Thinking about making the big move to Dubai? Get ready for a life filled with futuristic skylines, gorgeous beaches, and—wait for it—zero income taxes! Plus, with Dubai’s thriving education sector, it’s a top destination for teachers worldwide. If you’re starting your journey in July, you’re in for a summer packed with new opportunities and exciting experiences in this dazzling city.
But let’s be real—relocating can be overwhelming, with challenges like understanding local laws, adapting to a new culture, and figuring out the local processes. Don’t worry, though! With the right preparation and knowledge about the city and its culture, you’ll quickly feel at home in the UAE.
This guide provides essential tips to help you prepare for a smooth transition and feel right at home in the Emirates.
Here’s how to plan your move to Dubai:
6) Getting settled in your first week
Housing:
Finding a comfortable and convenient place to live should be your top priority. Think about how close it is to your school, transportation options, and local amenities. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT).
If you’re after that suburban vibe, check out Mirdif for budget-friendly, family-ready villas. Or, if you’re aiming for Kardashian-level luxury, Arabian Ranches is your spot. Business Bay is another hot choice, offering swanky places close to the city center, though it comes with a higher price tag. You can browse Property Finder and Bayut for options, and get ready for payment plans like four cheques, one cheque, or monthly installments. Yep, that’s how it rolls here.
Transportation:
Getting around Dubai is a breeze with its efficient and well-connected public transport. You’ve got affordable options like taxis, ride-hailing apps, and the Dubai Metro, which has stations close to many neighborhoods and covers the city’s busiest areas. Buses and taxis are also easy to find and use.
The Nol card is your go-to buddy for getting around—just tap to pay for the Metro, buses, trams, and even marine transport. You can pick up your Nol card at ticket offices, vending machines, or from authorized sellers.
Prefer driving? Getting your driver’s license is super easy. Once you’ve got it, you can rent or buy a car with payment plans to fit any budget. Just watch out for the Dubai Mall parking lot—it’s massive, and getting lost there is practically a Dubai initiation.
5) Staying Connected
Mobile Plans
Getting connected in the UAE has its quirks—WhatsApp calls are limited, and yearly contracts are standard. But no worries! You can grab a Virgin Mobile UAE plan right at the airport with just your passport. Once you’ve got your Emirates ID, switching to a resident plan is a breeze a Virgin Mobile UAE offers a 50% discount on annual plans, flexible monthly options, and instant connectivity – perfect for keeping up with your BFFs from day one.
But that’s not all! You can also explore du and Etisalat, two other top providers in Dubai. Both offer fantastic deals and reliable service, so you’ll always stay connected.
4)Entertainment and Leisure
Areas to Explore:
Dubai’s entertainment scene is as varied as your wardrobe. For beachy vibes, head to the clubs at JBR Beach. Nightlife enthusiasts can explore the chic venues at West Palm Beach or downtown, while DIFC is home to some of the trendiest nightlife spots around.
Looking for shopping and indoor fun? Dubai Mall is your ultimate destination, featuring the Dubai Aquarium and Ice Rink. If you’re in the mood for culture, take a stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and visit the Dubai Museum.
Be sure to check out Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. For a change of pace, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has great hiking and historical sites, while Fujairah boasts beautiful beaches and forts—ideal for a refreshing day trip away from the city hustle.
3) Teacher Deals
The UAE really appreciates teachers! You can snag fantastic discounts on everything from food and drinks to workout classes and beach clubs. Be sure to watch for new deals—they’re always popping up!
2) Eating Well
Deliveries:
Dubai’s food scene is top-notch, offering cuisines from around the globe. With food delivery apps like Talabat, Careem, and Deliveroo, getting your favorite dishes delivered anytime is a breeze.
Need groceries or even a bag of ice? Just call your local store, and they’ll deliver it right to your door. Seriously, you can get just about anything delivered—it’s like living in a magic kingdom.
Careem isn’t just your go-to for rides home—it’s also your best buddy for food delivery! With Careem Now, you can get deliciousness delivered right to your door faster than you can say “I’m hungry!” Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger or a late-night snack, Careem Now has you covered.
1) Tips for a Smooth Transition to Life in Dubai
Weather:
Stay hydrated and schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day. Nobody wants to see you overwhelmed by heatstroke at JBR Beach!
Community:
Join expat groups on Facebook, Reddit, and Meetup to connect with other teachers and make new friends. Dive into community events to build your support network—you never know, your new BFF might just be one meetup away!
With these tips, you’re ready for an incredible new life in Dubai. Embrace the adventure, and welcome to your fabulous new home! 💖🌟
