Moving to Dubai with kids: all you need to know about visas, housing, healthcare, education and beyond

Dubai has long been a beacon for expatriates seeking sun, luxury, and opportunity. For families, the city offers a blend of world-class infrastructure and family-focused living. With its diverse population, warm weather, and safe environment, it’s no wonder many families dream of making Dubai their home. 

I myself was one of these individuals, back in 2014, who moved to Dubai as a newly-wed just one year after completing my bachelor’s degree. And while I’m aware many things have changed since we left as new parents mid-pandemic in 2020, I also know that largely, things remain the same—and most of the advice I sought from fellow expats over a decade ago still applies today. 

Understanding the essentials like the visa process, housing options, and the healthcare and education systems there is critical for anyone wishing to relocate to Dubai. You should also factor in the cost of living, as well as the social and legal norms that could impact daily life. In fact, preparing for the cultural differences and legal requirements are crucial for a smooth transition, in my opinion. 

So, with that said, my hope is that any families considering a move to Dubai may find practical advice and insights in this guide to help you navigate the process of relocating to Dubai with kids. You’ll also find first-hand advice from working mums who currently live in Dubai with their young families, including Sarah Tuqan, a Mindset Makeover Coach, and Sarah Hewitt, a British expat and freelancer.  

SKIP TO: Quick facts | Residency visa requirements | Finding a job | Cost of living | Costs for a family of four | Accommodation | Choosing where to live | Education | Top GEMS schools | Healthcare | Local culture | Connecting with expats | Transition tips | Conclusion

Living in Dubai, quick facts to know

I’ll start with a few of the basic facts you ought to know about Dubai (and the UAE in general, actually) if you’re considering moving there. 

• Currency in the UAE is the UAE Dirham (AED)

• Main languages are Arabic and English

• Dubai’s population is more than 3.8 million

• Country’s religion is Islam

• Citizens of the UAE are called Emiratis 

The UAE itself is made up of seven emirates (or states): Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The capital city of the UAE is Abu Dhabi, which is located in the Abu Dhabi emirate. 

Despite being the capital, Abu Dhabi is actually the second most populous city after—you guessed it—Dubai. 

Located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai borders Abu Dhabi to the south, Sharjah to the northeast and Oman to the southeast. 

Residency visa requirements in Dubai

Obtaining a visa is the first step for any British expat considering a move to Dubai from the UK. There are a few different types of visas if you wish to reside and work in the UAE, but the most common one is a standard residency visa. 

Standard residency visa in Dubai

A British expatriate can get a standard residency visa if they are employed in the private sector, in the government sector or a free zone. 

If both you and DH intend to work in Dubai, you will both be sponsored by your companies.

Residency visa for family members in Dubai

Both employers and employees with a valid UAE residency visa (as described above) can sponsor the residence visas of their families, including their children.

Employees can sponsor their families regardless of their job titles if they earn a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. Once your DC reaches 18 years old, they will need to pass the mandatory medical fitness examination that applies to adults. A few other things worth mentioning include:

• You have 60 days to apply for a dependents’ residence visa after the enter the UAE under an entry permit

• A resident can sponsor their parents, and the residence visa will be granted on an annual basis regardless of the duration of the sponsor’s visa (fancy your MIL coming to stay for a year?)

• Medically unfit people will not be granted a residency visa - in order to gain residency, foreign nationals need to be free from all form of communicable diseases

It’s important to note, though: residency in Dubai, and the UAE overall, is temporary for foreign nationals and usually lasts three years. These are typically renewed without issue by your employer if you’re working. If your spouse sponsors you, it can be a fair bit of paperwork yourselves but straightforward enough to do. 

Make sure your paperwork is in order

To prevent your residency visa application from being delayed, I’d recommend you make sure that all your paperwork is in order before you move to Dubai. This includes everyone’s passports, marriage and birth certificates, and any necessary attestations you’ll likely need (it’s much easier to get these done before you leave the UK - I speak from experience!). 

