Living in United Arab Emirates
Middle East — Expat guide for moving and living abroad
Country overview
Capital
Abu Dhabi
Currency
AED
Continent
Middle East
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Entry requirements
Check if your passport needs a visa for United Arab Emirates.
Check visa requirementsPopular passport access to United Arab Emirates
| Passport | Status | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Visa Free | 90 days |
| Germany | Visa Free | 90 days |
| France | Visa Free | 90 days |
| Italy | Visa Free | 90 days |
| Netherlands | Visa Free | 90 days |
| Sweden | Visa Free | 90 days |
| Portugal | Visa Free | 90 days |
| India | Visa On Arrival | 14 days |
| United Kingdom | Visa Free | 30 days |
| United States | Visa Free | 30 days |
Monthly costs
Dubai
Rent (center)
6,500 AED/mo
Groceries
1,500 AED/mo
Transport
350 AED/mo
Est. Monthly Total
9,050 AED/mo
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Work permits
United Arab Emirates offers a Digital Nomad / Freelance visa option.
-
Employment Visa (Standard Work Permit)
Duration: 2-3 years, renewable
Foreign workers sponsored by a UAE employer
-
Golden Visa
Duration: 10 years, renewable
Investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, or outstanding students
-
Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme)
Duration: 1 year, renewable
Remote workers earning at least 3,500 USD/month from foreign employers
-
Freelancer Visa
Duration: 1-3 years depending on free zone
Freelancers and self-employed professionals in permitted activities
Salary & tax
Income Tax Range
0% – 0%
Social Security (Employee)
0%
No personal income tax. No social security contributions for expats. UAE nationals pay 5% social security (employer 12.5%).
Calculate your net salaryUseful services
Insurance
SafetyWing
Nomad health insurance for your stay in United Arab Emirates. Monthly subscription, cancel anytime.
Get a SafetyWing quote →Connectivity
Airalo
United Arab Emirates eSIM data plans from $4.50. Activate before you land — no SIM swap.
Get an Airalo eSIM →Privacy
NordVPN
Stay secure on public WiFi in United Arab Emirates and access services from home.
Get NordVPN →Language
iTalki
Book 1-on-1 video lessons with native tutors before you move. 150+ languages.
Find a tutor →City guides in United Arab Emirates
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