How to move to Dubai in 2025?

Do you dream of settle in Dubai ? Are you wondering what steps to take to How can you make a success of your move abroad in 2025?

This article will give you all the answers!

Dubai attracts thousands of expats every year thanks to its dynamic economy, its no income tax and its exceptional living environment. However, moving to this ultra-modern city requires careful preparation: obtaining a visa, house hunting and adaptation to the local culture.

To settle in Dubai, you need a residence visa issued by the government of the United Arab Emirates. Company directors and employees can easily obtain a residence visa valid for three years, which is renewable. However, there are other options available, such as the Golden Visa or the retirement visa.

In this article, we will look at:

• Essential administrative procedures
  
• How to find suitable accommodation
  
• The cost of living and the best tips for settling in quickly

Ready to take the plunge? Follow the guide!

Why choose Dubai as a place to live abroad in 2025?

Dubai is a dynamic city with a rapidly growing economy. It offers numerous opportunities in business, finance, tourism, technology and property, as well as an exceptional quality of life.

A. Career and economic opportunities

International companies are looking for talent from all over the world. Salaries in Dubai are often attractive, particularly in sectors where demand is high, such as tech, finance and construction.

The absence of income tax allows you to maximise your savings and invest in projects or property.

Expo 2020 has boosted the market and attracted new investors. In 2025, major projects will continue to create jobs and opportunities.

B. Quality of life and infrastructure

Dubai offers an exceptional quality of life. The city is modern, clean and very safe, with a sunny climate all year round.

The infrastructure is world-class. The city boasts excellent roads, a state-of-the-art underground system, top-class hospitals and renowned international schools.

There’s a wide range of leisure activities on offer: idyllic beaches, huge shopping centres, Michelin-starred restaurants and fantastic family-friendly activities.

Everything is designed to the comfort of residents in Dubai, whether you’re on your own, as a couple or with your family. We’ll now look at the steps involved in moving there.

The administrative procedures for moving to Dubai

For you settle in Dubai, you will need to obtain a residence visa and open a local bank account. We’ll look at this in more detail.

A. Obtaining a residence visa

For living in Dubai, you will need a residence visa. There are several types of visa depending on your circumstances: work, investment, retirement or freelance.

• Work visa : The employer will handle the necessary procedures and sponsor you to obtain a renewable 2- or 3-year visa.
  
• Investor visa : If you invest in a business or property (minimum 750,000 AED), you can obtain a visa valid for between 2 and 10 years.
  
• Freelance visa : You can obtain a visa by registering on platforms such as Dubai Freelance. It enables you to work as a freelancer.
  
• Retirement visa : If you are over 55 and have a stable income, you can obtain a 5-year visa.

Visas are easy to obtain if you meet the criteria. Here are The visa application process in Dubai :

1. Choose the type of visa : work, investor, freelancer, retirement.
   
2. Submit the application via a sponsor : employer, company, public body.
   
3. Undergo a medical examination : blood test + chest X-ray.
   
4. Obtaining an Emirates ID : residents’ identity cards.
   
5. Have the visa stamped in your passport.

Here are the Documents required to obtain a visa for Dubai :

• A valid passport (valid for at least 6 months).
  
• Recent passport photos. ?
  
• Employment contract or proof of investment.
  
• Medically validated test.
  
• Application form completed.

B. Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in Dubai It’s simple: 

1. Choose a bank (Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, etc.).
   
2. Book an appointment in branch or online.
   
3. Please provide the required documents (see below).
   
4. Deposit a minimum amount (varies depending on the bank).
   
5. Receive your bank card and activate your account.

The documents required to open a bank account in Dubai are:

• Valid passport + residence visa.
  
• Emirates ID (or proof of application).
  
• Proof of address in Dubai (tenancy agreement, utility bill).
  
• Letter of employment or proof of income.

There are several banks that are ideal for expatriates in Dubai. Here are the most highly recommended ones:

• Emirates NBD : Popular, effective mobile app, numerous branches.
  
• Mashreq Bank : Quick to open an account, good online services.
  
• ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank) : Ideal for employees and entrepreneurs.
  
• FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank) : Secure, benefits for investors.
  
• HSBC Middle East : Ideal for those who carry out international transactions.

Some banks offer accounts that do not require an initial deposit. Find out more before you open your account. We will now look at How to find the perfect home in Dubai.

Finding accommodation in Dubai in 2025

To explore this topic in more detail, we will first outline the property market in Dubai and look at the most sought-after neighbourhoods.

1. The property market in 2025

In 2025, the Dubai property market is booming. Prices remain competitive compared with major cities around the world. There are plenty of options: luxury flats, modern villas and seaside residences.

Dubai continues to attract more and more expats and investors. Areas such as Dubai Marina, Downtown, Business Bay and Jumeirah are in high demand.

