Estate Living Magazine Precinct Living - Issue 33 | Page 58

Dubai
attracting foreigners from
around the world
A place to live How to relocate to Dubai
In the last two decades, Dubai has evolved from a trading centre to an
international hub for individuals, companies and entrepreneurs looking
to take advantage of the many benefits this vibrant city offers. While the
presence of Indian and other West Asian citizens and companies can
be explained by geographical proximity and a common culture, the
relatively strong presence of westerners is a testimony to the openness
and attractiveness of Dubai. There are basically three ways to move to Dubai. These are:
starting a company; obtaining a work permit; or buying
property.
Families relocate to Dubai for many reasons:
• Lifestyle: The emirate boasts world-class infrastructure that
enhances lifestyle. Dubai ranks 16th in the world (1st in the
Middle East) on The Knight Frank City Wealth Index 2017.
• Cosmopolitan work environment: Over 200 different
nationalities live and work in the UAE.
• Security: Dubai is recognised as one of the safest cities in the
world.
• Weather: There is sunshine all year round.
• Connectivity: The UAE offers direct flights to more than 90
countries.
• Language: English is the lingua franca, in spite of Arabic being
the official language.
• Legal system: There is access to English common law via the
common law free zones. 
• Business: The UAE ranks 26th out of 190 countries when it
comes to ease of doing business. 
• There are more than 112 embassies and consulates in the UAE.
• The UAE is a tax-free and duty-free jurisdiction. As a result,
people have more disposable income and can enjoy one of
the best standards of living in the world.
• Investment in real estate: Foreigners are allowed to acquire
real estate in Dubai.
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Incorporation of a company – Investor Visa
This is the most convenient and efficient option for obtaining
a residence visa (valid for two to three years). Ideally, the
foreigner will set up a company in any one of the 45 free-
trade zones spread across the UAE’s seven emirates, which
allow for 100% foreign shareholding. Depending on the
selected free zone, it can take only a few weeks to set up the
company and obtain the residence visa.
Applying for a work permit – Employment Visa
Taking employment in Dubai remains the cheapest way
of obtaining a residence visa in the UAE. As an employee,
the foreigner is provided with an employment/residence
visa valid for two to three years. It is the responsibility of the
employer to organise for the visa and liaise with the UAE
immigration authorities to obtain the necessary employment
visa for the foreigner. As per Dubai laws, the employer also
needs to bear the costs of the visa application.