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A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

United Arab Emirates

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

United Arab Emirates

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

United Arab Emirates

GUIDE FOR

Moving to the United Arab Emirates? Here is what you need to know

Moving to the United Arab Emirates? Here is what you need to know

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for expats, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Known for its modern cities, diverse international communities, tax-free income, and luxurious lifestyle, the UAE offers incredible opportunities for work and leisure. Whether you’re drawn to Dubai’s futuristic skyline, Abu Dhabi’s cultural richness, or the relaxed lifestyle of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE provides a dynamic and comfortable environment for newcomers.

To make your relocation smooth, it’s important to understand the country’s culture, work environment, climate, and practical considerations.
This guide provides an overview of the UAE’s culture, work life, language basics, and essential relocation insights.

How much does it cost to move to the UAE?

Moving to the UAE can vary significantly in cost depending on your origin, shipment size, and transport method. Below are realistic price ranges to help you estimate your relocation budget.

Average moving costs by region of origin

  • From the Europe: €2,500 – €6,000

  • From the UK: €3,000 - 7000€

  • From North America (USA/Canada): €5,500 – €11,500

  • From Shouth America (USA/Canada): €5,500 – €11,500

  • From Asia: €2,000 – €5,000

  • From Middle East: €2,500 – €6,000

Actual costs depend on your shipment volume, whether you choose shared or full container services, and options like packing, customs support, insurance, or storage.

Factors that influence your moving cost

  • Distance and origin country

  • Volume of belongings (m³)

  • Transport method:

    • Sea freight – the most economical

    • Air freight – fast but expensive

  • Seasonal demand: prices may rise during summer

  • Additional services: packing, storage, customs handling, pet relocation, vehicle shipment

Typical examples

  • Move from France to Dubai with 10 m³: €3,000 – €4,500

  • Couple relocating from the USA to Abu Dhabi with 20 m³: €6,000 – €9,000

  • Family moving from Australia to Sharjah with 30 m³: €8,000 – €12,000

For exact pricing, a personalised quote based on your belongings and services needed is recommended.

A Glimpse into the UAE

Geography and climate

The UAE is located on the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Saudi Arabia and Oman, with coastlines along the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Its landscapes range from golden deserts and oases to ultra-modern cities and pristine beaches.

Climate characteristics include:

  • Extremely hot summers: often exceeding 40°C

  • Mild, pleasant winters: 20–28°C

  • Low rainfall: most precipitation falls in winter

  • High humidity: especially near the coast

The best period to enjoy outdoor life is from October to April.

A snapshot of history

The UAE’s transformation is one of the most remarkable in modern history.

Key historical highlights:

  • Pre-oil era: Bedouin tribes, pearl diving, desert trade routes

  • 1950s–1960s: discovery of oil reshapes the economy

  • 1971: formation of the United Arab Emirates under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

  • Modern era: rapid development into a global business hub and cultural powerhouse

Despite its futuristic cities, the UAE maintains strong cultural traditions and proud heritage sites.

Diving into Emirati culture

Emirati culture is shaped by hospitality, respect, family values, and Islamic traditions. The UAE is multicultural, with expats from more than 200 nationalities living together respectfully.

Food and drink

While global cuisine is everywhere, traditional Emirati dishes offer rich Middle Eastern flavours:

  • Machbous (spiced rice with meat or fish)

  • Harees

  • Luqaimat (sweet dumplings)

  • Shawarma & falafel

  • Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates

Dining and sharing food are central elements of hospitality.

Festivals

The UAE hosts a wide range of cultural, religious, and modern festivals:

  • National Day (2 December)

  • Eid Al Fitr & Eid Al Adha

  • Dubai Shopping Festival

  • Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix

  • Art Dubai & Abu Dhabi Art

These events highlight the UAE’s blend of tradition and modern global culture.

Lifestyle and social norms

Life in the UAE is shaped by respect, safety, and community values.

