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The main points of the article: successfully moving to Dubai depends on three key factors. First, you need to be in compliance with the law (residence visa, Emirates ID, documents prepared and legalized). Next, you need to have a good grasp of your actual budget, which will be dominated by housing costs, and choose the right neighborhood for your lifestyle, renting for the first year to maintain flexibility. Finally, secure your long-term plans by understanding local rules, the job market, or how to start a business, and your tax situation between France and the Emirates.
Are you motivated by the ambition to move to Dubai to optimize your tax situation, but are still hesitant due to the complexity of the administrative procedures and fear of hidden costs? This practical guide for 2025/2026 analyzes the entire process for you, from the strategic choice of your visa to the creation of your legal structure, in order to transform this opportunity into an immediate operational success. Get access now to the real figures on the cost of living, the best residential areas for your family, and the essential mechanisms for securing your move to the Emirates without compromising your financial profitability.
Think you can move there without any formalities? Think again. To move to Dubai effectively, a residence visa is not an option, it's an absolute must. Usually sponsored by an employer, without one you'll be completely stuck: you won't be able to rent an apartment or open a bank account.
The procedure follows a strict logic: receipt of the job offer, mandatory medical tests, then application for an Emirates ID. It is a rigid sequence that must be validated step by step in order to be in compliance.
Don't lose your Emirates ID, your local identity card. This document should remain in your pocket at all times, as it contains all your personal and administrative data held by the authorities.
Setting up your own structure remains the best way to stay in control. It is an extremely flexible solution for entrepreneurs who want to become their own sponsor and avoid any dependence on third parties.
Please note: obtaining residency by starting a business requires a structured approach. If you have the funds, aim for the Golden Visa for investors, a 10-year long-term residency option for those making a significant investment.
The freelance visa is a relevant alternative for self-employed individuals. This status allows you to legally bill multiple clients. Take a look at the article on freelance status in Dubai to understand how it works.
Anticipation is your best weapon here. Collecting and, above all, legalizing documents takes a lot of time and must be done in France before boarding the plane.
Here is the exact list of documents you need to gather to avoid administrative rejections:
Don't focus solely on the base salary. The overall package is what really matters. You need to negotiate hard on the peripheral elements, as they directly impact your final purchasing power once you're there.
Put the costly items on the table: full coverage of housing costs or a substantial allowance, children's school fees, and comprehensive health insurance for the whole family.
Don't forget the "little extras" that make all the difference: an annual plane ticket to return to France, a generous relocation allowance, and coverage of your vehicle's costs on site.
Once the visas have been approved, we tackle the thorny issue. Many people think that moving to Dubai means automatic savings thanks to zero taxation. This is not true. If you don't keep your fixed costs under control, this city can drain your cash reserves in a matter of months.
Let's be clear: housing will be your biggest expense by far. For a one-bedroom apartment in a sought-after area such as Dubai Marina, the entry price now exceeds $5,000 per month. That's the price you pay for centrality.
The payment method is archaic and brutal for the cash flow of a company or individual. The norm remains payment by postdated checks: one, two, or four to settle the year in one go. The funds must be available immediately.
Add to that the security deposit, often high agency fees, and the opening of DEWA meters. The initial bill quickly adds up even before you've had a chance to unpack your bags.
Filling your fridge is expensive if you stick to your strict Western habits. Imported products, such as cheese and charcuterie, are sold at high prices in supermarkets. Expect to spend around AED 2,500 per month for a single person without depriving yourself.
Gasoline is cheap (around €0.66 per liter), but a car is essential for getting around efficiently. Between insurance, maintenance, and daily Salik tolls, transportation costs can quickly add up. There is a metro system, but it does not serve all residential areas and remains a secondary option.
Leisure activities are the real financial pitfall here. Trendy restaurants, bars, and beach clubs often charge prohibitive prices. An active social life in these trendy places can double your monthly expenses without you even realizing it.
The absence of income tax is certainly a massive advantage. But make no mistake: this tax break often serves to offset a structurally very high cost of living, especially for housing and schooling.
To avoid ending up in the red, you need to calculate everything before you leave. I recommend consulting our detailed guide on the cost of living in Dubai for a realistic analysis. This is the only way to ensure the success of your expatriation project.
Don't forget the 5% VAT that now applies to most goods and services. It's a minor accounting detail, but it adds up to a significant amount at the end of the month.
Now that the budget has been approved, don't make the classic mistake of neglecting location. Successfully moving to Dubai requires choosing the right headquarters, because your address defines 80% of your quality of life there.
Forget about "direct owners"—they are virtually non-existent here. The market is completely dominated by real estate agents, so your search for housing will mainly take place on dedicated online portals.
Once you have found a property, signing the Ejari contract is the next non-negotiable step. This is the official registration of the lease with the government, which is essential for legally connecting water and electricity (DEWA).
