Relocation to Dubai

Dubai has transformed itself from a trading port into a global city that competes with London, Singapore, and New York. The city's success is built on visionary leadership, strategic location, business-friendly policies, and a relentless focus on innovation. Dubai is home to the world's busiest international airport, the largest man-made port, and some of the most ambitious real estate developments on the planet.

For expatriates, Dubai offers what few other cities can match — genuine tax-free income, exceptional safety, year-round sunshine, a vibrant social scene, and a government that actively invests in making the city better every year. The recent introduction of long-term visas, retiree visas, and the decriminalisation of cohabitation have made Dubai even more attractive for families and individuals looking to put down roots.

The city's economy is highly diversified. Trade, logistics, tourism, real estate, financial services, technology, healthcare, and education all contribute significantly to Dubai's GDP. The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 aims to double the size of the economy over the next decade, creating continued opportunities for professionals across every sector.

Dubai's economy is powered by trade, tourism, aviation, financial services, real estate, and logistics. The city is the Middle East's leading trading hub, with Jebel Ali Port ranked among the world's top 10 container ports. Dubai International Airport (DXB) has been the world's busiest for international passenger traffic for over a decade.

The financial sector is anchored by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), which houses over 5,500 registered companies including the world's largest banks, asset managers, and insurance firms. The technology sector is growing rapidly through Dubai Internet City, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and in5 innovation hubs. Real estate continues to attract global investment, with signature developments like Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Creek Harbour driving the market forward.

6thMove is headquartered in Dubai and provides comprehensive relocation services across all areas of the city. Our Dubai services include visa and immigration coordination through GDRFA Dubai, home search across apartments and villas in all major communities, school search across over 200 international schools, temporary accommodation arrangements, and full settling-in support including Emirates ID, DEWA connections, and bank account opening.

For businesses, we specialise in company formation within DIFC, DMCC, and other free zones, as well as mainland company setup following the recent 100% foreign ownership reforms. Our PRO team handles all government transactions including trade license renewals, visa processing for employees, and corporate compliance. As a Dubai-based firm, we offer on-the-ground support that combines local knowledge with professional global mobility standards.

Dubai's immigration is processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai). The standard employment visa process involves an entry permit, medical fitness test, biometrics, Emirates ID registration, and residency stamping. The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks once the employee is in-country.

Dubai also offers the Golden Visa (10-year residency) for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialised talent. The Green Visa provides 5-year residency for freelancers and skilled professionals. Property investors can obtain 2-year or 5-year residency visas linked to their property investment. The range of visa options makes Dubai one of the most accessible cities in the region for foreign talent.

Dubai's cost of living is competitive compared to global cities like London, Singapore, or New York, especially when accounting for tax-free income. Housing is the largest expense, with annual rents ranging from approximately AED 50,000 for a studio apartment in less central areas to AED 300,000+ for a villa in premium communities. Utilities, schooling, transportation, and healthcare are other significant costs. The Dubai Mall, The Beach at JBR, La Mer, and City Walk offer world-class shopping and dining.

The lifestyle in Dubai is unmatched in the region. Residents enjoy 300+ days of sunshine per year, access to pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, desert safaris, Michelin-starred restaurants, art galleries, and year-round events including the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Food Festival, and Dubai Expo City attractions. Families benefit from excellent international schools, paediatric healthcare, and safe, family-friendly communities.