How can I live and work in Dubai?

To live and work in Dubai, you need to navigate several steps and comply with the local regulations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Obtaining a Residency Visa

To live in Dubai, you must obtain a residency visa. Here are the main ways to achieve this:

Through Employment

• Secure a job offer from a Dubai-based employer. Your employer will sponsor your residency visa and handle the necessary paperwork, including your work permit. You will need to provide documents such as your passport, educational qualifications, and other specified documents235.

Property Investment

• Invest in property worth over AED 1 million. This investment qualifies you for a renewable residency visa15.

Business Ownership

• If you own a business in Dubai, you can obtain a residency visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). You will need to provide proof of your business ownership and meet other requirements1.

Work Permit and Residency Visa Process

• Once you have a job offer, your employer will apply for your work permit and residency visa. You will need to provide a coloured picture, a copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months), the ministry’s formal employment offer form, academic documentation, and a professional license if applicable235.

Entry Permit

• After your visa is issued, you will need to obtain an entry permit, which is an electronic document allowing you to enter the UAE to finalize your residency visa procedures. This permit is usually valid for 2 months2.

Residency Visa and Emirates ID

• Upon entering Dubai with your entry permit, you will need to apply for your residency visa. Once this is issued, you can obtain an Emirates ID, which is a mandatory identification document for all residents25.

Cost of Living and Salary Requirements

• The cost of living in Dubai can be high. It is advisable to have a monthly income ranging from AED 18,000 to AED 30,000 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Housing expenses typically range from 15% to 30% of your monthly salary, while food and transportation costs around 15% each2.

Legal and Cultural Considerations

• Health insurance is mandatory for all workers in Dubai. Many companies also offer additional benefits such as transportation and housing allowances, relocation assistance, and annual leave3.
• Dubai has a professional work culture with a focus on punctuality and respect for hierarchy. English is widely spoken, but learning Arabic can garner respect from locals5.
• Ensure you comply with local customs and laws, including dressing modestly in public and following specific business etiquette rules5.

Alternative Options: Virtual Work Visa

• If you work remotely, Dubai offers a Virtual Work Visa that allows you to live and work in Dubai for a year. This visa does not require you to have a local employer but does have specific income and health insurance requirements4.

By following these steps and understanding the local regulations and cultural norms, you can successfully live and work in Dubai.