Home > Living in Dubai > How to Move to Dubai From Germany: Ultimate Guide (2023)

How to Move to Dubai From Germany: Ultimate Guide (2023)

Jan 19, 2023 | Living in Dubai

The UAE and Germany have a long history of good relations, so it’s not surprising to see more and more people from Germany moving to the emirates. An estimated 15,000 Germans are currently residing in the UAE, and this number has been consistent during the pandemic. So why and how to move to Dubai from Germany you might ask yourself.

Among the seven emirates, Dubai is the most popular destination. With its vibrant lifestyle, world-class infrastructure, and booming economy, the city offers ample opportunities for both expats and locals. Whether you are looking for work or want to experience a different culture, Dubai is the place for you.

Of course, moving to a new country is never a simple endeavour. It requires careful planning and meticulous execution. So how to move from Germany to Dubai? Here is a comprehensive guide that covers the process.

Free Burj Al-arab- a lovely place to move to from Germany.

Source: Pexels

Why Relocate and How To Move To Dubai From Germany?

Dubai is thousands of miles away from Germany. If you’re wondering whether or not it’s a good idea to move here, well, the city provides many reasons you just can’t say no to.

Exceptional Job Opportunities

Dubai offers a wealth of job opportunities in different sectors, from hospitality and retail to finance and technology. It is also home to some of the world’s most renowned companies, such as Emirates Airlines, Coca-Cola, Gucci, Visa International, and more.

Moreover, Dubai has a vibrant start-up ecosystem that makes it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. It offers a healthy starting point for businesses in certain sectors, such as e-commerce, jewellery, technology, and real estate.

The city’s strategic location also allows companies to easily access markets across the Middle East and Africa, which makes it even more lucrative for investors.

Diverse Cultures and Residents

Aside from meeting plenty of fellow Germans, you will also get to interact with people from all over the world. The city is home to residents from India, the UK, China, Egypt, and many other countries. So you will have the opportunity to learn about different cultures and customs.

This is also evident in the businesses you will find, from boutiques and restaurants to shopping malls. You can sample the best international cuisine and shop at global fashion brands in Dubai’s bustling markets.

Furthermore, Dubai is the perfect place to build your network. Because there are expats from every corner of the globe, you can easily find like-minded people with whom you can share your knowledge and experiences.

Attractive Tax System

Did you know that you can enjoy tax-free income in Dubai? This is why many professionals have decided to make the move and enjoy a life of luxury in the Emirates. Unlike in Germany, where you can be taxed up to 45%, in Dubai, your entire salary will be tax-free. That means you can save more money and have a higher disposable income. It is definitely an attractive plus side when thinking about your move to Dubai from Germany.

Plus, there are no restrictions on capital gains or inheritance taxes. So if you own a business or real estate property, you can keep all of your profits without having to worry about any taxation issues.

Excellent Healthcare System

Dubai has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. From private clinics and hospitals to specialised medical centres, you will have access to quality care without burning a hole in your pocket.

Dubai also offers affordable medical insurance plans that cover all kinds of treatments, including emergency services. As an expat, this is highly beneficial because it ensures you are never left with unexpected bills or expenses during your stay in Dubai.

The city’s innovative COVID-19 response even won the Future Enterprise Award 2022, an award given to entities that demonstrated excellence in implementing pioneering technologies. This is how you know that the government places great importance on the welfare of its citizens.

Luxury Everywhere

The city is full of luxury! From five-star hotels and resorts to high-end restaurants and clubs, there are endless opportunities for you to live the lavish lifestyle you have always dreamed of.

Dubai also has a wide range of entertainment choices, such as theme parks, water parks, and desert safaris. You can also visit amazing museums like the Dubai Museum or The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. There’s also plenty of nightlife in Dubai, with its many bars and nightclubs that stay open until late at night.

Warm Climate

Germany has some of the coldest temperatures in Europe. But in Dubai, you will enjoy a warm climate for most of the year. The city is blessed with sunshine almost all year long, and the temperature rarely drops below 15 degrees Celsius during winter.

You can stroll around town without having to worry about snowfall or putting on layers of clothing. Additionally, palm-fringed beaches are just a short drive away from the city centre. You don’t have to go too far for some rest and relaxation!

Things to Know Before Moving to Dubai

Free Downtown Dubai photo and picture

Source: Pixabay

Naturally, moving to a new country will definitely change your life in many ways. Before you start packing your bags, there are several things you need to know before moving from Germany to Dubai.

1. The cost of living is high when you move to Dubai from Germany.

The cost of living in Dubai is generally higher than that in Germany. While you can find affordable housing, the prices of basic commodities and services like food, utilities, and transportation are significantly more expensive.

To ensure your budget is not stretched too thin by these costs, do thorough research and review your finances before moving.

2. There are various types of visas.

Knowing your visa types is crucial when thinking of how to move to Dubai from Germany. If you plan on working in Dubai, you will need an employment visa. This can be obtained through your employer and requires additional paperwork such as a medical exam, health insurance, and passport validity of at least six months from the date of arrival.

