How do you move to Dubai in 2025?

Dreaming of moving to Dubai? Wondering what steps you need to take to make a success of your expatriation in 2025?

This article will give you all the answers!

Dubai attracts thousands of expatriates every year thanks to its dynamic economy, tax-free lifestyle and exceptional living environment. However, settling in this ultramodern city requires rigorous preparation: obtaining a visa, finding accommodation and adapting 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 benefit from a residence visa valid for 3 years and renewable. But there are other options, 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 ways to integrate quickly

Ready to take the plunge? Follow the guide!

Why choose Dubai as an expat destination in 2025?

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

A.Professional and economic opportunities

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

The absence of income tax means you can maximize your savings and invest in projects or real estate.

Expo 2020 has boosted the market and attracted new investors. In 2025, major projects will continue to generate 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 year-round sunny climate.

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

Leisure activities range from heavenly beaches and gigantic shopping malls to Michelin-starred restaurants and incredible family activities.

Everything is designed for the comfort of residents in Dubai, whether you're on your own, a couple or a family. We'll now take a look at how to get started.

Administrative procedures for setting up in Dubai

To settle in Dubai, you need to obtain a residence visa and open a local bank account. We'll look at this in detail.

A.Obtaining a residence visa

To live in Dubai, you need a residence visa. There are several types of visa, depending on your situation: work, investment, retirement or freelance.

• Work visa : The employer takes care of the formalities and sponsors you to obtain a 2 or 3-year renewable visa.
  
• Investor visa : If you invest in a business or property (minimum AED 750,000), you can obtain a visa for 2 to 10 years.
  
• Freelance visa: You can obtain a visa by registering on platforms such as Dubai Freelance. It allows 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's how to apply for a visa in Dubai:

1. Choose the type of visa: work, investor, freelance, retirement.
   
2. Submit the application via a sponsor: employer, company, official body.
   
3. Medical test: blood test + lung x-ray.
   
4. Obtain Emirates ID: resident identity card.
   
5. Have the visa stamped in your passport.

Here are the documents needed to obtain a visa in Dubai :

• Valid passport (6 months minimum).
  
• Recent passport photos. 📸
  
• Employment contract or proof of investment.
  
• Validated medical test.
  
• Completed application form.

B.Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in Dubai is easy: 

1. Choose a bank (Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, etc.).
   
2. Make an appointment at our branch or online.
   
3. Provide the required documents (see below).
   
4. Deposit a minimum amount (varies by 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 residence in Dubai (lease, invoice).
  
• Letter of employment or proof of income.

Several banks are ideal for expats in Dubai. Here are the most recommended:

• Emirates NBD: Popular, efficient mobile app, numerous ticket offices.
  
• Mashreq Bank: Fast to open an account, good online services.
  
• ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank): Excellent for employees and entrepreneurs.
  
• FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank): Secure, advantages for investors.
  
• HSBC Middle East : Ideal for those involved in international transactions.

Some banks offer accounts with no initial deposit. Find out more before opening your account. We'll now look at how to find the ideal accommodation in Dubai.

Finding accommodation in Dubai in 2025

To better address this topic, we'll begin with an overview of Dubai's real estate market and a look at some of the most sought-after neighborhoods.

1 The real estate market in 2025

In 2025, Dubai's real estate market is booming. Prices remain competitive when compared with the world's major cities. There are many options, from luxury apartments to modern villas and beachfront residences.

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

New laws make it easier for foreigners to buy and rent. What's more, innovative projects continue to emerge, offering great opportunities.

2 French-speaking expatriates' favorite neighborhoods

The best neighborhoods for French-speaking expatriates in Dubai are : 

• Dubai Marina: Dynamic, close to the beach, many restaurants and cafés.
  
• Downtown Dubai: Luxurious, close to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
  
• Jumeirah: Residential neighborhood with French schools, ideal for families.
  
• Business Bay: Modern, close to downtown, 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.lease or purchase process

The rental process in Dubai is straightforward. Here are the key steps in order:

• Choose a neighborhood and a type of accommodation: apartment, villa, etc...
  
• Visit several properties with an agency or owner.
  
• Lease signature : generally for one year, with payment in 1 to 4 cheques.
  
• Pay the deposit (5-10% of the rent) and agency fees (5%).
  
• Registering a lease on Ejari is compulsory, as this is the official system in the emirate.

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

• Define your budget and choose between financing or cash purchase.
  
• Find a property through an agency or a developer.
  
• Sign the sales contract and pay a deposit (usually 10%).
  
• Obtain a mortgage (if required) and finalize payments.
  
• Register the purchase with the Dubai Land Department.

Here are some practical tips for renting or buying in Dubai:

• Visit several properties before choosing, as photos can be misleading.
  
• Negotiate the rent or purchase price, especially in off-peak periods.
  
• Check for hidden costs (utilities, maintenance, internet connection, air conditioning).
  
• Use a licensed agency to avoid scams (check the RERA ID).
  
• Bank checks are common in Dubai for rent payments.
  
• Insure your home, especially in the event of damage or theft.
  
• Choose a neighborhood close to your work to avoid traffic jams.

Once you've settled in, you'll have to live in a community. We'll look at how to integrate in Dubai.

