Start with your residence visa route and your housing plan, then work through schools, health cover, driving, banking and UK tax. Rules and costs change, so confirm each step on the official source linked beside it, rather than relying on any blog, including this one.
Short answerBefore you move
- Visa route. Most people arrive on an employer, family or investor visa. Confirm yours on the official UAE government portal (u.ae) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (icp.gov.ae).
- Documents. Check which UK documents need attesting or translating, such as marriage and birth certificates, and allow time.
- Your UK ties. Think about your UK home, pension, bank accounts and tax position before you leave. See the UK tax section below.
- Pets. Check current import rules and permits well ahead.
Housing: rent first or buy?
Many newcomers rent first to learn the areas, commutes and building quality before buying. That is a common approach, not a rule, and it depends on your plans. If you rent, tenancy contracts are registered through Ejari, so ask your landlord or agent how it will be done. If you intend to buy, read the step-by-step buying guide and the guide on choosing an area.
Schools
Dubai schools are inspected and rated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (khda.gov.ae). Popular schools can have waiting lists, so apply early and choose a home with the school run in mind. Visit, ask about the curriculum and fees, and check the latest inspection report yourself.
Health cover
Check the current health insurance requirements for your emirate and visa type with your employer or the official portals, and compare what a policy covers, including maternity, pre-existing conditions and dependants. Do not assume UK cover continues.
Driving, utilities and banking
- Driving. Ask the Roads and Transport Authority (rta.ae) whether your UK licence can be converted or whether you need to test.
- Utilities. Electricity and water are connected through the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (dewa.gov.ae), and some communities have separate cooling charges.
- Banking. UAE banks usually ask for your residence documents and Emirates ID. Ask your employer or a broker which banks suit your situation.
UK tax and moving abroad
Whether you stay UK tax resident depends on your own facts, and getting it wrong can be costly. Read the official guidance on paying tax on UK income while living abroad and on living abroad, and take advice from a UK adviser before you leave.
Settling in
Give yourself the first weeks to learn the city before committing to a long lease or purchase. If you would like a second opinion on areas, budgets or timing, I am happy to talk it through on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to move to Dubai?
Most people need a residence visa, usually through an employer, family sponsorship or an investor route. Confirm your route on the official UAE government portals.
Should I rent or buy when I first move to Dubai?
Many newcomers rent first to learn the areas before buying, but it depends on your plans, budget and timeline.
Can I use my UK driving licence in Dubai?
Rules depend on your licence and visa status. Ask the Roads and Transport Authority whether you can convert it or need to test.
Keep reading
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Fees, lending rules and visa criteria change: check with the Dubai Land Department, your bank or a qualified adviser before you commit.