My UAE residency visa and my Emirates ID (which you must carry with you at all times).

Next steps after getting your residency visa

Regardless of which route you take to gain your residency visa, being a legitimate resident in the UAE will entitle you to:

• apply for your Emirates ID (although your sponsor will likely do this for you)

• open a bank account and access financial facilities, like loans

• apply for your own UAE driving licence

• access government health services and health insurance

• register your children in government and private schools

• work and invest

• travel visa–free to certain destinations (check with foreign embassies in the UAE)

Finding a job in Dubai - where to start?

It’s likely that you or you DH have been offered a role ahead of your move. This was the case for my DH and I - he secured a position before we moved, and I applied (and subsequently secured) my role just a few weeks later. 

If you two are looking to work in Dubai, here are a few handy places to start your search:

• Bayt.com

• Khaleej Times Jobs

• Gulftalent

Freelancing in Dubai 

Nowadays, freelancers can secure a freelancer visa that allows you to conduct professional activities legally while living in the UAE. You can enjoy the benefits of a UAE residency without being tied to a single sponsor or specific location. 

“As a freelancer, I enjoy the flexibility to manage my schedule, while my husband’s role as a full-time employee brings structure to our days”, shares Sarah Tuqan. 

“Together, we’ve created a balanced life where we can be present for our little one and still pursue our individual careers.”

British expat and freelancer, Sarah Hewitt, agrees: “This is an amazing place to live your best freelance life! Dubai offers a very supportive environment for entrepreneurs and creatives, and it’s really easy to set up your own business without breaking the bank. 

“I personally have a visa through my husband’s company so this makes my position slightly more secure in terms of me not relying on my work for residency and medical insurance, but companies such as Virtuzone can help you to get yourself set up in the region.”

Prices for a freelance visa can start from AED 9,200 annually. Emirabiz has an indepth guide here that’s useful if you’re interested in freelancing. 

Financial planning and the cost of living in Dubai

While Dubai might be the most expensive city to live in as a foreign national in the Middle East, for Brits, it’s not all bad news. In fact, the cost of living in Dubai is 21.2% lower than London (if you include rent).

With that said, careful financial planning is still needed to help you manage upfront costs like housing deposits, quarterly or annual rental cheques and school and/or nursery application fees for your DC. 

Compare the cost of living at home with Dubai

So, before moving to any new country, it’s a good idea to check how far your money will actually go. Websites like Numbeo are very helpful and free-to-use tools that can help with this. 

Now, for Londoners, that comparison seems attractive. But of course, not every British expat is from the UK’s capital. I myself relocated from Leeds, which in comparison, means the cost of living in Dubai is 26.6% higher than in Leeds if you consider rent, too. 

To give you an idea of average prices in Dubai compared to UK cities, I’ve pulled these costs in GBP (£) for you: 

We see plenty of threads on our Talk boards from prospective expats seeking advice on whether a particular salary would be good enough. In my opinion, it all depends on whether you get a ‘package’. What I mean by that is, your employer(s) cover the cost of your accommodation and some, if not all, of your DC’s school fees. 

Now, these types of packages were all the rage back in the early 2000s but fast-forward 25 years and they’re a rare sight. Except for certain careers, like teaching. 

Companies like GEMS Education are always on the lookout for experienced teachers to recruit and offer attractive packages like a competitive, tax-free salary, individually fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to your country of residence as well as an end of service gratuity payment. 

Not everyone is a teacher, though, and so for the rest of us, common benefits you’re likely to come across is:

• Health insurance, which is a universal benefit that’s legally enforceable ie your sponsor must provide this

• An end of service gratuity payment (which is the UAE’s pension equivalent) is also legally enforceable, and is calculated according to your basic salary and tenure at the company

With that said, family-friendly benefits are still in short supply across Dubai. Outside of teaching, just 5% of UAE employees receive a children’s education allowance. 

Costs for a typical family of four in Dubai

According to popular expat group British Mums in Dubai, the average costs for a typical family of four living in Dubai (in AED) are as follows: 

So, how much does it cost?

