Thinking about moving to the UAE in 2025? Here’s your playbook: which visa fits, how long things take, what you’ll spend, where to live, and how to move your family—step by step, with links to official government pages and expert services.
Table of Contents
Visas and Legal Requirements when Moving to the UAE in 2025
Not sure which visa fits? Get a quick eligibility check.
The UAE offers several visa options for expats in 2025. Always confirm the latest requirements on the ICP portal or your emirate’s official site.
Main Visa Types & What You Need
Employment Visa
- Signed job offer/contract from a UAE-registered company.
- Attested degree certificate (if required for your profession).
- Medical fitness certificate (completed in the UAE).
- Emirates ID biometrics.
- Your employer acts as the sponsor and typically manages the process.
Investor Visa
- Business licence (for company owners) or property title deed (real estate worth AED 2 million+).
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Emirates ID biometrics.
- Proof of investment or company ownership.
Golden Visa (10-year):
Long-term residency for approved categories (investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talent). Benefits include sponsoring family members and staying outside the UAE for over six months without losing residency. Check official criteria. (ICP Golden Residency)
Family Visa:
Salary, housing and documentation requirements vary by emirate and visa type (residence vs visit). Confirm current thresholds on ICP or GDRFA before applying.
- Valid tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai, Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi).
- Attested marriage/birth certificates.
- Health insurance for all dependants.
Always check ICP or GDRFA Dubai for current details. Processing times and requirements change frequently.
Visa Application Checklist
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Passport photos (per spec)
- Entry permit (if applicable)
- Medical fitness test (in UAE)
- Emirates ID biometrics
- Health insurance proof (mandatory; usually provided by employer for employees)
- Labour contract/sponsor documents
Need a document checklist for your case? Get a customised list in two minutes. (internal link: Visa Services)
Processing time:
- Entry permit: 2–7 working days
- Medical & biometrics: 2–5 working days
- Emirates ID: 1–3 weeks
Finding Housing in the UAE
Want a lease review and move-in setup handled for you? Book a consult. (internal link: Relocation Services)
The Rental Process you need to know Before Moving to the UAE in 2025
- View properties: Use reputable portals or a licensed agent.
- Make an offer: Negotiate price and payment method.
- In Dubai, landlords and property managers are increasingly adopting the UAE Central Bank’s Direct Debit System (UAEDDS) for rent collection; some still use post-dated cheques. Confirm payment method in your contract. (see Central Bank UAEDDS overview)
- Sign tenancy contract: Standard term is 12 months.
- Register the contract:
- Dubai: Ejari registration—usually handled by the landlord/agent, but tenants should confirm it’s completed.
- Abu Dhabi: Tawtheeq—may be tenant or agent responsibility.
- Dubai directive: Ejari now requires listing all co-occupants. Keep your record updated to avoid fines or service issues.
- Set up utilities:
- Utilities: DEWA (Dubai), ADDC (Abu Dhabi), AADC (Al Ain). For Dubai, DEWA activation follows Ejari registration.
- Move in: Collect keys after all paperwork and payments are complete.
Renting a home in the UAE: step by step
- Shortlist properties via reputable portals or a licensed agent.
- Make an offer and agree rent, payment method (UAEDDS or cheques), and inclusions (e.g., chiller).
- Sign a 12-month tenancy contract.
- Register the contract: Ejari in Dubai; Tawtheeq in Abu Dhabi.
- Activate utilities: DEWA (Dubai), ADDC (Abu Dhabi), AADC (Al Ain). Note: DEWA follows Ejari.
- Move in once paperwork and payments are complete.
Average Rental Costs by Area (2025)
| Area | 1BR (AED/year) | 3BR (AED/year) | Deposit | Agency Fee | Chiller |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Marina | 80k–120k | 160k–220k | 5% | 2–5% | Yes |
| Downtown Dubai | 90k–150k | 180k–250k | 5% | 2–5% | Yes |
| Jumeirah | 70k–110k | 150k–210k | 5% | 2–5% | Yes |
| Abu Dhabi Corniche | 60k–100k | 120k–180k | 5% | 2–5% | No |
Source note: Figures are illustrative averages for major cities in 2025.
Last verified: October 2025. Figures are illustrative; confirm current numbers with providers.
Want a lease review and move-in setup handled for you? Book a consult. (internal link: Relocation Services)
Schools and Education
Shortlist three schools that fit your curriculum and commute. If you want a sanity check, request a 15-minute school consult. (internal link: UAE Schools Guide)
The UAE offers a wide array of international schools, with British, American, IB, and Indian curricula.
