UAE Guides
Practical, original guides to living and getting things done in the UAE.
Cost of Living in Dubai (2026): A Practical Budget Guide
A realistic breakdown of monthly living costs in Dubai — rent, bills, transport, food and more — to help you plan a budget.
Read guide →How to Open a Bank Account in the UAE
What you need to open a current or savings account in the UAE as a resident, and what to expect from the process.
Read guide →Getting a UAE Driving Licence: A Step-by-Step Guide
How residents get a UAE driving licence — including when you can convert a foreign licence and what the process involves.
Read guide →Emirates ID: What It Is and How to Apply or Renew
A simple explanation of the Emirates ID, why it matters, and the basics of applying for and renewing it.
Read guide →Dubai Metro & Public Transport: A Newcomer's Guide
How to use the Dubai Metro, tram and buses with a Nol card, and tips for getting around affordably.
Read guide →Sending Money from the UAE: A Remittance Guide
How to transfer money abroad from the UAE, and how to get better exchange rates and lower fees.
Read guide →Getting a SIM or eSIM in the UAE
How to get a mobile number in the UAE, prepaid vs postpaid, and tourist SIM options.
Read guide →UAE Public Holidays: How They Work
How UAE public holidays are set, which are fixed and which move with the lunar calendar, and what to expect.
Read guide →Moving to Dubai: A First-Month Checklist
A step-by-step checklist for new arrivals in Dubai — from visa and Emirates ID to housing, banking and getting connected.
Read guide →Renting a Home in the UAE: What to Know
How renting works in the UAE — contracts, cheques, deposits, Ejari registration and tips to avoid surprises.
Read guide →Setting Up a Business in the UAE: Mainland vs Free Zone
A plain overview of starting a company in the UAE, and how mainland and free zone options differ.
Read guide →The UAE Golden Visa: Who Qualifies and Why It Matters
A closer look at the UAE Golden Visa — the long-term residence visa for investors, talent and professionals.
Read guide →Freelancing in the UAE: Permits and How to Start
How to work legally as a freelancer in the UAE, including freelance permits and self-sponsorship options.
Read guide →UAE Employment Basics: Contracts, Leave and Working Hours
A general overview of employee rights in the UAE — contracts, annual leave, working hours and end of service.
Read guide →UAE End-of-Service Gratuity: How It Works
What the end-of-service gratuity is, who qualifies, and the general basis on which it is calculated.
Read guide →Healthcare and Insurance in the UAE
How healthcare and mandatory health insurance work in the UAE for residents and visitors.
Read guide →Choosing a School in the UAE
How to choose a school in the UAE — curricula, fees, ratings and the application process.
Read guide →Buying Property in Dubai: A Beginner's Guide
The basics of buying property in Dubai as an expat, including freehold areas, costs and the process.
Read guide →Things to Do in Dubai: A First-Timer's Guide
Highlights for visitors and new residents in Dubai — landmarks, desert, beaches, culture and shopping.
Read guide →Things to Do in Abu Dhabi
A guide to the UAE capital — culture, landmarks, family attractions and island escapes.
Read guide →Best Time to Visit the UAE
When to visit the UAE for comfortable weather, plus what to expect across the seasons.
Read guide →Ramadan in the UAE: What to Expect
A respectful guide to Ramadan in the UAE — customs, etiquette, hours and the atmosphere.
Read guide →UAE Visa Guide
Tourist, employment, Golden Visa and freelance permits, plus how to check your visa status.
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