Of course, things like home help aren't a necessity and you can budget around cars and food shopping to help stay within your budget while saving some dirhams in the bank.

To live comfortably, you’ll likely need to bring in a combined income of between AED 50,000 and AED 60,000 per month. 

Accommodation in Dubai 

Finding the right home for your family is a huge part of settling into your new life in Dubai. The emirate offers a wide variety of housing options to suit different family sizes and budgets. 

Here’s an overview of what you should know ahead of moving there: 

Renting or buying property in Dubai

To find houses and apartments to rent in Dubai, start by looking at these sites:

• Property Finder

• Bayut

• DubaiRent.com

Unfortunately, one of the most common scams in Dubai actually involves fake property listings, whereby scammers create ads for properties that don’t exist or aren’t for rent or sale. 

So, do make sure you’re speaking to a reputable estate agent when you’re searching for your Dubai home. DH and I used to trust Betterhomes, and found both our homes through our contact at the company. 

Types of accommodation available in Dubai

Dubai’s housing market includes: 

• Studio apartments: Compact and affordable, ideal for singles or couples.

• Two to three bedroom apartments: Popular among small families, often located in areas like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), and Dubai Sports City. 

• Townhouses: Offer more space and privacy, commonly found in communities like Town Square and Jumeirah Village Circle.

• Villas: Spacious homes with gardens and sometimes private pools. Arabian Ranches, The Springs and The Meadows are popular choices for expatriate families.

• Luxury Villas: Expansive properties in high-end areas like Emirates Hills or Palm Jumeirah.

Sarah Tuqan, Mindset Makeover Coach, lives in a townhouse in Town Square.

Approximate rental costs in Dubai

• Dubai Marina: A two bedroom apartment ranges from AED 100,000 to as much as AED 365,000 annually.

• Arabian Ranches: Villas start at around AED 155,000 per year for a two bedroom up to AED 400,000 for a three bedroom.

• Dubai Hills: A two bedroom apartment here ranges from AED 165,000 to AED 230,000 per year.

• Town Square: Made up of townhouses and apartments, with townhouses starting from AED 139,000 per year. 

• Dubai South: Apartments with two bedrooms start around AED 65,000 per year here, whereas two bedroom villas range from AED 99,000 to AED 110,000.

• Dubai Land: Studio apartments here start at AED 35,000 per year but families can find two bedroom villas here around the AED 125,000 per year mark and three bed villas from AED 150,000. 

• The Meadows: Luxury villas can cost upwards of AED 350,000 per year.

Prices correct at time of writing, sourced with the help of PropertyFinder.ae. 

Upfront costs

I’ve already briefly touched upon the upfront costs of housing payments when moving to Dubai above. When we moved to Dubai in 2014, rent was paid via post-dated cheques that were handed over to estate agents, with options to pay monthly, quarterly, bi-annually or annually. 

However, recently, Dubai has introduced the Ejari Direct Debit System, which automates rent payments. Ejari is an Arabic term which means “my rent”. In Dubai, Ejari is a government run programme that regulates tenancy contracts.

To use this direct debit system, you should:

• register your rental contract on Ejari (the Dubai Land Department’s (DLD) digital system for rental contracts) either via the Dubai REST app or on the DLD’s website

• provide your bank details to your landlord and authorise the direct debit setup, and choose whether you want to pay in two, four, six or 12 monthly instalments, offering flexibility

Payments are taken automatically, reducing the risk of late fees of missed cheques. For more details, you can check out the Dubai Land Department’s official page.

Choosing where to live in Dubai

When choosing a home, you should consider the proximity to school(s), your workplace and any amenities you might require. 

Inside our first apartment in West Avenue, Dubai Marina and the building’s pool.

For example, when DH and I first moved to Dubai, we needed to be close to public transport, like the Dubai Metro, in order for us to both reach work easily. We also wanted to be close to a supermarket and other amenities so we could reach them on foot as we didn’t have a car for the first year of living there. 

