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...
Everything went smoothly
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
I had previously used your services
How would you rate the way we dealt with your initial enquiry?
10/10
How would you rate the survey that we carried out?
9/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
I‘ve previously used your services
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
John, Anthony and Danny were very helpful and courteous.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
The only improvement I can think of is possibly come to the property for the survey.
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 smoothly
Available at very short notice
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
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?
9/10
Why did you choose to move/store with us?
You were available at very short notice.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Paul, Alan Tony and crew were always extremely helpful, efficient and accommodating.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
We were satisfied with handling.
How likely are you to recommend us to your friends / family?
9/10
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your move?
Our move was very last minute but Darren managed to resolve the situation and solve all problems expertly.
William Frame​From quote to removal, excellent service
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Good reviews 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?
Explained everything to us and reasonably priced
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
They worked efficiently and nothing was too much trouble even though we wasn’t sure if the move would go ahead
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Nothing to change
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?
From quote to removal, excellent service
Impressed by your representative and his suggestions for the move
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
We found you on the internet and were impressed by your representative and his suggestions for the 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?
Because you gave me a reasonable quote.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Very helpful efficient and cheerful
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Your phone contact was very helpful, and even came back to us after a very short time with a replacement after initially saying you had no availability for our chosen date
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?
Very professional from start to finish
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