Payment is made by postdated checks, a local practice that cannot be avoided. Please note that a bounced check is not simply a banking error: it is a criminal offense that is severely punished in the Emirates.
Should you buy right away? For a first installation, renting remains the norm in almost all cases. It guarantees total flexibility if your business pivots or if your life plans change suddenly.
Buying property becomes a strategic option for expatriates who plan to stay for the long term. It is also a prerequisite for obtaining certain residence permits, such as the famous Golden Visa for real estate investors.
Our expert advice: don't rush into anything. Rent for at least a year to get to know the city, compare neighborhoods, and figure out your lifestyle before committing to a purchase.
A roof over your head is good, but a solid source of income is better. Whether you are an employee or an entrepreneur, moving to Dubai offers immense opportunities, provided you understand its ruthless codes.
Forget about easy money—competition is fierce, and the market offers no concessions to average candidates. The dynamic economy attracts the world's best talent, making every position highly competitive. Let's be clear: perfect command of English is absolutely non-negotiable here.
Sending out random resumes is a complete waste of time that will get you nowhere. In Dubai, networking reigns supreme when it comes to recruitment. You need to be aggressive on LinkedIn and initiate face-to-face meetings at events.
The figures on the pay slip seem high compared to Europe. But be careful, deduct the exorbitant cost of living before celebrating.
The majority of expatriates rush to the Free Zone, and this is often the most logical choice. This option guarantees you 100% ownership of your capital without local interference. You enjoy massive tax advantages, perfect for billing services internationally.
The Mainland License is mandatory if you plan to sell your products directly on the local Emirati market. The good news is that a local partner is no longer required for most activities. You can now own 100% of your business in the heart of the city.
The choice depends on your target audience. Consult our guide on how to start a business. Support is often a good idea to avoid costly mistakes.
The myth of zero taxation is now a thing of the past with the recent introduction of corporate tax. This is a major paradigm shift for entrepreneurs based in the Emirates. You need to factor this new tax situation into your financial forecasts.
Read the details here:
The government now levies 9% on net profits exceeding the threshold of AED 375,000. Fortunately, there are still exemptions, particularly for companies in Free Zones that do not trade locally.
Rest assured, the tax burden remains negligible compared to European standards. You will keep most of your earnings.
Read the details here: The government now levies 9% on net profits exceeding the threshold of AED 375,000. Fortunately, there are still exemptions, particularly for companies in Free Zones that do not trade locally.
Moving to Dubai alone is an adventure, but doing so with your family adds an extra layer of logistical complexity. Managing your children and health quickly becomes the focal point of your preparations.
Here, there isn't really a public option for expatriates. You will need to look into private international schools offering British, American, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula, not to mention the Lycée Français International for continuity.
But be careful, the budget can quickly spiral out of control. Tuition fees are very high and often represent the number one expense. It is a classic mistake not to include these costs in the negotiation of your salary package.
A word of advice: don't wait until the last minute. Waiting lists are getting longer every year, so start registering well before you arrive.
The healthcare system is predominantly private, and insurance is mandatory for all residents. If your employer provides basic coverage, be aware that coverage varies greatly from one contract to another.
When it comes to quality, excellence is paramount. You will have access to state-of-the-art hospitals and clinics equipped with the latest technology, staffed by skilled international medical professionals.
However, carefully check the limits of your policy. Supplementary "top-up" insurance is often necessary to avoid unpleasant financial surprises for your family.
Family life here is incredibly peaceful and safe. Dubai is a kid-friendly city par excellence, with a crime rate of almost zero and a plethora of parks, beaches, and dedicated activities.
The only real constraint remains the climate. From May to September, the intense heat forces people to spend their time indoors, between shopping malls and air-conditioned playgrounds.
Are you planning to bring your four-legged friends with you? It's entirely possible. Find out how to bring your pet to Dubai, as the procedure requires strict administrative compliance.
Successfully relocating to Dubai is not just about business; it's also about mastering the local way of life. While the city boasts a bold modernity, it does not compromise on its fundamental values.
The Emirates are a land of Islam; this is a non-negotiable fact. Respect for religion is required of everyone, believers and non-believers alike. This requires constant modesty and particular attention to your behavior as soon as you leave your home.
Forget provocative outfits. In public places such as malls or government offices, shoulders and knees must remain covered. This is even more true during Ramadan, a period when vigilance regarding modesty is at its highest.
Be careful with displays of affection. Public displays of affection, such as kissing, are strictly prohibited and can get you into serious trouble.
Let's put an end to the rumors: alcohol is not prohibited for non-Muslims. But its consumption is highly regulated. You can only drink in licensed establishments, often attached to large hotels or restaurants, never on the street.
For personal consumption at home, you must obtain a license. Don't play with fire: drunkenness in public places is a serious offense, severely punished by the local police.
Nightlife is very real, of course. But it takes place exclusively within this very specific legal framework that must be accepted.
