Emigrating to Dubai: 10 things you should know in 2025

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Emigrating to Dubai: 10 things you should know beforehand

1 February 2025
Nina Noel
Nina Noel

Table of contents

Dreaming of a life where modern architecture, luxury and sunshine are commonplace? Dubai, the pulsating heart of the United Arab Emirates, beckons with exactly this promise. Here, cultural diversity and economic dynamism merge to create a unique lifestyle.

With a foreign population of over 90 %, you are never alone among expats in Dubai. Whether for business or pleasure, the city on the Persian Gulf offers countless opportunities. And with around 12,000 Germans already enjoying the tax-free and varied life, you'll quickly make friends.

Dubai's central location makes it the ideal starting point for world travellers. Whether it's a weekend trip to the Maldives or a visit home - you're only a flight away. And worried about strict penalties? Don't be fooled by old rumours; Dubai is modern and cosmopolitan. Discover what it means to live in a city that never sleeps.

The most important facts in a nutshell:

🏢 Living and working in Dubai: Dubai is known for its modern architecture, luxury and sunshine. The city offers cultural diversity and economic dynamism, with a foreign population of over 90 % and around 12,000 Germans.

🌍 Strategic location and cosmopolitanism: Dubai serves as an ideal starting point for world travellers and is modern and cosmopolitan. There are fewer strict penalties than often assumed.

🏛️ Company formation: Strategic planning and local expertise are essential for a successful company formation in Dubai. Start-up capital in the five-digit range is necessary.

💰 Cost of living: Dubai offers tax-free income, but the cost of daily necessities varies depending on your lifestyle. Rents make up a large part of the monthly costs.

🤝 Cultural differences and adaptation: Dubai is a cultural melting pot, and adapting to local customs such as clothing and eating habits during Ramadan is important.

🏠 Find property: There are various rental and purchase options for flats, and estate agents are helpful. The choice of neighbourhood influences the cost of living.

📚 Education system: Dubai offers a diverse international education system with schools offering different international curricula, including a German International School.

Company formation in Dubai

If you want to start a business in Dubai, the Strategic planning crucial. The city offers countless opportunities, but there are a few basic steps you should follow in order to be successful.

Initial consultation and planning are key. It is advisable to book a free consultation to discuss your project in detail. Local expertise is essential here. At Dubai-auswandern, we maintain contact with local partners and offer you comprehensive tax and legal support throughout your entire emigration.

  • Book a consultation with experts.
  • Develop a customised tax concept.
  • Plan your entire emigration according to your situation.

Another important point is the starting capital. In Dubai, this is essential for setting up a company, applying for a visa and opening bank accounts. The start-up processes are complex and require support from local consulting firms. Expect to need start-up capital in the five-digit range.

Necessary stepsdetails
Start-up capitalRequired for visa, company foundation and bank account.
Insurance declarationNo social security agreement with Germany. A Health insurance is mandatory.

The support of experts who specialise in advising entrepreneurs like you and securing the establishment of your company under tax law is an advantage that should not be underestimated. Here you will receive support in all administrative procedures and benefit from our experience of over 300 companies founded in the UAE.

Information on the cost of living in Dubai

If you're preparing to move to Dubai, you should consider the Cost of living of the city. While Dubai offers a tax-free income, the cost of daily necessities can vary depending on your lifestyle and requirements. Careful budget planning therefore plays an important role in making the most of your new life in the vibrant metropolis.

Restaurants and catering

Restaurants and catering are a major factor in your cost of living. In Dubai, you will find an impressive variety of eateries, from cheap street food stalls to luxurious fine dining restaurants. Prices for a meal in an average restaurant range from AED 50 to AED 200. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a romantic dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant, you should expect to pay around AED 80 to AED 250.

A local beer costs an average of AED 18, while imported drinks start at AED 9 and can cost up to AED 15. A cappuccino to start the day costs around AED 20 to AED 27. Soft drinks such as Coca-Cola or Pepsi are affordable with prices ranging from AED 6 to AED 9, and water contributes only minimally to the expenditure - at a cost of AED 1 to AED 7 per bottle.

Food

The prices for food depend heavily on your consumption and local offers. You pay around AED 3 to AED 5 for a litre of milk, while a 500g loaf of white bread costs AED 5 on average.