After a few years, we sought the quieter environment of The Springs, which was easily accessible via most major roads like Hessa St, Garn Al Sabkha and both Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Sheikh Zayed Road. 

Our villa had a rear garden, a covered driveway for two cars, and was close to two shopping complexes as well as parks, our community swimming pool and various lakes to walk our dog around.

Around the lake in The Springs 2, with a view of the JLT and Dubai Marina skyline. 

As a mum of two, Sarah Hewitt advises families moving to the emirate to consider their commute and distance from their DC’s schools.

“The great thing about Dubai is it’s relatively safe everywhere and the standard of living is high - so choosing a place to live is easy. There’s so much choice! 

“Obviously you need to factor in the school you want to go to and how long your commute is going to be - Dubai traffic is no joke! 

“My favourite neighbourhoods are Emirates Living (Meadows, Lakes and Springs), Arabian Ranches, and Jumeirah Golf Estates. I’ve also heard great things about Town Square and some of the communities a little further out of the city.”

So, with all that said, when choosing where you’d like to live, you should consider: 

• Its proximity to schools, especially if you have children

• Your commute to work, ideally a location that minimises travel time to your workplace, especially considering Dubai’s traffic during peak hours (Hessa St between the hours of 8 and 10am should be avoided IMO)

• The access to amenities you have, like supermarkets, healthcare facilities, parks and recreational spaces

• And the community atmosphere, as gated communities like Arabian Ranches often provide a more family-friendly environment with shared amenities like pools, parks and play areas 

And remember - rental contracts can be negotiated, so don’t hesitate to ask for better terms or maintenance inclusions! 

yelloworchids

Education and schools in Dubai

Now, given we left Dubai when DC1 was just three months old, I’m not the biggest expert when it comes to the educational system in Dubai. And to be honest, the educational system in Dubai deserves an entire page dedicated to just that, but I’ll try my best to highlight the most important things you should know.

To help me out, I’ve asked British mum and freelancer, Sarah Hewitt, to share her experiences of nurseries and schooling in Dubai so far with her DC.

“My kids are still in nursery [school]. Kids actually start FS1 (first year of school) when they are three years old here but you can opt to do it in a nursery/early childhood centre setting which is what we have done. 

“The application process for schools is very competitive but relatively well organised once you’re in the system. 

“There are so many good schools around - but if there’s one you’ve got your heart set on, you’ll need to apply well in advance and probably keep hounding them until you’ve secured your spot. With [the] nursery, the application process was a doddle and ran very smoothly.” 

Nurseries in Dubai can either be standalone or attached to larger schools

Nurseries in Dubai

Dubai's nurseries are modern, diverse childcare facilities catering to local and expatriate families. You can find standalone nurseries as well as nurseries attached to larger schools. There are pros and cons for either option depending on your needs. 

Standalone nurseries focus on early years education and development, but there is no guaranteed admission into specific schools for further education. Plus, kids will need to transition into a new environment when starting primary school. 

School-attached nurseries, however, help ensure educational continuity for your DC. Plus, there’s access to the school’s broader facilities like swimming pools and sports areas. With that said, these types of nurseries may be more expensive.

GEMS, for example, has four schools that offer nursery provision. These include:

• GEMS FirstPoint School, from age two 

• GEMS Wellington Academy - Silicon Oasis, from age one

• GEMS Wellington Academy - Al Khail, from age two

• and GEMS World Academy - Dubai, from age two

Nurseries in Dubai typically offer multilingual education, structured early learning programs, and follow international curriculum standards like British or American educational frameworks. 

These nurseries are regulated by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which ensures high-quality educational standards and safety for children from birth up to four years old.

Sarah explains: “At nursery they learn from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) which in my experience sets them up really well for school. 

“[My two DC] absolutely love their days at nursery which are full of outdoor play, crafts, games, reading - all the stuff you want your kids to be enjoying so that they remain kids for as long as possible. 

“In my mind, there is no rush to get them ‘learning’ from textbooks. When they go to school they will be on the British Curriculum.”

