Dubai is one of the most popular expat destinations in the world. UAE ranks 6th out of 52 countries for expatriates to live and work according to InterNations’ Expat Insider 2022 survey. The city is a multicultural hub that is home to diverse nationalities. A total of 8.84 million expats live in the UAE, representing 88.52% of the total population. More than 200 nationalities live and work in the country. The top 5 UAE expat residents consist of Indians (27.49%), Pakistanis (12.69%), Bangladeshis (7.40%), Filipinos (5.56%), and Iranians (4.76%). A total of 38.55% of the population is made up of other nationalities. This article summarizes the top reasons we think expats prefer to live and work in Dubai.
- Tax benefits
Dubai offers a lot of exciting career and business opportunities. It currently has a zero income tax policy. Additionally, residents enjoy tax-free rental income, no stamp duty, and no inheritance or capital gains taxes. VAT was introduced in the United Arab Emirates on 1 January 2018. The general VAT rate is 5% and applies to most goods and services. Individuals and companies residing in the UAE have access to a growing network of double tax treaties (DTTs). As of February 2022, the UAE has concluded 137 DTAs most of which aim to prevent double taxation of income, capital gains, dividends, and tax-exempt deposits.
- Stable economy
According to preliminary data from the Dubai Statistics Centre, Dubai’s economy started 2022 strong with a growth of 5.9 percent in gross domestic product. The business sector is expected to continue to grow in 2022-23. An expanding business sector means more job opportunities and higher salaries for residents. This makes Dubai one of the most financially stable destinations in the world.
- Outstanding healthcare and quality education
Dubai’s quality of healthcare is exceptional offering excellent medical services and healthcare to its citizens and residents. Due to its immediate response, strict public health measures, and quick vaccination roll-out, the city and the whole UAE remained resilient against the COVID-19 pandemic. Since having medical insurance is mandatory in Dubai, employees benefit from medical insurance provided by their employers. Health insurance companies offer a flexible range of medical and life insurance plans for residents with coverage in the UAE and abroad. Recently, the UAE government has expanded its issuance of 10-year Golden Visas to medical practitioners with the aim of attracting foreign professionals and encouraging them to stay in the country for long.
Some of the world’s most reputable universities are located in Dubai, as well as world-class primary and higher education institutions. If you are thinking of moving here with your family, the city provides you with a lot of choices on private international schools offering British and American curricula.
- Quality of Life
Dubai is a good place to live with high ratings in startups, business freedom, and safety. It also ranks 11th on the Quality of Urban Living Index. Being one of the most advanced cities in the world allows businesses and residents to thrive. Expats also benefit from an excellent climate, a wide range of leisure activities, and a low crime rate. Besides home-grown and international cuisines, there are activities and excitement for every age group and an extensive choice of retail destinations. Although the city is known for offering a luxurious life, most people still find living in Dubai cheap compared to other popular cities. The government has launched several initiatives to attract people to come and live in Dubai from working professionals to retirees. Freelance visa has been introduced in the past years to support individuals to have legal residence and a permit to work. Dubai has also recently launched a long-term visa for residents over the age of 55 for a period of 5 years which makes it an ideal place for retirement.
- Strategic Location
As Dubai is centrally located between the east and west, it makes it ideal for expats to either make frequent trips home or travel to other countries. It has access to a wide array of airlines and flight routes, serving almost every destination in the world, which is also great for investors and business owners giving them a natural link between producers, manufacturers, and consumers. Dubai offers a strong strategic regional location for companies wanting to expand internationally.
- Ample choices of properties to live in for every budget
Whether you are looking for a luxury waterfront villa or an apartment, Dubai offers an extensive selection of accommodation options with flexible payment plans. Real estate investors can be granted a UAE Golden Visa when investing in a property allowing them to obtain 10-year or 5-year residence visas. Dubai’s most affordable rental areas are International City, Deira, Dubai Sports City, Discovery Gardens, and Jumeirah Village. While areas such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Emirates Hills are on the pricey side to rent and live.
- Advanced technology and Infrastructures
In terms of technology and infrastructure, the UAE has a fairly well-built and modern system. In order to support overall economic growth and in particular industrial growth, the Dubai government has invested billions in its transformation. Expats enjoy high-speed internet connection and reliable transport. Despite all these technological advances the UAE and Dubai have made several strides toward sustainability allowing residents and citizens to live a better quality of life. Businesses and investors in the country also benefit from this allowing them ease of doing business and rapid expansion.
There are a lot of perks to living in Dubai and the city has too many to offer for everyone from all walks of life. Expats love the quality of living, in fact, according to the survey, 71% of expats are happy with their life in the UAE. There are always plenty of things to do and see for you and your family. Don’t forget to visit other Emirates whilst living here, for sure there are many other hidden gems waiting for you to be discovered.
If you plan on considering Dubai as your second residence, or if you are looking to start a new business or expand your existing company, our team of experts at Strohal Legal Group can help you get started with your new venture. Check out our website for more information.
You can download the article here.