Moving to Dubai is straightforward once you know the order of things. Your residence visa and Emirates ID unlock most services; a registered tenancy (Ejari) unlocks utilities. These guides take you through each step.
Start here
- Moving to Dubai: the big picture, from visas to choosing an area.
- Your first-week checklist: what to do, in what order.
- Renting in Dubai: how leases, deposits and Ejari work.
- Cost of living: the main costs to budget for.
- Getting around: Metro, tram, buses, taxis and Nol cards.
- SIM cards and internet: tourist SIMs, eSIMs and resident plans.
- Essential services: the official bodies and providers you will deal with.
Where to live
Our area guides include notes for residents: commute, schools, family life and the general feel of each neighbourhood.