Why does Dubai continue to attract so many expats?

Dubai combines several advantages that are rarely found in one place: a dynamic economy, an international business environment, modern infrastructure, a favourable personal tax system and services designed for a highly diverse population.

The city’s appeal is no longer explained by the exceptional circumstances of the pandemic. It reflects a long-term strategy to position Dubai as a global centre for business, investment, technology and international talent.

Dubai’s population is overwhelmingly international, helping newcomers develop professional and personal networks across many nationalities. This diversity also means that English is widely used in the workplace and in everyday services, although Arabic remains the official language of the United Arab Emirates.

An international job market

Dubai is home to regional headquarters, international companies, start-ups and organisations operating in sectors such as finance, technology, property, logistics, tourism, healthcare and trade.

Its international working environment can make professional integration easier for overseas employees. Opportunities nevertheless depend on the applicant’s experience, qualifications and industry.

Before accepting a job in Dubai, it is important to review the complete remuneration package, including:

• the basic salary;

• performance-related bonuses;

• employer-provided health insurance;

• housing or school allowances;

• annual flights;

• health cover for family members;

• the conditions applying when the employment contract ends.

A strong salary may not fully offset high housing, education or medical costs. The value of the complete benefits package should therefore be considered before accepting an offer.

A favourable tax environment, but living costs require planning

The absence of federal personal income tax is one of Dubai’s best-known attractions. For many employees and entrepreneurs, it can result in a higher net income than in their home country.

However, this does not mean that living in Dubai is inexpensive. Rent, international school fees, transport, childcare, leisure activities, private medical treatment and health insurance for dependants can all represent substantial costs.

The budget required will depend on the neighbourhood, household size and preferred lifestyle. A single expatriate may choose accommodation outside the city centre and use public transport, while a family may need a larger home, a car and places at an international school.

Prospective residents should prepare a complete relocation budget rather than comparing the offered salary with their current income alone.

Residence visas for different expatriate profiles

Several residence routes are available depending on the expatriate’s professional and personal circumstances.

Employment residence visa

For locally based employees, the employer will usually support the work permit and residence process. The right to remain in the UAE may therefore be linked to the employment contract.

Before relocating, check the duration of the visa, its renewal conditions and what happens if the employment contract ends.

Golden Visa and Green Visa

The Golden Visa is a long-term residence route for eligible investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, skilled professionals, outstanding students and other qualifying applicants.

The Green Visa gives certain skilled employees, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs greater independence from employer sponsorship.

Virtual working residence visa

Professionals employed by an organisation outside the UAE may be eligible for a virtual working residence visa.

Applicants must meet the applicable official requirements, which may include proof of employment outside the UAE, a minimum level of income, a medical examination and valid health insurance.

Visa rules and eligibility criteria can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant UAE authorities before making arrangements.

A quality of life valued by expatriates

Dubai offers a major international airport, a metro network, international schools, modern medical facilities and a wide range of commercial, cultural and leisure services.

Its safety, global connectivity and sunny climate for much of the year contribute to its appeal. The diversity of the population also makes it easier to find international communities and build professional and social networks.

Living in Dubai nevertheless involves certain trade-offs:

• extremely high temperatures during the summer;

• housing costs that vary significantly between neighbourhoods;

• frequent reliance on a car;

• high private school fees;

• laws and social norms that may differ from those in the expatriate’s home country.

Understanding these practical differences is essential when deciding whether Dubai is the right destination for an individual or family.

How does healthcare work in Dubai?

Dubai has public and private hospitals, specialist clinics and a modern healthcare sector. For expatriates, access to treatment largely depends on their health insurance and the terms of their policy.

Overseas residents should not assume that their home country’s public healthcare system will reimburse treatment received in Dubai. Private medical care can be expensive, particularly for hospital stays, surgery, pregnancy and specialist follow-up.

Employers in Dubai must provide health insurance for their employees. Sponsors are also responsible for ensuring that their dependants have appropriate cover.

Is employer-provided health insurance sufficient?

Employer-provided insurance may meet local requirements, but the level of cover varies considerably between companies and policies.

A basic employer policy may include:

• a restricted network of doctors and hospitals;

• annual or per-treatment benefit limits;

• deductibles or co-payments;

• cover limited to the UAE;

• exclusions for certain conditions or treatments;

• limited dental, optical or maternity benefits;

• no medical evacuation or repatriation cover.

Before relying entirely on employer-provided insurance, ask for the complete table of benefits and check which healthcare facilities are included.

If you travel regularly, want the option of receiving treatment in more than one country or need to protect your family, minimum local cover may not be sufficient.

Why choose international health insurance in Dubai?

International health insurance is designed for people living outside their home country for an extended period.

Depending on the policy and geographical area selected, it can cover eligible medical treatment received in Dubai and in other countries included in the contract.

International health insurance may cover:

• consultations with doctors and specialists;

• prescribed medicines;

• diagnostic examinations;

• hospital treatment and surgery;

• dental and optical care;

• maternity care;

• medical evacuation or repatriation;

• teleconsultation and assistance services.

It may also provide access to an international medical network and direct settlement for eligible hospital treatment, helping insured members avoid a substantial advance payment.

APRIL International offers health insurance designed for residents of the United Arab Emirates. Explore MyHEALTH UAE and request a quote tailored to your circumstances.

How to choose health insurance before moving to Dubai

Health insurance should be selected according to your personal circumstances and not solely on price.

Before choosing a policy, check the following points:

Compliance with local requirements

Make sure the policy meets the rules applying to your residence status and visa.

Medical network

Check which doctors, clinics and hospitals are included, particularly those close to your home or workplace.

Geographical coverage

A policy limited to the UAE will not provide the same protection as international cover valid in several countries.

Limits and out-of-pocket costs

Compare annual limits, deductibles, co-payments and reimbursement percentages.

Family benefits

Maternity, paediatrics, dental care and optical care may be particularly important for expatriate families.

Assistance and repatriation

These benefits can be important if suitable treatment requires transfer to another medical facility or country.

Pre-existing conditions and waiting periods

Read the policy terms carefully and provide complete and accurate information in any medical questionnaire.

The aim is to choose cover that reflects healthcare costs in Dubai, your mobility, your family’s needs and the expected length of your expatriation.

Preparing for a successful move to Dubai

Dubai can offer rewarding professional and personal opportunities, but a successful relocation requires careful preparation.

Before moving, remember to:

• confirm the visa that corresponds to your situation;

• review your employment contract and complete benefits package;

• prepare a realistic living budget;

• research potential neighbourhoods;

• plan for school fees if moving with children;

• compare health insurance policies;

• check whether your cover remains valid when travelling;

• prepare your administrative and medical documents.

Suitable international health insurance can reduce the financial risk associated with medical treatment and help you begin your new life in Dubai with greater confidence.