How the UAE works
Evergreen, plain-language guides on living, visas, work, money, business, travel and culture in the United Arab Emirates. Each names the authority behind the rules and the year the figures are from.
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Grouped by topic.
Living in the UAE
Moving to the UAE: The Complete Checklist
A step-by-step checklist for relocating to the UAE, from the documents you need before you fly to the first 90 days of settling in.
Read the guideRenting a Home in the UAE
How renting works across the emirates, from Ejari and Tawtheeq to cheques, deposits, rent increase rules, eviction notices and connecting your utilities.
Read the guideHealthcare and Health Insurance in the UAE
How the UAE healthcare system works, who must have health insurance, how public and private care differ, and what to do in an emergency.
Read the guideSchools and Education in the UAE
A parent's guide to nurseries, curricula, school regulators and ratings, admissions, fees, the school year and universities in the UAE.
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Money & tax
Banking, Money and Tax in the UAE
How banking, credit, remittances and taxes work in the UAE, from opening an account to VAT, corporate tax, savings and investing.
Read the guideBuying Property in the UAE
How foreigners can buy property in the UAE, from freehold areas and fees to mortgages, off-plan purchases, the Golden Visa and common risks.
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Travel & transport
Driving and Getting Around the UAE
How to get a licence, buy or lease a car, pay tolls and parking, avoid fines, and use the Metro, buses, taxis and rail across the UAE.
Read the guideUAE Weather and the Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month climate, sea temperatures, heat and rain risks, the summer midday work ban, what to pack and the best time to visit the UAE.
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