Settling in Dubai – Advice for Expatriates

Living and working abroad is certainly a rewarding experience in many respects. However, before accepting a job offer for employment in Dubai, you have to make sure that you are prepared for the settlement. There are a number of aspects that you have to consider. There is some planning to do also. You should not hesitate to get support if you need it.

Before accepting a job offer for employment in Dubai, you have to consider the package you are offered carefully. In some cases expat workers are offered accommodation or accommodation allowance. If this is the case with you, you can readily check where you will live or how much you will take out of your pocket. If you are not offered accommodation, you are highly recommended to carry out some preliminary research online to see what is available. You should calculate your housing budget carefully as well. You will have to pay your entire rent either when you move in or in large chunks over the following months. In addition, there are all sorts of taxes and fees you will have to incur.

You have to check carefully the other features of your job package as well. It is best if it has medical coverage. You will also find it beneficial to have utility and/or transportation allowance. In any case, you have to make sure that you will get all the support you need from your employer for settling in Dubai. Their main responsibility is to help you arrange and receive your resident visa. They will be your sponsor so they need to take care of their part of the deal.

Once you come to the emirate and settle in your home, you have to make sure that the rented property is in tact. If there are any problems, you should report this immediately to your landlord. Generally, you have to establish good communication with the person or company renting you their accommodation. In this way you will be certain that your stay will go smoothly. Keep in mind that there are some specifics about accommodations in Dubai that may differ from the ones in your country. You can get to use gas in your home, but you will have to use gas cylinders for the purpose. You will also have to check with your landlord if this is permitted.

Transportation is a major issue in Dubai. You are highly recommended to use a car to get around even if the there is convenient public transport connection to your office. You will not have a problem obtaining an UAE driver’s license as long as you are coming from GCC counties, the US or from one of the major European countries such as the UK. All you have to do is pay a fee (110 Dhs) and present your original license to get a local one. However, if you come from Eastern Europe, Africa or Asia, you will have to undergo extensive testing. Those who do not have valid driver’s license will have to take a course which is long and can cost up to 1,000 Dhs. You have to consider your expenses for renting or buying a car.

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