Relocating to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an exciting opportunity for professionals and families seeking world-class infrastructure, tax-free income, and a vibrant multicultural environment. At A1 Relocations, we ensure your move is smooth, secure, and stress-free from start to finish.
This guide provides key information to help you prepare for your relocation to the UAE.
Living in the UAE
The UAE is a global hub known for innovation, safety, and high living standards. Expats from around the world settle comfortably in its modern and well-connected cities.
Most Popular Expat Cities
- Dubai – A cosmopolitan business hub with iconic attractions and a fast-paced lifestyle
- Abu Dhabi – The capital, known for its cultural sites, family-friendly environment, and long-term stability
- Sharjah – More traditional and affordable, with proximity to Dubai
English is widely spoken, making integration easier for newcomers.
🌡 Climate
The UAE has a desert climate with:
- Hot summers reaching 45–50°C
- Mild, pleasant winters from November to March
- Very low rainfall
Homes, offices, and transport facilities are fully air-conditioned, ensuring comfort year-round.
🏠 Housing
Accommodation ranges from modern city apartments to spacious villas in gated communities.
- Rent is typically paid annually upfront or in 2–4 cheques.
- Short-term serviced apartments are available for new arrivals.
- Popular expat areas include Dubai Marina, JLT, Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Ranches, Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Al Reem Island.
🚗 Transportation
The UAE’s transportation network is fast, modern, and well maintained.
- Dubai Metro: efficient and affordable
- Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Careem) are widely available
- Many expats drive — certain nationalities can convert their licence directly
- Roads are among the best in the world
💰 Cost of Living
While the UAE offers a high standard of living, it can come with higher costs.
- Rent is the largest monthly expense
- School fees and groceries may be costly
- Fuel and utilities remain affordable
- Salaries are tax-free
📦 Importing Used Household Goods & Personal Effects
A1 Relocations ensures full coordination of customs clearance with our trusted agents in the UAE.
📑 Documents Required
- Copy of passport
- Copy of residence permit / residency visa on passport
- Employment visa with entry stamp if residency visa is still in process
- Emirates ID copy / Emirates ID application form / visa application form
- Bill of lading (express release) or Air Waybill (AWB) – Provided by A1 Relocations
- Detailed packing list in English
- Letter from Ministry of Foreign Affairs for duty exemption (diplomats)
- Copy of diplomatic card (diplomats)
- Letter of authorization / undertaking
🔍 Specific Information
- All documents must be prepared before the shipment arrives at the port or airport.
- Without a valid residence visa or passport, the shipment cannot be cleared, and the shipping line will not release the Delivery Order.
- Customs may conduct intensive inspections
- Importing used household goods and personal effects is duty-free.
New items are subject to 5% import duty and 5% VAT on the total CIF value. - Clearance timeframes:
- Sea freight: 4–5 working days
- Air freight: 3–4 working days
- Shipments not cleared within 5 days of arrival will incur port storage charges from day 1.
- Shipments arriving on Friday or Saturday will automatically lose two clearance days, increasing the risk of additional storage charges.
- Import of prohibited items results in severe penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
A1 Relocations strongly advises clients to review prohibited items before packing.
🚫 Prohibited & Restricted Items
- Narcotics and illegal substances
- Certain prescription medications
- Weapons, ammunition, and military equipment
- Political or religious materials deemed sensitive
- Alcohol (permit required in some emirates)
- E-cigarettes and vaping devices (regulated)
- Items contrary to Islamic values
🐾 Moving with Pets
Importing pets into the UAE is possible with appropriate documentation:
- Updated vaccinations
- Import permit
- Microchipping
- Rabies titration test (depending on origin country)
Some breeds may be restricted.
🚗 Importing Vehicles
Cars can be imported with the following considerations:
- 5% import duty on vehicle value
- VAT applicable
- Vehicles older than 10 years may require special approval
- GCC-spec cars are preferred
- Detailed documentation is required
A1 Relocations can coordinate vehicle shipping and compliance.
🏥 Healthcare
The UAE has world-class hospitals and medical facilities.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all residents
- Employers generally provide a basic insurance plan
- Private healthcare offers quick access and excellent service
💼 Employment & Residency
Most expats relocate through employer sponsorship.
- Residency visas and Emirates IDs are essential
- Household goods cannot be cleared without these documents
- Processing times vary depending on the emirate and employer
📱 Useful Tips When Moving to the UAE
- Weekends vary by emirate; many follow Friday–Saturday, though Sunday workweeks are increasingly common
- Modest dress is recommended in government and traditional areas
- The UAE is extremely safe with low crime rates
- Bank accounts require an Emirates ID
- Summer temperatures can be intense — hydration is essential
🌍 A1 Relocations – Your Moving Partner
Whether you are moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other emirate, A1 Relocations works closely with trusted UAE agents to ensure:
- Smooth coordination
- Clear communication
- Transparent processes
- Stress-free customs clearance
- Reliable door-to-door service
We are committed to making your move seamless and secure — every step of the way.
Get in Touch
Ready to relocate to the UAE? Contact A1 Relocations today for expert guidance and a tailored moving plan. A1 Relocations – Making your move to the UAE effortless.