The school curriculums available in Dubai

The emirate is home to a wide range of schools that cater to a highly diverse population. 

You’ll find independent schools as well as larger educational systems like GEMS Education that have several schools in their portfolio. 

In Dubai, you’ll find:

• British curriculum (GCSEs and A-Levels): These are widely available and familiar to many British expat families.

• American curriculum: Focuses on broad, general education leading to a high school diploma.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): These offer a globally recognised, inquiry-based program ideal for internationally mobile families.

• Indian and Pakistani curriculums: Options like CBSE and ICSE are prevalent for families from South Asia.

• French, German, and other national curriculums: For families seeking education aligned with their home country’s standards.

Determine your school fees budget

School fees in Dubai vary widely depending on the institution you choose, ranging from AED 8,000 to over AED 100,000 annually. So, it’s crucial to determine your budget early on and plan accordingly. 

GEMS Education, a leading school group in Dubai, offers various fee structures based on the school, curriculum, and year your DC is in: 

• Nursery: fees in British curriculum schools, such as GEMS Wellington Academy, range from AED 36,560 to AEd 49,440 per year.

• FS1: in British curriculum schools, like GEMS Founders School and GEMS Metropole School, fees range from AED 8,650 to AED 57,006.

• FS2 to Year 6: fees range from AED 10,685 to AED 57,006 in schools like GEMS FirstPoint School.

• Year 9: fees increase to between AED 13,569 and AED 78,601.

• Year 11: fees reach their peak, ranging from AED 16,818 to AED 98,465 depending on the school.

Be sure to account for additional costs like uniforms, books, transportation, and extracurricular activities on top of the above fees, too - these can quickly add up!

“Ensure you have a good income to cover your children’s expenses,” shares Sarah Tuqan, “and if possible, look for a job package that includes an education allowance—it can make a big difference given the cost of schooling.”

Scholarships at GEMS Education

GEMS Education recently launched the GEMS Genius Scholarship Programme to support highly talented and high-performing students in academics, sports, arts, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 

This initiative offers 65 fully funded scholarships across 13 GEMS schools, with two key entry points – Year 9 and Year 12.

Scholarship categories include:

• Academics

• Sports and athletics

• Visual arts

• Performing arts

• Technology, gaming and innovation

• Arabic studies

• Entrepreneurship

Each scholarship is awarded for a minimum of two years, providing recipients with the stability and resources needed to excel in their studies and chosen disciplines.

Participating schools include:

• GEMS Modern Academy

• GEMS New Millennium School – Al Khail

• The Millennium School – Dubai

• GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis

• GEMS Wellington International School

• GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail

• GEMS Founders School – Dubai

• GEMS Dubai American Academy

• Jumeirah College Dubai

• GEMS World Academy – Dubai

• GEMS Millennium School – Sharjah

• GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi

Senior school campus of GEMS World Academy - Dubai.

Dubai’s school application process

Competition for school places in Dubai is fierce, so apply early as many of the more popular schools have waiting lists. 

The role of the KHDA in Dubai 

When picking a school, the first place to look would be The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the government authority which is responsible for the growth and quality of private education in Dubai. 

Like the UK’s Ofsted, Dubai’s KHDA provides annual ratings for schools in Dubai, from ‘outstanding’ to ‘weak’. So, if you have a shortlist of schools already, you can check their ratings via the KHDA’s directory. Understandably, the better the rating, the more likely you’ll be faced with higher school fees per year. 

Application requirements

At a GEMS Education school in Dubai, you’ll begin by completing the online application form found directly on the school’s website under the ‘Admissions’ tab. Once all fields are completed, the next step is payment of the AED 525 registration fee, which can be paid online, via bank transfer, or in person at the school’s cashier. This fee can be transferred between all 44 GEMS schools in the UAE and is refundable if you don’t end up moving to the country.

At the initial stage, you’ll need to provide documents such as previous academic reports and passport copies for both the child and parents. These can be emailed or uploaded directly via the student profile link provided.

