Moving to Dubai From India – Things You Should Know
One of the most beautiful cities among the Arab countries, Dubai has been a source of attraction from people across the world, especially those from India. There are a lot of Indian expats in Dubai, making Dubai feel like home to those who decide to relocate here. We’ll talk about the required documents, accommodation and more.
Visa requirements
There are different types of visas that you can get for Immigration from India. These are the visa types:-
- Student Visa- Best option for students. Just enroll in a Dubai based university and you will get a visa that lasts through your education. You are not allowed to get a job with this visa however internships are allowed.
- Investor Visa – If you plan to invest in Dubai business sector, then your investment can be a door to your visa. The benefits of this visa include a 3 year stay and no taxes for the visa holder, making it a popular choice for those who can afford it. An expat will be required to pay a deposit of AED 10000-20000 to the UAE govt. as a proof of having the required funds for the investment.
- Employment Visa – One of the most common ways to get entry into Dubai. Your employer will take care of all your requirements.
- Dependent Visa – This one varies depending on who’s sponsoring you. If your spouse is your sponsor, then their monthly income should be AED 4000 in order to be eligible for sponsoring. If your children are planning to sponsor you, then they should be earning at least AED 20000 per month to be eligible for sponsoring. If your parents are the sponsor, then you just need to be unmarried and under 18.
- Property Visa – For property owners in Dubai, they are allowed a Visa based on the property value.
Documents required
- Your attested high school and graduation certificate will be required.
- An attestation from the Human resources development will also be required which you can get from your state’s HRD office.
- A validation stamp from Ministry of External Affairs( India) and from the embassy of UAE will also be required.
Accomodation
Where to live to is a crucial decision that you will have to make. Well you don’t need to worry since Dubai’s property market has a lot of options for you. You can check out an expat’s guide to real estate in Dubai for some guidance. It is important to take into consideration all the factors while making your final accommodation decision. Whether to rent or to buy is a call you will have to make depending on your budget and the duration you plan to stay. If you decide to rent, then make sure to read about the tenancy laws in Dubai, so that you don’t find yourself getting surprised. All of this done, you will have to decide where to buy property in Dubai. Depending on your needs and wants, you can get various options for various budgets.
Lifestyle in Dubai
- Language – Many of you may be worried that you may need to know Arabic to get by but that is not the case. Majority of the residents are able to have conversations in English, Hindi or Urdu. But a learning a little Arabic may not be a bad idea.
- Food – Dubai has almost all cuisines on offer for you, including the Indian cuisine of course. There are plethora of good Indian restaurants in Dubai, so that you don’t miss your home food. Also most of the spices used in India are also available in Dubai, for those who like to cook themselves, although the prices are generally on the higher side.
- Dress options – One myth that is associated with Dubai is that it is very conservative. If you have believing it too, then you’re wrong. You can wear modern clothes in Dubai without any issues. As long as don’t wear anything too tight or too revealing, you can be rest assured that you won’t face any trouble.
- Weather – If you’re coming in summers, then be ready to face temperatures as high as 50 degrees. But this weather lasts only for a few months, and from the months of October-November, the weather actually becomes quite pleasant. Also, it can get chilly in the nights in the winters, so be prepared for that.
- Transportation – If you own a car, then you can use that for your transport, as long as you can get a driving license in Dubai. Indian licenses are not considered valid in Dubai. Coming to the public transportation, there are a lot of options including the Bus, Metro, Tram and Taxis. You won’t face any difficulties getting around but the costs will be higher compared to those you have been used to in India.
- Taxes – As you must know, Dubai doesn’t have income taxes. Your income stays yours. However there is a VAT that must be paid.
- Health – The city is full of hospitals and pharmacies that open 24/7. Expats are eligible for receiving private health insurance which is to be provided by the companies they work for.