Moving from the UK to Dubai

With the UK experiencing rising taxes and economic uncertainty, more professionals and families are looking abroad for opportunity, sunshine, and tax-friendly living. Dubai, the dynamic hub of the UAE, stands out as one of the most attractive destinations. But moving to Dubai from the UK in 2025 isn’t just about packing your bags — it’s about preparing for a complete lifestyle shift.

In this guide from Arab Asset Consulting, we break down the most searched questions from UK expats considering the move. Let us help you make the leap with confidence and clarity.

 

1. Cost of Living in Dubai vs. the UK

Dubai offers zero income tax, but that doesn’t mean everything is cheaper. Here’s how it compares:

Category Dubai (Monthly in AED) UK – London (Monthly in GBP)
1-Bed Apartment City AED 8,000 £1,800
Utilities AED 800 £150
Internet AED 350 £30
Groceries AED 1,500 £300
Dining Out AED 500/meal for 2 £70/meal for 2
Public Transport AED 300 £150
Gym Membership AED 250 £50

Tip: Living in areas like JVC, Dubai Hills, or Al Furjan gives good value while staying connected to key hubs.


2. UK Tax Implications & Financial Planning

UK residents must be mindful of the Statutory Residence Test (SRT) to determine tax obligations. If you cut tax ties correctly:

  • No UK income tax on foreign-earned income
  • Capital Gains Tax may still apply on UK assets
  • Consider QROPS for pension transfers to Dubai

Actionable Tip: Schedule a consultation with Arab Asset Consulting to ensure full compliance and optimal tax efficiency.


3. Visa Options in 2025

Dubai has streamlined its visa offerings:

Work Visa: Sponsored by employers, valid for 2 years.

Golden Visa:

  • 10-year residency
  • For investors, entrepreneurs, professionals earning AED 30,000+/month

Remote Work Visa:

  • Ideal for digital nomads
  • Proof of employment and AED 15,000/month income required

Retirement Visa:

  • Age 55+, AED 20,000/month income or AED 1M savings

Pro Tip: Use Arab Asset Consulting’s visa support services to handle applications seamlessly.

4. Healthcare in Dubai for UK Expats

Dubai does not offer free healthcare. All residents must have health insurance.

  • Employers often provide basic insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage starts from AED 5,000/year

Top Hospitals:

  • Mediclinic City Hospital
  • American Hospital Dubai
  • King’s College Hospital Dubai (UK-affiliated)

Note: Emergency care is high-quality and widely available.

5. Education: Best British Schools in Dubai

Dubai offers over 200 private schools, many of which follow the British curriculum. Top picks include:

  • Dubai College
  • Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)
  • King’s School Dubai

Fees:

  • Range from AED 30,000–AED 100,000/year

Pro Tip: Apply early — popular schools have long waiting lists.

6. Job Market in Dubai (2025 Outlook)

With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Dubai’s hot sectors include:

  • Finance & FinTech
  • Real Estate & Construction
  • Healthcare & Biotech
  • IT & AI Development
  • Education

Finding a Job:

  • Use LinkedIn, Bayt, GulfTalent
  • Networking is key

Salaries:

  • AED 20,000–35,000/month is common for mid to senior roles

7. Cultural Norms, Laws & Lifestyle

Dubai is modern yet rooted in Islamic tradition. Here’s what to expect:

  • Dress modestly in public places
  • Alcohol is legal in licensed venues and home (with a license)
  • Unmarried couples can now live together legally
  • Weekends are Saturday–Sunday (as of 2022 reform)

Social Life:

  • Brunches, beach clubs, gyms, and malls are central to life
  • Safe for solo expats, families, and women

8. Real Estate: Rent or Buy?

Renting:

  • One-cheque or multiple-cheque options
  • Annual contracts with potential for negotiation

Buying:

  • Freehold property available for expats
  • No property tax
  • Mortgage options for UK nationals with 20-25% down payment

Hot Areas for Expats:

  • Dubai Marina
  • Downtown Dubai
  • Arabian Ranches
  • Dubai Hills Estate

Arab Asset Consulting offers personalized property guidance tailored to your budget and lifestyle goals.

