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Living in Dubai from UK: Complete Guide for British Nationals
For British expatriates in search of a new adventure, Dubai stands out as a cosmopolitan paradise, offering state-of-the-art facilities, an enviable quality of life, and a thriving cultural milieu. In this blog post, Choose UAE will provide a comprehensive guide to living in Dubai for UK British nationals, covering everything from the cost of living and healthcare, to the job market, family sponsorship, and business opportunities.
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
Living in Dubai from UK: Complete Guide for British Nationals
Why Choose Dubai?
Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is known for its stunning skyline, luxurious lifestyle, and warm, sunny weather. As a global city and business hub of the Middle East, Dubai offers a myriad of opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Dubai’s expat-friendly environment, with English widely spoken and a high degree of safety and security, makes it an easy place for British nationals to settle. Moreover, its strategic location makes it a convenient travel hub, with Europe, Africa, and Asia just a short flight away.
Cost of Living in Dubai
Dubai is often viewed as a high-cost city, but when compared to many major UK cities, you’ll find the living expenses align quite well. The primary chunk of your expenses will probably go towards housing. However, you’ll find that the quality and spaciousness of accommodation often surpass what you’d typically find in the UK at a similar price point. The cost of food, utilities, and transport are fairly affordable, offering a variety of options to accommodate diverse budgetary needs. It’s also crucial to note that Dubai doesn’t levy income tax, which can substantially boost your disposable income. Additionally, Dubai stands as one of the safest cities globally, boasting one of the lowest crime rates, which further adds to its appeal as an attractive place to live and work.
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Healthcare in Dubai
Dubai boasts a modern and efficient healthcare system, with state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly trained medical professionals. Both public and private healthcare services are available, but most expats opt for private healthcare due to its high standard and the convenience of English-speaking staff. It’s mandatory for all residents, including expats, to have medical insurance in Dubai.
Business Opportunities
For British entrepreneurs, Dubai presents a fertile ground for business. The Emirate’s strategic location, stable economy, and business-friendly policies, such as 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate tax in free zones, make it an attractive destination for company setup.
Sponsoring Family in Dubai
One of the many benefits of living in Dubai is the ability to sponsor your immediate family members for residence visas, allowing them to live with you in the UAE. This can include your spouse, children under the age of 18, and parents, provided certain conditions are met.
To sponsor your spouse or children, you must have a valid UAE residence visa and meet the minimum salary requirement set by the UAE government, which is currently AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. You’ll need to provide proof of your income, a copy of your employment contract or company contract if you’re a business owner, your tenancy contract, and your attested marriage certificate and children’s birth certificates.
For parents, the sponsorship requirements are more stringent. You must be the sole provider for your parents, and you’ll need to have a higher minimum income, currently set at AED 20,000, or AED 19,000 plus a two-bedroom accommodation. You’ll also need to provide medical insurance for your parents with minimum coverage.
The process of applying for family sponsorship involves submitting the required documents to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). If approved, your family members will be granted a residence visa, usually valid for one to three years and renewable.
Having your family join you in Dubai can make your expat experience all the more enriching, and the process is generally straightforward with the right guidance and preparation. Keep in mind that rules can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest regulations or seek professional advice if you’re considering family sponsorship.
How Can Choose UAE Help
At Choose UAE, we provide comprehensive support and guidance for British expatriates looking to make Dubai their new home. Whether you’re interested in starting a business, securing visas for you and your family, or navigating the challenges of relocation, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way. From business setup services and visa application support to networking opportunities and ongoing consultation, we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and a successful start to your new life in Dubai. Contact us today and let us help you make the most of your journey in this vibrant city.
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