Dubai, the crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates, is a city that needs no introduction. This city has become a popular destination for immigrants looking for new opportunities and experiences. It’s no wonder that this Emirati marvel attracts a growing number of expats each year who choose to immigrate to Dubai. In fact, over 85% of Dubai’s population is foreign-born.
For those looking to immigrate to Dubai, several options are available. A common way is through a work visa, where individuals secure employment with a company in Dubai. Another option is an investor visa for those looking to start a business or invest in the city. Additionally, Dubai offers residency visas for retirees, students, and freelancers, making it a welcoming destination for individuals from all walks of life.
If you’re among those planning to immigrate to Dubai, you’re at the right place. We’ll explain everything and explore different ways to make this city of gold your new home.
Why Should You Migrate to Dubai, UAE?
Dubai can be a very attractive place to migrate to, here are some of the reasons why:
- Tax-Free Living: In the UAE, Dubai is a tax haven, with no income tax for individuals and low corporate taxes. This means you get to keep more of your money, which can significantly boost your savings and standard of living. The dream of living tax-free in a country isn’t a dream anymore.
- Career Opportunities: Dubai has a booming economy with a strong job market, especially for skilled professionals. There are many multinational corporations and businesses in Dubai which offer a wide range of opportunities across various sectors.
- Travel Hub: Dubai’s geographical location makes it a major travel hub, with easy access to Europe, Asia, and Africa. In fact, Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest in the world.
- Free Zones: Dubai has numerous free zones catering to various industries. These zones offer significant advantages like 100% foreign ownership, exemption on corporate and income tax, and streamlined customs procedures which make them ideal for establishing businesses with minimal bureaucracy.
- Family-Friendly: Immigrating to Dubai offers a high standard of living with excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and many family-oriented activities. Theme parks, water parks, museums, and kid-centric events provide endless entertainment options for families.
- Visionary Leadership: Dubai’s leadership is focused on ambitious future plans, including the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to make Dubai one of the world’s best cities to live and work in.
Ways to Immigrate to Dubai
To live in Dubai, you need a residence visa. This is your key to legally residing in the emirate, and it’s typically tied to your purpose for being there—whether for work, study, investment, or retirement.
Here are the primary pathways to obtaining your Dubai residency:
1. Employment Visa (The Most Common Route)
This is the standard route for professionals recruited by a company in Dubai.
- How it Works: Your employer acts as your sponsor. They secure an initial work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), followed by a residence visa from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Key Features:
- Tied to your employment contract (typically 2-3 years and renewable).
- Allows you to live and work legally for that specific employer.
- The most straightforward path for those with in-demand skills.
- Key Authority: GDRFA manages the residence visa and issues your Emirates ID.
2. Investor Visa (For Business Owners)
This visa is designed for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a business presence.
- How it Works: You can qualify by either:
- Starting a new company with a minimum capital of AED 10 million.
- Investing a minimum of AED 10 million as a partner in an existing company.
- Who It’s For: Individuals with substantial capital who want to run a business in Dubai and gain residency through their investment.
3. Property Investor Visa
A popular option for those investing in Dubai’s real estate market.
- How it Works: By investing a minimum amount in a freehold property (either off-plan or completed), you become eligible for a residence visa.
- Who It’s For: Individuals who wish to gain residency through real estate investment, often with a lower entry point than a business investor visa.
4. Golden Visa (Long-Term Residency)
A prestigious, long-term visa aimed at attracting top talent, investors, and professionals.
- How it Works: Offers residency for 5 or 10 years, renewable, with greater flexibility as it is not tied to a specific employer.
- Eligibility: Varies by category but includes significant investors, entrepreneurs, individuals with exceptional talents, and outstanding students and researchers.
5. Freelance Visa (For Remote Workers & Consultants)
A modern visa solution for the growing independent workforce.
- How it Works: Allows freelancers and remote workers to live in Dubai while servicing clients globally. It requires meeting specific income criteria.
- Important Note: This visa does not permit you to be directly employed by a single local UAE company.
- Who It’s For: Self-employed professionals, digital nomads, and consultants with a stable income stream.
6. Student Visa
For those pursuing higher education in Dubai’s renowned institutions.
- How it Works: Full-time students enrolled in a recognized university or higher education institution in Dubai are eligible for a student residency visa.
- Who It’s For: International students aiming to study in Dubai.
7. Retirement Visa
For financially independent individuals looking to retire in the sun.
- How it Works: Applicants must be over 55 years old and provide proof of sufficient and stable income or substantial savings to support themselves without working.
- Who It’s For: Retirees who wish to enjoy their retirement years in Dubai.
How to Immigrate to Dubai, UAE
Immigrating to Dubai involves several steps, including obtaining the appropriate visa, preparing necessary documentation, and adhering to local regulations. Here’s the general immigration process:
Step 1. Choose Your Visa
Dubai offers various visas catering to different purposes. Popular options include work visas, investor visas, golden visas, and student visas. Research each option thoroughly to find the one that aligns with your goals (employment, investment, education, etc.).
