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What % jump in total compensation should I expect

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AprilM

Moving from NYC area in US to Dubai as an expat. What % jump in total compensation should I expect including the tax savings (UAE is a tax free country). I currently make $180K after-tax in US. What figure is a good figure to move to Dubai given my current numbers? Any expat insight would be much appreciated.

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AprilM

Moving from NYC area in US to Dubai as an expat. What % jump in total compensation should I expect including the tax savings (UAE is a tax free country).

XTang

The question is too generic.  It depends on the job, role and industry.  Also your personal circumstances i.e. kids or no kids as schooling is way more expensive compared to the US - think in private school terms in the US.

Secondly, as far as I know, you are still liable for some US taxes despite working in the UAE.  The US is one of the few countries in the world that taxes it's citizens on income earned abroad.   That means you will be definitely lower compared with other expats in net take home even on exactly the same position.  Years ago, I had a boss who was from the US and my take home was much higher than his because of this reason.

Lastly, as I mentioned before, while it depends on the job profile, you should definitely target to increase your saving vs. the US by at least 15-20% in net take home pay to make the move worthwhile.

AprilM

Thanks for your response!! I am married with one kid and not a US citizen. If schooling is covered separately by the employer, what would you suggest about compensation? Thanks!

XTang

Same as before.  Schooling is a benefit.   I am talking about net take home.

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