Key cultural aspects:

  • Hospitality: offering drinks and greeting warmly is common

  • Respectful behaviour: modest dress is appreciated in public spaces

  • Safety: one of the world's safest countries

  • Modern lifestyle: shopping malls, beaches, dining, and entertainment

  • Family-friendly environment: excellent schools, healthcare, and recreation

The UAE offers both fast-paced city life and peaceful suburban living.

Working in the UAE

The UAE is a global magnet for professionals due to its strong economy and tax-free income.

Business culture

  • Professional, respectful, relationship-driven

  • Hierarchy is recognised, but workplaces are diverse

  • Meetings may begin with informal conversation

  • Punctuality and presentation matter

  • Workweeks may vary (typical Monday–Friday schedule in most sectors)

Job opportunities for expats

The UAE offers strong career prospects in:

  • Finance & banking

  • Tourism & hospitality

  • Real estate

  • Aviation

  • Engineering & construction

  • Technology & digital industries

  • Healthcare

  • Education

Dubai and Abu Dhabi also attract digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs with flexible visa options.

  • العربية (Arabic) Made simple

While English is widely spoken in the UAE, learning basic Arabic phrases can help you connect more deeply with locals.

Common Arabic phrases

English

Arabic

Hello

مرحباً (Marhaba)

Goodbye

مع السلامة (Ma’a as-salama)

Thank you

شكراً (Shukran)

Please

من فضلك (Min fadlak/fadlik)

How are you?

كيف حالك؟ (Kaifa haluk?)

I don’t understand

لا أفهم (La afham)

Where is the nearest…?

أين أقرب…؟ (Ayna aqrab…?)

Can you help me?

هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟ (Hal yumkinuka musa’adati?)

How much does this cost?

بكم هذا؟ (Bikam hatha?)

Do you speak English?

هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟ (Hal tatakallam al-ingliziyya?)

Even a few words can make a big difference in daily life.

Final thoughts

The United Arab Emirates offers a vibrant mix of opportunity, luxury, multicultural living, and warm hospitality. Whether you're relocating for career growth, lifestyle, business, or family reasons, the UAE provides a dynamic and rewarding place to call home.

Embrace its forward-thinking spirit, enjoy its diverse culture, and discover why so many people choose the UAE as their new beginning.

مرحباً بكم في الإمارات!

Sponsors

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

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ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote Ltd

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Aetna Health Insurance

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Agato Visa & Immigration

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Allianz Care

Allianz Care

Allianz Care

Allianz Care is a global leader in international health insurance, providing comprehensive medical coverage for individuals, families, and businesses worldwide. Specializing in expatriate and corporate healthcare plans, Allianz Care ensures access to high-quality medical services, no matter where life takes you.

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April International

April International

April International

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Whether you're an expatriate, student, frequent traveler, au pair, or business, we offer flexible insurance solutions for anyone traveling abroad. From registration to reimbursement, we make it easy to manage your health needs worldwide!

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Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners

Apt Wealth Partners is a trusted financial advisory firm based in Australia, providing expert wealth management, financial planning, and investment solutions. With a client-first approach, we help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals through tailored strategies and long-term planning.

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AvD

AvD

AvD

The AvD is the most traditional automobile club in Germany. Many things that are taken for granted today has been actively promoted and shaped by the AvD. To this day, the AvD is associated with the driver's license, the zebra crossing, the IAA and successful petitions, among other things. The AvD is committed to road safety, Motorsport and the preservation of historic vehicles. Today and in the future.

AXA PPP International

AXA PPP International

AXA PPP International

We’re AXA – Global Healthcare, and we’re experts when it comes to healthcare around the world. We use AXA’s resources around the world to help our members access quality medical care whenever they need it. We do that by matching them up with international health insurance that suits them, and by keeping them supported before, during and after treatment.

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Bambridge Accountants

Bambridge Accountants

Bambridge Accountants

Bambridge Accountants provides expert accounting and tax services to individuals and businesses, helping them navigate complex financial landscapes. Whether you're managing personal finances or handling corporate tax obligations, our team offers tailored solutions to ensure your financial success.

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