Are you planning to relocate to Dubai? Known for its innovation and luxury, this beautiful city offers a high quality of life and exciting career opportunities.
From futuristic infrastructure to a vibrant culture, Dubai has something for everyone. Here’s a complete checklist to help you transition smoothly. With proper research and planning, your move to this modern metropolis can be cheap, swift, and stress-free!
The Complete Checklist for Relocating to Dubai
Before moving to Dubai, go through this checklist for Indians to ensure a hassle-free experience:
1. Cost of Living
When moving to Dubai, you'll find the cost of living attractive compared to other global cities. With minimal taxes, you can enjoy a higher disposable income.
Taxes in Dubai include a 5% municipality tax on rented accommodation and a 10% service charge on restaurant and hotel bills. They are usually included in the final price.
The average monthly costs without rent are around 14,020.2 AED for a family of four and 4,008.7 AED for a single person. The city's affordability has improved recently, making it possible to maintain a decent lifestyle on a budget of about 7,000 AED per month for an individual. This includes food bills, car expenses, rentals, and basic utilities.
2. Accommodation
Dubai’s housing options range from city-centre apartments to suburban villas. Rental terms are flexible, with payments often spread over multiple cheques.
Utility costs average around 750 AED monthly for a two-person apartment. Rent varies by location and size, with one-bedroom apartments in the city center averaging 7,000 AED and three-bedroom apartments about 12,950 AED.
Whether you prefer a bustling urban environment like the Dubai Marina and the Dubailand or a quiet residential area like the Arabian Ranches and the Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai has diverse housing choices to suit various lifestyles and budgets.
3. Spouse Working
In Dubai, spouses can work on a residence visa sponsored by their partner. However, they need a work permit from their employer.
Men can sponsor wives with a salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 with accommodation). Women can sponsor husbands if they earn at least AED 5,000 in qualified professions like teaching or medicine.
4. Banking
The UAE’s currency is the Dirham (AED). Setting up your finances in Dubai involves opening a local bank account. This requires an Emirates ID, residency visa, and documents like your passport and proof of address.
Many international banks, such as HSBC and Emirates NBD, operate here. They offer straightforward online banking and international money transfer processes to ensure smooth financial management.
5. Luggage
Before you pack, check with your airline for baggage size and weight restrictions. Typically, Dubai airports allow two pieces of luggage with a combined weight of up to 32 kg.
For additional convenience, consider using cargo services like the Atlantic International Express or UBT Pro Express for personal belongings. In addition, familiarise yourself with specific airline policies to avoid any last-minute hassles at the airport.
6. Transportation
Dubai offers excellent public transport options, including the metro, buses, trams, and taxis. The Nol card provides easy access to all these services. You can purchase these cards from any Ticket vending machines or Ticket Offices in metro and bus stations and RTA authorized sales agents.
The city’s infrastructure and connectivity ensure convenient travel, whether you stay in Dubai or commute from nearby Emirates like Sharjah. In fact, many people prefer living in Sharjah and commuting to Dubai due to lower rents.
Private cars are also popular, and buying and renting are affordable options. Besides, petrol prices are relatively low in Dubai.
7. Education
Education in Dubai is predominantly provided by private institutions following international curriculums. That's why tuition fees vary but are generally competitive with global standards. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) oversees school quality.
You can choose from a vast range of options, from affordable to premium. Further, you can pick schools offering both Indian and international curricula. Some of the affordable schools offering ICSE and CBSE curricula include The Indian High School, The Little Flower English School, and St. Mary's Catholic School.
GEMS Modern Academy, Global Indian International School, and Delhi Private School are amongst the top Indian schools in Dubai. Therefore, research and choose schools depending on your child’s educational needs.
8. Local Sim Card
Upon arrival, get a local SIM card from Etisalat or Du. You’ll need your residency visa, an Emirates ID, and other identification documents.
You can apply for a new Emirates ID card either at an accredited typing centre or through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) website.
As a newcomer, you can initially opt for a tourist SIM card and then switch to a local plan once you acquire the Emirates ID. You can also choose between prepaid and postpaid plans based on your needs. UAE offers excellent 4G/5G coverage and affordable data rates.
This makes it easy to stay connected with friends and family both locally and internationally. You can also port your Indian number using an online form-forwarding service to ensure you stay connected from day one.
9. Shopping
Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, featuring everything from luxury malls like the Dubai Mall to traditional souks offering spices, textiles, and gold.
The city offers a variety of Indian stores for all your shopping needs. From groceries at Al Adil and Lulu Hypermarket to jewelry at Tanishq and Kalyan Jewellers, you can find everything from spices and Ayurvedic products.
Additionally, the latest Indian fashion is also readily available. Popular stores like Fabindia and Malabar Gold & Diamonds ensure you feel at home.
