Moving to Dubai? The Ultimate Checklist for Job Seekers (2025)

So, you’re ready to make the leap and move to Dubai? Exciting! Dubai has long been a magnet for professionals worldwide thanks to its tax-free salaries, luxurious lifestyle, and booming industries.

But as glamorous as the city looks on Instagram, relocating here requires careful planning. From visa rules to cultural expectations, there’s a lot to consider before you board your flight.

Here’s your ultimate checklist for moving to Dubai as a job seeker in 2025, packed with insider tips to make your transition smooth.

Pre-Move Checklist: What to Do Before Leaving

1. Understand Your Visa Options

As a job seeker, you typically have three visa routes:

🔹 Visit Visa (Tourist Visa)

• Valid for 30 or 90 days.

• You can search for jobs but cannot work until you have a work visa.

🔹 Job Seeker Visa (Introduced in 2024)

• Allows 60–120 days stay in the UAE specifically for job hunting.

• Requires proof of funds and degree certification.

🔹 Freelance Visa or Remote Work Visa (if you plan to work independently)

• Gives you permission to legally freelance in Dubai.

⚠️ Important: Never start working on a visit visa. Your employer must process your work visa before you begin.

👉 [Apply for a UAE Job Seeker Visa here]

2. Get Your Documents Ready

Essentials:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Attested degree certificates (required for many jobs)

• Updated CV in UAE format (include photo & visa status)

• Passport-size photos (white background)

• References from previous employers

💡 Pro Tip: Scan and upload all documents to Google Drive or Dropbox for easy access.

👉 [Get your documents attested online]

3. Plan Your Finances

Dubai is expensive, especially during the job search phase.

💸 Estimated monthly costs (2025):

• Shared accommodation: AED 2,500–4,500

• Food & transport: AED 1,500–2,500

• Visa renewals or extensions: AED 1,200–2,000

💡 Budget tip: Bring savings for at least 3–4 months of expenses.

👉 [Open a multi-currency account with Wise] 

4. Research the Job Market

Focus your search on high-demand sectors:

• Tech (AI, Cybersecurity, IT)

• Healthcare

• Finance & Banking

• Renewable Energy

• Hospitality & Tourism

Start building profiles on UAE job boards like: Bayt, GulfTalent, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc

Arrival Checklist: Your First Week in Dubai

5. Find Temporary Accommodation

While you search for a permanent place, book a short-term stay.

🏨 Options:

• Hotels (good for 1–2 weeks)

• Airbnb or serviced apartments (flexible for 1–3 months)

👉 [Find Dubai stays on Booking.com] (Insert affiliate link)👉 [Explore Airbnb options] (Insert affiliate link)

6. Get a Local SIM Card

A UAE mobile number is essential for job applications and recruiter calls.

📱 Providers: Etisalat, Du, Virgin Mobile💡 Bring your passport for SIM registration.

👉 [Order a Dubai SIM online] 

✅ 7. Open a Bank Account

Some banks allow you to open an account with just a visit visa, but options are limited. Once you have your Emirates ID, opening an account gets easier.

🏦 Popular banks for expats: Emirates NBD, Mashreq, ADIB

👉 [Get a Wise account ready before you fly]

🏡 Settling in Dubai: Long-Term Considerations

🏠 Housing

Dubai’s rental market moves fast. Start with shared housing if you’re job hunting.

💡 Popular expat areas:

• Bur Dubai & Deira (affordable)

• Dubai Marina & JLT (mid-high range)

• Al Barsha (good balance of cost & access)

👉 [Browse Dubai rentals on Property Finder]

🏥 Healthcare

Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai. Check if your employer provides it. If not, buy your own coverage.

👉 [Compare UAE health insurance plans here]

🚇 Transportation

✅ Get a Nol Card for Dubai Metro and buses✅ Taxis & Careem (ride-hailing app) are also widely used✅ If you’re driving, check UAE license conversion rules

⚠️ Important: Freelance and Part-Time Work

Before taking freelance or part-time gigs:

• Check if your visa allows it.

• Apply for a freelance permit if needed.

Violating labor laws can lead to fines or visa cancellation.

👉 [Apply for a UAE freelance permit online]

🌟 Insider Tips for Job Seekers

✅ Always include a passport photo and visa status on your CV.✅ Tailor your applications to each job—generic CVs rarely get responses.✅ Network actively on LinkedIn and in person. Many jobs are filled before they’re advertised.

🏆 Final Thoughts: Make Your Move to Dubai Stress-Free

Relocating to Dubai is a big step, but with preparation, it can be life-changing. From securing the right visa to understanding the job market, every step matters.