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...
They took great care in moving items of all shapes and sizes
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Quote was reasonable. Found contact online. You also dealt with confidential shredding on our behalf
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?
Your office is near Stone. You had already transported items to a flat in Stone and 2 independent properties in Cambridge.
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Adrian, Anthony and Alan organised the furniture with patience, sensitively and with energy.
They took great care in moving items of all shapes and sizes. Our previous experience of this team made us feel safe in their hands. Please pass on my thanks to them.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
I was satisfied from the minute your receptionist responded to my phone call, Matthew came and assessed the amount and the team arrived.
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?
I would book you again either for shredding or furniture removal.
Email to Claire
Just taking a break from unpacking & taking the opportunity to say a big thank you to all of you for our move.
To you, for your perseverance with my ever changing requests.
But, big shout out to Adam, Gaz & Ade. Despite being delayed by an accident on the motorway they were super efficient at getting everything packed up from our old house. And then the fiasco when they arrived at our new property. They never once complained, made every effort to make the best of the situation and all with a smile on their faces. We helped out as much as we could to ensure that they would be able to get away home this morning. We couldn't have wished for a better team. We've said our thanks to them as well and will be leaving a google review.
Again, many thanks
Jane ShawFriendly, efficient and helpful
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
I knew Robert Goodwin and the good reputation.
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?
Excellent reputation
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Friendly, efficient and helpful
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Better online forms maybe?
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?
Nothing really
Enthusiastic, positive and professional
Why did you choose to get a quote from us and where did you get our contact details?
Google reviews
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?
Great google reviews
How would you rate your move team?
10/10
Would you like to tell us anything about your move team?
Fantastic. Tyler and the team (and there were many over the three days) were positive and professional throughout. They dealt with a nervous buyer with great empathy and always tried to put me at ease. They were enthusiastic, positive and professional. Thank you so much.
How would you rate our communication?
10/10
How can we improve our service?
Possibly with the quote acceptance online. It was somewhat confusing. However, when I phoned up with my queries, Catherine was amazing and sorted it all out for me.
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?
Brilliant
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