The new laws make it easier for foreigners to buy and rent property. Furthermore, innovative projects continue to emerge, offering excellent opportunities.

2. The favourite neighbourhoods of French-speaking expats

The best neighbourhoods for French-speaking expats in Dubai are: 

• Dubai Marina : Lively, close to the beach, with plenty of restaurants and cafés.
  
• Downtown Dubai : Luxurious, near the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.
  
• Jumeirah : A residential neighbourhood with French schools, ideal for families.
  
• Business Bay : Modern, close to the city centre, perfect for professionals.
  
• The Springs / The Meadows : Quiet villas with green spaces, ideal for families.
  
• Arabian Ranches : Residential, secure, with a pleasant living environment.
  

3. The process of renting or buying

The process of rental in Dubai It’s simple. Here are the key steps in order:

• Choose a neighbourhood and a type of accommodation : flat, villa, etc…
  
• View several properties with an estate agent or a private landlord.
  
• Signing of the tenancy agreement : usually for a period of one year, payable in 1 to 4 cheques.
  
• Pay the deposit (5 to 10 % of the rent) and agency fees (5 %).
  
• Registering the tenancy on Ejari is compulsory, as it is the emirate’s official system.

The buying process in Dubai It’s also very simple. You need to follow these steps in order: 

• Set your budget and choose between finance or a cash purchase.
  
• Find a property through an estate agent or a developer.
  
• Sign the sales contract and pay a deposit (usually 10 %).
  
• Get a mortgage (if necessary) and complete the payments.
  
• Register the purchase with the Dubai Land Department.

Here are a few practical tips for Renting or buying in Dubai:

• View several properties Before making a choice, bear in mind that photos can be misleading.
  
• Negotiate the rent or purchase price, especially during quiet periods.
  
• Check for hidden charges (utility bills, maintenance, internet connection, air conditioning).
  
• Use an authorised agency to avoid scams (check the RERA ID).
  
• Please bring bank cheques As for paying rent, that’s quite common in Dubai.
  
• Insure your home, particularly in the event of an accident or theft.
  
• Choose a neighbourhood close to your workplace to avoid traffic jams.

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll have to live in a community. We’ll see How to settle in well in Dubai.

Settling into local life in Dubai

Dubai is a unique, highly advanced and ultra-modern city. But not everyone will be able to living and settling in well in the emirate. Let’s see what you need to know to Succeeding in settling into life in Dubai.

1. Local culture and customs

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, but the local culture is influenced by Arab and Islamic traditions. Respecting these customs will help you settle in:

• Respect and politeness : Be polite to everyone; Emiratis appreciate kindness.
  
• Dress code : Dress modestly in public places, particularly in official buildings.
  
• Ramadan : During this holy month, avoid eating or drinking in public during the day.
  
• Public Relations : Public displays of affection are restricted. Please avoid kissing and hugging.
  
• Alcohol and behaviour : Alcohol is permitted in certain places, but public drunkenness is prohibited.
  
• Negotiation : Bargaining is common in the souks and in some shops.

Emiratis are welcoming and open-minded, as long as you respect their values.

2. The French-speaking community and social media

Dubai is home to a large French-speaking community. You’ll find schools, events and support groups there.

• Meeting places : French secondary school, French Institute, French cafés and restaurants.
  
• Facebook and WhatsApp groups : «French-speakers in Dubai», «Mums in Dubai», «French Entrepreneurs in Dubai».
  
• Events & after-work get-togethers : Networking drinks, cultural evenings, sports tournaments.
  
• French-language media : Dubai, Madam, Le Petit Journal Dubai, France UAE.

The French-speaking community shows great solidarity in Dubai.

3. Children’s education and school attendance

Dubai offers excellent schools for expats, with several French-speaking and international schools.

• French schools : Georges Pompidou International French School, Lebanese Francophone School, Swiss International Scientific School.
  
• Other options : British (IB), American and bilingual schools.
  
• Tuition fees : Varies depending on the school (from 20,000 to 100,000 AED per year).
  
• Registration : Do this early! Some schools have waiting lists.
  
• Extracurricular activities : Sport, music, the arts, programming… anything is possible!

To ensure better integration, it is important to address the cost of living in Dubai in order to be better prepared.

Cost of living in Dubai

Dubai is an expensive city, but with careful planning you can make the most of your budget. Let’s take a quick look at the costs of main areas of expenditure in Dubai.

1. Accommodation

Prices vary depending on the neighbourhood and the type of accommodation. Here is an average estimate:

• Flat: 1 to 2 bedrooms
  
  • Dubai Marina / Downtown : 8,000–14,000 AED per month
    
  • Jumeirah / Business Bay : 7,000 – 12,000 AED per month
    
  • More affordable neighbourhoods (JVC, Al Barsha) : 4,500 – 8,000 AED per month

• 3-bedroom villa
  
  • Arabian Ranches / The Springs : 15,000 – 25,000 AED per month
    
  • Mirdif / Damac Hills : 10,000 – 18,000 AED per month

Utility bills (air conditioning, water, internet) add up to between 500 and 1,500 AED per month.

