Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Moving to the UAE

Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 18, 2023

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to UAE for its tax-free income, modern infrastructure, and high quality of life. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in UAE are Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. People can find a place to live in UAE by searching online for rental properties, using a real estate agent, or asking friends and family for recommendations.

What do I need to know before moving to the UAE?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to the UAE, they said:

"Make sure you negotiate with your employer to cover your accommodation or include high accommodation allowance. Living in a compound in a villa is the best choice - one can find many European expatriates to be among with," said one expat in Abu Dhabi.

"You will need to make a trade-off between living "on-island" at a higher cost for a smaller place, or "off-island" for more space and a yard. Since social isolation is a big hazard, I would put a very high priority on living "on-island" rather than out in the boondocks where you need to drive long distances for amenities," said one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi.

Answer Question & View More Answers

How do I find a place to live in the UAE?

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

Contribute to UAE Network Contribute
Help others in UAE by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in UAE.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal