What is the experience of living in UAE as an expat? That’s a question most people planning to leave their countries of citizenship to work in UAE often ask themselves. An accurate answer to this question will help such individuals decide wisely on whether to relocate. At a glance, expats can benefit significantly from relocating to UAE since its tax system is considerate and the career prospects are impressive. The country is known for its strategic position, growing banking industry, political stability, and diverse economy.
Nevertheless, one must admit the adjustments, adaptation, and compromise that moving to a new country demands. Moving to UAE isn’t an exception, and the daunting task of settling down is constant. However, what will the life of an expat living in UAE be like once the dust settles? Read on to find out!
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Working Experience of an Expat Living in UAE
Working in UAE may be a whole new experience for an expat. Let’s see the details.
Workplace
The primary determinant of this experience is your workplace. If you work for an international company, its working culture will most likely rhyme with the norm in its home country.
On the other hand, working with a local company often translates to a workstation in Arabic culture. Such companies are usually family-owned as well. Consequently, business operations and decisions rely on personal factors such as relations, connections, and hierarchy. Regardless, networking and trust are business values that cut across the board.
Language
Whereas the language that dominates the workspace is English, one can’t overlook that the country’s official language is Arabic. That’s why there are instances where translations are unavoidable.
Working Culture
Besides, if you are working with Emiratis, they will most likely prefer face-to-face meetings. Criticism is rare; people often avoid giving you bad news since they usually consider people’s feelings. Due to UAE’s culture, messages, phone calls, and prayer breaks can easily disrupt a meeting. Always be ready for such scenarios to avoid frustrations.
Working Hours
Opening hours are usually 7:30 am or 9:00 am, depending on your company. In most, if not all cases, closing hours are 5:00 pm. Working days are between Sunday and Thursday, too. However, when the weather is too hot, workers enjoy free afternoons in exchange for extending evening hours.
Dressing Code
As an expat living in UAE, I remember to wear conservative clothes all the time, including when headed to work. Shake hands with people before or after closing a deal using your right hand.
Salaries
Expect relatively high salaries, but don’t forget that the country’s cost of living is also relatively high. There isn’t a standard salary or minimum wage in the UAE. On the contrary, what to expect relies upon certain circumstances. The significant determinants include the company you are working with, your position, nationality, education level, experience, and qualifications.
Nevertheless, the country’s average monthly salary is $5800, and that’s approximately AED 21500. If you are a pilot, the average salary is between $8000 and $13000. On the other hand, on average, nannies and maids earn from $200 to $800 monthly.
Applicable Visas When Living in UAE as an Expat
As an expat living in UAE, you can several visa types to consider. They include;
- Golden visa
- Green work visa
- Job seeker visa
- Standard work visa
- Virtual work visa
Important Documents if Living in UAE as an Expat
Some of these documents will be useful when moving to UAE as an expert. Check them out!
- Insurance documents such as healthcare insurance and travel insurance
- Financial records show you have sufficient funds, but this document requirement differs from one visa application to another
- Equally important, birth and marriage certificates only apply when relocating to UAE with your spouses and children.
- Police clearance fees
- If you are 18 or older, UAE needs your medical records covering malaria and TB, among other communicable diseases.
- Passport sized photo
- Freelance permit if self-employed
- Educational certificates apply when applying for a work visa
- Proof of employment in the form of a valid employment contract or a signed job offer letter
- Last but not least is the visa application form
Popular Places to Rent When Living in UAE as an Expat
Since UAE is new to you, insights on the best places to rent can make a huge difference. Here are some notable suggestions for a great stay in UAE;
- Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
- Al Tawwun, Sharjah
- Bur Dubai
- Downtown Dubai
- Dubai Marina
- Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi
Dubai is quite famous among expats for several reasons. The same applies to Abu Dhabi, where some people also prefer Sharjah. It doesn’t mean that there are no expats in other emirates. However, some cities and emirates are more popular than others among expats.
Can You Work Illegally in UAE
It is illegal to work without the necessary requirements in the UAE, but it isn’t impossible. However, given how harsh the rules are for people working illegally, no one should risk it. So, if you are living in UAE as an Expat but working illegally, stop that immediately to avoid its dire consequences. Did you know that every day you reside in this country illegally, that will attract a fine of about $27? That’s $270 for 10 days, $2700 for 100 days, and so on.
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