If you’d rather buy, Dubai offers properties to suit all budgets, from affordable flats to luxury penthouses. Here’s an estimate:

• Flats
  
  • Studio flat : 500,000 – 1.2 million AED
    
  • 1 bedroom : 750,000 – 2 million AED
    
  • 2 bedrooms : 1.2 million – 4 million AED
    
• Villas
  
  • 3 bedrooms : 2.5 million – 6 million AED
    
  • 4 bedrooms : 4 M – 12 M AED

Prices vary depending on the neighbourhood, with Downtown, the Marina and Palm Jumeirah being among the most expensive. Investing in Dubai may entitle you to a residence visa.

2. Transport

Dubai offers a range of transport options to suit all budgets:

• Underground : Fast and economical. Fare: 3 to 7.5 AED per journey, depending on the distance.
  
• Bus : Affordable but slower. Price: from 3 AED.
  
• Taxi : Widely used, with a base fare of 12 AED plus 2.19 AED per kilometre.
  
• Private car : Available to buy from 30,000 AED; petrol is cheap (around 3 AED per litre).
  
• Services such as Uber/Careem : Convenient, but more expensive than standard taxis.

Great tip : The Nol card lets you pay for the underground, buses and trams easily.

3. Health and insurance

Dubai has high-quality public hospitals and clinics. Examples include: Dubai Hospital, Mediclinic, American Hospital. The cost of a consultation with a GP ranges from 200 to 600 AED, but is higher in private hospitals. Treatment is free in public hospitals in the event of an emergency.

Compulsory health insurance in Dubai. Your employer must provide you with basic cover. Self-employed people must take out private cover. We recommend that you opt for a premium insurance policy to cover specialist and international healthcare.

To ensure your installation goes smoothly, we’re going to give you a few practical tips to make things easier for you your move to Dubai.

Practical tips for a successful installation

Moving to Dubai becomes easier with a few essential tips.

1. Climate adaptation

The climate in Dubai is desert-like, hot and dry for most of the year: 

• Summer (May–September) : Temperatures between 40 and 50°C, high humidity. Limit your outings during the day and make sure you stay well hydrated.
  
• Winter (November–March) : 20 to 30°C, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
  
• Clothing : Opt for lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen) and avoid dark colours in summer.
  
• Air conditioning : Found everywhere (homes, shops, public transport), but can be quite warm. Do remember to bring a light jacket for indoors.
  
• Protect your skin : Sun cream is compulsory and sunglasses are essential.

2. Professional networking

Dubai is an international hub, ideal for creating professional opportunities. Here’s how to network effectively:

• Events & conferences : Take part in trade fairs such as GITEX, Expo 2025 and the Dubai Business Forum.
  
• Business groups : Join the French Business Council, Dubai Chamber or BNI to expand your network.
  
• After-work events & meet-ups : Networking events at hotels and co-working spaces (WeWork, Astrolabs).
  
• LinkedIn : Widely used in Dubai. Optimise your profile and get in touch with professionals.
  
• Coworking spaces & cafés  : Work from co-working spaces to meet other entrepreneurs.

In Dubai, word of mouth is powerful. Be proactive and build connections!

3. Leisure and entertainment

Dubai has something for everyone. Here are a few ideas:

• Beaches and islands : Kite Beach, JBR, Bluewaters Island, The World Islands.
  
• Shopping : Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping centre), Mall of the Emirates.
  
• Amusement parks : IMG Worlds, Motiongate, Aquaventure, Wild Wadi.
  
• Sport and adventure : Skiing at the Mall of the Emirates, diving, surfing, desert safaris.
  
• Culture and the arts : Dubai Opera, museums (Louvre Abu Dhabi, Museum of the Future).
  
• Nightlife : Trendy rooftops, clubs, lounge bars (Burj Al Arab, Pier 7).

Make the most of the special offers with the Entertainer and Nol Plus cards!

Ready to move to Dubai? Take the first step now!

And that brings us to the end of this article! You now have everything you need to Making a success of your move to Dubai in 2025. From obtaining a visa to finding accommodation, not to mention the cost of living and cultural integration, you’ll know what to expect for a stress-free move abroad.

Dubai is a dream destination, but thorough preparation is essential to avoid any unpleasant surprises and to make the most of your new life.

Why not call on some experts to help you on this journey?

Our French-speaking estate agency Dubai Real Estate helps you to Find your ideal home in Dubai, tailored to your needs and budget.

→ Get in touch with us today and bring your project to life with complete peace of mind!