Congratulations, you’ve made the big move to Dubai.

Whether you made the decision to moving to Dubai for work, (after all Dubai has been named one of the best cities to work in), or simply changed course for a stunning change of scenery, there are countless reasons to want to call Dubai your new home.

But after you’ve likely touched down at Dubai International Airport, or from made the hour or so drive from Abu Dhabi airport (formally referred to as Zayed International Airport), there are a few things you need to tick off the list now, to help make the move as straightforward as it can be.

We’ve compiled the first 10 must-dos to be aware when moving to Dubai, from first hand experience.

The first 10 things to do when moving to Dubai

Pick up a local sim

The last thing you want is a scarily high phone bill while you’re still roaming the internet on your home country’s SIM card.

Luckily, it’s simple to get a Dubai tourist SIM card, and it’s good to know you can pick one up as soon as you land at DXB airport.

There are only three telecom providers in Dubai: du, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile.

The du tourist SIM card for example, comes with 1GB of free data that is valid for 24 hours after activating it. You will then be able to choose a limited-time package to upgrade your du tourist sim card to include more data and minutes.

When you go through immigration at the airport, head to the blue telecom stands with the name du written on them one up. Click here to find out more about each provider.

Get a nol card

If you’re moving to Dubai from London, the nol card is similar to the UK capital’s Oyster card, but even better, if we say so ourselves.

A nol card is primarily used for getting around Dubai, whether you choose to hop on the Dubai metro, tram, bus, water taxi and the Palm Monorail.

But you can actually use your nol card in Dubai to pay for a host of things of other things, including various restaurants, supermarkets and top Dubai attractions.

There are four different nol card colours to select from which all have different features: silver, red, gold, and blue.

Silver is the most common commuters go for, which grants standard access to Dubai’s travel network, while gold enables entry to Dubai Metro gold class carriages for example.

Read more about the different types of nol cards and their benefits here.

Download the apps

One thing you will quickly learn about Dubai is how there is an app for pretty much everything and anything.

In addition to the usual takeaway and taxi-hailing apps you may be familiar with, your phone is the key to unlock other services such as cleaning, food shopping, car rental and more.

A common app to download is Careem, where users can readily order a taxi or rent a car, on top of the usuals.

Read more on the apps to make your life easier in Dubai.

Check on your Emirates ID process

Not sure what an Emirates ID is?

Emirates IDs are issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship to all UAE citizens and residents, and is a legal requirement if you live here in the UAE.

The identity card holds important information in its electronic chip such as the holder’s basic information, photo and biometric data and fingerprints.

This special identity card unlocks several important things in Dubai, from putting down a deposit for an apartment to swapping your home country’s driving license.

Most of the time this Emirates ID is sponsored by your employer if you are entering full-time employment. If you’re arriving as a freelancer, it’s important to note you will need a different work permit.

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your Emirates ID process with your company’s HR department or supervisor, as they may need extra documentation, such as new passport-sized photos, to speed up the process.

Check your medical insurance provider

If you are moving to Dubai for work, your employer will most likely cover your medical insurance. However, this will not apply to everyone.

Although your employer is responsible for giving you a medical insurance plan, it is your responsibility to follow-up with them to ensure this has been carried out, and what the expiration date is for your plan.

You should also follow-up with them regarding any questions you have, or instructions on how to access your insurance provider and healthcare network.

If you are entering on an employment visa, you must have your visa stamped upon entering the UAE so you can provide this to your employer. From there, they can add you to the medical insurance quickly. If this is not provided, then the process will take longer.

Read more on how to get medical insurance in Dubai here.

Open a bank account

There are many banks to choose from in Dubai, from HSBC and Citibank, to local banks such as Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank and Mashreq Bank.

Before choosing a provider when moving to Dubai, thoroughly research the different options available: compare rates, deals, perks and find a bank that suits your personal needs best.

To open a bank account in Dubai, you’ll need:
• Your original passport, along with a few scanned copies
• A salary certificate from your company (which your HR department can provide you with) or a NOC letter from your employer or sponsor
• Your valid Emirates ID
• Your valid UAE residence visa

If you’re still waiting for your Emirates ID to arrive, you needn’t worry as many banks across Dubai will accept a copy of your Emirates ID registration form.

Get to know renting costs

Chances are you may be heading to a hotel or Airbnb when you first land in Dubai.

But if you’re itching to get your own space in Dubai, it’s a good idea to become familiar with rent, deposits and the best neighbourhoods to look into.

Renting costs in Dubai are increasing, and landlords are required to provide a 90-day warning if they are going to hike up what you’re supposed to pay.

If you’re completely new to renting in Dubai, this is the must-know renting jargon to know here.

Make a friend

If you’ve made the move alone, don’t fret.

Making friends in Dubai is easier than you think, and soon enough you’ll have more friends than Facebook.

If you’re heavily into fitness, joining a running club or regular exercise class is one of the easiest ways to bump into new people. There many more ways to make a new pal in Dubai here.

See the sights

If you’re completely new to the city, chances are you are trying to find your bearings in your new home.

And what better way to learn about your surroundings than to get out and explore?

From exploring main attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, (we strongly recommend you stop by Time Out Market while you’re in the area) to Dubai’s many beaches, there is so much to explore.

Looking for free things to do in the city? Here are the best things to do in Dubai and they won’t cost you a dirham.

Tell home you have left the country

It’s likely your friends and family know you are moving to Dubai or have already left, but often you need to tell your home country the news on your big move.

For example, if you are moving to Dubai from the UK, you need to let HMRC and Student Finance (if applicable to you) know you have the country for tax purposes, and to adjust your student finance payments — yes, you still need to pay this back despite the big move.

Other important things to know in Dubai

UAE public holidays 2025 revealed: save the date for these days off
It’s not too early to make plans

Dubai Metro: timings, fares, routes and stations
Plus, are kids allowed to travel alone on the Metro? You’d be surprised

Cheap rent in Dubai: 7 affordable neighbourhoods for 2024
Our top pocket-friendly picks, plus their best attractions