One of the top destinations for working abroad, Dubai recently announced the new Remote Working Visa, which is being managed by Dubai Tourism. This visa is intended for foreign professionals who would like to stay at least one year in the emirate without having to leave their job in their respective home countries.
With the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, many employees are being encouraged to work remotely. If you're one of them, why don't you seize this opportunity to travel and discover a foreign land? The Remote Work Visa aims at allowing foreign professionals to work remotely in Dubai for their current employer. However, they must not intend to leave their job and look for work in Dubai after their arrival. So get ready to spend a whole year in Dubai's idyllic panorama, with the sun and warmth alongside beautiful beaches. Moreover, the outstanding infrastructure and the various facilities available will allow you to work as you would have done in their home country, or perhaps better. You can also take your family with you. In fact, this program guarantees access to all the services that you will need during your stay, including utilities, telecommunications and schooling for your children.
Do you qualify?
To be eligible for the Remote Work Visa, you must earn US$ 5,000 per month on average and have an employment contract with a one-year duration at least. You must also provide your three latest payslips, as well as a bank certificate for the last three months. Foreign entrepreneurs can also apply for this visa under the same conditions, but they also have to prove their business ownership. Regarding your passport, it must be valid for at least six months. This visa costs US$ 287 per person, excluding health insurance feels. Besides, make sure that your insurance provides coverage in the UAE.
Benefits of moving to Dubai
Low taxes
This is definitely one of the main benefits of moving to Dubai as an expat. Value-added tax (VAT) applies at a rate of 5% only on goods and services, compared to other countries. Also, income tax is virtually non-existent, so you can be sure to be able to save some money, even for a year, provided you don't get tempted by the huge malls and luxury boutiques. Keep in mind, however, that remaining employed in your home country will make you keep paying income tax there.
Work-life balance
Dubai offers not only an unparalleled quality of life but also an outstanding work-life balance. With this visa, you will be able to spend your days working wherever you wish, whether on the beach, in a shopping mall, in a cafe, in the desert or from the mountains. Dubai also provides excellent broadband and wireless internet connections. Whether you're in the metro, in a shopping mall or at the beach, you can enjoy free wi-fi, as long as you have a local cellphone number, so consider buying a sim card as soon as you arrive. Most restaurants and cafes also have wi-fi, but you generally have to request the password.
As an entrepreneurial hub, Dubai is also home to many modern coworking spaces where you will enjoy a dynamic lifestyle. Regarding internet offers, you can choose from hourly packages for your professional meetings, as well as weekly, monthly and quarterly packages.
Cultural blend
Dubai is a magnificent blend of cultures from all over the world, so you won't find it hard to adapt there, regardless of your nationality. In fact, nearly 80% of the UAE population is of foreign origin. Expat communities are never too far away, and it's easy to make new friends and develop your professional network. Besides, the language barrier is virtually non-existent, as long as you speak English. If you are a foodie, you will also have the opportunity to taste cuisines from around the world, not to mention the tasty Middle East cuisine. There is a wide range of restaurants in Dubai.
A safe city
If you're looking to settle in Dubai with your family, safety will never be an issue. Dubai is one of the world's safest cities, both in terms of hygiene and crime, thanks to its strict laws. Having successfully tackled the COVID-19 crisis, Dubai is the ideal place to live with your family, as you will have access to world-class healthcare as well. It's worth noting that Dubai was recently awarded the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Local authorities have taken all necessary measure to ensure your safety in all possible ways. A new Dubai Assured stamp has also been introduced to ensure that all establishments have the required health protocols in place.
A child-friendly city
If your children are accompanying you to Dubai, you should face no issues regarding their education. The city is home to many international schools providing not only quality education but also a lot of extra-curricular activities. Moreover, they won't have to learn Arabic, unless they really want to, since English is the teaching language in most schools. What about leisure? Since Dubai is a child-friendly city, it offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, from theme parks like Legoland and Aquaventure to parks and clubs and indoor skiing. There is something for every taste! What about sliding through a pool full of sharks?
Many accommodation options
Accommodation will definitely be one of your priorities when moving to Dubai. You are probably familiar with its huge skyscrapers and its luxurious villas and apartments. There is something for all tastes and all budgets. Actually, there's a wide offer for housing in Dubai, whether you prefer to live in the city centre or by the sea, thanks to many construction projects. So what are you waiting for to pack your bags and book your flight for a new adventure in Dubai?