10. Purchasing Parity
The cost of living in the UAE is higher compared to India. However, the average after-tax salary in the UAE covers living expenses for 1.7 months, compared to 1.5 months in India.
Despite the higher costs, the increased earning potential and quality of life make Dubai an attractive destination for expatriates looking for better opportunities.
11. Dress Code
Dubai’s dress code is generally cosmopolitan, but modesty is appreciated in public spaces. This means abstaining from wearing mini-skirts, tank tops, and other such revealing clothes. Furthermore, while Western attire is common, traditional clothing is also prevalent.
In places like malls and religious sites, it’s advisable to dress conservatively. Women should consider carrying a shawl for additional coverage when needed. Dubai’s fashion scene offers a mix of global and local styles.
12. Entertainment
If you love Indian entertainment, you'll need to deal with some geo-restrictions in Dubai. Licensing agreements and regional policies limit access to Indian channels.
The good news is that using a reliable VPN can help you enjoy your favourite shows on OTT platforms like Voot, JioCinema, and Star Sports. Despite the challenges, a VPN makes streaming Indian content possible.
For more insights, you can follow local influencers like Khalid Al Ameri, Joelle Mardinian, Taim Al Falasi, etc.
13. Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Dubai. Employers must provide insurance for their employees, and sponsors must cover their dependents. Most employers include family medical insurance in their packages, ensuring access to top-notch healthcare facilities. However, insurance costs vary based on coverage.
Furthermore, public hospitals offer low-cost services, but you'll need a health card from the Department of Health and Medical Services.
14. Driving License
If you plan to get a car and drive in Dubai, you'll need to obtain a new driver's license, as an Indian Driving license is not transferable in the UAE. To do so, visit the RTA Driving License Centre, pay the necessary fee, and submit the required documents. Further, if you own an international driving license, don't forget to bring it.
You'll need to take driving lessons and pass a local test. Institutes like Emirates Driving Institute and Belhasa Driving Center can help. Make sure to complete this process promptly to avoid any inconvenience while settling in.
15. Pet Relocation
Dubai has strict regulations for pet relocation. Only two pets per person are allowed, and they must travel as manifest cargo in an IATA-specified kennel.
Ensure your pet meets the minimum age requirements and has up-to-date vaccinations. Prepare all necessary documentation and consult with your vet to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friends.
16. Fines
Dubai has strict laws to maintain cleanliness and order. Littering, spitting, or making obscene gestures can result in fines or imprisonment.
Public intoxication and drunk driving are illegal, and narcotics are strictly prohibited. Always seek permission before photographing locals, especially women.
Public displays of affection should be minimal. Adhering to these rules will help you enjoy a safe and secure stay in Dubai.
17. Language
With a large expat population from the subcontinent, language barriers are minimal in Dubai. English is the primary language for communication, but you can easily converse in Hindi in many places.
This linguistic diversity makes it easier for you and your dependents to adjust to life in Dubai without facing significant language challenges.
18. WhatsApp and Dubai
While you can send messages on WhatsApp in Dubai, voice and video calls are blocked due to privacy concerns. However, you can bypass this restriction by using a VPN to make calls.
Alternatively, local telecom providers Etisalat and DU offer Internet Calling Plans. You can use their plans for unlimited voice and video calls to stay connected with loved ones.
19. Wi-Fi
Dubai's Wi-Fi UAE program provides free internet access across the city, but it's only available for UAE mobile numbers. Get a local SIM card from Du or Etisalat upon arrival to access this service.
For faster, unlimited internet, consider premium plans offered at malls, hotels, and public spaces, available for a small fee.
20. House Help
Hiring a maid in Dubai is straightforward, with numerous agencies providing reliable, vetted candidates. You can opt for full-time (live-in) or part-time (live-out) help. The salary is negotiated during the interview stage and can vary based on the additional benefits and agreement.
Typically, full-time maids receive a monthly salary of AED 2,000-3,500. In contrast, part-time live-out maids usually earn between AED 3,500-6,000 per month, meaning you'll pay more for part-time help. However, part-time maids do not incur some of the additional expenses associated with full-time maids.
For full-time maids, you must sponsor them, including covering their visa, health card, and return flight costs. Part-time maids are typically on their company's visa and hired through agencies for hourly rates.
21. Used Cars
Looking to buy or sell a second-hand car in Dubai? Authorised dealers like Al Futtaim and Al Tayer offer reliable pre-owned cars with stringent checks.
You can also explore used car markets and newspapers for more options. While authorised dealers provide more guarantees, non-authorised dealers might offer better deals but come with higher risks.
Wrapping Up!
Relocating to Dubai can be overwhelming, considering the many aspects to manage, such as finances, visas, and housing. To ease this transition, consider hiring professional movers and packers who specialise in international relocations. This way, you can focus on settling into your new home while experts handle the logistics.
