Relocation Guide

Moving to UAE Starter Kit

Practical prep steps for your first week in the Emirates—no fluff, just a clean checklist you can revisit anytime.

1. Documents to Bring

Keep physical copies plus cloud backups. Many onboarding desks will scan originals.

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Passport photos (digital + printed)
  • Attested education certificates
  • International driving permit
  • Vaccination record / health certificates
  • Employment contract or offer letter (if applicable)

2. First 7 Days Checklist

Prioritize paperwork, connectivity, and somewhere comfortable to sleep.

  1. Purchase a UAE SIM card for immediate connectivity.
  2. Complete Emirates ID biometrics at an ICP service center.
  3. Open a local bank account for salary and daily payments.
  4. Secure short-term accommodation (hotel, monthly stay, serviced apartment).
  5. Download core UAE apps for government, transport, and utilities.
  6. Set up transport: Nol card in Dubai, Hafilat in Abu Dhabi, ride-hailing apps.
  7. Read up on local laws, customs, and weekend schedules.

3. Getting a SIM Card

Bring your passport and entry stamp; airport kiosks and mall branches handle activation within minutes.

Etisalat by e&

Most extensive network coverage. Visit official stores at airports, malls, or apply online for prepaid and postpaid bundles.

du

Strong city coverage with tourist SIM packages and flexible postpaid plans. Counters available in Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports.

Virgin Mobile UAE

App-first experience with customizable plans and same-day delivery of the SIM kit in major cities.

4. Opening a Bank Account

Most banks (ADCB, Mashreq, Emirates NBD) can open an account within a few days once you have these documents:

  • • Original passport with valid residency visa page or entry permit.
  • • Emirates ID or Emirates ID application form / biometrics receipt.
  • • Proof of address (tenancy contract, hotel letter, or utility bill).
  • • Employment letter, salary certificate, or trade license if self-employed.

5. Getting Emirates ID

Your Emirates ID doubles as your residency card—carry it everywhere.

  1. Undergo the mandatory medical fitness test (varies by emirate).
  2. Book an ICP appointment and capture biometrics (fingerprints + photo).
  3. Track application status via ICP portal or SMS updates.
  4. Collect the Emirates ID card from the designated post office or delivery partner.

6. Finding Accommodation

Mix short-term flexibility with long-term planning—avoid signing multi-cheque leases until you know the area.

Short stays

Use Airbnb, Booking.com, or hotel apartments for the first few weeks to explore neighborhoods safely.

Monthly serviced apartments

Ideal for newcomers while finalizing paperwork; many include utilities, housekeeping, and flexible terms.

Long-term rentals

Engage RERA-approved agents, review Ejari (Dubai) or Tawtheeq (Abu Dhabi) requirements, and budget for deposits + cheques.

7. Must-Have UAE Apps

Download before you need them—some require UAE Pass login or an active Emirates ID.

UAE Pass

Single sign-on for government portals; enables digital signatures and document access.

Dubai Now

Dubai services app for bills, Salik, traffic fines, and visa status checks.

RTA Dubai

Plan journeys, recharge Nol cards, manage driving licenses, and pay parking.

MOHRE

Track labour contracts, work permits, salary complaints, and QR-coded employee details.

Etisalat / du

Manage telecom accounts, pay bills, and top up mobile data.

Careem

Ride-hailing, food delivery, bike rentals, and intercity bus tickets in one app.

ADNOC Distribution

If based in Abu Dhabi, schedule vehicle fueling, car washes, and track loyalty points.

Talabat / Deliveroo

Food and grocery delivery staples across most emirates.

8. Cultural & Legal Basics

The UAE is welcoming—but rules are enforced. Keep these reminders handy.

  • • Dress modestly in government buildings, cultural sites, and traditional neighborhoods.
  • • Avoid photographing people without consent, especially near government or military facilities.
  • • Alcohol is restricted to licensed venues; public intoxication and drink-driving carry heavy penalties.
  • • Weekends run Saturday–Sunday (shifted in 2022). Government offices often close by 3pm Friday.
  • • Public displays of affection should be minimal; respect prayer times and mosque etiquette.
  • • Drugs are strictly illegal, including certain prescription medicines—carry doctor documentation.