Complete Guide to Moving to Dubai & the UAE in 2025

Dubai has transformed itself from a desert trading post into one of the most sought-after relocation destinations on the planet — and the numbers back it up. A city where your income tax rate is zero percent, internet speeds exceed 100 Mbps, and over 85% of the population is expatriate. It is not a place that merely tolerates newcomers. It was built by them.

Consistently ranked among the top destinations globally for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and corporate relocators, Dubai offers a combination that is hard to find anywhere else: world-class infrastructure, zero income tax, exceptional safety, and a geographic position that puts you within a six-hour flight of 60% of the world’s population.

But moving to Dubai is not as simple as landing at DXB and opening a bank account. Visa categories, free zone structures, cultural expectations, the brutal summer heat, and the real cost of living (which is higher than many “tax-free paradise” articles suggest) all demand careful planning. This guide covers everything — the data, the logistics, and the honest trade-offs.

At WhereNext, we score every country across seven data-driven dimensions using institutional sources. The UAE consistently ranks among the top destinations globally. You can explore the full UAE country profile for real-time data, or keep reading for the comprehensive breakdown.

Why Dubai? The Data Behind the Boom

Before we get into visas and neighborhoods, here is why the UAE — and Dubai specifically — ranks so high across the dimensions that matter most to relocators.

Those scores are aggregated from the Global Peace Index, World Bank infrastructure data, WHO healthcare metrics, and immigration policy databases. The UAE is one of the few countries that scores exceptionally high on infrastructure and economic opportunity while also maintaining top-tier safety.

Visa Types: How to Legally Move to Dubai

The UAE has dramatically expanded its visa options in recent years, making it easier than ever for foreigners to live and work in Dubai long-term. Here are the main pathways for 2025.

Golden Visa (5 or 10 Year Residency)

The UAE Golden Visa is one of the most attractive long-term residency programs in the world. It grants 5 or 10 years of renewable residency without the need for a national sponsor — a significant departure from the traditional UAE sponsorship model. Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members and enjoy the freedom to enter and exit the country without residency cancellation.

Eligibility categories include: investors (AED 2 million+ in property or business), entrepreneurs with approved startups, skilled professionals earning AED 30,000+ per month in specialized fields, exceptional students and graduates, and freelancers in specific sectors. The real estate route is the most popular: purchase property worth AED 2 million (approximately $545,000) and you qualify.

Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme)

Launched in 2021 and refined since, the UAE’s remote work visa allows you to live in Dubai while working for an employer or clients outside the UAE. The visa is valid for one year and renewable. Requirements include proof of employment or business ownership outside the UAE, a minimum monthly income of $3,500 (AED 13,000), health insurance valid in the UAE, and a clean criminal record.

This visa is ideal for remote workers and digital nomads who want to experience Dubai without setting up a local business entity. You get a UAE residence visa, can open a bank account, and enjoy the zero-income-tax benefit — though your home country’s tax obligations may still apply depending on your citizenship and residency status.

Freelancer Visa (Free Zone Permit)

The freelancer visa allows individuals to work independently in the UAE without a traditional employer. Available through various free zones (more on those below), the freelancer permit typically costs AED 7,500–15,000 per year ($2,000–$4,100) depending on the free zone and profession. Popular free zones for freelancers include Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and the newer Dubai Creative Clusters Authority.

The freelancer visa grants residency, the ability to sponsor dependents, and a UAE Emirates ID — which unlocks banking, mobile contracts, and all other services. It is the most common pathway for self-employed professionals relocating to Dubai.

Employment Visa

The traditional route: a UAE-based employer sponsors your residency. The employer handles most of the paperwork and covers the visa costs. Employment visas are valid for 2–3 years and are tied to the sponsoring company. If you change jobs, you need a new visa — though recent reforms have made this process smoother with a 180-day grace period after employment ends.

Key benefit: your employer is required by law to provide health insurance, and many companies also offer housing allowances, annual flights home, and end-of-service gratuity payments (roughly 21 days of salary per year for the first five years).

The Zero Income Tax Advantage

This is the headline that draws most people in — and it is real. The UAE imposes no personal income tax on salaries, freelance income, investment gains, or rental income earned by individuals. There is no capital gains tax, no wealth tax, and no inheritance tax. Your gross salary is effectively your net salary.

A few important nuances. The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax in June 2023, applicable to business profits exceeding AED 375,000 ($102,000). This affects companies but not individuals. There is also a 5% VAT on most goods and services, introduced in 2018. And while there is no income tax in Dubai, your home country may still tax your worldwide income. American citizens, for example, must file US taxes regardless of where they live — though the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows you to exclude over $120,000 of earned income.

