1.Come to live in the Emirates for at least a couple of months.
Before making the final decision about moving to the UAE, it’s advised to spend some time here — not only in order to better grasp local culture and way of life but also to determine if that option really suits you. Living in the Emirates will give you an opportunity to:
- Gauge the quality of life, weather and day-to-day conditions.
- Research the districts to choose the most suitable for your living.
- Understand the local habits, traditions and business environment that would ease the integration into the new conditions.
2.Choose the appropriate visa type.
You should choose the best type of the visa based on your goals (work, education,
launching a business in the UAE or permanent residency).
Dubai also offers special long-term visa opportunities for foreign investors and skilled professionals. Choosing the correct type of visa will determine your legal status in the country and simplify the integration process.
3.Learn English and Arabic
Even though English is so wide-spread in Dubai that many locals are fluent in it, knowledge of Arabic will make your life a lot simpler. Learning some common phrases will be helpful for everyday situations and it would demonstrate your respect for the country you came to. In addition, knowledge of Arabic is considered a significant advantage in the business environment, aiding in your networking efforts.
4.Get acquainted with the local laws and culture.
Dubai is a place where modern practices and traditional norms combine, so respect towards local customs and laws is expected. For example, if you got the visa, you should be aware of all the strict UAE rules regarding public behaviour, religious practices and legal regulations.
Respect towards local culture and traditions will help you in avoiding misunderstandings and miscommunication, as well as develop good relationships with the people around you.
5.Put the financial matters in order ahead of time.
Before moving to Dubai permanently, you should consider your financial matters.
Opening a personal account in the UAE, understanding the local currency and taxation system will allow you to effectively manage your finances. Since most Dubai banks require proof of residency, this is the issue that should be resolved as soon as you move. Consider the following:
- Local banks and their services.
- Opening a multi-currency account to avoid additional spending on currency conversion.
Clear understanding of the cost of living and price ranges in Dubai will also help you in creating an appropriate budget for yourself.