Dreaming of calling Dubai your home? You’re not alone. With its towering skyline, tax-free income, world-class amenities, and family-friendly lifestyle, Dubai has become a top destination for global citizens looking to settle down. But what does it actually take to move there, especially if you’re planning to bring your family and purchase property?
In this blog post, we break down the steps, visa options, property rules, and everything you need to know to make your Dubai dream come true.
Why Choose Dubai for Family Living?
Dubai isn’t just about glitz and glamour. It’s one of the safest cities in the world, offers exceptional private healthcare, has an excellent schooling system, and is strategically located for global travel. Whether your family consists of two or six, Dubai has the infrastructure and lifestyle to make everyone feel at home.
Step 1: Choose the Right Residency Visa
Before packing your bags, you need to sort out your legal right to live in Dubai. Here are the most common residency options if you’re planning to buy property:
1# Property Investor Visa (2-Year)
-
- Minimum Property Value: AED 1 million
- Ownership Requirement: The property must be fully completed and in a freehold area
- Income Requirement: Proof of AED 10,000/month income
- Benefits: Renewable 2-year residency; ability to sponsor your family
2# UAE Golden Visa (5-Year Residency)
-
- Minimum Property Value: AED 2 million (can be mortgaged through select banks)
- Its Perks:
- 5-year renewable residency
- Sponsor your spouse and children regardless of age
- No minimum stay requirement in UAE
- Option to stay outside the UAE for more than 180 days without losing your visa
Pro Tip: If you’re financially capable, the Golden Visa is a better long-term option, offering more flexibility and peace of mind.
Step 2: Sponsoring Your Family to Live With You
Once you secure your residency, you can sponsor your spouse and children under the following conditions:
-
- Minimum Salary: AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 + accommodation
- Documents Required:
- Attested marriage certificate
- Birth certificates for children
- Tenancy contract or title deed
- Health insurance coverage
- Medical test results (for applicants above 18)
Family visas are usually granted for 1 to 3 years, depending on your visa type.
Step 3: Purchasing a Home in Dubai
Yes, you can own property in Dubai as a foreigner! Just ensure you buy in designated freehold zones such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, or Jumeirah Village Circle.
Key Considerations:
-
- No Income Tax: You can enjoy tax-free rental income.
- Upfront Costs:
- Property Registration Fee: 4% of the property value
- Real Estate Agency Fees: ~2%
- Mortgage Down Payment: At least 50% if buying with a loan
- Financing Options: UAE banks offer mortgages to foreigners with a minimum 25-30% down payment and valid residency status.
Hot Tip: Hire a trusted real estate agent and a property lawyer to handle paperwork, ensure transparency, and avoid scams.
Step 4: Understand the Cost of Living in Dubai
While salaries are tax-free, Dubai’s cost of living varies depending on lifestyle and family size.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (Family of 4) |
|---|---|
| Rent (2–3 bed) | AED 5,000–10,000 |
| School Fees | AED 2,000–5,000+ |
| Groceries | AED 1,500–2,500 |
| Utilities | AED 500–1,000 |
| Transport | AED 500–1,200 |
| Entertainment | AED 1,000–2,000 |
While you can live luxuriously, it’s also possible to live modestly by choosing suburban areas like JVC, Al Nahda, or Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Step 5: Enroll Kids in Great Schools
Dubai is home to top-rated British, American, IB, and Indian curriculum schools. Many of them offer world-class facilities and multilingual education. Plan ahead though—good schools fill up quickly!
Step 6: Make the Move Smooth
To relocate successfully:
-
- Open a UAE Bank Account
- Set Up Health Insurance for the whole family
- Apply for Emirates ID (required for everything from rentals to utilities)
- Join Expats Forums and local community groups for support and advice.
FAQs About Moving to Dubai with Family
❓ Can I bring my spouse and kids immediately?
Yes, once your residency is approved, you can sponsor them. You’ll need proof of income, accommodation, and proper documents.
❓ Can my spouse work in Dubai?
Yes, but they’ll need to secure a job and apply for a work permit through their employer.
❓ Is it necessary to hire an agent to move or apply for visas?
No! The UAE government has streamlined the process through u.ae. Most steps can be completed directly online or through registered typing centers.
