Moving to Dubai

Secure school places first, because the best schools have waiting lists. Then residency, then housing, because a tenancy contract and Emirates ID unlock almost everything else.

There is no personal income tax and no capital gains tax on individuals. Corporate tax of 9% applies to business profits above AED 375,000.

UAE tax residency usually requires 183 days a year in the country, and the place you leave may still claim you, so plan the departure as carefully as the arrival.

The ten-year Golden Visa is open to property owners investing AED 2M or more, to investors and to skilled professionals. Employment visas are sponsored by an employer, and family members are sponsored by the visa holder.

Foreign buyers can own outright in designated freehold areas, which include Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills, Dubai Hills Estate, Downtown and Dubai Marina. Purchases carry a 4% Dubai Land Department transfer fee.

Off-plan stock is plentiful, so compare primary and resale prices, which can differ widely in the same community.

The KHDA inspects and rates every private school, and its reports are the place to start. Dubai College, Jumeirah English Speaking School, Kings' School and GEMS Wellington are among the strongest British-curriculum schools.

Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai, provided by employers for employees and arranged by sponsors for dependants. Private hospitals are of a high standard.

A bank account needs an Emirates ID, which follows residency. Expect a few weeks between arrival and full banking, and bring funds to cover them.