Once a quiet desert town, Dubai is now a highly sought-after destination for those looking to relocate overseas. With its year-round sunshine, iconic skyline, booming career opportunities, and reputation for luxury, it’s no wonder that Brits and expats from around the world are flocking there in their thousands. But what else is making people want to move to Dubai? Discover the draws and the considerations before planning your move.
Reasons to Move to Dubai
Dubai is home to endless hours of sunshine, beautiful desert, luxury accommodation, and shopping options, as well as a thriving business community. But there is so much more than grandeur and good weather on offer in Dubai.
1. Career Opportunities
Dubai is a global business hub attracting international organisations as well as entrepreneurs. With a location that is primed for international trade and business operations, as well as its world-class infrastructure and business-friendly investment policies, the job market in Dubai is like no other.
The economy here is diverse, and opportunities vary from finance and banking to real estate and healthcare, and everything in between!
2. Tax-free income
Residents in the UAE are not required to pay personal income tax on their salary, which means a higher percentage of their wages is take-home pay. The majority of expat employees are also exempt from paying social security.
This additional money makes it much easier to save and allows people more disposable income for the luxuries that are on offer in Dubai.
3. Safety
Residents and visitors in Dubai can rest assured that safety is a top priority, with the city regularly being recognised as one of the safest in the world. Visible policing, strict surveillance, and strong law enforcement are just some of the reasons that violent crime is rare and petty crime rates are low in comparison to other major global cities. There is a strong emphasis on respect for women in the country, and harassment rates are low.
Schools and residential communities often have private security personnel. This is particularly important for those with young families who may be looking to move to Dubai, as they have peace of mind that their children will be safe.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare in Dubai is often described as world-class, with state-of-the-art facilities and highly qualified medical professionals. Doctors and nurses are often internationally trained and must be licensed by the Dubai Health Authority in order to practice.
There is a wide range of specialist care available, and emergency care is easily accessible.
5. Climate
Brits looking for a new life in the sun need look no further… Dubai is home to year-round sunshine, with summer temperatures reaching highs of 45ºC.
Public transport, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and visitor attractions are equipped with air conditioning to give visitors a welcome breeze from the humidity at the height of summer.
6. Expat-Friendly
The majority of the population in Dubai consists of expats from all over the globe, which means the expatriate community is diverse and welcoming.
Thanks to its large international appeal, English is widely spoken across Dubai, with all restaurant menus, road signs, and other information printed in both English and Arabic.
Things to Consider When Moving to Dubai
While moving to Dubai may sound like a dream come true, there are plenty of things to consider before planning to relocate there.
1. Visas
The first thing to consider when planning a move to Dubai is your visa. Generally, you will need to obtain a residency visa or a work permit to move to the city. Finding employment before moving is often the easiest way to secure your visa, as they will typically handle the paperwork involved.
There are a variety of visas available, including a 5-year Green UAE visa, which does not require company sponsorship and is ideal for highly skilled workers and freelancers.
2. Cost of Living
The cost of living in Dubai is high, and depending on where in the UK you are from, you may end up paying more than you’d expect for groceries, transport, housing, and leisure activities. The cost of living, however, is more affordable than in capital cities like London. The cost of living is also often outweighed by the salaries being higher and tax-free, which is a huge reason why people move to Dubai.
3. Healthcare
There is no free healthcare available to expats in the city, and health insurance is required by law. Companies that employ expats in Dubai are obligated to provide private health insurance plans for these employees.
Expats can access the public healthcare services, but will be required to purchase a health card and pay the relevant fees for the treatment that they receive.
4. Cultural and Religious Differences
Both tolerant and cosmopolitan, all visitors are welcome in Dubai; however, Dubai adopts an Islamic way of life and is governed by Islamic laws, and therefore, expats should be aware of certain cultural and religious differences that are observed before visiting or moving to Dubai.
Whether it’s a business relocation, a new start, or retirement, Bishop’s Move can help you every step of the way with your move to Dubai. If you want to find out more information regarding our international removals services, contact one of our advisors today.
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