What do I need to know before moving to UAE?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to UAE, they said...
"Before moving to the UAE, expats should be aware of the local laws and customs. It is important to respect the local culture and dress modestly in public. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in the UAE, as it is generally higher than in other countries. Additionally, expats should research the job market and the availability of housing in the area they are moving to. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before arriving in the UAE," explained one expat living in UAE.
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"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 another expat in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to the UAE?
- How do I find a place to live in the UAE?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in the UAE?
- What is the average cost of housing in the UAE?
- Should I buy or rent a home in the UAE?
- What should I pack when moving to the UAE?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in the UAE?
- Why do people move to the UAE?
- What are healthcare services like in the UAE?
- What are medical services in the UAE like?
- What are typical rents in the UAE?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before moving to UAE?
If you live in the UAE, newcomers to the UAE would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
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.