Further in-depth information on the Cost of living in Dubai can be found in the linked article.

Rent

It is advisable that you keep an eye on your expenses and make a realistic cost estimate so that you are not surprised by the sometimes higher prices in Dubai. The choice of neighbourhood should also be a decisive factor in your budget planning, as the Rent make up a large part of the monthly costs. Enquire about the different districts and find out which area best suits your needs and budget. The best way to find the best flats or villas is via the most popular platforms such as Propertyfinder, Bayut or Dubizzle.

Cultural differences to be considered

Cultural diversity and interaction

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures. Over 200 nationalities live and work in the city, which leads to a fascinating cultural diversity. You will therefore often experience exciting and enriching moments when interacting with each other.

  • Feel free to bring something traditional to community events.
  • Be open to new encounters and cultures.
  • Look forward to surprises and learning moments in all everyday situations.

Adaptation to local customs

In Dubai, a country with a strong Islamic character, a certain degree of adaptability is expected of you as an expat or long-term visitor. This applies in part to clothing (only when dealing with the authorities), eating habits during Ramadan and public displays of affection. Respectful behaviour towards the country's traditions and norms is essential.

  • Make sure you dress appropriately in government offices.
  • Find out about the eating habits of Ramadan.
  • Respect the restrictions on public displays of affection.

Familiarisation with the new environment

Many of our customers report that the infamous culture shock did not materialise in Dubai. After a short familiarisation phase and with a certain amount of flexibility, you will quickly find your feet. Previous travelling and familiarity with the city can also help you to quickly feel at home.

  • Be open-minded and flexible in everyday life.
  • Use previous stays to familiarise yourself with the customs.
  • Don't be put off by the fear of culture shock.

Every experience in Dubai is unique and offers an opportunity to grow and learn. By embracing this new culture with an open mind and a positive attitude, you can enjoy your life in Dubai to the fullest.

Finding a flat - to rent or buy

When you decide to live in Dubai, choosing your new home is one of the first and most important steps. Dubai offers a Versatility of living optionsfrom luxurious high-rise flats to cosy villas on the outskirts of the city. Professional estate agents are essential for finding the right property in this dynamic market.

  • Rental options in Dubai range from short-term, furnished flats to long-term, unfurnished rental contracts. You should be aware that rental contracts in Dubai are usually concluded for one year and often require an advance payment of the annual rent. However, this is also negotiable.
  • Properties for sale enable you to build up long-term wealth. Please note, however, that the purchase process in Dubai may differ from that in your home country (DE, AT, CH).

Tax-efficient structuring for property acquisitions

Dubai attracts with its tax attractiveness many emigrants. Property investments can play an important role in tax planning. The right advice not only helps with the choice of property, but also with the tax-efficient design of the purchase or rental. The inclusion by our community The cooperation with local tax advisors should not be underestimated here, they can be decisive for optimal financial results.

When it comes to finding accommodation, you will quickly learn that Dubai's cultural dynamics are also reflected in its diverse neighbourhoods. It is therefore worth exploring all the options and talking to experienced advisors to find your new home.

Information on the education system in Dubai

If you are familiar with the quality and variety of the Education system in Dubai you will realise that it might even exceed your expectations. Dubai offers an international environment, providing you with schools with British, American, French, German and many other curricula. These institutions are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education and help them develop their individual interests and abilities.

The German International School Dubai is a prime example of excellent education. It follows the German curriculum and prepares your children at the highest level to achieve the German Abitur to graduate. This gives you access to renowned German universities.

  • Schools with different international curricula
  • Individualised support for the strengths and interests of pupils
  • German International School paves the way for studying at German universities

In addition, there are state-funded public schools in Dubai that provide free education for residents. Although Arabic is generally the language of instruction, English is also highly valued as a global language and is offered as a foreign language.

With regard to higher education Dubai stands out with its renowned universities. The University of Dubai and Zayed University are just two examples that are known for their academic excellence and attract international students. Here in Dubai, you have the opportunity to build a solid foundation for your professional career.

  • State-funded public schools offering free education
  • Importance of the English language as a bridge to global communication
  • Access to recognised universities with a wide range of courses

Safety in the citycoupled with the high quality of the education system, makes Dubai a desirable place for families and single people who value quality of life and an international education.