Next, your child will be asked to complete an assessment, ideally in person at the school, but this can also be done remotely if you’re not yet in the country. If all goes smoothly, you’ll receive an offer letter, which is typically valid for three working days. Once accepted and you’ve paid the required 10% deposit (transferable between GEMS schools but not refundable), your child will be successfully enrolled.

🏫 Why choose a GEMS Education school in Dubai? 

GEMS Education stands as the leading private education provider in the UAE, delivering exceptional teaching and learning experiences tailored for affluent British expatriate families. Their commitment to academic excellence is founded on two key pillars: recruiting the most qualified and inspiring teachers, and implementing proven, effective teaching methodologies.

While GEMS prioritises academic achievement, they equally emphasise the development of crucial social and life skills. This balanced approach ensures every student reaches their full potential. GEMS believes that each child has the capacity for extraordinary achievement when given the freedom to explore, express themselves, and embrace challenges.

Beyond the classroom, GEMS students engage in diverse extra-curricular activities that nurture curiosity, understanding, and passion. Whether a child excels in sports, music, drama, competition, or creative pursuits, their schools provide rich learning experiences tailored to each student's unique interests and needs.

Their track record speaks for itself: GEMS graduates consistently secure places at prestigious global institutions. In the past five years alone, their students have gained acceptance to over 1,050 universities across 53 countries, including all eight Ivy League universities in the United States and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.

Special needs education in the UAE

The UAE is dedicated to fostering inclusive education, with numerous schools providing tailored support for children with special educational needs (SEN). 

Some schools, like GEMS schools, integrate specialised programs within mainstream classrooms, allowing SEN students to learn alongside their peers. 

Others focus exclusively on providing individualised education plans and therapies for children requiring additional support. This diversity ensures that every child can find an environment suited to their learning needs.

For parents seeking advice, there are helpful Facebook groups like this one that might be a good place to start to speak to other SEN parents living in Dubai and the UAE overall. 

GEMS FirstPoint School in The Villa. 

KHDA ratings of GEMS schools in Dubai

According to the full 2023-24 KHDA inspection reports, these GEMS schools in Dubai have the following KHDA ratings:

Healthcare facilities and health insurance in Dubai

! Emergency services number in Dubai is 999. 

Both public and private healthcare systems are available across the emirate, with the private sector being the preferred choice for many expatriates due to shorter wait times and easier access to a wide range of specialists. 

“Healthcare in Dubai is exceptional”, shares Sarah Tuqan. “We have access to government healthcare centers that provide free vaccinations and a wide range of skilled doctors. 

“Additionally the private sector offers outstanding medical care, and we’re fortunate to have an amazing doctor. However, accessing private hospitals requires medical insurance to cover the costs.” 

Having delivered both her DC in Dubai, British expat Sarah Hewitt agrees: “The healthcare system is first class. I delivered both of my children here and it was a great experience both times. 

“We now have an amazing paediatrician at a local clinic and you can get a same day appointment - no problem. It’s so reassuring to know you’ve got access to such a high level of care as and when you need it.” 

Public vs. private healthcare

• Public healthcare: Available to UAE residents with a health card. It provides affordable services but may have longer wait times.

• Private healthcare: Offers high-quality services, shorter wait times, and access to specialists. Many private clinics and hospitals cater specifically to expatriates and provide multilingual staff.

Mandatory health insurance in Dubai - what does that mean?

Per the law, health insurance is mandatory in Dubai. Employers typically provide health insurance for their employees, and many plans include coverage for dependents. If your employer doesn’t, however, you’ll need to purchase a separate plan yourself. 

Policies can vary, so it’s essential to understand what is included—like doctor visits, hospital stays, maternity care and vaccinations. 

For me, my employer covered my health insurance but I had the option of upgrading it and paying the difference to include a better choice of hospitals, including Kings College Hospital where our DC1 was born mid-pandemic.