How to Choose
- Curriculum: Match to home country or future plans.
- Commute: Proximity to home/work.
- KHDA/ADEK rating: Curriculum comparison and ratings (internal link: UAE Schools Guide)
- Extracurriculars: Sports, arts, languages.
- Waitlist: Some schools fill a year in advance.
- ECAs: Extracurricular activities can be a differentiator.
Enrollment Timeline
- Register 6–12 months ahead if possible.
- Submit: Passport, previous school records, immunisation.
- Assessment/interview: Most schools require one.
- Transfer rules: Mid-year moves may require additional documentation.
Fees (2025 snapshot)
| Curriculum | Annual Fees (AED) |
|---|---|
| British | 35k–100k |
| American | 40k–95k |
| IB | 45k–110k |
| Indian | 15k–40k |
Source note: Figures are illustrative averages for major cities in 2025.
Last verified: October 2025. Figures are illustrative; confirm current numbers with providers.
Cost of Living
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (AED) | Providers/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR city) | 5,000–10,000 | |
| Utilities | 400–1,200 | DEWA (Dubai), ADDC (Abu Dhabi), AADC (Al Ain) |
| Mobile/Internet | 250–500 | Etisalat (e&), Du |
| Transport | 300–800 | Nol (Dubai), taxi, car |
| Health Insurance | 200–800 | Employer/mandatory; see below |
| School Fees | 3,000–10,000 | |
| Groceries | 1,500–2,500 |
Source note: Figures are illustrative averages for major cities in 2025.
Last verified: October 2025. Figures are illustrative; confirm current numbers with service providers.
Culture and Daily Life
The UAE is welcoming and safe, with clear laws and multicultural communities.
Driving
- Some nationalities can convert their licence; others require a road test.
- See the RTA service page on using a foreign licence or exchanging one, and check eligibility before you apply.
Alcohol
Allowed in licensed venues. Dubai reinstated the 30% alcohol municipality tax on 1 January 2025, affecting retail prices. Buying/transport rules and any home-licensing vary by emirate (Sharjah remains dry). Check your emirate’s guidance and retailer instructions.
Public Behaviour
- Fines possible for public intoxication, swearing, or disrespectful acts.
- See official guidelines.
Community
- Join expat clubs, sports teams, and local events for support and networking.
- English is widely spoken; learning basic Arabic is appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UAE safe for expats in 2025?
Yes. The UAE reports low violent crime. Always follow local laws and guidance.
Can expats own property in the UAE?
Yes, in designated freehold areas. Eligibility and financing vary by emirate and property type.
Can I work on a spouse visa?
Yes, with a work permit from your employer.
Can I sponsor parents?
Yes, subject to current salary/housing requirements and official approval.
How long to get Emirates ID after medical?
Typically 1–3 weeks, but can vary.
Do I need Ejari or Tawtheeq to open a bank account?
Many banks ask for a registered tenancy (Ejari/Tawtheeq), but documentation varies by bank. In Dubai, DEWA activation follows Ejari registration (DEWA move-in guidance).
What is the UAEDDS for rent payments?
The UAE Central Bank’s Direct Debit System (UAEDDS) is increasingly adopted for rent collection in Dubai, but some landlords still use post-dated cheques. Confirm payment method in your contract.
What are the latest alcohol rules?
Alcohol is allowed in licensed venues; Dubai reinstated the 30% tax in 2025. Purchase and transport rules vary by emirate. (Khaleej Times)
Who can I sponsor with a family visa?
ICP currently allows sponsoring spouse and children (sons up to 25) under specific conditions. Always verify on ICP before applying (ICP states sons under 25 are eligible under current rules).
Can I switch employers after I arrive?
Yes, subject to your contract and visa sponsorship rules. Your new employer typically issues a new work permit and residency. Confirm steps on ICP or your emirate portal before you resign.
Do I need health insurance before visa stamping?
In most cases, yes. Minimum coverage and who must provide it vary by emirate and visa type. Check your employer’s policy or arrange private cover if you’re self-sponsored.
Moving to the UAE in 2025? Call us now to discuss your Next Move
- After visas: “Not sure which visa fits? Get a quick eligibility check.”
- After housing: “Want vetted agents and lease review? Book a consult.”
- Final: “Start your move plan—free 30-minute call.”
Disclaimer
Information in this guide is general and may change without notice. For personalised advice, speak with a licensed provider or consult official government portals. Any timelines, fees, or eligibility notes are indicative please verify before you apply.