STEP 1

To know before relocation

Got a thousand questions? Start here.

🧠 What you really need to know before you even pack your bags

1. Dubai is not Europe (and not a mirage either)

The UAE is a modern country, but with very different rules: Arabic culture, Muslim religion, desert climate, and intense lifestyles.
Dubai is international, but remains heavily regulated.

💡 Not everything is “like on Instagram.” Getting informed is the first smart step.

Read more about the climate

🏙️ 2. Life in Dubai: pros, cons, and reality

Pros:

  • No personal income tax
  • International lifestyle
  • Growing job opportunities in various sectors

Cons:

  • High cost of living (rent, transportation)
  • Extreme heat from May to September
  • Strict rules to follow (behavior, dress code, alcohol, etc.)
🗂️ 3. Jobs won't be waiting for you at the airport

In Dubai, there is no "just show up and find something" like in some European cities.
Companies prefer candidates who are already on the ground and ready to start immediately.
Patience, networking, a strong CV, and determination are key.

🔗 Start exploring job offers now on LinkedIn or GulfTalent.

💬 4. English is a must

Everything — job ads, interviews, documents — happens in English.
You don’t need perfect English, but a solid intermediate level (B1/B2) is essential.
🎧 Tip: Watch series in English, listen to podcasts about working and careers in the UAE.

📥 5. No work visa = no job

To work in the UAE, you need a work visa sponsored by a company.
A tourist visa only allows you to stay there, search for jobs, and attend interviews, but you can't work legally.
📌 There are no "under-the-table jobs": you risk fines and deportation.

🧑🤝🧑 6. Build your network before you go

Join online groups for Europeans in Dubai.
Follow creators, pages, and professionals who share their experiences.
Start connecting on LinkedIn (reach out to people already working in Dubai in your sector).

🔗 Useful groups:

  • Facebook: “Europeans in Dubai”
  • Meetup: Events for expats
  • LinkedIn: Search keywords like “Europeans in Dubai”

✔️ In summary:
If you really want to relocate, the first step is knowing what you’re getting into, not just dreaming about it.
The more prepared you are now, the fewer surprises (and disappointments) you’ll have later.