Dubai at a Glance
Moving to Dubai
iStockphotoLike a Fata Morgana: beautiful Dubai in the midst of the Arabian Desert.
Prior to the worldwide economic crisis, many multinational corporations considered moving to Dubai or opening a field office there to gain an economic advantage. Despite the downturn, Dubai has lost little of its attractions: Plenty of foreign companies and international financial institutions still decide to relocate there.
Climate and Geography
Sharing its main geographical features with the neighboring emirates of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, Dubai also has a hot climate with little rainfall throughout the year but high humidity on the coast. In summer, you may face temperatures of up to 45°C. However, settling down in Dubai does not mean having to flee your new home in those hot and humid summer months. Hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and public transportation are all air-conditioned.
Foreigners moving to Dubai may be overwhelmed by the one dominant feature of its landscape: the desert. As opposed to its southerly neighbor Abu Dhabi, Dubai has no natural oases or bodies of water. However, the city has a natural inlet or creek dividing it into a western and an eastern part (Deira). Despite having been dredged, the creek is still rather large, so that the quickest way of moving to Dubai City from Deira is by boat.
Dubai's Visa Requirements
Entering the emirate on a visit visa is no problem if you are travelling to Dubai as a citizen of one of the 33 countries eligible to receive a visit visa upon arrival. Nationals from other states need to find a UAE citizen or resident who will sponsor them. The same is the case for expats moving to Dubai for work. Employment visas should always be arranged for with the help of your employer.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA-D) is responsible for all visa enquiries concerning expats. It has about 10 branches throughout the city with opening hours from 7:30am to 8pm. For queries and complaints after moving to Dubai, the department offers the Amer Service, a phone hotline for GDRFA-D customer support.
Employment Visa
Local companies whose foreign employees move to Dubai benefit from GDRFA-D online services. Companies can print entry permits directly without having to visit the GDRFA-D in person. Keep in mind that visa regulations can change. Therefore, it is best to contact your nearest UAE consulate or embassy before your move to find out about current regulations.
Once the employment visa has been sorted out, you need to apply for additional documents. It is mandatory for expats to get a health card, a residence permit, and a labor card upon their move to Dubai.
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