Living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Moving to the United Arab Emirates is an attractive option for many foreigners with over 80% of the UAE’s population being born abroad.
The authorities in Dubai have set up many ‘free zones’ so expats can set up a business without needing a native sponsor, and the lack of income tax makes investing and doing business in the UAE enticing.
At the same time, it is important to be aware of the culture and traditions of the Arab nations so as to integrate successfully into this society.
What to expect when you arrive in the UAE
A knowledge of Arabic is essential when moving to the UAE. Very different from western European languages, it is read from right to left so investing in a language course and a phrasebook is recommended.
It is important to remember that the UAE is a Muslim nation. While more relaxed than the other Arab countries, it is wise to be aware of its rules and cultural traditions.
Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s federal capital, plays host to many international sporting events such as the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and its own Formula One Grand Prix.
Dubai also boasts the world famous Burj Al Arab Hotel, the only hotel in the world with a seven star rating.
There are 23 local and 28 foreign banks in the UAE. Opening a bank account varies in simplicity between each institution. You may require a letter of no objection or a letter confirming salary before opening an account. The UAE government website has a section dedicated to opening a bank account, helping you to do your research before choosing who to bank with.
Get support for your settlement in the UAE
Burgeoning expat communities exist, providing access to children’s playgroups and social groups for adults where you can adjust to life in the UAE.
Working in the United Arab Emirates
Working in Dubai will mean you require a health card, labour card and a residence visa, which will allow you to stay for up to three years. To obtain these documents you must have a contract of employment or sponsor. Short term stays are far easier to plan for. Nationals from 33 countries comprising Western Europe, The United States and Japan are all granted a thirty day visa on arrival in the UAE.
When looking for employment in the UAE international agencies such as Gulftalent.com and bayt.com are a good place to start. Unemployment is extremely low in the UAE at 4.2 per cent, which means there are a wealth of opportunities to find a promising career there. Many employers will also interview applicants via Skype before meeting them in person, which will give you time to prepare and hopefully secure a job before making your move.
The average working week runs from Sunday to Thursday with the typical working week being forty eight hours, although this may be higher if you work in the hospitality sector. During the month of Ramadan, working hours are shortened to allow for fasting and prayers.
Largely founded on the rich oil industry, the UAE’s powerful economy supports exceptional healthcare services in both the public and private sectors.
Removal quote appointment booking service
Britannia Goodwins Removals & Storage can help your overseas move go smoothly. Contact us for a free, no obligation quote, or by calling 01785 251161 and speaking with one of our Stafford and Cheshire removals specialists.
How are our appointments carried out
In the current times you might prefer that we don't visit your house in person to carry out a survey. This is fully understandable and we can just as easily undertake the survey by video call, using whatever method you're comfortable with, usually FaceTime or WhatsApp.
See what our customers think of us...
First class service from start to finish.
We’ve sang your praises online as we genuinely thought it was a first class service from start to finish.
The dedication, respect, courtesy and sheer hard work employed was exceptional, we could not fault any element of it.
Thanks again, we will definitely recommend your company to anyone in the Leek area.
Regards
Andrew and Jayne BaxterThe overall experience at a time of stress was good
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Recommended by two people who used your company.
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
9/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
9/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
Because of others experience
How would you rate your move team?
9/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Very pleasant. Courteous, helpful guys
How would you rate our communication?
9/10
How can we improve our service?
Not sure
How likely are you to recommend us to your friends / family?
10/10
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your move?
The overall experience at a time of stress was good
They made everything about the move as stress free as possible
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Found you on the internet
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
9/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
9/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
You responded to us quickly and easily
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Friendly, polite, helpful, prompt, efficient with good communication
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Do not know, very happy
How likely are you to recommend us to your friends / family?
10/10
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your move?
John and Gareth were very helpful professional and friendly and despite the really bad weather they made everything about the move as stress free as possible. We would highly recommend this team!
They were polite and professional throughout and took the stress away from us on moving day
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Contact details - Google.
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
8/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
9/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
Needed to move house and was seemed the best company to do so.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
The team were absolutely fantastic. They were polite and professional throughout and took the stress away from us on moving day. They took care of everything and even found our son’s Christmas elves which was a huge help and helped settle our son into our new house.
How would you rate our communication?
8/10
How can we improve our service?
Think there are a few things pre-move day that would help.
- A general email to say what to expect, perhaps a video that shows what will happen. Moving house is stressful enough and this would’ve helped take the edge off.
- A text message to confirm what time the team is arriving, potentially with the team member names included - we feel this would be a nice personalised touch.
BUT - on the actual day the team were brilliant and should be praised for their efforts.
How likely are you to recommend us to your friends / family?
10/10
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your move?
John, Rob, Tyler and Anthony were brilliant, we really hope they are praised by their Management. We will recommend to anyone else moving home due to these 4 gentlemen.
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