Country Guide
Migrate to the UAE
The UAE offers tax-free salaries, world-class infrastructure, and fast visa processing. With 88% of the population being expatriates, the country is built around international talent.
0% Income Tax
On Personal Earnings
Why the UAE?
Zero personal income tax means you keep your full salary
Strategic location connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa with 4-hour flights
Golden Visa offers up to 10 years of residency without employer ties
Rapidly diversifying economy with massive investment in tech, finance, and tourism
Safe country with very low crime rates and modern infrastructure
English widely spoken in business, making integration easier for anglophone workers
Key Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Population | 10.1 million (2025, ~88% expatriates) |
| Official Language | Arabic (English widely used) |
| Currency | UAE Dirham (AED), pegged to USD |
| Minimum Wage | No statutory minimum (sector-dependent) |
| Healthcare System | Mandatory employer-provided insurance (DHA/HAAD) |
| Key Programs | Work Permit, Golden Visa, Green Visa, Freelancer Visa |
Visa Pathways
Employer-Sponsored Work Visa
The most common route. Your employer applies for a work permit and residence visa on your behalf. Valid for 2-3 years and renewable. The employer handles Ministry of Human Resources paperwork, medical fitness test, and Emirates ID registration.
Golden Visa (5 or 10 Year)
Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, outstanding students, and scientists. No employer sponsorship required. Holders can sponsor family indefinitely and retain the visa even when outside the UAE for extended periods.
Green Visa (5 Year)
Self-sponsored residency for skilled employees, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. Requires a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 for employees or proof of income for freelancers. Allows family sponsorship and a 6-month grace period after visa expiry.
Freelancer Visa
Available through free zones like Dubai Internet City, DMCC, and Abu Dhabi Global Market. Lets you work independently as a consultant, creative, or contractor. Typically valid for 1-3 years with packages starting from AED 7,500 annually.
Cost of Living Snapshot
Average monthly costs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Other emirates like Sharjah and Ajman are 30-40% more affordable.
| Expense | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Rent (City Centre) | AED 5,000 – 9,000 / month |
| Groceries (Single Person) | AED 1,200 – 1,800 / month |
| Public Transport (Metro + Bus Pass) | AED 300 – 400 / month |
| Internet (100 Mbps+) | AED 300 – 450 / month |
| Utilities (A/C, Electricity, Water) | AED 500 – 1,000 / month |
In-Demand Occupations
Software Engineers & AI Specialists
Civil & Mechanical Engineers
Registered Nurses & Healthcare Professionals
Financial Analysts & Compliance Officers
Marketing & Digital Media Specialists
Hospitality Managers & Chefs
Project Managers (Construction & Infrastructure)
Teachers (International Curriculum Schools)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there income tax in the UAE?
The UAE has zero personal income tax. Your salary is paid in full without income tax deductions. However, a 5% VAT applies to most goods and services, and a 9% corporate tax was introduced in 2023 for business profits exceeding AED 375,000.
How long does it take to get a UAE work visa?
Once your employer initiates the process, a standard work visa takes 2-4 weeks. This includes the entry permit, medical fitness test, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping. Some free zones offer expedited processing in 5-10 business days.
Can I bring my family to the UAE?
Yes. Employees earning AED 4,000+ per month (or AED 3,000 with accommodation) can sponsor their spouse and children. Golden and Green visa holders can sponsor family members regardless of salary. Parents can also be sponsored under certain conditions.
What happens to my visa if I lose my job?
Standard work visa holders have a 30-day grace period to find new employment or leave the country. Green visa holders get 6 months. During this period, you can transfer to a new employer without leaving the UAE, thanks to reforms introduced in 2022.
Start Your UAE Migration Journey
Book a free consultation and let our team help you navigate work permits, Golden Visas, and free zone options in the UAE.
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