First steps in the UAE

🌆 Your first days in the UAE: what to do, where to go, how to move around

🛬 1. Upon Arrival: SIM, internet, and orientation

• Buy a local SIM at the airport (Etisalat or Du).
  They offer tourist packages with data, calls, and monthly renewal.
• Download essential apps:
  • Careem / Uber for transportation
  • RTA Dubai for public transport
  • Talabat / Deliveroo for food
  • Bayt, LinkedIn, Dubizzle for job hunting
    📌 Get oriented on Google Maps and start exploring neighbourhoods.

🔗 More about SIM cards

🏠 2. Check-in at your accommodation
If you've booked an Airbnb, hostel, or bedspace, check:

• Location: Are you close to a metro station? A mall?
• Hygiene conditions
• Wi-Fi connection (important for online interviews)

💡 Avoid renting long-term housing immediately. Wait until you're settled.

💼 3. Job search... but the right way
Start your day as if you were already at work:

• Wake up early
• Organize your applications
• Customize each CV and cover letter
• Attend networking events and career fairs (check on Eventbrite and Meetup)
  ➡️ Apply only to jobs that match your profile.

👔 4. Do interviews and use word-of-mouth

• Keep a printed version of your CV ready
• Dress professionally (smart casual at least)
• Attend job walk-ins (some companies hold these in malls or hotels)
  📞 Use WhatsApp with your UAE number: many recruiters prefer contacting you there.

🛂 5. Pay attention to legality
With a tourist visa, you can only look for a job, NOT work.
If you get an offer, the company must:

• Make you a contract
• Start the work visa process
• Request the Emirates ID (personal document)
  🔗 Info on the process: u.ae – Work Permits

🚇 6. Move around like a local

• Get a Nol Card right away (for metro, bus, tram)
• The metro is punctual, air-conditioned, and very clean
• Avoid rush hours if you can (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM)
  📌 Strategic areas to move around and live temporarily:
  Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Al Barsha, Downtown, Deira (more affordable)‍

🔗 Public transport

🧠 7. Mental management and expectations

• Don’t get discouraged if interviews don’t come immediately
• Set small weekly goals (e.g., 20 CVs sent, 2 new LinkedIn contacts, 1 networking event)
• Stay calm: times can be slow, especially in the first 15–20 days
  🧘‍♂️ Dubai is competitive, but those who are prepared and consistent have much better chances.

✔️ In summary:
You’ve arrived, and now the real work... is finding a job.
Every contact, CV, and strategic move can open a door.
Play your first weeks well: they are the most important.