10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving to UAE

Have you finally got your dream job in the UAE? Or decided to relocate to the place where dreams take flight? But let’s stop daydreaming for a moment and think about the reality. From preparation to adjusting to a new culture, one can make mistakes when moving to the UAE.

Let’s explore the common mistakes people make when moving to the UAE with some practical tips on overcoming these issues.

• Common Mistakes Made While Moving to the UAE
• FAQs

Common Mistakes Made While Moving to the UAE

Moving to the UAE is an exciting adventure, but many newcomers make avoidable mistakes that complicate the transition. This guide highlights common pitfalls and tips to ensure your move is smooth and successful, helping you start your new life on the right foot.

1. Underestimating the Living Cost in the UAE

Tax-free salaries are an attractive concept, but there is more to consider. Imagine you have just landed in the UAE and are not prepared to spend the hefty amount of money needed to live there. This is the most common mistake first-timers make when moving to the UAE: not properly estimating the UAE’s living costs and budget. 

UAE’s luxurious lifestyle can pile up costs. However, the UAE has plenty of budget-friendly options, including Dubai public transportation, budget-friendly housing areas and amenities.

Save yourself from falling into this trap and follow the tips mentioned below:

• Investigate the average costs for housing, utilities, groceries, transportation and healthcare in the emirate and area you are moving to.
• Develop a detailed budget that includes all potential expenses to help manage your finances effectively.
• Seek advice from current expats, Facebook groups and online forums to get real-life insights into living expenses.
• Set aside a financial cushion for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
• Evaluate housing options, such as shared accommodations or more affordable neighbourhoods, to reduce living costs.
• Monitor your expenses regularly to stay within your budget and make adjustments as needed.

2. Not Preparing for the Scorching Heat

A common mistake expats make is ignoring the climate when moving to the UAE. Are you relocating from a cold country with lower temperatures? Make sure you consider the UAE’s weather. The extremely high temperatures, reaching 40°C and above, can be uncomfortable for some people.

Here’s what you need to do: 

• Purchase breathable, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Always carry a water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• To protect yourself from direct sunlight, apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear sunglasses and wear hats or umbrellas.
• Schedule outdoor activities during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
• Ensure your home and car have efficient air conditioning to stay cool indoors.
• Allow your body time to adjust to the heat by gradually increasing your exposure to outdoor temperatures.
• Whenever possible, stay in shaded areas or take breaks in air-conditioned spaces to avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Learn to recognise symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and take immediate action if you experience any signs.

3. Disregarding UAE Laws and Culture

Moving to a new country is about transitioning to a different culture and lifestyle. It might seem like a walk in the park, but the cultural shock is not easy to deal with. Here’s what you need to do to deal with this particular situation:

• Research and familiarise yourself with the local laws, customs and cultural norms of the UAE, such as traffic laws in Dubai.
• Follow the dress code in Dubai or other emirates, especially in public places and religious sites, by wearing modest clothing.
• Be aware of laws regarding alcohol consumption, public behaviour and social media usage to avoid legal trouble.
• Knowing a few common Arabic phrases can help show respect and make interactions smoother. Also, learn some Arabic real estate terms and their meanings.
• Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of your behaviour in public spaces.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours to show respect for Islamic practices, especially during Ramadan.
• Engage in local events and festivals to better understand and appreciate UAE culture.
• Ask locals or long-term expats for advice on navigating cultural and legal expectations.

4. Overlooking Important Processes

Expats relocating to the UAE often overlook important details and documentation processes. To avoid such issues, they should properly review the process and check their visa status in the UAE, request necessary permits and carry essential documents. If you are planning to move, you can also learn about the UAE family visa.

Make sure you do the following before getting on that flight to UAE:

• Gather and keep essential documents such as passports, visas, work permits, medical records and birth certificates in a secure and accessible place.
• Monitor the expiration dates of your visa and permits to avoid any legal issues or penalties.
• Regularly check the status of your visa and permit applications to promptly address any issues or delays.
• Seek advice from relocation specialists or legal advisors to comply with all regulatory requirements.
• Make photocopies or digital scans of all important documents as backups if the originals are lost or stolen.

