If you’re planning to make the move to Dubai in 2025, you’re not alone, as we have seen nearly a thousand people relocating to Dubai on a daily basis!
With population growth surging, the property market evolving at record speed, and major economic zones expanding from every corner of the city, Dubai is on everyone’s radar, and it’s a move that can change your lifestyle, finances, and future.
But to do it right, you must already be studying up to know where to live, how visas work, how much everything costs, which apps will save you headaches, and what kind of life is waiting for you. Let us help you get set up right!
Why Are So Many People Moving to Dubai Right Now?
This is a common question many expats and international residents ask[IA1] before making the shift, and the reason is that Dubai has always attracted a global crowd, but over the past two years, that interest has surged into something more permanent. Today, professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and remote workers are actively choosing Dubai over other places and that’s because:
Whether you’re moving for work, for better quality of life, or to build wealth, Dubai is putting out the welcome mat. But the details matter, so let’s get into them.
Understanding Visas in 2025
In 2025, the visas in Dubai are more flexible than ever. Here are the most relevant options based on how you plan to live in the city and these are opted by most relocating:
1. The Employment Visa
The most common visa type is the one tied to your employer. It is typically valid for 2–3 years with the option to renew. If you are moving to Dubai with a spouse or children, this visa may allow you to sponsor them too, provided certain income and housing requirements are met. Your employer usually covers both the visa and health insurance.
2. The Property Investor Visa
If you buy a property worth AED 750,000 or more, you’re eligible for a short-term residency visa (usually 2 years). If your investment hits AED 2 million, you unlock the Golden Visa, a 10-year residency that also covers family sponsorship, long-term business planning, and more.
3. The Golden Visa
This is the most sought after residency option for property investors, business owners, and high earning individuals. It offers a 10-year residency and allows you to sponsor immediate family members as well as multiple domestic staff. The most accessible route is through real estate investment: if you own property valued at AED 2 million or more, even if it is mortgaged, you may qualify provided minimum equity requirements are met.
4. The Green Visa & Freelance Visa
This visa type is ideal for consultants, freelancers, and self-employed professionals. These visas give you 5 years of self-sponsored residency and flexibility to work across multiple clients or projects. You also have the flexibility to travel without requiring an NOC from an employer.
5. The Remote Work Visa
Work for a company abroad? This visa allows you to live in Dubai while earning overseas, and it is ideal for remote working, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
What Does It Cost to Live in Dubai?
While Dubai is often seen as a luxury destination, day-to-day living remains relatively affordable in many areas, here is a basic breakdown of what to expect in terms of initial expenses:
Rent
One-Time Rental Costs
If you’re buying property, homeownership in Dubai requires a down payment of 20% (minimum for an expat) for a property for sale in Dubai under the value of AED 5,000,000 and anything above AED 5,000,000 will require a down payment of 30% (minimum for an expat). Ensure though, to also expect to budget 7–8% in upfront fees, including:
Where Should You Live in Dubai?
This depends entirely on your lifestyle. Below are a few key areas and what they’re best known for:
For Young Professionals & Singles
For Families
For Long-Term Investors or Value Seekers
Need help choosing? Our team at Espace Real Estate can break down which communities offer the best returns, lifestyle, and visa potential, depending on your goals.
Can I Drive in Dubai?
Yes, you can, especially if you already have a pre-existing license, and it’s highly recommended. Public transport is improving, but owning or renting a car makes life easier, especially in villa communities.
If you have a pre-existing license:
You can swap your home country’s licence for a Dubai one, but you may need to take a road test; again, this depends on the list of countries. There are recognised countries, and those with licenses from those countries don’t need to take a test.
If not:
You’ll need to register with an RTA-approved driving school and go through theory, parking, and road exams. Once you pass, you’ll receive your UAE driving licence. You’ll also need a Salik account (for toll roads), which you can top up online.
Can I Start a Business?
Absolutely, and Dubai has made it easier than ever with flexible licensing options such as:
Mainland Licence (DED)
With this license, you can operate anywhere in the UAE. Ideal if you want a physical store, service-based business, or to work with local clients. This is something that works very well for those with B2C clients.
Free Zone Licence
This license is great for those who are looking for a cost-effective and fast-to-set-up license, especially for consultants, freelancers, digital services, or international traders. Choose from zones like IFZA, DMCC, Dubai CommerCity, RAKEZ, and more. This works mostly with people who have factories, trailers, etc.
You can get started with a minimum as AED 12,000–15,000, with options to scale.
What Are Investor Benefits?
Real estate investors are rewarded in Dubai, especially when they buy smart:
Espace can help you identify investor-grade stock, whether off-plan or ready, and support you through the entire buy-to-lease process.
We’re not just here to show you properties. Our role is to make your Dubai move, whether for lifestyle or investment, as seamless, smart, and rewarding as possible.
Here’s how we can help:
So, ready to make that move?
Whether you’re an investor, looking for properties for sale in Dubai, or a family moving in search of properties for rent in Dubai, we’re here to support you in your journey in Dubai!
As a truly customer-centric real estate agency, we offer a range of related services that are designed to make your property journey stress-free and successful from start to end.