Integrating into local life in Dubai

Dubai is a unique, highly advanced and ultra-modern city. But not just anyone can live and integrate well in the emirate. Let's take a look at what you need to know to integrate successfully 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 facilitate your integration:

• Respect and politeness: Be courteous to everyone, as Emiratis appreciate kindness.
  
• Attire : Dress modestly in public places, especially official buildings.
  
• Ramadan: During this holy month, avoid eating or drinking in public during the day.
  
• Public relations: Public displays of affection are limited. Avoid kisses and hugs.
  
• Alcohol and behavior : Alcohol is permitted in certain areas, but public drunkenness is prohibited.
  
• Negotiation: haggling is a habit in the souks and in some shops.

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

2.French-speaking community and social networks

Dubai has a large French-speaking community. You'll find schools, events and support groups.

• Meeting places: Lycée Français, Institut Français, French cafés and restaurants.
  
• Facebook and WhatsApp groups: "Francophones à Dubaï", "Les Mamans de Dubaï", "Entrepreneurs Français à Dubaï".
  
• Events & afterworks: networking aperitifs, cultural evenings, sports tournaments.
  
• French-language media: Dubaï Madame, Le Petit Journal Dubaï, France UAE.

The French-speaking community in Dubai is very supportive.

3 Education and schooling of children

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

• French schools: Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou, Lycée Libanais Francophone, Swiss International Scientific School.
  
• Other options: British (IB), American and bilingual schools.
  
• Tuition: Varies by school (from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000/year).
  
• Registration: Register early! Some schools have waiting lists.
  
• Extracurricular activities: sports, music, arts, programming... it's all possible!

For better integration, it's important to discuss the cost of living in Dubai so as to be better prepared.

Cost of living in Dubai

Dubai is an expensive city, but with good management you can optimize your budget. Let's take a brief look at the costs of the main items of expenditure in Dubai.

1. accommodation

Prices vary according to neighborhood and type of accommodation. Here's an average estimate:

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

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

Utilities (air conditioning, water, internet) add AED 500 to 1,500/month.

If you prefer to buy, Dubai offers property to suit all budgets, from affordable apartments to luxurious penthouses. Here's an estimate:

• Apartments
  
  • Studio: AED 500,000 - 1.2 M
    
  • 1 bedroom: AED 750,000 - 2 M
    
  • 2 rooms: 1.2 M - 4 M AED
    
• Villas
  
  • 3 rooms: 2.5 M - 6 M AED
    
  • 4 rooms: 4 M - 12 M AED

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

2.Transport

Dubai offers several transport options to suit all budgets:

• Metro: Fast and economical. Fare: 3 to 7.5 AED/journey depending on distance.
  
• Bus: Affordable but slower. Fares: from AED 3.
  
• Cab: Widely used, with a basic fare of AED 12 + AED 2.19/km.
  
• Personal car: Can be purchased from AED 30,000, cheap petrol (approx. AED 3/L).
  
• Services like Uber/Careem: Convenient but more expensive than traditional cabs.

Tip: The Nol card makes it easy to pay for metro, bus and streetcar fares.

3.health and insurance

Dubai has top-class public hospitals and clinics. Examples: Dubai Hospital, Mediclinic, American Hospital. The cost of consultations varies from AED 200 to 600 with a general practitioner, but more in private hospitals. Emergency treatment is free in public hospitals.

Compulsory health insurance in Dubai. Your employer must provide you with basic health insurance. If you are self-employed, you must take out private coverage. We advise you to opt for premium insurance to cover specialized and international care.

To make your move to Dubai a success, we're going to give you a few practical tips to make your move easier.

Practical tips for a successful installation

Moving to Dubai just got easier with a few essential tips.

1.climate adaptation

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

• Summer (May-September): Temperatures between 40 and 50°C, high humidity. Limit daytime outings and keep well hydrated.
  
• Winter (November-March): 20 to 30°C, perfect for beaches and outdoor activities.
  
• Clothing : Choose lightweight fabrics (cotton, linen) and avoid dark colors in summer.
  
• Air conditioning: present everywhere (homes, stores, transport), but can be aggressive. Think of a light jacket for indoors.
  
• Protect your skin: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential.

2.professional networking

Dubai is an international hub, ideal for creating business opportunities. Here's how to network well:

• Events & conferences: Participate in trade fairs such as GITEX, Expo 2025, Dubai Business Forum.
  
• Business groups : Join the French Business Council, Dubai Chamber, or BNI to expand your network.
  
• Afterworks & Meetups: networking evenings in hotels and coworking spaces (WeWork, Astrolabs).
  
• LinkedIn: Widely used in Dubai. Optimize your profile and connect with professionals.
  
• Coworking & cafés: Work from collaborative spaces to meet other entrepreneurs.

In Dubai, word-of-mouth is powerful. Be active and make connections!

3.leisure and entertainment

Dubai offers something for everyone. Here are just a few ideas:

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

Take advantage of special offers with Entertainer and Nol Plus cards!

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

Here we are at the end of this article! You now have all the keys to a successful move to Dubai in 2025. From obtaining a visa to finding accommodation, from the cost of living to cultural integration, you know what to expect from a worry-free expatriation.

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

Why not call in the experts to help you on this adventure?

Our French-speaking real estate agency Dubai Real Estate can help you find the ideal property in Dubai to suit your needs and budget.

→ Contact us today and turn your project into a reality with complete peace of mind!