Finding a doctor or specialist

Dubai has numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialist centers to choose from. Popular private healthcare providers include Mediclinic, Emirates Hospital, and Aster Clinic. It’s advisable to choose a provider close to your home for convenience.

Alongside that, pharmacies are abundant and well-stocked, often open late or 24/7. 

A phone shot outside an Aster Clinic when DH and I needed to complete Covid-19 tests.

Adjusting to the local culture in Dubai 

Living in Dubai offers a blend of modern city life and traditional values. In my experience, while the city might look all glitzy and glamorous on the surface, there’s actually a lot of deeply rooted culture across the city that helps make it a great place to live for families. 

Sarah Tuqan, freelance Mindset Makeover Coach

Family values, after all, are central to Emirati culture, and you’ll notice this everywhere—from how public spaces are designed to the way events are organised. “What I love most about Dubai as a mum is the ease and accessibility of everything I need for my baby,” Sarah adds.

“From well-maintained facilities to baby essentials, everything is readily available wherever we go. Honestly, there’s nothing I miss as a mother here—life is incredibly convenient and hassle-free.”

Seasoned expats, like Sarah Hewitt however, share a word of warning: “People can get really carried away with the lifestyle out here and end up in debt or leave with no savings after years of hard work.

“Dubai is more expensive than the UK, there’s no doubt about it, but when you get stuck into ‘real’ life here (away from the glitz and the glam) there are plenty of ways to save money and do things with the kids that don’t cost the earth. 

“There are also quite a few apps and loyalty programs, which allow you to spend less and there have even been a few ‘budget’ supermarkets opening lately. It’s one of those IYKYK situations - there are cheaper places to shop.”

Arguably one of the most recognisable supermarkets amongst British expats in Dubai, Spinneys

Things to keep in mind while living in Dubai

While the emirate has evolved to become more progressive in recent years (for instance, unmarried couples can now live together), it's worth remembering that the UAE's roots are deeply embedded in Islamic traditions. A few key things to keep in mind:

• Dress modestly in public spaces, especially when visiting malls or government buildings

• During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours

• Public displays of affection should be kept minimal

• Alcohol consumption is only permitted in licensed venues or with a special license

What I love most about Dubai's culture is how it manages to preserve its heritage while embracing its role as a global city. 

You'll find yourself celebrating both Eid and Christmas, enjoying traditional Arabic coffee in the morning and later in the day, a luxurious brunch with your friends – it's this beautiful fusion that makes Dubai special IMO. 

Building connections with other expats in Dubai

I’ve always said to anyone that’s asked, moving to Dubai is like going to university—you just have to throw yourself out there, say hello to people and get into the mix of things. 

“I’m quite a sociable person and love making connections so it happened quite organically for me,” shares Sarah Hewitt. “But even if you’re not the most confident person at speaking to new people, there are so many community groups and opportunities to find new contacts.” 

If you’re working, your job is likely the first place to help you form connections with like-minded expatriates. I still remember the feeling of walking up to Dubai Studio City for my first day at ExpatWoman way back in 2014 and, in the years that followed, I’d forge some close relationships with fascinating people who I’m still in touch with now. 

yelloworchids

The expat community in Dubai is incredibly welcoming because everyone remembers what it's like to be new. Whether you're looking for playdate groups, coffee mornings, or just someone to show you around the supermarket, there's always someone willing to help.

Remember that everyone has been in the same boat as you at one point as an expat

Sarah adds: “You’ve got to remember everyone has been a newbie at some stage in Dubai so people are generally willing to go out of their way to help you settle in and invite you out when you first get here.”

Here are a few ways I recommend reaching out to follow expats: 

• Via Mumsnet’s Living Overseas Talk board, this is a superb place to start

• Facebook groups like 'British Mums Dubai' are very popular, and are quick to help when it comes to everything from doctor recommendations to school advice

• Local community events are held by developers as well as Dubai-based companies

• Parent and baby groups at local nurseries

• Exercise classes

• Through work social events

The beauty of Dubai is that most activities are family-friendly, making it easy to socialise with kids in tow. From brunches with dedicated kids' areas to beach clubs with fantastic facilities for little ones, you'll find plenty of opportunities to meet other parents while keeping your DC entertained.

