How to plan a remote working stay in UAE?

Have you ever dreamt of trading your daily commute for a sunrise view over the Arabian Gulf, working productively from a vibrant cityscape or a serene desert retreat? Planning a remote working stay in the UAE has become an increasingly popular and accessible aspiration for digital nomads globally.

Understanding the UAE Remote Work Visa

The United Arab Emirates has actively embraced the global remote work trend, introducing specialized visas to attract digital nomads and remote employees. The Dubai Remote Work Visa, also known as the “Work Remotely from Dubai” program, launched in March 2021, allows eligible individuals to live and work in Dubai for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. This initiative positions Dubai as a leading destination for remote professionals, ranking high on global digital nomad indices. This visa is distinct from a traditional employment visa, as it does not require a local sponsor or employer.

Eligibility and Key Requirements

To qualify for the UAE Remote Work Visa, whether for Dubai or other emirates (where applications are typically handled by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA)), you’ll need to meet specific criteria. For remote employees, you must have a valid employment contract for at least one year with a company located outside the UAE. A crucial financial requirement is demonstrating a minimum monthly salary of USD 3,500 (approximately AED 12,850), which you’ll need to prove with your last three months’ bank statements and a salary certificate or contract. For business owners or freelancers, you must provide proof of owning your business for a minimum of one year and show a consistent monthly income of at least USD 3,500 through your last three months’ bank statements. In addition to financial proof, all applicants must hold a passport with at least six months’ validity remaining and possess valid health insurance that covers them in the UAE for the entire duration of their stay. It is essential to ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date before applying.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The application process for the UAE remote work visa is largely streamlined, making it relatively straightforward for international applicants. For Dubai, you typically apply through the official www.visitdubai.com website. For other emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.), you’ll submit your request via the ICA website.

Here’s a general outline of the steps:

1. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, including your valid passport copy, a digital passport-sized photo with a white background, your employment contract or business license, salary certificates/income proof, and your last three months’ bank statements. Crucially, obtain your health insurance policy that covers the UAE.
2. Online Application: Register and log in to the respective government portal (www.visitdubai.com for Dubai, or ICA for other emirates). Fill out the comprehensive application form, providing all required personal and professional details.
3. Document Upload and Payment: Upload all your prepared documents as specified by the portal. Pay the required visa application fees. The total cost typically includes the application fee, medical insurance premiums, and Emirates ID charges.
4. Application Review and Approval: Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the relevant authorities. If approved, you’ll receive an entry permit (if applying from outside the UAE) or an appointment for further processing if you’re already in the country on a visit visa.
5. Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID: Upon arrival or after receiving your entry permit, you must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test at a UAE-approved health center. This usually involves a chest X-ray and blood tests to check for communicable diseases. After passing the medical test, you’ll apply for your Emirates ID, which involves biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial recognition) at a Government Services Center.
6. Visa Stamping and Emirates ID Issuance: Once you pass the medical test and complete the Emirates ID application, your residence visa will be stamped in your passport, and your physical Emirates ID card will be issued. This ID is essential for various services in the UAE, from opening bank accounts to accessing government services.

The process has been designed for efficiency, with some services like medical tests and Emirates ID applications offered with fast-track options through premium centers like Smart Salem in Dubai.

Cost of Living for Remote Workers

While the UAE offers a high quality of life, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on your chosen emirate and lifestyle. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are generally considered more expensive, while cities like Sharjah and Ajman offer more budget-friendly options.

Housing: Rent is typically the largest expense. A 1-bedroom apartment in central Dubai can range significantly, while similar units in Sharjah or Ajman are generally more affordable. The cost depends heavily on the specific neighborhood, building amenities, and size. For example, a 1-bedroom in Dubai Marina will differ greatly from one in Deira.

Utilities: Monthly utility expenses, including electricity, water, and cooling, are typically separate from rent. These costs fluctuate based on usage and apartment size.

Groceries and Dining: Grocery costs for a single person in Dubai average around AED 2,500 per month. Dining out, however, can quickly add up, especially at mid-range to high-end restaurants. Eating at local eateries or cooking at home helps manage these costs.

Transportation: While public transport in Dubai is excellent (Dubai Metro, buses), remote workers might prefer taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience. Owning a car is also an option, but this adds fuel, insurance, and parking costs.

Overall, a single remote worker in Dubai might expect monthly expenses to be approximately AED 9,000 (around USD 2,450), excluding leisure activities. This estimate includes rent, utilities, groceries, and local transportation. For families, these costs naturally increase, with a family of four possibly needing AED 20,000-25,000 (around USD 5,450-6,800) per month. These figures are approximate and can change based on personal choices.

