Moving abroad is a complicated process itself but moving in the middle of a pandemic becomes a more difficult challenge. Travel restrictions have finally eased, and it might just be the right time to go ahead with your plan to move.
If you’ve been thinking about moving to this bustling city, but the uncertainty has been holding you back, then this guide is for you!
Secure your visa.
The UAE isn’t a visa-free country. Aside from the tourist visa, a resident visa can be provided by your employer, or by your spouse. The great thing is that your employer will be able to guide you with this process, or you can go to an Amer office directly.
Get your documents attested.
Make sure to have all your documents attested as this is required for your resident visa. You will require your educational documents attested for visa purposes or your marriage certificate (if applicable) attested to be sponsored by your spouse or to rent an apartment as a family. We also recommend having these documents attested in your home country, to reduce the costs.
Follow UAE’s COVID-19 guidelines and know what information should be trusted.
For those arriving in the UAE from countries with a widespread outbreak of COVID-19, the government advises to visit your nearest health centre and immediately inform the doctor of your travel history and symptoms, if there are any. Keep your distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands frequently. Knowing and following UAE’s rules will keep you and others safe.
The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention has an awareness center section on their website where you can obtain all the necessary information about COVID-19. The website has a virtual doctor that helps you evaluate whether you need to seek medical help, get tested or treat your symptoms at home. You can also find information about your nearest healthcare centre on the website.
Is it safe to fly?
Passengers flying from selected countries should undergo a mandatory COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival in Dubai along with a negative COVID-19 test certificate from their country of origin. We know that this might be a tedious process, but it’s to make sure that everyone on the plane is COVID-19 free. The selected countries are posted on your airline’s website. These rules are subject to change so keep an eye out on your local government’s website and UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention media center.
Has rent in Dubai been dropped?
Due to the pandemic, rent for residential areas has been slightly reduced. A sharp drop has been observed in residential rent in some areas of Dubai, particularly during the lockdown period. Considering this change, the cost of living in Dubai is estimated to become more affordable.
One of the safest cities.
Dubai is a safe city itself, but more so during this crisis. The city has well-planned measures and solutions on how to decrease the spread of the virus. The Dubai Government prioritises the needs of its citizens and residents and has a team of professionals working tirelessly to respond to the effects brought on by the crisis.
Dubai is undoubtedly a unique city, where you’ll meet different types of people from all over the world. Relocating is such a big adventure, and it’s definitely something everyone should prepare for – especially during a time like this.
By Biljana Aleksic, HR & Office Administrator – Knowledge E
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