For most expats earning $100,000–$300,000, the tax savings compared to a Western country are substantial — often $30,000–$100,000+ per year depending on your home country’s tax rates. This is the single biggest financial incentive for moving to Dubai and should be weighed carefully against the higher cost of living.

Cost of Living: Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi

Dubai is not cheap. The zero-income-tax narrative sometimes obscures the reality that Dubai’s cost of living is comparable to major Western cities. Here is a realistic monthly breakdown for a single professional living in Dubai.

Dubai

A one-bedroom apartment in a popular expat area like Dubai Marina, JLT, or Downtown Dubai runs AED 5,000–9,000 per month ($1,360–$2,450). Studio apartments are available from AED 3,500. Premium addresses like the Palm Jumeirah or DIFC start at AED 10,000+. Rent is the single largest expense and is typically paid in 1–4 post-dated cheques per year (yes, annual cheques are still common, though monthly payments are becoming more available).

Total monthly budget for a single person living comfortably in Dubai: roughly $3,000–$5,000, including rent ($1,500–$2,500), groceries ($400–$600), dining out ($300–$500), transport ($200–$400 with a car or $100–$150 with metro/taxis), utilities including DEWA and cooling ($150–$300), health insurance ($100–$250), and mobile/internet ($80–$120).

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, is generally 10–20% cheaper than Dubai for housing while offering a similar quality of life. A one-bedroom apartment in desirable areas like Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, or Corniche runs AED 4,000–7,000 per month ($1,090–$1,900). The city is quieter, more family-oriented, and increasingly popular with expats who want the UAE lifestyle without Dubai’s intensity.

Total monthly budget for a single person in Abu Dhabi: roughly $2,500–$4,000. Groceries, dining, and entertainment are slightly cheaper across the board. Abu Dhabi also has the Louvre Abu Dhabi, stunning beaches, and a growing cultural scene that rivals Dubai’s. The trade-off is a smaller international community and fewer nightlife options.

Best Areas for Expats in Dubai

Dubai is a sprawling city, and choosing the right neighborhood significantly impacts your daily experience. Here are the most popular areas ranked by composite livability for international residents.

Healthcare: Excellent but Private

Healthcare in the UAE is among the best in the Middle East — but it operates primarily through the private insurance system. In Dubai, employers are legally required to provide health insurance to all employees and their dependents. For freelancers and remote workers, health insurance is a visa requirement.

The quality of care is outstanding. Dubai has world-class hospitals including Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Mediclinic, Aster DM Healthcare, and NMC Health, staffed by internationally trained doctors. Wait times are minimal — you can often see a specialist within days, not weeks. Most medical staff speak English fluently.

Costs for health insurance vary widely. Basic plans start around AED 3,000–5,000 per year ($800–$1,360) and cover essentials. Comprehensive plans with dental, vision, and international coverage run AED 8,000–20,000+ per year($2,180–$5,450+). Without insurance, a GP visit costs AED 200–400 ($55–$110), and a hospital stay can run into thousands quickly. Bottom line: never live in Dubai without health coverage.

Safety: One of the Safest Cities on Earth

Safety is one of Dubai’s most compelling selling points. The UAE consistently ranks among the top 30 on the Global Peace Index, and Dubai specifically is regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is exceptionally rare. Petty crime rates are far below those of comparable global cities.

Women can walk alone at night with a level of safety that is virtually unmatched in major cities. Strict laws, extensive CCTV surveillance, and heavy police presence contribute to this environment. Children play in parks unsupervised, and leaving belongings unattended (while not recommended) is far less risky than in most Western cities.

The trade-off is that Dubai’s safety comes with strict laws. Public intoxication, offensive gestures, and certain behaviors that might be minor infractions elsewhere can carry serious penalties in the UAE. Understanding and respecting local laws is essential — not optional. For a broader safety comparison, see our safest countries to move to guide.

Internet and Connectivity

Dubai’s internet infrastructure is excellent. Average broadband speeds exceed 100 Mbps, with many residential connections offering 250–500 Mbps through providers du and Etisalat (now e&). Fiber-to-the-home is widely available across the city. A standard home internet plan costs AED 299–389 per month ($80–$106) for 250–500 Mbps.

One important caveat: the UAE blocks VoIP services by default. Apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp calling, and Skype have historically been restricted or degraded. Licensed alternatives (like Botim, which costs AED 50/month) are available. Many expats use VPN services, though the legal status of VPNs exists in a gray area — they are legal for legitimate use but illegal if used to access blocked content. This is a notable drawback for remote workers who rely heavily on video-calling tools.

