Resident Visa and Golden Visa Dubai — Full Application Support
Relocating to Dubai offers great professional opportunities and quality of life, but requires careful preparation. This guide provides the essential information to ensure a smooth transition.
- What you need to know
Why Choose Dubai?
Dubai is renowned for its modernity, safety, and economic dynamism. The city offers an attractive living environment with year-round sunshine, world-class infrastructure, and favorable taxation. These advantages make it a popular destination for French expatriates.
- We are here for you
Administrative Procedures
Obtaining a Residence Visa
Employment Contract – Being employed by a local company that sponsors your visa.
Company Formation – Establishing your own business in Dubai allows you to obtain a residence visa as a company owner.
Real Estate Investment – Purchasing a property valued at a minimum of 1 million AED (approximately €250,000) grants you the right to a residence visa.
To simplify this process, it is recommended to seek advice from specialized consulting firms that can guide you through each step.
Job Market
Dubai is a major economic hub offering numerous opportunities in various sectors such as finance, trade, technology, and hospitality.
Proficiency in English is often essential, and knowledge of French can be an additional asset. It is advisable to actively search for job opportunities and to be prepared for a rigorous recruitment process.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Dubai is generally higher than in France, particularly when it comes to housing, education, and leisure.
However, the absence of income tax helps offset these expenses.
It is essential to establish a precise budget to assess the feasibility of your expatriation project.
Housing
The real estate market in Dubai is diverse, offering a range of housing options from modern apartments to luxurious villas.
Popular neighborhoods among expatriates include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, and Jumeirah.
It is advisable to work with licensed real estate agents to find accommodation that suits your needs and budget.
Education
Dubai offers many international schools, some of which provide French or bilingual programs.
Tuition fees can be high, so it’s important to factor them into your budget.
It is recommended to visit the institutions and inquire about the programs offered to make an informed decision.
Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Dubai is of high quality, with well-equipped public and private facilities.
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents.
It is advisable to compare different insurance plans to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Culture and Lifestyle
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city where many cultures coexist.
It is important to respect local customs, particularly regarding dress code and public behavior.
The city offers a wide range of leisure activities, from beaches to shopping malls to cultural events.
Advantages
Quality of Life – Sunny climate, modern infrastructure, and high level of security.
Professional Opportunities – Dynamic job market with numerous career prospects.
Favorable Taxation – No personal income tax for residents.
Disadvantages
Cost of Living – High expenses for housing, education, and entertainment.
Distance from Family – Significant distance from home country, making family visits less frequent.
Cultural Adaptation – Need to adjust to a different culture and respect local customs.
Questions We're Asked Most
Clear answers on structure, cost, and process — before you commit to anything.
What do I need before I can actually function as a resident?
A residence visa, then an Emirates ID. Almost nothing works without the ID — banking, tenancy registration, utilities, telecoms, healthcare, driving licence. Budget several weeks between arrival and being fully set up.
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes. Health cover is a legal requirement for Dubai residents, employers must provide it for employees, and sponsors are responsible for dependants they sponsor.
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes, subject to a minimum income level, suitable accommodation, and attested marriage and birth certificates. Get certificates attested in your home country before you move — arranging it afterwards is considerably harder.
How much does living in Dubai actually cost?
Housing dominates, and annual rent is often payable in one to four cheques rather than monthly, which creates a significant upfront cash requirement. School fees are the other large line for families. The absence of income tax does not automatically make it cheaper than Europe.
How long can I be outside the UAE without losing residency?
Continuous absence beyond a defined period can invalidate a standard residence visa. Golden Visa holders are not subject to the same restriction — one of its main practical advantages.
Will I be treated as having left my home country?
Not automatically. Physical relocation and homecountry tax residency are separate questions, and most jurisdictions apply their own tests. Handle the departure formalities properly or you can end up resident in both.