Planning your move? This moving to Dubai checklist for 2025 covers everything you need—from getting the right visa and Emirates ID to setting up DEWA, SIM cards, bank accounts, and housing. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or entrepreneurship, this guide will help you settle in smoothly and avoid costly delays.
This complete checklist covers every major step you need to take after landing, from visa types to setting up utilities and managing essential services like banking, healthcare, and tenancy agreements.
Step 1: Apply for the Right Residence Visa
Your first priority is to secure the correct UAE residence visa based on your purpose of stay. Without it, you won’t be able to complete the Emirates ID process, rent an apartment, or open a bank account.
Common UAE Visa Types (2025):
- Employment Visa – Sponsored by a UAE-based employer
- Freelance Visa – Available through select free zones (Media City, Dubai Design District, etc.)
- Investor Visa – For business owners or partners in local companies
- Green Visa – For skilled freelancers, remote workers, or self-employed professionals
- Student Visa – Issued via educational institutions (including distance learning programs)
- Golden Visa – 10-year residence for top talent, investors, and researchers
Tip: If you’re working independently, be prepared to register company for VAT if your annual income exceeds AED 375,000. Keep records organized using software like Google Drive or Notion.
Step 2: Emirates ID Application and Activation Process
After receiving your visa, apply for your Emirates ID, which is your legal identity card in the UAE. This ID is required for almost every service—from housing and SIM cards to utilities and healthcare.
Emirates ID Process (2025):
- Undergo a medical fitness test at an authorized DHA clinic
- Apply online or through a typing center for your ID (linked with the ICA)
- Biometrics: Attend an ICA center for fingerprints and a photo
- Track application status via the ICA website
- Collect Emirates ID from the post office once ready
Processing time: Typically 5–10 business days
Cost: AED 370–400 for 2-year cards (fees may vary)
Step 3: Open a Bank Account and Get a UAE SIM Card
Once your Emirates ID is in process or issued, the next step is to open a bank account in Dubai and set up a local mobile number.
Opening a Bank Account in Dubai:
Required Documents:
- Emirates ID (or application receipt)
- Passport with residence visa
- Salary certificate (if employed) or trade license (if self-employed)
- Tenancy contract (some banks may request this)
Popular Banks:
Use budgeting software or mobile apps linked to your bank to manage finances and rental payments easily.
Getting a UAE SIM Card:
You’ll need a UAE number to access government portals, delivery services, and set up banking OTPs.
Main Providers:
Plans start from AED 100/month and may include data, international calling, and eSIM support.
Step 4: Tenancy, DEWA & Ejari Setup
Finding Accommodation & Signing a Tenancy Contract:
- Lease duration: Typically 1 year
- Payment: Via 1–4 post-dated cheques
- Required documents: Emirates ID, passport, residence visa copy, bank details
- Common platforms: Bayut, Property Finder, Dubizzle
DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority):
- Activation process: Done online via DEWA portal
- Deposit: AED 2,000 for apartments / AED 4,000 for villas
- Service activation time: 1–2 business days
Ejari Registration:
- Mandatory legal step that registers your tenancy with Dubai Land Department
- Required to:
- Activate DEWA
- Apply for family visas
- Renew Emirates ID
How to apply:
- Through real estate typing centers or the Dubai REST app (Download on Google Play Store and App Store)
- Documents: Signed tenancy contract, Emirates ID, DEWA bill
Tip: Keep digital copies of these documents safely stored using a document organization software like Evernote or Trello.
Step 5: Healthcare Registration – Public or Private
Dubai mandates that every resident has health insurance. Employers usually provide basic insurance, but you can also register independently.
How to Register with DHA or Private Clinics:
- Public (DHA) Facilities: Offer affordable care, but limited to certain areas
- Private Clinics: Faster service, more options, but may be costlier
- Popular Providers: Aster, Medcare, NMC, Emirates Hospital
Your Emirates ID is required for all registrations. For visa-related medical tests, use licensed DHA medical centers.
Printable-Style Document Checklist for New Expats in Dubai (2025)
| Task | Required Documents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application | Passport, entry permit, job/education documents | Depends on visa type |
| Emirates ID | Passport, visa page, photo | Apply after medical fitness test |
| Bank Account | Emirates ID, passport, visa | Some allow pre-ID setup |
| SIM Card | Emirates ID | Needed for OTPs and service apps |
| Tenancy Contract | Emirates ID, passport copy | Needed for Ejari, DEWA |
| Ejari Registration | Tenancy contract, DEWA bill | Legal housing registration |
| DEWA Setup | Ejari, Emirates ID | Water/electricity connection |
| DHA/Private Clinic Registration | Emirates ID, insurance card | Required for medical services |
| VAT Registration (Freelancers) | Passport, license, income proof | If income > AED 375,000/year |
FAQ: Common Relocation Questions for Dubai Expats (2025)
1. How long does the Emirates ID process take?
Once biometrics are done, it usually takes 5–10 business days to receive the card. You can track your application on the ICA website.
2. Can I open a bank account before getting an Emirates ID?
Some banks allow accounts to be opened with your Emirates ID application receipt, but full functionality (cards, transfers) usually requires the actual ID.
3. Is Ejari registration mandatory for all tenants?
Yes. Whether you’re renting a studio or villa, Ejari is legally required and is essential for setting up DEWA, sponsoring family, and visa renewals.
4. What happens if I don’t register for VAT as a freelancer?
You must register for VAT if your income exceeds AED 375,000 annually. Failing to do so can result in penalties. Use accounting software like QuickBooks or Zoho to track revenue.
5. Do I need to physically attend classes if I’m enrolled in a distance MBA program?
No, most MBA finance distance learning programs allow you to complete coursework online, making them perfect for full-time professionals or freelancers in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Dubai offers one of the smoothest relocation experiences in the region—if you know what to do and when. From getting your Emirates ID to understanding the DEWA, Ejari, tenancy process, each step matters. By following this moving to Dubai checklist 2025, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Dubai’s systems and start your new life with ease.
