Why are more and more people deciding to settle in Dubai?
Many of us dream of a life by the sea with year-round sunshine. Thanks to simplified installation procedures, Dubai can make these dreams come true.
The UAE wants to attract expatriates to boost its workforce and economy. In return, Dubai offers the most beautiful postcard-worthy views, world-class infrastructure and numerous professional opportunities.
Dubai’s population is expected to exceed 3.5 million in 2022, but with the city expanding, the government’s target is to reach 5.8 million in 2040. The UAE has changed its visa regulations to attract foreigners and workers to settle.
Speed skating champion Sarah Lindsay has moved to Dubai with her gym business.
“I have a fitness coaching business in London and we’ve always wanted to expand overseas but we weren’t sure where to go. So we looked at a few places and spent a long time in Dubai due to quarantine and really fell into it. I love this city. A business startup in Dubai I gained a very positive experience as a business woman”, Report to Sarah Lindsay.
“After 20 years on the ice rink, my favorite thing about Dubai is the sun” adds the British businesswoman.
Simplified procedures for easy settlement in Dubai
Those wishing to settle in Dubai must pass a medical examination and obtain a valid resident visa. If you decide to join a company, the company’s human resources department will oversee the process. If you are setting up as a self-employed person to work as a freelancer, start a business or retire, you can apply for a visa directly on the Dubai government website or use specialized immigration services such as Fragomen.
“Fragomen helps businesses and individuals at every step of the immigration process, making the settlement process seamless and easy” Murtaza Khan, Deputy Director of Fragomen Middle East and Africa says.
Mr Khan believes that Dubai is a favorable city for the influx of expats. “If you look at migration around the world, what attracts people? It’s opportunity, and Dubai has been an established business center for a long time and more than that.” Mr. Khan explains.
“Dubai offers lifestyle choices. You have the freedom to practice your religion or not. We have a relatively safe and secure environment, lots of excellent infrastructure, care, healthcare and schools,” adds.
Schooling in Dubai is a matter of choice
Heather Harries, a renowned educator based in Dubai, is an independent and respected voice in education.
“Dubai has a very robust assessment system. All schools have to be approved and inspected by KHDA, the government’s inspection body. They then list the results of these inspections on their website so you can see exactly what’s going on at each school. Ms. Harris explains.
When choosing a school with annual fees of around €8-32,000, Ms Harries recommends doing your research beforehand: “Take a good look at what you value about your current school and think about how you would like it to improve. You may not want homework for your children, or quite the opposite. You may be for or against uniforms. Your child may like sports, art or theater. Know that there will always be a school to fulfill your wishes.”
Any expat will tell you that two-thirds of the world’s population is within an eight-hour flight from Dubai. If you move here, your family and friends may visit you more often than you imagine.
