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...
Very friendly, jovial, nothing was too much trouble
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Quotes from a few companies - found on internet
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
10/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
8/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
Timing was convenient
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Very friendly, jovial, nothing was too much trouble
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
I was very satisfied with your service
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?
Everything went perfectly
We used you previously and had a great experience.
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
We used you previously for our last move and had a great service so wanted to use you again.
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
10/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
10/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
We used you previously and had a great experience.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Paul, Alan, Adrian and Jack were great!!
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Nothing springs to mind.
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?
It all went super smooth. From asking for a quote to having the video walk through and then again on move day!!
Managed to keep our stress levels at bay with their good humour and positive energy.
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Used you for a previous move.
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
10/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
10/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
Great service on a previous move
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Super professional, very organised, worked really well as a team with great communication. Managed to keep our stress levels at bay with their good humour and positive energy.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Can’t think of anything
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?
Our move organiser was very patient throughout the early process. Worked quickly to make changes when our dates changed and communicated really well throughout.
They took great care with all my furnitur
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Online
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
10/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
10/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
Fast efficient quote. Everything explained really clearly. Showed me pics/ examples of how my furniture would be packed and transported.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Rob & John were absolutely brilliant, they took great care with all my furniture, were extremely efficient. Friendly & absolutely nothing too much trouble.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Nothing to improve
How likely are you to recommend us to your friends / family?
10/10
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