Dubai Relocation Checklist

Most expats say it takes 3-6 months to feel truly settled. The first month is admin-heavy (visa, bank, housing). Months 2-3 are about finding your routine. By month 6, you should have a social circle, know your way around, and feel at home. Give yourself grace during the adjustment period.

For most people: ship sentimental items and quality furniture, buy the rest in Dubai. Shipping a 20ft container costs AED 8,000-15,000 from most countries. IKEA, Home Centre, and secondhand markets (Dubizzle) are affordable options. Electronics are similarly priced to home. Consider the math: shipping cost vs. replacement cost.

Yes, but it's harder. Without an employer sponsor, your options are: Remote Work Visa (need $3,500+/month foreign income), Freelance Visa (AED 12-20K/year), Free Zone Company (AED 15-50K/year), or Golden Visa (requires investment). Many people come on a tourist visa first to job hunt, then convert once employed.

Bring originals AND copies of: passport, degree certificates (attested if required), marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, driving license, medical records, vaccination records, reference letters from employers. Keep digital copies in cloud storage too.

Minimum 3 months of living expenses, ideally 6 months. Budget for: first month hotel/Airbnb (AED 5,000-15,000), security deposit (5% of annual rent), first rent cheque (often 3-4 months), DEWA deposit (AED 2,000), furniture if needed. Total: AED 30,000-80,000 depending on lifestyle.

Common and manageable. You can extend tourist visas (30 days at a time) or do a visa run to Oman. Don't book long-term accommodation until your visa is confirmed. Most employers understand delays. Keep your home country affairs flexible until you have residence visa in hand.

Usually better to sell at home and buy in Dubai. Importing a car involves shipping costs, customs (5% of value), registration, and ensuring it meets UAE specs. Dubai has excellent car deals, especially used vehicles. Exception: rare/classic cars you're attached to.

Start the pet import process 3-4 months before travel. Requirements: microchip, rabies vaccination (30+ days before travel), import permit from MOCCAE, health certificate. Some breeds are banned. Consider using a pet relocation service (AED 3,000-8,000) — it's worth the reduced stress.