Considering a move from Australia to Dubai? Relocating between countries involves several critical steps, from handling visa applications to securing the right accommodation. To make this transition smoother, here is a detailed checklist of tasks and considerations for Australians moving to Dubai.
Understanding Visa Options for Australians Relocating to Dubai
As an Australian looking to move to Dubai, it's important to be aware of the various visa options available. For those visiting Dubai as tourists, obtaining a visa on arrival, which is valid for 30 days, is a straightforward process. However, for long-term stays and work purposes in Dubai, different types of visas are available, each catering to specific needs.
Employment Visa:
Australians who have secured employment with a Dubai-registered company are eligible for a work/employment visa. This is contingent on having an employment contract in place.
Dependent Visa:
This visa category is for individuals whose spouse, parents, or children already possess a residence visa in Dubai. Conditions for sponsorship include:
Male sponsors must have a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 with accommodation to bring their wives to Dubai.
Sponsoring parents requires a salary of AED 20,000, or AED 19,000 plus two-bedroom accommodation.
Women holding a UAE residence visa can sponsor their families if they earn over AED 10,000 per month and have special permission from the Department of Naturalisation and Residency Dubai (DNRD).
Freelance Visa:
For independent contractors, a freelance visa is available. This can be obtained in areas like Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Knowledge Park, with varying rates.
Student Visa:
Designed for those intending to study at Dubai universities. Eligibility criteria include:
School-leaving students must have a minimum percentile of 95%.
University students require a GPA of 3.75.
Successful applicants receive a five-year residence visa.
Investor Visa:
Applicable for those investing in a Dubai company or starting a business. The visa duration is linked to the capital investment amount, with investors possessing assets up to AED 10M eligible for a 10-year residence visa.
Property Owner Visa:
Exclusive to Dubai property owners, with eligibility and conditions varying based on the property value. It’s advisable to consult a Dubai property agent for details. Under the UAE government's 2019 system, a property investment of no less than AED 5M is required for a 5-year residence visa.
Required Documents for Relocation from Australia to Dubai
When relocating, it's vital to provide your sponsor with necessary documents for the visa process:
A copy of your passport, photographs, and attested educational certificates by the UAE Embassy in Australia and the MOFAIC for residency visa applications to apply for a residency visa.
An attested marriage certificate is required for those sponsored by a spouse in Dubai.
Passport, photos, and a letter of acceptance from the relevant UAE educational institution to apply for a student visa in Dubai.
Resume/CV, recent photograph, passport and current visa copy (valid for at least eight months), bank reference letter, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your UAE sponsor to apply for a freelance permit in Dubai.
*Additionally, undergoing a security check and medical tests for tuberculosis, HIV, Hepatitis B, or C is mandatory before entering Dubai.
Exploring Accommodation Options in Dubai
Dubai presents a broad spectrum of accommodation choices. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly apartments in JVC and Barsha Heights or looking for more luxurious dwellings in Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Hills Estate, the variety is extensive and caters to all preferences.
The selection of your accommodation should take into account the convenience and availability of lifestyle amenities in the vicinity, enhancing your comfort and ease of settling in Dubai.
Purchasing Property in Dubai
For those prioritizing accessibility to public transport, properties in Dubai Marina or Barsha Heights are ideal, as these areas are among the top localities near metro stations in Dubai.
Alternatively, if you're drawn to the city's luxury real estate, DAMAC Hills Villas for sale, and luxury apartments for sale in Dubai might be more appealing.
To buy a property in Dubai legally, you'll need to execute an agreement with the property seller, secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC), and approach the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for transferring property rights into your name.
It's essential to consider the housing costs before your move from Australia to Dubai. For a comprehensive understanding of potential locations for purchasing apartments or villas, exploring Dubai's list of freehold areas is recommended.
Renting Property in Dubai
Students on a visa can find suitable apartments in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), as it's in close proximity to numerous colleges and universities.
For those seeking budget-friendly options, studio apartments in Discovery Gardens or Al Furjan are worth considering.
Meanwhile, for a more contemporary and vibrant living experience reminiscent of Melbourne, the upscale flats in City Walk, renowned for its dining, outdoor, and recreational spaces, are a great choice.
To economize on utility bills, renting chiller-free apartments in Dubai is a smart move. In these apartments, tenants only pay for electricity, while the landlord covers air conditioning costs. Popular areas for such apartments include Dubai Marina, Bur Dubai, Jumeirah Village (JVC), and Al Nahda.
