metre to buy property outside the city centre in Dubai, which is 71% cheaper than the UK’s average. 

Buying property in the UAE is similar to the UK. You’ll need to make an formal offer on the home, typically through a real estate agent. As there are always properties being built in Dubai, it’s common to buy an ‘off plan’ property. This simply means buying a property when it’s still being constructed. This way of buying property usually comes with incentives and payment plans from the developers to make the buying process more financially manageable.

To view current listings to help create a budget, look at websites like Property Finder, Emirates.Estates, Rightmove and Zoopla. Below we’ve listed the average rental and buying costs in Dubai and compared with UK prices to help with your research.

Item	Dubai	UK
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre	AED 7,944.80 (£1,684.32)	£1,071.06
Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment outside of centre	AED 4,965.83 (£1,052.36)	£857.57
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre	AED 17,586.42 (£3,725.30)	£4,971.94
Price per m2 to buy apartment outside of city centre	AED 10,440.95 (£2,211.68)	£3,778.24

Where to Live in Dubai

Where you choose to live in Dubai will depend on your budget and circumstances.

Renting is more popular in Dubai, especially among expats. Due to many people working in Dubai not knowing the full length of their stay, renting offers flexibility and less financial risk than buying.

If you’re moving to Dubai long-term or permanently, then buying property might be more beneficial due to the long-term investment and financial stability.

Below we share some areas of Dubai that’ll suit a variety of requirements, including some average rental and buying prices. 

1. Dubai Silicon Oasis – Located in southeast Dubai, Dubai Silicon Oasis offers affordable housing with a community feel.
   
   It’s a Free Zone that hosts multiple tech companies and start-ups, so it’s an ideal place to live for professionals. Public transport to central Dubai is limited, but the affordable property prices make up for this.
   
   The average property price in Dubai Silicon Oasis for a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 1,481,824 (£304,865.09).
   
   
2. Al Barsha – Al Barsha is an ideal location for families and those looking for affordable housing options in Dubai.
   
   Home to the Mall of Emirates, Al Barsha offers excellent amenities and a range of housing options. Located centrally, this residential area is close to shops, schools and healthcare facilities.
   
   Annual rent in Al Barsha for a 2-bedroom apartment will cost on average AED 65,000 (£13,374.10).

3. Downtown Dubai – For those after the luxury Dubai lifestyle, Downtown is the place for you.
   
   Boasting the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain and Dubai Mall, you’ll be surrounded by luxury apartments and high-end shopping.
   
   The average 2-bedroom apartment sale price in Downtown Dubai is AED 3,912,195 (£804,779.60), making it an expensive place to buy. You can expect to pay AED 24,474 (£5,034.34) in rent monthly for a 2-bed apartment.

4. Dubai Marina – Dubai Marina is best suited for those seeking a lively lifestyle, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and other amenities.
   
   A popular place for British expats, Dubai Marina offers British schools, social clubs and stunning waterfront views.
   
   The average property price in Dubai Marina for a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 3,277,465 (£674,258.05)

Education in Dubai

The UAE ranks 28th in the best countries for education annual report. The UK is ranked 2nd. 

Dubai offers a variety of international curricula, including British, American, International Baccalaureate and local UAE national curriculum. The English language is commonly used in international schools, but in UAE schools Arabic is the first language.

There are no state international schools in Dubai, only private, which means this comes at a cost. Fees can range from AED 12,723 (£2,617.75) to AED 64,093 (£13,187.11), dependent on the school and grade. Check out Edarabia’s list of British schools in Dubai to help with your research.

The compulsory school age in Dubai is 6 years old for Primary school and around 18 for Secondary school, being mandatory until Grade 12 is complete. 

Dubai is home to many reputable universities including the University of Dubai, the American University in Dubai and the University of Sharjah.

Healthcare in Dubai

The UAE ranks 17th for the best healthcare in the world, whilst the UK ranks 27th, according to a recent Health Care Index. 

Healthcare in Dubai is free for UAE nationals, but expats have to pay to access even basic services. All expats in Dubai must have health insurance in place. While employers will typically cover the costs of their workers’ health insurance, it’s mandatory to ensure you have cover. Private healthcare facilities are also available in Dubai, which will come at a higher insurance cost. They are known for having high-quality facilities and lower waiting times.

You’ll need to apply for a Health Card to receive treatment and services at public hospitals. The cards cost AED 320 (£70) a year for adults and must be renewed annually. For children under 10, the fee is AED 120 (£26). You can apply for a Health Card online or visit your local medical centre or hospital. You must have a valid residency visa and provide the following documents, or copies of:

• Passport showing your residency visa
• Emirates ID
• A recent photo of you
• Proof of address or lease
• Marriage or birth certificate if you are adding family members

A GP appointment can cost on average between AED 250-350 (£51.44-£72.01) Fees for a specialist doctor will be higher and can range between AED 500-600 (£102.86-£123.44).

Lifestyle and Culture in Dubai

Dubai and the UK have very different cultures, so it’s important to understand the differences before moving.

