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Living In Dubai As A UK Citizen: Costs, Visas, And What To Expect

Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle draws many UK expats, but before enjoying brunches by the Burj or desert escapes, you’ll need a residency visa—and that means securing legally required health insurance. That’s where expert brokers like Pacific Prime come in. With years of experience guiding expats through the complexities of international coverage, they help make the transition smoother by matching you with plans that meet both legal requirements and personal needs.

Here’s a straightforward guide for UK citizens considering a move to Dubai.

Cost of Living: What You’ll Spend

Dubai promises luxury and tax-free income, but newcomers should watch for hidden costs—school fees, housing deposits, and health insurance can make living expenses steep despite generous salaries.

Here’s a breakdown of the general cost of living in Dubai:

Housing: Rent is likely to be your biggest expense. A one-bedroom apartment in a central area like Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina can cost between AED 7,000–10,000 per month (£1,437–£2,053). Opting for areas like Jumeirah Village Circle or Al Barsha can offer more affordable options.
Utilities & Internet: Expect to pay around AED 500–800 (£103–£164) monthly for electricity, water, and cooling. Internet packages start at AED 300 (£62).
Transport: Owning a car is common, but taxis and the metro are also reliable options. Petrol is cheap compared to the UK, but car insurance and maintenance can add up.
Groceries & Dining: Imported goods are pricey. A weekly shop for two might cost AED 400–600 (£82–£123). Dining out ranges from budget-friendly shawarma joints to lavish brunches that can set you back AED 300 (£61) or more.

Visa Pathways: How to Stay Legally

Visa processing is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to ensure all documentation is in order. Most visas require a medical test and Emirates ID registration. For UK citizens, you will need a visa to live and work in Dubai. Fortunately, there are several pathways:

Employment Visa: The most common route. Your employer sponsors your visa, which is typically valid for two to three years.
Freelance Visa: Ideal for self-employed professionals. You’ll need to register with a free zone and pay for the visa and workspace.
Golden Visa: A long-term residency option for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals. It offers a 10-year residency and is gaining popularity among expats.
Dependent Visa: If your spouse or parent holds a valid visa, you may be eligible for sponsorship.

Health Insurance: A Legal Must-Have

Health insurance is mandatory for all Dubai residents and a requirement for visa approval. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Employer Coverage: Many employers provide health insurance, but it may not be comprehensive, especially for dependents.
Coverage Gaps: Check if your plan includes key services like:
- Outpatient care
- Maternity
- Dental
- Pre-existing conditions
Top-Up or Private Plans: If your employer’s policy falls short, consider purchasing a top-up or private plan tailored to your needs.
Freelancers & Dependents: Those on freelance or dependent visas must secure private health insurance independently.
Expert Advice: It’s wise to explore international health insurance options and consult a broker, such as Pacific Prime, to compare plans and understand the fine print.

Living in Dubai: Quick Facts for Expats

Dubai is a truly global city, with over 80% of its population made up of expats. English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate daily life, and the city is known for being exceptionally safe and clean. While Dubai is welcoming, it’s important to respect local customs—modest dress and appropriate public behavior are expected, especially in more traditional settings.

The climate is hot and dry, with summer temperatures often soaring above 45°C. Thankfully, nearly all buildings are air-conditioned, offering a cool escape from the heat. Outdoor activities are best enjoyed between October and April, when the weather is more forgiving. Social life in Dubai is vibrant and diverse, with everything from beach clubs and fine dining to yoga classes and networking events. No matter your interests, you’ll find a community that feels like home.

Considering Dubai?

Relocating to Dubai as a UK citizen can be a rewarding experience, but it pays to be prepared. From budgeting for rent to securing the right visa and international health insurance, a little planning goes a long way.

For expert help with health coverage, contact Pacific Prime. They’ll match you with a plan that fits your needs and budget, making the process smooth and hassle-free, with support every step of the way.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.