Culture and Social Norms

Dubai is a fascinating cultural paradox. Over 85% of the population is expatriate, making it one of the most internationally diverse cities on earth. You will hear more English, Hindi, and Tagalog on the streets than Arabic. The city is cosmopolitan, modern, and remarkably open by regional standards.

That said, the UAE is an Islamic country, and social norms reflect this heritage. During Ramadan (the holy month of fasting), eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited for everyone — including non-Muslims. Restaurants are curtained off during the day and reopen after sunset for iftar. Ramadan is actually a beautiful experience once you adapt: the city takes on a reflective, communal atmosphere, and iftar gatherings are generous social occasions.

Other social norms to be aware of: modest dress is appreciated (though not strictly enforced in most expat areas), public displays of affection beyond hand-holding are frowned upon, and photographing people without consent — especially Emirati women — is a serious offense. Alcohol is available in licensed venues (hotels, bars, restaurants with permits) and can be purchased for home consumption with a liquor license, which has become easier to obtain in recent years.

The expat social scene in Dubai is vibrant and easy to access. Brunches (a Dubai institution), sports clubs, coworking spaces, professional networking events, and community groups for virtually every nationality make it straightforward to build a social circle. However, some expats note that relationships can feel transient — Dubai’s population turns over constantly as people come on contracts and move on.

Transportation

Dubai’s transportation infrastructure is modern and expanding rapidly, but the city was designed around cars. The Dubai Metro is clean, efficient, and connects key areas (Dubai Marina, JLT, DIFC, Downtown, Deira), but its coverage is limited compared to European or Asian metro systems. The Red and Green lines are the two main routes.

Most expats end up owning or leasing a car. Fuel is cheap by Western standards (approximately AED 3 per liter / $3.10 per gallon), and the road network is excellent. Parking can be challenging and expensive in central areas. Taxis are abundant and affordable — a 15-minute ride typically costs AED 25–40 ($7–$11). Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used.

Walking and cycling are limited by the climate (more on that below) and the spread-out urban design. From November to March, waterfront areas like Dubai Marina and JBR are pleasant for walking. The rest of the year, you will live between air-conditioned spaces.

Housing: The Rental Market

Dubai’s rental market has unique characteristics that catch many newcomers off guard. The most important to understand is the cheque payment system. Landlords traditionally require rent to be paid in 1–4 post-dated cheques for the entire year. Paying in fewer cheques often gets you a lower rent. This means you may need to hand over a significant sum upfront.

Beyond rent, you will pay a DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) deposit of AED 2,000 for an apartment or AED 4,000 for a villa, plus a housing fee of 5% of annual rent payable to the Dubai Municipality. Agent fees are typically 5% of annual rent. The total move-in cost for a one-bedroom apartment can easily reach $5,000–$10,000 when you add up the first cheque, DEWA deposit, agent fee, and housing fee.

Leases are governed by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency), which provides strong tenant protections. Rent increases are capped by a RERA calculator based on market averages. Disputes are handled by the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. Always ensure your lease is registered with Ejari (the official tenancy registration system).

Business Setup: Free Zones

One of Dubai’s most powerful draws for entrepreneurs is the free zone system. Free zones are designated economic areas where foreign nationals can own 100% of their business (without a local sponsor), enjoy zero corporate tax on profits below AED 375,000, and benefit from streamlined business setup processes.

There are over 30 free zones in Dubai, each specializing in different sectors:

• DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre): The largest free zone, suitable for trading, consulting, and services. Voted “Global Free Zone of the Year” multiple times. License costs start around AED 15,000/year.
• Dubai Internet City / Dubai Media City: Tech and media companies. Home to Google, Microsoft, LinkedIn, and hundreds of startups. Popular for freelancer permits in tech and creative fields.
• DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre): Financial services hub with its own legal system based on English common law. Premium but prestigious.
• Dubai South: Logistics and e-commerce, located near Al Maktoum International Airport. Growing rapidly.
• IFZA (International Free Zone Authority): One of the most affordable options, popular with solopreneurs and small businesses.

Total setup costs for a free zone company typically range from AED 15,000–50,000 ($4,000–$13,600), depending on the free zone and license type. This includes the trade license, visa allocation, and registered office address. Annual renewal runs roughly 60–80% of the initial setup cost.

Since 2020, the UAE has also allowed 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies in most sectors, reducing the historical advantage of free zones. However, free zones still offer benefits in terms of corporate tax, simplified processes, and sector-specific ecosystems.

Climate: The Elephant in the Room

This is the section that many “move to Dubai” articles underplay. Dubai’s climate is extreme. There is no other way to put it.

From October to April, Dubai is genuinely pleasant. Temperatures range from 20–30°C (68–86°F), humidity is manageable, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. This is when the city comes alive — beach clubs, desert safaris, outdoor dining, and rooftop bars are all at their best. Many expats describe these months as perfect.