Step 2. Secure Necessary Documents
The documents required will vary depending on your chosen visa type. However, some common documents include:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Educational certificates
- Medical test results
- Proof of income (for some visas)
- Job offers letter (for employment visas)
- Property ownership documents (for investor visas)
- Business plan
Step 3. Apply for Your Visa
The application process typically involves submitting the required documents to the Dubai Immigration Department or a visa processing agency. You may need to pay processing fees and attend medical tests.
Step 4. Wait for Approval
Processing times can vary depending on the visa type and workload of the authorities. Be prepared to wait for several weeks or even months.
Step 5. Receive Your Visa and Emirates ID
If your application is successful, you’ll receive your visa stamped on your passport. Upon arrival in Dubai, you’ll need to collect your Emirates ID, which serves as your residency permit.
The New Immigration Law in the UAE
The core legislation governing immigration in the UAE is Federal Law No. 6 of 1973 Concerning Immigration and Residence. However, this law is amended and supplemented by various decrees and cabinet decisions.
Here are some of the key features of the new system:
- Five-Year Green Visa: This visa allows skilled workers and freelancers to live and work in the UAE for five years without needing a company sponsor. Green visa holders can also sponsor their families.
- Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: This visa offers a longer stay option for tourists, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days with the possibility of extensions.
- Expanded Golden Visa: The validity of the Golden Visa has been increased to ten years. This visa is aimed at attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with exceptional talents.
The overall reforms aim to make the UAE a more attractive destination for skilled professionals and foreign investors. This is achieved by offering longer visa durations, residency options without employer sponsorship, and a more streamlined application process.
Things to Consider When You Immigrate to the UAE
Moving to the UAE is an exciting opportunity, but there are essential considerations to ensure a smooth transition. Here are essential things to consider while immigrating to Dubai:
1. Manage Your Visa and Work Permit
You’ll require a visa and a work permit to reside and work in the United Arab Emirates. A work permit, sometimes known as a labor card, is required to work in the UAE. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation issues these papers (MoHRE).
Your company is legally obligated to arrange a work and residency permit for you to safely immigrate to Dubai. However, there are steps you may take to get the process started. Note that this is the paperwork that proves you have the authority to enter the nation. One of these can be obtained through the UAE’s e-channels portal or a variety of government-sponsored applications.
2. Take Care of Your Finances
Given the UAE’s role as the Middle East’s financial center, it should come as no surprise that obtaining financial services, such as opening a business bank account, is rather straightforward. You’ll be able to make a quick phone call after your resident visa has been approved, and the rest will be taken care of for you.
Some expatriates choose to use foreign bank accounts, such as those established in their native country. Shifting to a local account, on the other hand, has advantages. It only takes a couple of days to set up an account. You can begin the process with your authentic passport, a copy of your visa and residency authorization, salary proof, and your Emirates ID.
3. Choose a Business Activity
The UAE offers a variety of free zones and mainland options for company formation. Each zone has its own regulations and business activities it allows. Carefully research and choose the location that best suits your business activity.
4. Taxation
The UAE has a territorial tax system, meaning you typically only pay tax on income generated within the country. Corporate tax was recently introduced, but it applies to specific business activities and profit thresholds. It’s important to understand the potential tax implications for your business.
Stress-Free Immigration to Dubai? It’s Possible!
Moving to Dubai can open a lot of great opportunities, from earning tax-free income and finding exciting job prospects to enjoying a luxurious lifestyle and experiencing diverse cultures.
For an even easier transition, consider working with a trusted business setup consultant like Shuraa. Our experts at Shuraa can help you with everything you need, from registering your company and getting the right licenses to handling paperwork, visa applications, PRO services, finding office space, and much more. Our support can make your move to Dubai as easy and stress-free as possible.
Get in touch today at +971 44081900 or WhatsApp at +971 507775554 or drop an email at info@shuraa.com.
Start your new journey in Dubai with confidence, knowing you have expert help to guide you every step of the way. Welcome to your new home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which are the best ways to immigrate to Dubai?
The best ways to immigrate to Dubai involve obtaining a residency visa through securing a job, making an investment (like the Golden Visa), establishing a business, or qualifying for specialized visas such as the Green Visa for skilled professionals, freelancers, or the Virtual Work Visa. Family sponsorship and student visas are also options for those with a resident family member or who are enrolling in a UAE higher education institution.
2. What are the benefits of immigrating to Dubai?
Dubai offers a high standard of living with sunshine, excellent infrastructure, and a tax-free environment. It boasts a multicultural society, world-class entertainment, and strategic access to global markets.
3. Can I obtain citizenship in the UAE?
Obtaining citizenship in the UAE, also known as Emirati nationality, is generally quite difficult for foreigners. Unlike some other countries, there isn’t a straightforward path to citizenship through permanent residency.
4. How much money do I need to immigrate to Dubai?
Financial requirements vary depending on the visa type. Investor visas require a minimum investment, while work visas typically don’t. However, you’ll need to demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses.
5. Do I need to learn Arabic to live in Dubai?
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business and daily life. While learning basic Arabic can be helpful for cultural immersion, it’s not essential for everyday living in Dubai.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