On the other hand, if you are only visiting for vacation or business purposes, then a tourist visa is more suitable. This type of visa allows visitors to stay up to 30 days in the UAE without any restrictions on activities except employment-related ones.

The emirate also offers a unique residency visa called the Golden Visa. This is available to any professional, student, and investor who meets the criteria and allows living in Dubai for up to 10 years. Unlike other visas, this one allows you to stay in the city without needing a sponsor. If you plan on staying in the UAE for an extended period of time, this is your best option.

3. The heat can be intense.

Dubai is known for its sweltering heat during the summer months. From June to August, temperatures can rise up to 43 degrees Celsius. This means that you should be prepared for dry and hot weather conditions.

It’s a good idea to invest in air conditioning units or wear light clothing made of breathable fabrics. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid staying out in the sun too long.

4. Prepare for the traffic when you move to Dubai from Germany.

Traffic in Dubai is a notorious issue, as the city has some of the worst traffic congestion globally. A 2022 study showed that Dubai drivers lost an average of 22 hours sitting in congestion. So if you plan on driving, be prepared for long hours stuck in traffic.

You should also be prepared for long queues at intersections and toll gates during peak hours. To make your commute easier, use public transportation or carpool with friends or colleagues during rush hour.

5. Be familiar with Islamic holidays when you move to Dubai from Germany.

Dubai honours the Islamic religion and culture. As such, the city observes several Islamic holidays that may affect your daily routine or business operations.

For example, Ramadan is an important month-long observance where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. This is why businesses typically reduce regular working hours by two hours a day. It is also required by law.

During the day, you will find shops and restaurants closed, while entertainment-related activities are significantly reduced. As a sign of respect, citizens are expected to refrain from eating or drinking in public.

6. There are different business zones.

There are three main zones in Dubai: free zone, mainland, and offshore. If you’re moving to Dubai to start a business, make sure to familiarise yourself with the different zones. This is because each zone has its own rules and regulations that you need to follow.

Free zones are typically favourable for foreign entrepreneurs, as they involve fewer restrictions and offer more incentives. The mainland, on the other hand, the mainland has more stringent rules but offers greater access to the local market.

Setting Up a German Business in Dubai

An image of a beautiful Dubai skyline.

Endless possibilities await those with a business or plan to set up one in Dubai. The city is home to many corporate giants and offers an attractive tax regime, making it an ideal place for entrepreneurs. For German passport holders, setting up a business in the UAE is easy if you have the right documents and a solid business idea.

Here’s how to go about it:

Finalise your business. It’s never a good idea to move to a new country without having your business plan in place. In fact, you’ll need a business licence to even start the process of relocating. So make sure to have a clear idea of your business structure, operations, and goals before applying for a licence.

Find a location. You will also need to decide where you want to set up shop. Free zones in Dubai offer attractive incentives and benefits, such as tax exemptions. However, they may have certain restrictions on the type of business you can run, so make sure to research them thoroughly before making a decision.

Prepare the paperwork. Once you have decided on a business, the next step is to prepare the necessary paperwork. You must submit copies of your passport and other identity documents, a financial statement, and proof that you have enough funds to run your business in Dubai.

Here’s a rundown of the basic documents you need to produce when you move to Dubai from Germany:

  • Copies of shareholder and director passports
  • Proof of address
  • Minimum 3 months’ bank statement
  • Education certificates (if applicable)
  • Certificate of share capital deposit (if required)
  • Signed lease agreement or co-working contract (if starting a mainland company)

Apply for a licence. Once all your documents are in order, it’s time to apply for a business licence from the Department of Economic Development (DED). Depending on which emirate/free zone you have chosen, this process may vary slightly but should generally take around two weeks.

Open a bank account. With a licence now in hand, you can open a local bank account to start running your business in Dubai. The city houses most of the major international banks, so you should have no problem finding one that suits your needs.

Apply for a visa. Once your business licence is approved, you can apply for a visa. Visas vary per zone, so make sure to check the requirements before submitting your application. You can also try for the Golden Visa if you want a self-sponsored visa.

The Bottom Line: How to Move to Dubai From Germany

There are many things to look forward to when you move to Dubai. With abundant business opportunities, world-class amenities, and an eclectic culture, the emirate is surely one of the most desirable places to live.

It’s also worth noting that the government continues its efforts to make migrating easier for foreigners. Moving to Dubai should be relatively straightforward as long as you have the proper documents and meet the requirements.

Of course, this can still be time-consuming. If you’re an entrepreneur with a lot of concerns to attend to, securing your move can be a significant challenge. Thankfully, you have the option to hire experienced relocation services to help make the process smooth and stress-free.

Virtuzone is a business and corporate services provider in the UAE with extensive experience helping expats move to Dubai. We offer comprehensive packages that include assistance with visa applications, finding accommodation, and setting up businesses.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you move from Germany to Dubai.

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