Choosing Your Base: Best Cities for Remote Work

The UAE offers diverse environments for remote workers, each with its unique appeal.

Dubai: Often ranked as the #1 city globally for remote professionals by indices like VisaGuide Digital Nomad Index, Dubai stands out for its ultra-modern infrastructure, world-class amenities, and vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle. It boasts an extensive network of co-working spaces, excellent connectivity, and a dynamic expatriate community. For those seeking luxury, efficiency, and a bustling urban experience, Dubai is an unparalleled choice. Areas like Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) are particularly popular among expatriates and remote workers due to their amenities and connectivity.

Abu Dhabi: Ranking as another top global city for remote work (often #4), Abu Dhabi offers a slightly more relaxed pace than Dubai while maintaining high standards of living, excellent infrastructure, and strong safety. It’s known for its cultural attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and vast green spaces. The cost of living in Abu Dhabi is generally a bit lower than in Dubai, making it an attractive option for some remote workers.

Sharjah and Ajman: For those prioritizing affordability, Sharjah and Ajman present more budget-friendly alternatives. These emirates offer a more traditional Emirati experience and a calmer pace of life. While public transport might not be as extensive as in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, they provide essential services and a growing number of amenities suitable for remote workers. Many remote workers choose to live in Sharjah or Ajman and commute to Dubai for work or leisure, balancing cost-efficiency with access to major city benefits.

Connectivity and Infrastructure for Remote Workers

The UAE prides itself on its state-of-the-art internet infrastructure, a crucial factor for remote workers. The country consistently ranks among the top globally for internet speed and reliability. Most urban areas are covered by fiber optics, and 5G networks are rapidly expanding. Average broadband internet speeds in the UAE are exceptionally high, often exceeding 230 Mbps, with mobile internet speeds even higher, frequently above 260 Mbps. This ensures seamless video conferencing, large file transfers, and uninterrupted online collaboration.

The main internet service providers are Etisalat and du, both offering a range of plans from 250 Mbps to 1 Gbps. Etisalat eLife is renowned for its reliable fiber optic network, while du Home Wireless offers flexible wireless plans. Virgin Mobile UAE Home Internet also provides no-contract plans suitable for digital nomads. Most co-working spaces, cafes, and residential buildings offer high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you’re always connected.

Co-working Spaces and Remote Work Hubs

The UAE’s growing remote work culture has led to a proliferation of excellent co-working spaces, offering flexible arrangements and a vibrant community atmosphere. These spaces provide professional environments, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities.

In Dubai, popular options include:

• WeWork: With locations like One Central, WeWork offers flexible coworking solutions, from dedicated desks to private offices, complete with amenities and community events.
• Letswork: This platform partners with various cafes, hotels, and dedicated co-working spaces across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, allowing members to access different locations with a single membership. Popular spots include Rove City Walk and The Cars Cafe for a unique automotive-themed workspace.
• Astrolabs: Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Astrolabs is a popular hub for tech entrepreneurs and digital nomads, offering a dynamic environment and events.

These co-working spaces are not just about a desk and Wi-Fi; they foster communities, facilitating networking, collaboration, and social interaction among remote professionals. Many also offer amenities like coffee, snacks, and access to printers and meeting rooms.

Healthcare and Well-being

Access to quality healthcare is a critical consideration for any long-term stay. As part of the remote work visa requirements, it is mandatory to have valid health insurance that covers you in the UAE for the entire duration of your visa. The UAE boasts a world-class healthcare system with internationally accredited hospitals and clinics in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

While the mandatory insurance covers essential medical services, it’s advisable to understand the scope of your policy and consider additional coverage if you have specific health needs. Healthcare costs can be high without adequate insurance. Many remote workers and expatriates opt for comprehensive international health insurance plans to ensure access to a wide range of private facilities and services, including emergency care and specialist consultations. It’s also important to note that a medical fitness test is a mandatory part of the visa process to ensure public health safety.

Cultural Integration and Lifestyle

The UAE offers a fascinating blend of traditional Arabian culture and modern cosmopolitan living. Remote workers will find a highly diverse expatriate community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Embracing local customs, such as modest dress in public places, especially during religious occasions like Ramadan, is a sign of respect. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can also greatly enhance your daily interactions, though English is widely spoken and understood across the country.

The lifestyle can be as luxurious or as budget-conscious as you make it, with options ranging from high-end dining and shopping to more affordable local eateries and community events. Weekends often involve beach activities, desert safaris, exploring historical sites, or indulging in the vibrant nightlife. The UAE’s strict laws contribute to a very safe environment, which is often a major draw for remote workers, including solo travelers and families.

The www.few.ae team hopes this guide helps you seamlessly plan your remote working adventure in the UAE.