Parents always want the best life for their children. Therefore, moving to Dubai with family is an idea that crosses their minds. That is due to many reasons, such as the high safety and security Dubai has, along with an excellent educational system and many career opportunities. So, if you are wondering where to live in Dubai with a family or what documents to prepare, then, this guide will walk you through the process from A to Z.
- Documents
- Family Living Costs
- Family-Friendly Areas
- Health Insurance
- Schools & Nurseries
- Transportation
- Career Network
- FAQ
Why Consider Moving to Dubai with Family
Protecting our families and providing well for them is always our first priority. Therefore, we always look for the best place where our children can grow happily and be well-cared for. Also, we desire a place that accommodates our career ambitions as well. And fortunately, Dubai provides both perfectly. In short words, here is why many expat families move and settle in Dubai:
- Many family-friendly destinations, including neighbourhoods and attractions
- Many amenities for children to pursue their hobbies Highest levels of safety and security
- Low crime rate, thus peaceful living across all communities
- World-quality education systems
- The best modern-day healthcare facilities
- A diverse and multicultural community
- A luxurious and comfortable lifestyle
- Tax-free income
- A constantly developed job market
Click here if you’re moving from the UK to Dubai for a special guide.
Moving to Dubai Step By Step
So, if you are looking to make this major life change and want to know how to move to Dubai, then let’s walk you through the procedures you need to be fully aware of. These include understanding the visas, their requirements, living costs, and much more. Which all are thoroughly illustrated below.
1. Prepare Your Documents
The first step before moving to Dubai is understanding the required documents and preparing them. Also, when relocating to Dubai, it is always best to rely on a work permit. The employer will act as your sponsor and take full care of the visa application.
In addition, expats can sponsor their family members in order to obtain a UAE family visa. However, the monthly salary controls the sponsor process. See the listing below to understand better.
- If an individual makes AED 10,000 on average a month, 5 family members can be sponsored.
- To sponsor 6 family members, the monthly income must be AED 15,000.
As for the required documents for UAE visas in general. They include:
- Passport-size picture
- Valid passport copy
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID, passports, and residency papers
- Proof of residence (lease contract)
- Employment contract
- 3-months bank statement for the resident
In addition, the family visa cost in Dubai might vary slightly based on the service centre you apply through. Regardless, the estimated cost would be as follows:
- Entry permit: AED 550
- File opening charges: AED 300
- A 2-year Emirates ID: AED 385
- Medical fitness test and certificate: AED 320
- Stamping of the visa: AED 580
- Visa status change (for family members inside the UAE): AED 750
2. Grasp the Family Living Costs in Dubai
If you are planning to move to Dubai with your family, you should aim to have a monthly income of around AED 20,000 to AED 30,000 (USD $5,450 to $8,170) to live a moderately comfortable lifestyle. This range should allow you to cover housing, education, healthcare, and other living expenses, but of course you may need more or less depending on your lifestyle choices.
Calculating the difference between the cost of living in your current country and Dubai is essential. For instance, if you are moving to Dubai from Ireland, then you will find that the cost of living in Dubai is lower. Overall, find a breakdown of the average cost of living in Dubai below, starting with housing options. Also, note the prices below for sale and yearly average rent.
| Rooms | Flat for Rent | Flat for Sale | Villa for Rent | Villa for Sale |
| 1-bedroom | AED 88,000 | AED 1,400,000 | – | – |
| 2-bedroom | AED 150,000 | AED 2,550,000 | AED 155,000 | AED 1,750,000 |
| 3-bedroom | AED 249,990 | AED 4,600,000 | AED 170,000 | AED 2,450,000 |
| 4-bedroom | AED 450,000 | AED 14,000,000 | AED 260,000 | AED 3,950,000 |
- Transportation:
- Monthly metro pass: AED 350
- Single bus ride: AED 4 – AED 8
- Utilities:
- Home Internet Plan: AED 311
- Basic Phone Plan: AED 25
- Basic Utilities for a 85 square meter apartment (Cooling, Heating, Electricity, Garbage, Water): AED 710
3. Know the Best Area to Live in Dubai with Family
First of all, you must know that, overall, Dubai is a family-friendly city. While it is one of the busiest cities in the UAE, it still has various serene and safe neighborhoods for families to settle in. In addition to that, each neighborhood or compound in Dubai is fully equipped for all your families’ needs as they are considered convenient and affordable areas to rent in Dubai. Such as:
- Deira
- Mohammed Bin Rashid City
- Tilal Al Ghaf
- Business Bay
- Dubai Harbour
- Jumeirah Islands
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Palm Jumeirah
- Downtown Dubai
- International City
4. Grasp the Family Health Insurance Cost in Dubai
Generally, speaking, health insurance is mandatory for Dubai’s residents. That is many to keep individuals well-cared for. In addition, there are many healthcare insurance providers across Dubai, such as Dubai Insurance, Orient Insurance, Cigna, and Aetna. And they all offer great policies for family health insurance. Also, make sure to discuss health insurance with your employer.
5. Choose the Best School
There have been many great schools in Dubai for years. This is important when moving to Dubai with family – as your kids’ education will be your number one priority. In addition, these schools follow various curriculums. So, if you want your child to enter an American school in Dubai. Then, you should explore GEMS Dubai American Academy and Universal American School.
On the other hand, if what you desire is a British school in Dubai, then rest assured there will be many top-ranked options, such as Dubai College School or Kings’ School Dubai. Furthermore, for younger kids, you can easily find many great nurseries in Dubai.
6. Figure Your Transportation Needs
Many of Dubai’s expats prefer owning a car. That is mainly for convenience, as it is easier to know the city and its roads. So, if you are looking into getting a car, then you must have a driver’s licence in Dubai.
In contrast, the available public means of transportation are just as convenient. In Dubai, you will find taxis, car lift apps such as Uber and Careem, a metro, and many buses. In case you want to take the bus, we suggest getting a Nol Card. As it will save money on bus fares and make the payment process easier.
7. Build Your Career Network
Lastly, many families move to Dubai in order to find better career opportunities. There are many high-paying and in-demand jobs in the UAE for various sectors, including healthcare, engineering, media, technology, and many more.
In addition, the multicultural communities in Dubai will help you build your career network not only within your job but also through attending work events and seminars. This is a must for those looking to build their career and climb up the corporate ladder.
FAQ
What are the places to go in Dubai with family for fun?
There are many attractions in Dubai for families – such as Legoland, Dubai Mall, Ski Dubai, and more.
What are the best places to stay in Dubai with family temporarily?
If you are looking for a family room for rent in Dubai at a hotel, then you will find plenty. Some of the best family hotels Dubai has are Atlantis the Palm, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, and more.
What is the best time to visit Dubai with family during the year?
Dubai is known for its warm weather all year round. So, whenever you visit Dubai, you will find many things to do. However, to enjoy outdoor activities, make sure to visit Dubai anytime from November to February.
What are the best family restaurants in Dubai to dine at?
You will find many family-friendly restaurants across Dubai, such as Dubai Mall restaurants.
In conclusion, if you are moving to Dubai with family – then rest assured it will be a great move as your family will be well-cared for in a safe community while you can build your career easily without worry. Furthermore, explore Property Finder’s blog for more exclusive guides, such as moving to Dubai from Canada.