9. Moving Logistics & Settling In

Banking:

  • Emirates NBD, HSBC, and Mashreq popular with expats
  • Requires Emirates ID, residency visa, proof of address

Driving:

  • UK license convertible to UAE license
  • Car rentals are affordable short-term

Shipping Belongings:

  • Door-to-door relocation services available
  • Popular companies: ISS Relocations, Allied Pickfords

Community:

  • Join Facebook groups like British Expats Dubai
  • Attend meetups via Internations or Meetup.com

10. Key Advantages of Moving to Dubai from the UK

  • Tax-Free Income: One of the most compelling financial incentives
  • High Quality of Life: World-class infrastructure, shopping, dining, and entertainment
  • Year-Round Sunshine: Great for those tired of the UK’s grey weather
  • Safety: Dubai is consistently ranked among the safest cities globally
  • Career Opportunities: Fast-growing industries and high earning potential
  • International Community: Vibrant mix of cultures and nationalities
  • Luxury Living: Access to premium housing, beaches, cars, and experiences

Final Thoughts: Make Your Move with Confidence

Moving to Dubai from the UK in 2025 offers incredible opportunities — tax-free income, high salaries, world-class infrastructure, and a luxury lifestyle. But success lies in smart planning.

At Arab Asset Consulting, we help UK expats make a seamless transition through expert financial planning, visa support, real estate advice, and relocation consultancy.

Book your free consultation today and let’s map your journey to Dubai success.

With the UK experiencing rising taxes and economic uncertainty, more professionals and families are looking abroad for opportunity, sunshine, and tax-friendly living. Dubai, the dynamic hub of the UAE, stands out as one of the most attractive destinations. But moving to Dubai from the UK in 2025 isn’t just about packing your bags — it’s about preparing for a complete lifestyle shift.

In this guide from Arab Asset Consulting, we break down the most searched questions from UK expats considering the move. Let us help you make the leap with confidence and clarity.

 

1. Cost of Living in Dubai vs. the UK

Dubai offers zero income tax, but that doesn’t mean everything is cheaper. Here’s how it compares:

Category Dubai (Monthly in AED) UK – London (Monthly in GBP)
1-Bed Apartment City AED 8,000 £1,800
Utilities AED 800 £150
Internet AED 350 £30
Groceries AED 1,500 £300
Dining Out AED 500/meal for 2 £70/meal for 2
Public Transport AED 300 £150
Gym Membership AED 250 £50

Tip: Living in areas like JVC, Dubai Hills, or Al Furjan gives good value while staying connected to key hubs.


2. UK Tax Implications & Financial Planning

UK residents must be mindful of the Statutory Residence Test (SRT) to determine tax obligations. If you cut tax ties correctly:

  • No UK income tax on foreign-earned income
  • Capital Gains Tax may still apply on UK assets
  • Consider QROPS for pension transfers to Dubai

Actionable Tip: Schedule a consultation with Arab Asset Consulting to ensure full compliance and optimal tax efficiency.


3. Visa Options in 2025

Dubai has streamlined its visa offerings:

Work Visa: Sponsored by employers, valid for 2 years.

Golden Visa:

  • 10-year residency
  • For investors, entrepreneurs, professionals earning AED 30,000+/month

Remote Work Visa:

  • Ideal for digital nomads
  • Proof of employment and AED 15,000/month income required

Retirement Visa:

  • Age 55+, AED 20,000/month income or AED 1M savings

Pro Tip: Use Arab Asset Consulting’s visa support services to handle applications seamlessly.

4. Healthcare in Dubai for UK Expats

Dubai does not offer free healthcare. All residents must have health insurance.

  • Employers often provide basic insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage starts from AED 5,000/year

Top Hospitals:

  • Mediclinic City Hospital
  • American Hospital Dubai
  • King’s College Hospital Dubai (UK-affiliated)

Note: Emergency care is high-quality and widely available.