5. Buying Last-Minute Flight Tickets

Another mistake first-timers make when moving to Dubai is booking a flight at the last moment. Know that busy seasons such as Summer can hike up the travel costs. Plan your travel accordingly and book tickets in advance to avoid paying unnecessary high costs.

Make sure to:

• Start planning your move well in advance to give yourself ample time to book flights.
• Purchase your flight tickets as soon as your move date is confirmed to secure the best rates.
• Schedule your move outside of busy travel periods like summer and major holidays to find lower fares.
• Be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of cheaper flights.
• Look for flights to and from nearby airports that offer better rates.
• Take advantage of frequent flyer programs and travel rewards to reduce costs.

6. Improper Packing

What if you find your dearest photo frame broken because you packed it with other stuff? This is a common mistake people make when moving to the UAE. So, when moving to Dubai with family, follow these guidelines:

• Make a detailed list of all the items you must pack to ensure nothing is forgotten and stay organised.
• Keep essential items like documents, medications and a change of clothes in a separate, easily accessible bag.
• Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape to protect your belongings during transit.
• Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for easier unpacking.
• Sort through your items and get rid of anything you don’t need to reduce the amount you have to pack and move.
• Pack items from one room at a time to stay organised and ensure everything is noticed.
• Wrap fragile items individually and use plenty of padding to prevent breakage.

7. Ignoring Financial and Legal Aspects of Property Rent or Purchase

Renting or buying in the UAE without thorough research can lead to financial losses. It is crucial to research the ideal neighbourhood. Keep in mind your budget and choose an area close to your office or child school with transportation & other amenities when you rent a property in Dubai.

Here’s what else you need to do:

• Work with a licensed real estate agent who has extensive local market knowledge and can guide you through the process.
• Carefully read and understand all terms and conditions in rental or purchase agreements before signing.
• Ensure all legal documents and permits are in order and comply with local property laws and regulations.
• Account for additional expenses like agency fees, service charges and insurance premiums.
• Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify any potential issues or repairs needed before committing.

8. Splurging on Expensive Shopping Right After Arrival

People coming to UAE are fascinated by the luxury of the expensive malls in Dubai and the high-end lavish restaurants. Moving to a new place compels you to try out the specialities of the area. However, you must know how to spend within budget.

Try this:

• Focus on purchasing essential items first, such as groceries, basic furniture and necessary household goods.
• Resist the temptation to buy non-essential or luxury items immediately upon arrival.
• Consider buying second-hand furniture and appliances to save money while settling in.
• Take advantage of seasonal sales and promotions to purchase more expensive items at a reduced cost.

9. Failing to Research Schools in Your Vicinity

People relocating with family and children need to prioritise finding top schools near their residences. UAE boasts top schools providing high-quality education. To make the most of this, here’s what you need to do:

• Begin researching schools well before your move to understand your options.
• Consider your child’s specific educational needs, interests and learning style.
• Look into various types of schools, including public, private and international schools, to find the best fit. Find the top-rated private schools in Dubai.
• Look for reviews and testimonials from other parents and students to gauge the school’s reputation and quality.
• Choose schools that are conveniently located to reduce travel time and ensure a manageable daily commute for your child.

10. Neglecting Due Diligence in Choosing Your Social Circle

Friends and a strong social circle are the essence of life. After all, you need a partner to accompany you to a football match or spend a day out with.

• Use social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to find people.
• Enrolling in a course or a yoga session can help you find people with similar interests.

FAQs

This is where we conclude our guide to the common mistakes when moving to the UAE. We recommend properly navigating these complexities and smoothly transitioning into Dubai’s lifestyle.

UAE’s vibrant culture is all set to welcome you! Check out our guide to UAE transportation for efficient travel across the Emirates.

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