Arabic is the primary language spoken in Dubai, but English is very commonly spoken too. It’s recommended for British expats to have a basic understanding of everyday phrases to show respect in the community. There are many British pubs, restaurants and community events for British expats in Dubai, but it’s recommended to get involved in the local events with UAE nationals as well.

Dubai, as part of the UAE, is deeply influenced by its Islamic cultural heritage, which is reflected in its legal system and social norms. Islamic principles shape various aspects of life, including family law and public behaviour, which are guided by a combination of local customs and formal regulations.

Public conduct in Dubai is subject to careful consideration, with an emphasis on respect for the cultural values of the region. This means that certain actions, such as public displays of affection, may be considered inappropriate.

Also note that you’ll need to obtain an alcohol licence to purchase and drink alcohol in Dubai such as in hotels and restaurants. It’s illegal to drink alcohol and be intoxicated in public places.

Muslims in Dubai celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, with non-Muslims and expats expected to show respect during this time. There’s no requirement for non-Muslims to fast, but it’s prohibited to eat, drink or smoke in public during the daytime.

To learn more, read our guide on the differences between UK and Dubai culture.

Government in Dubai

Dubai operates under the UAE government, which elects a president every 5 years through its Supreme Council. The president will then appoint a prime minister to tackle federal policies. 

The current Ruler of Dubai and prime minister is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He’s also the Vice President of the UAE. As an Emirate, Dubai has a good amount of control over its local government, especially in economic and development matters.

Voting in the UAE is only open to UAE citizens, meaning British expats non citizens cannot vote in Dubai.

Driving in Dubai

British expats with a valid UK driving license can exchange their license for a UAE one, without having to take a Dubai driving test. Unlike in the UK, people drive on the right side of the road in Dubai, with the seat on the left-hand side.

Dubai has a modern infrastructure with often wide roads and multi-lane motorways. Speed limits are generally higher in Dubai, but enforce strict monitoring of speed limits via speed cameras. 

Retiring in Dubai

Many people chose to move to Dubai to retire. A warmer climate, world-class healthcare and a high standard of living attract thousands of British expats each year.

Those wanting to retire in Dubai from the UK and are over 55 can apply for a Retirement Visa. You must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible for this visa;

• Have a minimum monthly income of £4,200
• Have savings of £210,000 in a UAE bank 
• Or own a property in Dubai worth £420,000. 

Can I Ship My Car to Dubai?

Yes, our sister company Autoshippers offer weekly car shipping services to Dubai from the UK. Autoshippers have over 25 years of experience in safely shipping cars and other vehicles to Dubai. 

Autoshippers will handle the customs protocols to ship your car to Dubai. They use both container shipping and Roll on Roll off services at competitive rates. Let them arrange collection from your door or you can drop your car off at the closest port. 

It should be noted that Dubai typically doesn’t allow importation of cars older than 10 years. Classic and vintage cars may not be subject to this rule, so it’s important to do your research. 

How Much Are Shipping Costs to Dubai?

The average cost of international removals to Dubai from the UK starts from £1,058 for a small move and £2,857 for a large move. Your moving costs will depend on the size of move and other extra services. These are just guideline costs and to get an accurate quote for your move to Dubai, fill out our quick and easy form.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Dubai From the UK

Below we have summarised the pros and cons of moving to Dubai to help you with your research.

Pros:

• Tax-free income – Those working in Dubai don’t have to pay income tax on their earnings, making it an attractive place for professionals.
• Warmer climate – Dubai has a tropical desert micro climate, which means it experiences extremely hot Summers and warm Winters.
• Safe city – Dubai has a low crime rate and is known to be a safe city, especially for women.
• Excellent healthcare – Its healthcare system is ranked highly worldwide, ranking 17th compared to the UK at 27th.
• Lower cost of living than London – Whilst Dubai’s rental market can be expensive, the overall cost of living is lower than London.

Cons:

• Strict social norms – Dubai follows Sharia Law so public behaviour is closely monitored. Anything deemed disrespectful or inappropriate could see you face a fine or imprisonment.
• Strict alcohol rules – You have to obtain an alcohol license to drink and buy alcohol, with strict rules on public drinking.
• Local laws on same-sex relationships – Although Dubai is a welcoming city, it’s advised to research the UAE’s laws on public displays of affection in same-sex relationships.
• Lower education rank than the UK – Dubai’s education system ranks much lower than the UKs.
• Higher rental prices than the UK – Rent is much higher than in the UK, but buying property is more affordable.

Removals to Dubai

If you’re ready to book your removals to Dubai, get in touch with 1st Move International for a tailored free quote. We offer safer, faster and smarter international shipping services from the UK to Dubai.

Our unique shrink-Fast palletising technique means we use commercial consolidators with guaranteed weekly shipping dates. This sees your belongings securely shipped door-to-door, reducing damage and delays throughout the move.

Request a free quote and get an accurate estimate for your move without having a home survey. You can also give us a call on 0800 389 0784 / +44 117 982 8123 if that’s easier.

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