From May to September, the reality shifts dramatically. Temperatures regularly hit 40–50°C (104–122°F), with humidity levels that can exceed 90% along the coast. Walking outdoors for more than a few minutes is physically uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. The city becomes an indoor-to-indoor experience: air-conditioned apartment to air-conditioned car to air-conditioned office to air-conditioned mall.

Many expats plan their year around this reality. Summer is when people travel — school holidays align with the hottest months, and many companies offer extended leave or remote work flexibility during July and August. If you work remotely, some expats spend summers in Europe or their home country and return for Dubai’s glorious winter months.

Practical Steps: Your Moving to Dubai Checklist

Here is the step-by-step process most expats follow when relocating to Dubai. The order matters.

1. Secure your visa pathway: Determine whether you will go the employment, freelancer, remote work, or Golden Visa route. Each has different requirements and timelines. Employer visas are the fastest; Golden Visas require the most capital.
2. Fly to Dubai on a tourist visa: Most nationalities receive a 30–90 day visa on arrival. Use this time to find housing, open a bank account (once you have your Emirates ID), and explore neighborhoods in person.
3. Get your Emirates ID: This is your essential identification in the UAE. It is issued as part of the visa process and required for virtually everything — banking, phone contracts, DEWA registration, and more.
4. Open a UAE bank account: Emirates NBD, ADCB, FAB, and Mashreq are the main banks. Digital-first options like Liv. (by Emirates NBD) and Wio Bank cater to expats. You will need your Emirates ID, passport, visa, and proof of income.
5. Secure housing and register with Ejari: Find an apartment, negotiate the cheque structure, pay DEWA deposit, and register your tenancy contract through Ejari. Budget 4–6 weeks for this process.
6. Set up health insurance: If not provided by your employer, purchase a DHA-compliant health insurance plan. This is mandatory for visa holders.
7. Register for utilities and internet: DEWA for electricity and water, du or e& for internet and mobile. All require your Emirates ID and Ejari registration.
8. Get a driving license: Some nationalities can convert their home license directly; others must take UAE driving lessons and pass a test. Check the RTA website for your country’s status.

For a complete pre-move checklist covering documents, finances, and logistics, see our moving abroad checklist.

Is Moving to Dubai Right for You?

Dubai is an extraordinary destination, but it is not for everyone. Here is an honest assessment of who thrives here and who might be better suited elsewhere.

Dubai is ideal for:

• High earners who want to maximize take-home pay through zero income tax
• Entrepreneurs looking to set up a business with minimal bureaucracy and 100% foreign ownership
• Remote workers earning in USD, GBP, or EUR who want world-class infrastructure and safety
• Families seeking excellent international schools, safe neighborhoods, and a high standard of living
• Professionals in finance, tech, real estate, and consulting where Dubai’s job market is booming

Dubai may not be ideal for:

• Budget-conscious expats — Dubai’s cost of living is high, and the tax savings only matter if you earn enough to benefit meaningfully
• People who prioritize outdoor lifestyles — six months of extreme heat limits outdoor activities significantly
• Those who want deep cultural immersion — Dubai’s expat-majority population means the experience is international rather than traditionally Middle Eastern
• LGBTQ+ individuals — the UAE’s legal framework does not recognize same-sex relationships, and public expression is restricted
• People who want permanent settlement — the UAE does not offer a straightforward path to citizenship for most expats

The best way to decide is to compare the UAE directly against other countries that interest you, weighted by the dimensions you care about most. Our personalized quiz generates a custom country ranking based on your specific priorities — cost, safety, healthcare, visa access, lifestyle, infrastructure, and economic stability.

Your Next Steps

Dubai is one of the most exciting relocation destinations in the world — a city where ambition is the default setting and the infrastructure matches the aspiration. The zero tax advantage is real, the safety is exceptional, and the quality of life for those who can afford it is outstanding. But the heat, the cost, and the cultural adjustments are equally real.

• Explore the UAE’s country profile — real-time data on cost, safety, healthcare, visas, and more.
• Compare the UAE head-to-head — put the UAE against Portugal, Thailand, Singapore, or any other destination on the metrics that matter to you.
• Take the WhereNext quiz — 2 minutes to get a personalized country ranking based on your priorities.
• Do a trial run — spend 2–4 weeks in Dubai during both the pleasant season (Nov–Mar) and the hot season (Jun–Aug) before committing. The difference matters.

The data says the UAE is one of the top relocation destinations in the world for the right profile. The question is whether it is the right destination for you. Start with the numbers, factor in your non-negotiables, and experience it firsthand.