Information on the healthcare system in Dubai

When you live in Dubai, you enjoy access to a ultra-modern healthcare system. The government has strict regulations in place to ensure that all medical facilities maintain high standards and prioritise patient safety.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) plays a key role in this system. As the central supervisory authority, the DHA regulates and monitors all medical services. On their website you will find a wealth of information, from a list of authorised hospitals and clinics to details on health insurance.

Quality and standards in healthcare

Dubai stands for a combination of state-of-the-art technology and highly qualified specialists. The strict regulations ensure that residents and visitors can rely on first-class medical treatment. This quality has also made Dubai a centre for health tourism.

Public and private facilities

In Dubai, you have the choice between public and private healthcare facilities, both of which offer outstanding medical care. Thanks to strict regulation by the DHA, you can expect high quality medical care regardless of which facility you choose.

Free and affordable healthcare services are available via the extensive network of health centres. Make sure you find out about the respective offers to find the right services for you.

Accessibility and information

To inform you about the healthcare system in Dubai the official DHA website offers comprehensive resources. There you can find out everything you need to know and plan the necessary steps to secure your healthcare in the city.

Information on obtaining visas and residence permits

When moving to Dubai, one of the first things you need to do is apply for a visa and residence permit. Work visa and residence permit are directly linked to your company licence and foundation.

Entrepreneurs and property owners can apply for their visa independently with the help of an agency like ours, while employees must wait for the company to issue it. The investor visa requires less documentation than other types. Normally, primary identity documents are sufficient and you can expect a processing time of one to two weeks. In particularly urgent cases, we can also do this in a few days. Just get in touch with us.

More information about Visa requirements in Dubai can be found in our detailed blog post.

Tips on mobility in Dubai

Mobility in Dubai can be a challenge if you're not prepared. Transport and distances can be considerable, so it is important to find out about transport options.

Exchange of driving licence

You should plan, to drive a carthe first step is to exchange your driving licence. Your German driving licence is sufficient for short-term stays, but a local driving licence is required for longer stays. You will receive this upon presentation of your German driving licence, proof of employment and payment of the applicable fee.

Punctuality in rush-hour traffic

Navigating Dubai requires patience, especially during rush hour. Allow enough buffer time to get to your appointments on time. The roads can be particularly busy in the mornings and evenings and this can significantly increase your journey time.

Overview of the means of transport

  • Public transport: The Dubai Metro is a fast and efficient system that connects many parts of the city. There is also a network of bus lines and water taxis.
  • Taxis: They are a practical option for short distances and when public transport is not available.
  • Car hire: For maximum flexibility, you can consider hiring a car. However, please note that there is a shortage of parking spaces, especially in the city centre.

Dubai and taxes - an overview

Dubai attracts with a tax-friendly frameworkwhich is particularly attractive for expats and international companies. In Dubai, there is no income tax on your personal income and no capital gains tax. This not only makes it easier to manage your finances, but also offers significant financial benefits.

Nevertheless, there are some taxes that you need to be aware of. One of these is value added tax (VAT), which is levied at a rate of 5% on certain goods and services. From 1 June 2023, corporation tax has also come into forcewhich could possibly affect your company.

According to current information, corporation tax is levied as follows:

Tax typeValue
Value added tax5%
Corporate income tax (since June 2023)9% for income over AED 375,000

This may change at any time. If you need up-to-date information on taxes in Dubai, please contact us.

For an optimised tax strategy, it may make sense to incorporate in a Freezone. Therefore, inform yourself in detail about taxes and Banking in Dubai. Here you can rely on a stable banking system and a transparent tax system, which can contribute to the financial success of your company.

The high quality of life in Dubai, coupled with the tax incentives, makes the city an attractive location for business people and professionals. By familiarising yourself with the relevant tax regulations at an early stage and with the help of our community (The Inner Circle) from local experts develop your financial strategy, you secure yourself and your company a decisive advantage in this dynamic economic environment.

Women's rights - As a woman in Dubai?

As a woman in Dubai, you will find that the city has a progressive approach, despite being deeply rooted in Islamic culture. You can rest assured that safety and respect are prioritised. There are regulations, such as covering shoulders and knees in government buildings. In addition, foreign women are not required to wear a veil. Incidentally, the same applies to men in government buildings.

