Facts checked on October 18, 2026
Residence visa: the main routes
Residents need a residence visa and an Emirates ID. The Emirates ID expires with the visa. Applicants aged 18 and over also take a medical test and a security check.
Many people get their visa through an employer. Property owners can apply for an owner's residence permit. With at least AED 2 million in property, the Golden Visa becomes an option; see our separate guide.
Residence through property you own
The Dubai Land Department offers a two-year investor residence (Taskeen). There is no minimum value for a sole owner; a joint owner's share must be worth at least AED 400,000.
According to GDRFA, the property must be completed and habitable. You show a monthly income of at least AED 10,000 or sufficient means. A standard residence visa lapses after more than 180 continuous days outside the UAE, with exceptions for some groups.
Living in Dubai and tax
The UAE does not levy personal income tax. That does not settle your tax position at home.
The Dutch tax authority looks at where you really live: where you spend most time, where your family lives, where you work, where you are insured and have a GP, and where your children go to school. A holiday is not emigration. Have your case reviewed by a tax adviser before you move; Belgium and France also look at the facts.
Health insurance is mandatory
In Dubai, employers must provide health insurance for their employees. Sponsors must insure the dependants they sponsor.
A policy is required before an employer applies for or renews a residence permit. Arrange it early.
Living in Dubai with children: schools
Private schools in Dubai are overseen by the KHDA. Curricula include British, American and Indian, among others.
The KHDA inspects schools every year and rates them from Outstanding to Very Weak. The rating also sets how much a school may raise its fees. Read the latest report before you choose an area.
Renting or buying, and your driving licence
Tenants sign a contract that is registered in Ejari and pay a municipality fee of 5% of the annual rent on their electricity bill. Foreigners can buy only in designated freehold areas.
A Dutch, Belgian or French licence can be exchanged for a Dubai licence without translation or a driving test. You need a valid Emirates ID and an eye test. In my conversations I usually suggest renting for a while before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner live in Dubai?
Yes, with a residence visa, for example through an employer, as a property owner or through the Golden Visa. You also need an Emirates ID.
Do you pay tax when living in Dubai?
The UAE has no personal income tax. Whether you still owe tax in your home country depends on where you actually live, so have it reviewed before you move.
What is the cost of living in Dubai?
It depends mostly on rent or purchase, school fees and health insurance, and varies widely by area and household. We do not quote averages, but we help you list the costs for your own situation.
Can I exchange my European driving licence in Dubai?
Licences from the Netherlands, Belgium and France, among others, are on the RTA list. You need a valid Emirates ID and an eye test, and no driving test.