For those interested in villa rentals, Mirdif offers great value, and other renowned villa communities like Arabian Ranches and Dubai Hills Estate are excellent for family-friendly living.
Keep in mind that rental payments in Dubai are typically made through yearly, quarterly, or bi-annual cheques, with additional monthly utilities for water, electricity, and internet.
Familiarizing yourself with Dubai’s tenant laws is crucial for maintaining a positive relationship with your landlord.
Experiencing Life in Dubai
Residing in Dubai extends beyond just securing the right accommodation. It encompasses various aspects that cater to your daily needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle in the city.
Educational Institutions
Dubai boasts a plethora of schools offering diverse curricula to ensure a comprehensive education for your children.
When selecting a school, it's important to do thorough research. Visit school websites, download brochures, and read reviews on various forums to make an informed choice that best suits your child's needs. In most schools, Arabic is a mandatory subject, but ample support is provided to students for learning the language.
For younger children, Dubai offers many top-notch nurseries and pre-schools, laying a strong foundation for early education.
Additionally, undergraduates from Australia will find several Australian universities in Dubai, addressing their higher education requirements.
Culinary Delights and Shopping
For Australian expats, Dubai offers a rich array of Australian cafes and restaurants, allowing you to savor familiar flavors from back home.
Popular spots include Jones the Grocer, Coffee Club, and Arrows & Sparrow Café, among others.
Craving Australian beef? Top supermarkets like Spinneys and Carrefour, as well as specialty stores, stock a variety of Australian meat cuts.
Healthcare Facilities
It's crucial to have health insurance in Dubai, typically provided by your employer if you're on an employment visa.
Sponsors are responsible for providing health insurance for those they sponsor. Dubai's healthcare system boasts international-standard facilities, including hospitals like Aster and Mediclinic, ensuring comprehensive medical care.
Clinics and pharmacies are conveniently located throughout Dubai, catering to regular check-ups and over-the-counter medication needs. Be mindful of UAE regulations regarding clinical substances and medicines.
Cost of Living Considerations
The cost of living in Dubai is influenced by factors such as rent, utilities, transportation, healthcare, education, and lifestyle choices. When relocating from Australia, it's advisable to prepare a monthly budget to manage your finances effectively.
Transportation in Dubai
Navigating Dubai is made easy with its robust public transportation system, including the Dubai Metro, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem.
Familiarize yourself with the fares and routes for a smoother travel experience. Australians with a driving license may need to attend driving classes or convert their license to a Dubai one. Remember to register any vehicle you purchase and obtain motor insurance.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
Dubai is a city teeming with diverse activities, from bustling urban streets and serene beaches to luxurious malls.
For a touch of home, places like Green Planet feature native Australian fauna. The city celebrates Australia Day with special events in various restaurants and bars.
For cultural experiences similar to the Sydney Opera House, Dubai Opera is a favorite among Aussies for its blend of arts and culture.
Living in Dubai, therefore, offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities, culinary delights, healthcare services, and a vibrant lifestyle and entertainment scene, all contributing to a fulfilling expatriate experience.
Guidelines for Australians Settling in Dubai
Relocating from Australia to Dubai involves adapting to the cultural and religious norms of the UAE. Understanding these differences is key to a smooth transition into life in Dubai.
The UAE, being a predominantly Muslim country, encourages modest dressing. It's beneficial to familiarize yourself with the appropriate dress code in Dubai to respect local customs.
With Dubai's large expatriate community, communication is generally straightforward. English is widely spoken, so language barriers are minimal. However, if you're interested in learning Arabic, there are numerous institutes in Dubai offering language classes.
Always carry your important documents with you for ease of identification and access to services
Prepare for Dubai's climate, which features high temperatures, especially from May to September/October.
Be mindful of local laws, particularly those concerning photography. Always seek permission before taking pictures to respect privacy and adhere to legal guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions for Australians Moving to Dubai
How much time does it take to fly from Australia to Dubai?
The flight time between Australia and Dubai is around fourteen hours. Going this way from Sydney, Australia, to Dubai will not take you more than a day. Due to the great distance, flights from Australia to Dubai will unavoidably cost a pretty penny. When planning your budget for the move from Australia to Dubai, be sure to include this in.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide aims to assist Australians in their move to Dubai, a city that epitomizes a melting pot of diverse cultures and nationalities. The guide also includes useful information for individuals relocating from the United States to Dubai, offering a holistic view of what it takes to settle successfully in Dubai.