You will quickly become addicted to this exceptional level of security. Dubai is one of the few cities in the world where you can walk anywhere, at any time, without the slightest fear for your belongings.
The flip side of the coin? Zero tolerance for crime. The law is applied harshly, with no exceptions. An insult, an unpaid debt, or a bad check are considered major offenses leading straight to prison.
The golden rule is simple: always remain respectful, no matter what. Keep your tone calm and professional, even if the conversation becomes tense or unfair. Avoid interrupting, respond calmly, and focus on the facts.
Being a tax resident means that the tax authorities tax your worldwide income, regardless of its origin. To stop paying taxes in France, you must lose this status. This is the basic rule for successfully moving to Dubai without any unpleasant surprises.
France will consider you a resident if you meet just one criterion: your home, your main place of residence, your professional activity, or the center of your economic interests. Only one of these is sufficient to remain taxable.
Flying there is not enough. The actual center of your life must shift to Dubai for the authorities to approve this change. There can be no half measures here; everything must be consistent.
Fortunately, there is a bilateral agreement in place. This technical document prevents your income from being taxed twice, once by each state. It is your shield against double taxation.
The tax treaty between France and the UAE strictly allocates taxation rights. Your French real estate income, for example, generally remains taxable in France, even if you live at the foot of the Burj Khalifa.
This agreement protects expatriates, that's true. But be careful, you need to understand the finer points so you don't stumble.
Be wary of "false" expatriation. Keeping too many ties in France will lead straight to a brutal tax reassessment. The French tax authorities will not let anything slip by if the case is shaky or ambiguous.
A family that has remained in the country, overly active bank accounts, or extended stays are warning signs. Read our comparison of tax residency in Dubai vs. France to assess the real risks of these common mistakes.
Don't play the sorcerer's apprentice. Get help from a tax expert to make sure your departure goes smoothly.
Dubai's cost of living varies greatly according to your lifestyle. An essential budget (studio apartment on the outskirts, public transport, home cooking) is around AED 8,000 to 12,000/month (€2,000-3,000). A comfortable lifestyle (1-2 bedroom apartment in central area, regular outings) requires AED 18,000 to 25,000/month (€4,500-6,250). For luxury (city-center accommodation, premium car, top-of-the-range restaurants), expect more than AED 40,000/month (€10,000). The absence of income tax offsets these costs for residents.
Meals range from AED 30 (€7.5) in a food court to AED 200 (€50) in a mid-range restaurant, and easily exceed AED 400 (€100) in premium establishments. Eating at home considerably reduces expenses: a couple spends an average of AED 800-1,200/month (€200-300) on shopping, compared with AED 400-800 per restaurant meal (€100-200 for two people). Supermarkets such as Carrefour or Lulu Hypermarket offer economical options comparable to European prices.
For a balanced lifestyle, aim for AED 20,000-35,000/month (€5,000-8,750) for a couple or executive. This budget covers a 1-2 bedroom apartment (AED 7,000-12,000), transport (AED 1,500-3,000), food (AED 2,000-3,000) and moderate leisure activities. Entrepreneurs must also factor in professional expenses (business license, compulsory health insurance). With a net salary in excess of AED 40,000/month (€10,000), luxury becomes affordable while saving money thanks to the absence of income tax.
Dubai has no official minimum wage, but private companies are required to respect a contractual minimum of AED 3,000-5,000/month (€750-1,250) for skilled positions. Managers generally start at AED 8,000-15,000. Salaries vary widely depending on the sector: a developer earns AED 12,000-20,000, compared with AED 6,000-10,000 for a teacher. Contracts often include benefits (housing, bonuses) which influence the total after-tax income.
Housing accounts for 30-50% of the budget: AED 7,000-12,000/month for a 1-bedroom apartment in a central district. Premium cars, with subsidized petrol but expensive insurance and Salik tolls, weigh heavily on the budget. Top-of-the-range restaurants (meals at AED 400+) and exclusive leisure activities (water sports, 5-star golf courses) inflate spending. Finally, imported products (wines, spirits) are taxed at 50-100%, which justifies their high price.
Public beaches (Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim) are free and accessible. Parks such as Safa Park or Mushrif Park offer green spaces and family activities free of charge. Traditional markets (Gold Souk, Spice Souk) and the historic Al Seef district offer free cultural immersion. The Dubai Museum (3 AED) and Dubai Creek (free walk) are affordable. For sporting activities, the free bike paths or open-air yoga classes at 30-50 AED (€3-7) remain accessible. Cultural events such as Art Dubai or Dubai Design Week often offer free admission or low-cost events.
Everything you need to prepare for your move: budget, housing, procedures, practical advice, and mistakes to avoid. Download the guide and get off to a good start.
✨ GUIDE TO MOVING TO THE UAE
Questions about moving to Dubai?
