United Arab Emirates

Located in Western Asia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a culturally-rich and economically powerful country that presents potential for a high quality of life with plenty of well-paying job opportunities. The country comprises seven emirates with the majority of the population residing in Abu Dhabi and the business hub, Dubai. While many people are familiar with images of the impressive skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls and dreamy beach resorts of Dubai, the UAE offers diversified experiences and lifestyles once you explore the country beyond its most visited destinations.

Thinking of moving to Dubai or one of the six other stunning emirates? Let’s dive into why the UAE is one of the best places in the world to relocate to.

 

Fast facts

  • Only around 10% of the UAE’s residents are citizens; the rest of the population consists of foreign workers and their families.
  • Arabic is the official language of the UAE while English, Hindi, Persian, Pashto and Balochi are widely spoken in the expat community.
  • The UAE is known for its hot summers with temperatures typically reaching 45°C during warm months and rarely dropping below 15°C throughout the rest of the year.

 

Why do people relocate to the United Arab Emirates?

One of the biggest attractions of living in the UAE is the above average quality of life. Firstly, the country has no income tax and charges low tax rates on goods and services. While the country has a steep cost of living, its average income rates are also relatively high to justify the expenses of accommodation, food, transport and utilities.

The UAE is among the world’s happiest countries (and the second happiest in the Gulf region!) and even has a minister of state for happiness and wellbeing. The UAE has great weather, beautiful beaches, impressive urban architecture and one of the best retail, leisure and entertainment industries in the world. The country has a massive expat community with close to 90% of the population originating from abroad. With such a wide spectrum of cultures and languages coming together here, the UAE is a diverse country that attracts millions of tourists, foreign workers and long-term expats each year.

 

What do I need to know before moving to the United Arab Emirates?

The UAE has several visa options to choose from. Passport holders from selected countries can enter the UAE for 30 days with a free visa on arrival. Passport holders from a long list of countries are eligible for a 90-day multiple entry visa that is valid for six months from the date of issue. Various other prearranged UAE visas are available at affordable rates.

The UAE government recently approved a new five-year multiple entry tourist visa. Available to all passport holders, this is a welcome solution for people who frequently travel to the UAE for family visits or work purposes. Applicants must have a passport with six-month validity, medical insurance that is valid in the UAE, and a bank statement with a minimum balance of $4,000 (or the equivalent in a foreign currency).

 

Ready to relocate to the United Arab Emirates?

For home relocation services in Dubai or pet relocation to/from Dubai, reach out to us to book a free consultation with one of our relocation agents in Australia. If you want to learn more about the benefits of relocating for families and individuals, relocation benefits for employees, or other useful information and guidance regarding international relocation, head over to the Claymore Thistle blog!

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