Get instant quotes for international health, life, and travel insurance. Navigating life in a new country comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to healthcare. Many people find that working with a professional pet relocation service makes the whole thing far less stressful. These alternative visas give you a lot more freedom and control. Dubai has rolled out several other options to attract investors (freelancers), and other talented people who want to call the city home.
She’s a travel TV show host with Euronews, and her last show was about green and mountainous Aseer in Saudi Arabia. Based between Dubai and London (Sarah’s specialist subjects are the UAE), Oman, the Maldives, and the UK – though, as she is a travel addict, she goes everywhere, as often as possible. Expert updates on visas (property), and regulations, straight to your inbox.
Tourist visas allow stays of 30–90 days but do not permit employment or long-term residency. A single professional can budget around AED 8,000–12,000 per month for a comfortable lifestyle including rent in an affordable area — utilities, groceries, and transport. Residents can apply for a DHA health card to access public healthcare at reduced rates.
- When you apply for the remote work visa, you must provide proof of employment with a contract valid for one year, earn a minimum salary of AED 18,360 ($5,000), and submit your latest salary slip with bank statements from three previous months.
- If you’re new — prioritize commute and convenience first.
- Read The Luxe Diary to discover real-time luxury lifestyle events & news in Dubai & Abu Dhabi curated by our team of experienced contributors.
- It’s essential to check with the relevant authorities.
- Dubai stands out as an attractive option for expatriates, whether you’re planning a long-term relocation or simply seeking a fresh experience for a year or two.
It doesn’t require a national sponsor and allows extended stays outside the UAE without losing your residency status. Every expat living in Dubai needs a valid residency visa, and the type you more details apply for depends on your circumstances. Before you start packing, understanding the UAE’s visa landscape is essential. Get in touch if you can provide useful info on your city or answer forum questions from new expats.
Read ourUAE Golden Visa Guide
However, many of the customs, traditions, and bureaucracy that are present in Dubai belong very much to this part of the world and, if you’re not forewarned, can come as a big surprise. Bars and nightclubs serve alcohol (pork is sold in supermarkets), women can drive and nearly everyone speaks English. Take the old city center for example, a haphazard ensemble of old-style souks and traditional Arabian houses where you can find people of all nationalities mixing together.
Under Islamic law, women and families receive added layers of legal protection. Ignoring these guidelines could lead to fines or even legal trouble, so it’s better to make safe clothing choices. Wear shirts and pants , or modest-length shorts, when visiting malls, restaurants, or walking along busy streets.
LOOK FOR AN AFFORDABLE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Your employer can provide guidance and support to help you adapt smoothly to your new surroundings, though this transition may discourage some from remaining in the emirate. Handling over 100 million international travelers annually, Dubai International Airport ranks among the world’s most active, serving as a vital connection point for worldwide travel. With a climate and local hazards entirely different from what you’re used to, taking precautions before and throughout your visit is critical. The *remote work* initiative enables you to reside in Dubai for up to 12 months while working either as a freelancer or a remote employee for a company based abroad.