The perception of Dubai as a liberalising city is growing, especially under the influence of female influencers and international residents who celebrate the city's diversity and openness on social media. You'll find that female expats and tourists enjoy city life just as much as their male counterparts. Shopping, working and leisure opportunities are available without restrictions. Particularly noteworthy is the sense of security that many women feel in Dubai. Even when walking through less busy neighbourhoods at night, a sense of security is always maintained.

  • Strict anti-harassment laws prevent assaults.
  • The presence of many expats leads to more lenient rules compared to stricter Islamic countries.
  • The independence and mobility of women are guaranteed.

However, it is important that you familiarise yourself with the local conditions and regulations to avoid any misunderstandings. Compliance with regional norms and regulations contributes to harmonious coexistence and a positive experience in any country, including the city of Dubai.

The weather in Dubai

Dubai is known for its warm and sunny climate. Temperatures can soar in summer, while the winter months tend to be mild. It is essential to prepare for both the heat and the occasional sandstorms that can hit the city. Sunscreen and quality sunglasses are essential to protect yourself from the intense sunlight.

In summer, the weather in Dubai can be extremely hot, with average temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius. The warm waters of the Persian Gulf are ideal for swimming, diving and other water sports.

The winter months in Dubai are comparatively mild, with average temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal time to enjoy the city's many outdoor activities, such as a desert safari or a camel ride. The mild temperatures are also ideal for visiting the city's many parks and gardens.

Conclusion

Dubai is a country full of opportunities that welcomes you with open arms, be it for starting a business or building a new life. With professional support, you can find the ideal property and navigate the local tax system. You benefit from a first-class education system and a state-of-the-art healthcare system. Mobility in the city is diverse and well organised, so you'll quickly find your way around. And for women, Dubai offers a safe and respectful environment. If you embark on this adventure, you can expect a vibrant city that leaves nothing to be desired, both professionally and personally. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of the United Arab Emirates - Dubai is waiting for you!

Are you thinking of emigrating to Dubai?

You would like to emigrate to Dubai, pay no income tax and are interested in a Company formation in Dubai interested? You don't have the right contact person who can guarantee a smooth implementation? Then get in touch now with our Team of experts  and book your free initial consultation. We will discuss your individual situation and show you possible solutions for your future in Dubai.

Frequently asked questions on the topic

Dubai attracts visitors with its growing economy, attractive living conditions and modern infrastructure. The city is a magnet for people looking for new professional challenges and a high standard of living.

To live in Dubai, you will need a residence visa and an Emirates ID. These documents are essential to live in the United Arab Emiratesto be able to work and stay in general.

In Dubai, there are particularly good job prospects in the fields of management, engineering, finance and IT. There are also opportunities in the social sector. In addition to work, Dubai offers a safe environment for families and a variety of leisure activities.

The cost of living in Dubai can be high, but it varies depending on your lifestyle.
A family of four incurs around €12,000 per month in living costs.

Salaries in Dubai vary greatly and depend on the professional field. Salaries range from around AED 6,800 to AED 42,800 or higher, with no income tax levied on personal income.

Are you thinking of emigrating to Dubai?

You would like to emigrate to Dubai, pay no income tax and are interested in a Company formation in Dubai interested? You don't have the right contact person who can guarantee a smooth implementation? Then get in touch now with our Team of experts  and book your free initial consultation. We will discuss your individual situation and show you possible solutions for your future in Dubai.

Nina Noel
Nina Noel
Nina Noel, founder of Dubai Emigrate, has developed an impressive expertise in emigration counselling through personal experience and persistent work. After going through the challenges of moving to the UAE herself, she decided to use her knowledge and experience to make the process easier for others. Since then, she has accompanied and supported hundreds of people in their transition to Dubai
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Sebastian Dr Grabmaier
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Ahmet Cebe
28.05.2025
Transport practice
26.05.2025
Lara Lara
26.05.2025
Janusch Richter
16.05.2025
Angy Capo
16.05.2025
Sebastian Dr Grabmaier
09.06.2025
Ahmet Cebe
28.05.2025
Transport practice
26.05.2025
Lara Lara
26.05.2025
Janusch Richter
16.05.2025
Angy Capo
16.05.2025

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