Emigrate to Dubai
Moving from a down-to-earth, flat country like the Netherlands to the glittering wonderland of the United Arab Emirates is without a doubt an adventure of epic proportions. Not only the considerable distance and time difference, but also the striking cultural differences between these two extremes of the world make this journey a fascinating undertaking. Dubai, one of the crown jewels of the United Arab Emirates, is located more than 5,000 kilometers from the Netherlands, so leaving loved ones and familiar surroundings requires a huge bridging.
Despite the challenges and the contrast between the two worlds, Dubai has an irresistible attraction for people from all over the world, including the Dutch. This desert metropolis has transformed itself from a modest fishing village into a world-famous city of excess, innovation and wealth. It is a place where modern architecture enriches the clouds, where luxury shopping malls are the norm, and where Middle Eastern culture and traditions meet a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
The United Arab Emirates in a nutshell:
Capital: Dubai
Population: 3.4 million
Currency: AED
Official languages: Arabic
Moving to Dubai
There are several options available to get your belongings to the United Arab Emirates. You can choose between sea freight (full container or split load) or air freight for fast delivery. Of course, professional moving companies such as Transpack are always available to provide comprehensive assistance. Regardless of your choice, make sure you understand the necessary paperwork and customs regulations for a smooth transition. Transpack can also provide advice on these types of administrative tasks, for example through our sister company Eurohome Relocation Services, which specializes in these types of administrative tasks.
How long will it take for my belongings to travel to Dubai?
How long your items will be on their way to the United Arab Emirates depends on a number of factors. For example, air freight will generally be faster than sea freight. A ship must sail past multiple ports as stopovers. In addition, the ship may have to stay in certain ports for a longer period of time when it is busy. Transpack keeps a close eye on this and will always inform you if it takes a little longer due to busy times. Via Transpack, an average shipment to Dubai will take between 3 and 4 weeks.
Sea freight to United Arab Emirates
More and more people are choosing to move their household effects abroad via sea transport. This is not only cheaper than air freight, but also better for the environment! Transpack also offers a sea container service that you can use during your move to Dubai.
Groupage to the United Arab Emirates
Are you curious about a cost-effective way to ship your household effects to UAE? Transpack also has a groupage service. This is an option where you can choose to share space on a sea container that travels to the same destination, starting from 1 M3!
Please note! In Dubai, there are quite a few strict rules regarding the import of goods. So feel free to contact the specialized team at Transpack. They can tell you all about it!
How much does a move to Dubai cost?
The cost of moving to Dubai can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the distance between your current country and Dubai, the size of the move, the amount of belongings you want to take with you, the moving services you choose, and the mode of transportation (sea freight or air freight). It is highly recommended that you do your research into the costs in advance and request a quote from a moving company such as Transpack and other relevant service providers. It can also be helpful to contact other people who have moved to Dubai before to ask for their experiences and advice. By planning a good budget and preparing yourself properly, you can get a realistic picture of the total cost of your move to Dubai.
Are you looking for a complete picture of the costs of your move to Dubai? Transpack is happy to help you! Calculate the costs easily and without obligation and receive a customized quote for your move to the United Arab Emirates!
Do I need an immigration consultant for Dubai?
It may be a good idea to hire an immigration consultant to help you move to Dubai. Such a professional can guide you in maximizing your chances of being able to relocate for work, travel, study or other business purposes. They do this by providing appropriate advice on the most suitable visa for your situation and by completing the visa application process. They also prepare the necessary supporting documentation and information and submit these applications on your behalf to the relevant government authorities. Furthermore, immigration consultants provide advice on any complex immigration issues that you may encounter. During the immigration process to Dubai, an immigration consultant will keep you well informed and try to relieve you of as much work and inconvenience as possible. The experienced immigration consultants at Eurohome, for example, specialize in relocations to far-flung countries and are ready to guide you through the migration process to Dubai.
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
To live and work in Dubai, Dutch and other foreigners need a valid residence permit. The process of obtaining a visa for Dubai can vary depending on the purpose of your stay and your professional situation. The most common ways for Dutch citizens to obtain a visa to live in Dubai are:
1. Dubai Work Visa
If you have been offered a job by an employer in Dubai, your employer will need to apply for a work visa for you. The employer will need to submit certain documents, such as an employment contract and other required paperwork, to the relevant authorities in Dubai.