Tips for a smooth transition

Having made the move ourselves, here are some things I wish I'd known from the start:

Before you leave the UK:

• Get your paperwork attested before you go (our marriage certificate, DC's birth certificate, and academic qualifications)

• Join expat Facebook groups and start asking questions - no query is too small

• Research schools thoroughly and get on waiting lists early

• Start decluttering - Dubai homes often come with built-in wardrobes, so you might not need as much furniture as you think

• Pack seasonal clothing - but remember you can buy almost anything in Dubai

And then, during your first month in Dubai, I recommend you:

• Take time to explore different areas before committing to a location

• Get your Emirates ID processed quickly - you'll need it for everything

• Consider short-term accommodation while you find your feet

• Set up your bank account as soon as possible

• Find your nearest supermarket and pharmacy

• Download essential apps like RTA (for parking), Deliveroo, and Careem (like Uber)

One of my favourite views of Burj Al Arab from Jumeirah’s Madinat Souk. 

Moving to Dubai with kids, in a nutshell

Moving to Dubai with your family is undoubtedly a big step, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences. Yes, there will be challenges - the summer heat takes some getting used to, school fees require careful planning, and you might occasionally miss a good British curry (though Dubai's Indian food scene is fantastic!).

“From May till October, it’s hot hot hot. But there are so many indoor attractions and soft play centres to keep busy as a family”, explains Sarah Hewitt. “Dubai is geared up for hot weather so it won’t disrupt your daily life too much - there’s AC everywhere - but yes, it can get a little frustrating at times when the kids are going stir crazy indoors.”

However, what you gain is incredible: a safe environment where your children can thrive, exposure to diverse cultures and languages, year-round outdoor living (well, except for July and August), and opportunities for family adventures that you might never have imagined. DH and I had a chance to visit Bali in 2018, which we would never have considered had we been living in Leeds at the time.

yelloworchids

From our own experience, the key to success is approaching the move with an open mind and a sense of adventure. If you're considering making the move, remember that thousands of families have done it successfully before you. 

Take it one step at a time, lean on the supportive expat community, and embrace the experience - Dubai might just become the adventure of a lifetime for your family and after some time passes, your forever home. 

About GEMS Education

GEMS Education is one of the oldest and largest K-12 private education providers in the world and a trusted and highly regarded choice for quality education in the Middle East and North Africa region. As a company founded in the UAE in 1959, it holds an unparalleled track record of providing diverse curricula and educational choices to all socio-economic means. Having started with a single school run from a private home in Dubai, GEMS remains a family business to this day.

GEMS has the privilege of educating students from over 176 countries through its owned and managed schools globally. And, through its growing network as well as charitable contributions, it is fulfilling the GEMS vision of putting a quality education within the reach of every learner.

Each year, students graduating from GEMS schools progress to the world’s best universities. Over the past five years, GEMS students have been accepted into over 1,050 universities in 53 countries including all eight Ivy League universities in the US and all 24 Russell Group universities and colleges in the UK.

For further information about GEMS Education, visit www.gemseducation.com.

About the experts

• Sarah Tuqan, Mindset Makeover Coach, has lived in Dubai for over 15 years. She met her now-husband in Dubai and together, they’re raising their baby as working parents. 

• Sarah Hewitt is a writer, editor and proofreader based in Dubai and has spent the last 15+ years working with the likes of Emirates and the Jumeirah Group. She’s now a mum of two DC and a regular contributor to What’s On Dubai, Gulf News and Raemona.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a Senior Content Editor who spent six years living and working in Dubai as a content specialist at a company called ExpatWoman, during which she came to learn and love everything there is to know about life in Dubai and the UAE overall. After returning to the UK mid-pandemic following the arrival of her first DC, she soon joined us at Mumsnet and has since become our resident Dubai expert. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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