The UAE has a desert climate with extremely hot summers and warm, pleasant winters. Humidity is high along the coast. The best weather is from November to March.

☀️Summer Average

35-45°C (95-113°F)

❄️Winter Average

18-28°C (64-82°F)

Seasonal Overview

Winter (December - March)

Pleasant and dry with comfortable temperatures - peak tourist season

Spring (April - May)

Warming up with occasional sandstorms

Summer (June - September)

Extremely hot and humid - indoor lifestyle essential

Autumn (October - November)

Temperatures dropping, becoming more comfortable

💰

Cost of Living

75/100

Cost Index

Relative to global average75/100

The UAE offers varying cost of living depending on the emirate. Dubai is most expensive, while northern emirates are significantly more affordable. Housing is the biggest expense.

Rent (1-bedroom city center)

Varies dramatically by emirate - Dubai most expensive, Ajman/RAK most affordable

AED 2,500-8,000/month

Food & Groceries

International food expensive, local and Asian cuisine more affordable

AED 800-1,500/month

Transportation

Public transport in Dubai/Abu Dhabi; car essential in other emirates

AED 300-800/month

Utilities

DEWA/ADDC bills can be high due to AC usage

AED 200-600/month

Healthcare

Mandatory health insurance; quality private healthcare available

AED 500-2,000/month

💼

Work Culture

UAE work culture blends international business practices with local customs. It's professional and diverse, with emphasis on networking and relationship building.

Working Hours

40-48 hours/week

Vacation Days

21-30 days/year

Key Characteristics

•Multicultural and professional environment

•English widely used in business

•Networking and relationships crucial

•Respect for hierarchy and seniority

•Friday-Saturday weekend

•Ramadan working hours adjustment

📋

Visa Information

UAE offers various visa options including employment visas, Golden visas for investors/skilled professionals, freelancer permits, and business licenses with residence permits.

Processing Time

2-4 weeks

Validity

2-3 years renewable (employment), 5-10 years (Golden visa)

Requirements

✓Valid passport (6+ months validity)

✓Job offer or business license

✓Educational certificates (attested)

✓Medical fitness certificate

✓Police clearance certificate

✓Emirates ID registration

🏥

Healthcare System

Mixed Public-Private with Mandatory Insurance

UAE has world-class healthcare with mandatory health insurance for all residents. Both public and private options available with excellent facilities.

🛡️

Coverage

Mandatory health insurance for all residents

Key Features

✓World-class medical facilities and specialists

✓Mandatory health insurance for all residents

✓Mix of public and private healthcare providers

✓Medical tourism destination for region

✓Advanced medical technology and treatments

✓English-speaking medical professionals

💻

Digital Nomad Friendliness

8/10

Nomad Score

Digital Nomad Friendliness8/10

Internet Speed

150-500+ Mbps average

Coworking Spaces

150+

Highlights

•Excellent internet infrastructure

•Growing coworking scene in Dubai/Abu Dhabi

•Strategic location for Middle East/Africa business

•English-speaking business environment

•Freelancer visa and remote work visas available

•Luxury lifestyle and amenities

🧾

Taxes

No personal income tax; 5% VAT on goods and services; 9% corporate tax (from 2023)

Top Rate

0% personal income tax; 9% corporate tax

VAT

5% VAT on most goods and services

Tax-free salary major attraction; corporate tax introduced in 2023 for businesses with profits over AED 375,000

Sources: www.government.ae, www.mof.gov.ae

🗣️

Language & Safety

Language

Arabic (official), English (business language)

English

Excellent in business/expat areas; English widely spoken and used

Safety

Extremely safe

Holidays

~12-14 public holidays including Eid holidays, National Day, and New Year (Islamic holidays vary by lunar calendar)

One of the world's safest countries with very low crime rates, excellent emergency services, and strong law enforcement

💳

Payments

Excellent - cards accepted almost everywhere

Common apps: Careem PAY, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Emirates NBD Pay, CBD Now

Highly cashless society; digital payments widely adopted; some cash still useful for small vendors

📶

Mobile & Internet

5G Coverage

Excellent nationwide 5G coverage

Carriers

Etisalat, du

World-class mobile infrastructure; excellent coverage; eSIM available; competitive data plans

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UAE really tax-free?

Yes for personal income tax. There's 5% VAT on goods/services and 9% corporate tax for businesses with profits over AED 375,000.

Do I need to speak Arabic?

No, English is widely spoken and used in business. Basic Arabic phrases are helpful but not essential.

How much should I save before moving?

Minimum 3-6 months expenses (AED 15,000-30,000) plus visa costs, housing deposit, and initial setup expenses.

Best emirate for families?

Abu Dhabi for government sector, Dubai for international business, Sharjah for budget-conscious families, Al Ain for peaceful living.

Can I buy property as an expat?

Yes, in designated freehold areas. Owning property can lead to residence visa. Popular areas include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.

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