2. Family Visa for Dubai
If you have an immediate family member living in Dubai and have a valid residence permit, you as a family member can apply for a family visa. This applies to spouses, parents and children, for example.
3. Dubai Investment Visa
If you are planning to invest in Dubai and start a business or buy a property, you may be eligible for an investment visa.
4. Dubai Retirement Visa
Dubai offers a retirement visa for foreigners over the age of 55. To qualify, they must be able to demonstrate a certain minimum income and own property in Dubai.
5. Dubai Student Visa
Dutch students who wish to study in Dubai can apply for a student visa at the university or educational institution to which they have been admitted.
The visa process can take some time and can be somewhat complex. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Netherlands for up-to-date and detailed information on the visa process and requirements for your specific situation. It may also be useful to contact a specialist immigration consultancy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
What is it like to live in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and has undergone a rapid transformation in recent decades. The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi. Each emirate, including Dubai, has its own capital, and for Dubai that is the city of Dubai itself. Dubai is an important emirate and serves as a major business and tourism center in the region. As a result, Dubai is also a popular destination for expats from all over the world, including the Dutch. Find out the most common reasons why people choose to emigrate to Dubai here.
1. Economic growth
Dubai has a thriving economy and is an important business centre in the region. The city attracts many international companies and investors due to its favourable business conditions, tax benefits and modern infrastructure.
2. Employment
The economic growth has led to an increase in jobs in various sectors such as finance, technology, tourism, real estate and aviation. Many expats are moving to Dubai for career opportunities and to earn a higher income.
3. Tax-free income
Dubai has no income tax, which is attractive to people who want to maximize their income and pay less tax.
4. Quality of life
Dubai offers a high standard of living with modern amenities, excellent healthcare, educational opportunities and a range of recreational activities.
5. Cultural diversity
Dubai is a multicultural city with people from all over the world, resulting in a diverse and tolerant society. This can be attractive to expats looking for a diverse and open environment.
6. Real estate development
Dubai has undergone a remarkable real estate development, with impressive skyscrapers, luxury apartments and villas. For some people, the chance to live in an exciting urban environment with modern architecture can be a reason to move to Dubai.
The people of Dubai
Dubai is a very diverse city with a multicultural population. People from all over the world have chosen Dubai as their home, and this has resulted in a vibrant and diverse society. This diversity in the population creates a vibrant mix of languages, cultures, religions and cuisines in Dubai.
The majority of Dubai’s population consists of expats, people who come from other countries to work and live in Dubai. These expats come from all over the world, including countries such as India, Pakistan, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia and of course the Netherlands, and have different professions and skills. In addition, Dubai is home to the Emiratis. These are the indigenous people of the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai. Although they are a minority in their own country, they play a crucial role in the governance and culture of the UAE. In addition to the Emiratis, there are also many other Arab nationalities in Dubai, such as Egyptians, Jordanians, Lebanese and Syrians.
Working in Dubai
There are many different reasons why Dutch people choose to work in Dubai.
1. Dubai’s prosperous economy
Dubai has a thriving economy and offers numerous opportunities for work and entrepreneurship. It is an important business center in the region and attracts many international companies and investors. For Dutch professionals, Dubai can be an attractive destination to further develop their careers and grow in their field.
2. Dubai Income Tax
Additionally, Dubai has no income tax, meaning people can maximize their income and pay less tax compared to some other countries. This can be a financial incentive for Dutch people to work in Dubai.
3. International work experience
Working in Dubai offers Dutch people the opportunity to gain international work experience. It can be a valuable addition to their CV and can expand their professional skills and network.
4. The quality of life in Dubai
Dubai is known for its modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare, high-quality education and a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. For some Dutch people, the lifestyle and quality of life in Dubai can be an attractive reason to work there.
5. The expatriate community in Dubai
Dubai has a large expatriate community with people from different countries and cultures. For Dutch people looking to move abroad, the presence of a diverse and supportive expatriate community can be a positive factor.
6. Growing sectors in Dubai
Dubai has developed into a major hub for various sectors, including finance, technology, tourism, real estate and aviation, providing opportunities for Dutch professionals with different backgrounds and skills.