5. Education: Best British Schools in Dubai

Dubai offers over 200 private schools, many of which follow the British curriculum. Top picks include:

  • Dubai College
  • Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)
  • King’s School Dubai

Fees:

  • Range from AED 30,000–AED 100,000/year

Pro Tip: Apply early — popular schools have long waiting lists.

6. Job Market in Dubai (2025 Outlook)

With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Dubai’s hot sectors include:

  • Finance & FinTech
  • Real Estate & Construction
  • Healthcare & Biotech
  • IT & AI Development
  • Education

Finding a Job:

  • Use LinkedIn, Bayt, GulfTalent
  • Networking is key

Salaries:

  • AED 20,000–35,000/month is common for mid to senior roles

7. Cultural Norms, Laws & Lifestyle

Dubai is modern yet rooted in Islamic tradition. Here’s what to expect:

  • Dress modestly in public places
  • Alcohol is legal in licensed venues and home (with a license)
  • Unmarried couples can now live together legally
  • Weekends are Saturday–Sunday (as of 2022 reform)

Social Life:

  • Brunches, beach clubs, gyms, and malls are central to life
  • Safe for solo expats, families, and women

8. Real Estate: Rent or Buy?

Renting:

  • One-cheque or multiple-cheque options
  • Annual contracts with potential for negotiation

Buying:

  • Freehold property available for expats
  • No property tax
  • Mortgage options for UK nationals with 20-25% down payment

Hot Areas for Expats:

  • Dubai Marina
  • Downtown Dubai
  • Arabian Ranches
  • Dubai Hills Estate

Arab Asset Consulting offers personalized property guidance tailored to your budget and lifestyle goals.

9. Moving Logistics & Settling In

Banking:

  • Emirates NBD, HSBC, and Mashreq popular with expats
  • Requires Emirates ID, residency visa, proof of address

Driving:

  • UK license convertible to UAE license
  • Car rentals are affordable short-term

Shipping Belongings:

  • Door-to-door relocation services available
  • Popular companies: ISS Relocations, Allied Pickfords

Community:

  • Join Facebook groups like British Expats Dubai
  • Attend meetups via Internations or Meetup.com

10. Key Advantages of Moving to Dubai from the UK

  • Tax-Free Income: One of the most compelling financial incentives
  • High Quality of Life: World-class infrastructure, shopping, dining, and entertainment
  • Year-Round Sunshine: Great for those tired of the UK’s grey weather
  • Safety: Dubai is consistently ranked among the safest cities globally
  • Career Opportunities: Fast-growing industries and high earning potential
  • International Community: Vibrant mix of cultures and nationalities
  • Luxury Living: Access to premium housing, beaches, cars, and experiences

Final Thoughts: Make Your Move with Confidence

Moving to Dubai from the UK in 2025 offers incredible opportunities — tax-free income, high salaries, world-class infrastructure, and a luxury lifestyle. But success lies in smart planning.

At Arab Asset Consulting, we help UK expats make a seamless transition through expert financial planning, visa support, real estate advice, and relocation consultancy.

Book your free consultation today and let’s map your journey to Dubai success.

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    Arab Asset ConsultingHeadquarters
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    Trade Centre - Trade Centre 1 -

    Dubai - United Arab Emirates

    OUR LOCATIONSWhere to find us?
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    GET IN TOUCHSocial links
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    Copyright by Arab Consulting. All rights reserved.    Privacy Policy

    Arab Asset ConsultingHeadquarters
    Latifa Tower - 1905 - Sheikh Zayed Rd -

    Trade Centre - Trade Centre 1 -

    Dubai - United Arab Emirates

    OUR LOCATIONSWhere to find us?
    https://arabasset.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img-footer-map.png
    GET IN TOUCHSocial links
    Connect with us to receive latest news about us.

    Copyright by Arab Consulting. All rights reserved.    Privacy Policy

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