Working in the UAE

 

Visas
In order to work in the Emirates you must have a valid employment visa and to live (rent a property, open bank accounts, buy cars) you must have a valid residency visa. The company that you work for will arrange for your visas to be processed and will inform you of any further paperwork that is required. Once in Dubai, there may occasionally be a requirement for you to leave the country and return in order to ‘activate' or renew your visa. Your company will inform you whether this is necessary. Visa rules and regulations are prone to change by the government, however your company should keep you updated of any further requirements.  
Banks
Many international and local banks are represented in Dubai. You will be able to open a bank account when you first arrive, although you will not be able to use all the facilities - notably cheque books - until you have a residency visa. You will be able to get a credit card, however.
Cheques are important in Dubai - you will need to deposit cheques with your landlord when you take your tenancy, and leave tens of cheques when you buy a car - if you take a loan.
Usually your company will have a preferred bank which should be willing to offer services such as car and housing loans and will be more helpful when it comes to opening your account and administering the paperwork. Choosing a bank will depend on your personal needs.
 
Travel within Dubai
The only way to travel within the emirates is by car. Taxis are relatively cheap and easy to find.
Major hire car companies are represented in Dubai with the most economical car costing approximately Dhs.1500 per month (approximately £250). You are able to drive a hire car in the Emirates using some international licenses
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