Between the year-round sunshine, bottom line-boosting regulations and favourable tax regime, it’s little wonder why Dubai is such a popular place to live for international residents. Over 90% of the population are expats, and many of those have recently relocated from the UK and Europe. If you are a UK resident and toying with the idea of getting a Dubai residency, this guide will take you through the specific steps and requirements you need to navigate the process in 2025.
In this article, we will explore:
Dubai residency is becoming an increasingly popular option for expats across the globe, but it’s particularly appealing for UK residents.
When it comes to securing residency in the UAE, UK nationals have several options, but the most popular routes are:
The process for obtaining Dubai residency from the UK varies depending on the type of visa you wish to apply for. Here’s a four-step guide detailing how to secure your residency, though it is worth speaking to an expert on the ground, such as Charterhouse Lombard, to ensure you meet all the criteria to avoid unnecessary holdups.
Step 1: Choose your residency option
Decide which type of visa you are eligible for and the best option for your requirements. If you choose an employment visa, your employer will need to sponsor your application. If you are opting for an investor visa, you will need to have a property or business lined up for investment.
Step 2: Confirm that you meet all of the necessary eligibility requirements
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of visa. To give you a general idea of requirements, an employment visa requires a job offer from a UAE-based company, an investor visa requires specific investment in real estate or business, and a freelance visa requires proof of freelance contracts. Golden visa applicants and retirement visas also have specific criteria.
Step 3: Submit your application and provide the supporting documents
To streamline the process, reputable consultancies like Charterhouse Lombard can support the entire application submission process by working with either the UAE government (if you have chosen to operate on the mainland) or through your chosen free zone. We will also ensure you have all of the correct documents to ensure your visa is approved as quickly as possible.
Step 4: Complete your medical examination and get your Emirates Identity Card
Once your visa is approved, you will need to undergo a medical examination to prove that you are medically fit and pass a security check. You can then apply for your Emirates Identity Card. This is an essential document that will allow you to access government services, legal processes and other benefits, such as banking.
In order to apply for your Dubai residency, you will need to provide specific documents. These include:
This is not an exhaustive list and many visas, such as investor visas, require specific supporting documents. Divorced and widowed women will also need to provide specific documentation. If you are unsure about the process or requirements, feel free to get in touch with our expert team of advisors to confirm that you have everything in order.
Charterhouse Lombard boasts over 20 years of experience in helping individuals and entrepreneurs unlock the benefits of residence in the UAE. We deliver world-class services ranging from free zone company establishment and offshore business setup to family re-location services and assistance in sourcing rentals. Whether you’re a UK national looking to move to Dubai to be with family, in the market for a new job in the UAE or ready to invest, we can help you navigate the process of securing residency quickly, efficiently and pain-free. To speak to one of our team, request a callback.
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