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Location Advice: United Arab Emirates

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Persian Gulf. The seven emirates that make up the UAE are Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The UAE shares land borders with Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the southeast. Additionally, it has a maritime border with Qatar to the northwest and Iran across the Persian Gulf. The country has a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a key hub for trade, business, and tourism.

With a thriving economy driven by sectors such as oil and gas, finance, tourism, real estate, and technology, the UAE is one of the wealthiest nations in the Middle East. It is known for its modern infrastructure, luxury lifestyle, and cultural diversity, with expatriates making up the majority of its population.

United Arab Emirates at a Glance

Capital City: Abu Dhabi

Population: Around 9.5 million

Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)

Time Zone: GST

Climate

The UAE has a desert climate with very hot summers (40-50°C) and mild winters (14-25°C). Rainfall is minimal, mostly occurring between November and March.

Religion

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and the country follows Islamic customs and traditions. However, the UAE is religiously tolerant, allowing the practice of other faiths.

Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business and daily life. Other commonly spoken languages include Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and Persian

Government

The UAE is a federal absolute monarchy with a unique political system. It has a President who serves as the Head of State and a Prime Minister who serves as the Head of Government. The Federal Supreme Council, comprising the rulers of the seven emirates, is the highest governing body in the country.

Tax Rules

The UAE is known for its tax-friendly environment, with no personal income tax for residents. However, there are other taxes to be aware of:

  • VAT: A standard Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% applies to most goods and services.
  • Corporate Tax: A 9% corporate tax applies to businesses with profits exceeding AED 375,000.
  • Excise Tax: Levied on specific goods such as tobacco products, sugary drinks, and energy drinks.

For more details.

Working Hours/Days

Standard working hours are 8-9 hours per day, 40-48 hours per week. The workweek is typically Monday to Friday (government and many private companies follow this schedule). Overtime regulations apply as per UAE Labour Law.

Public Holidays

  • New Year’s Day – Jan 1

  • Eid al-Fitr - Varies based on Islamic calendar

  • Arafat Day & Eif al-Adha - Varies

  • Islamic New Year – Varies

  • Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Varies

  • National Day – Dec 2-3

Statutory Benefits

  • Social Security (for UAE nationals)
  • Medical Insurance (mandatory for all residents)
  • End-of-Service Gratuity
  • Paid Annual Leave & Public Holidays
  • Maternity & Paternity Leave

For more information on employee benefits, visit: UAE Labour Law

Pension Policy

Pension schemes in the UAE apply mainly to UAE nationals, with both employees and employers contributing to the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA). Expatriates typically rely on private pension plans or end-of-service gratuities provided by their employers.

Visa Requirements

To live and work in the UAE, you need a valid visa and work permit. The types of visas include:

  • Employment Visa
  • Investor/Golden Visa
  • Freelancer Visa
  • Remote Work Visa

For more details, visit Visa and Emirates Information.

Landmarks

The UAE is home to iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Palm Jumeirah, Al Ain Oasis, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Museums and Galleries

Discover the UAE’s rich history and culture at the Dubai Museum, Etihad Museum, Sharjah Art Museum, Qasr Al Watan, and the Museum of the Future.

Theatre and Arts

The UAE has a thriving arts and theatre scene, with venues such as the Dubai Opera, Abu Dhabi National Theatre, and Sharjah Cultural Palace hosting international performances, opera, and ballet.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Enjoy nature at Jebel Jais (the UAE’s highest mountain), Hatta Dam, Mangrove National Park, and Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Shopping and Markets

The UAE is a shopping paradise, featuring The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi’s Marina Mall, and traditional souks in Dubai and Sharjah.

Seasonal Activities

Experience events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, UAE National Day celebrations, and the Al Dhafra Festival.

Historical Viewings

Visit historical sites including Al Fahidi Historical District, Qasr Al Hosn, Sharjah Heritage Area, and the ancient city of Julfar in Ras Al Khaimah.

Getting Around

The UAE has a well-developed transportation network:
• Metro: Available in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (planned expansion)
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Widely available (Uber, Careem)
• Buses: Public buses operate in all emirates
• Highways: Well-maintained roads connecting all emirates
• Air Travel: UAE has major international airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah

Accommodation

Housing costs vary by emirate. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have the highest rental prices, while Sharjah and Ajman offer more affordable options.

Schooling

Greece has public and private schools, with international schools available in major cities. Higher education is free for Greek and EU citizens at public universities.
The UAE offers public and private schools, with international curricula such as British, American, IB, and Indian CBSE. Top universities include: Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University and American University of Sharjah.

Car and Fuel Costs

The Fuel costs in the UAE can fluctuate however, we can draw an average and is relatively cheap compared to global standards.
Diesel: AED 3.00 per litre
Gasoline: AED 3.10 per litre

Healthcare

The UAE has a world-class healthcare system with both public and private hospitals. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents.

Entertainment

Average cost of a Pint of Beer in the UAE- AED 35-50
Average cost of a Pint of Coke in the UAE - AED 5-10
Average cost of a 3-course Meal in the UAE - Around AED 150-300 excluding drinks

If you are looking to relocate to the UAE, please speak to one of our recruitment experts as they can have an in-depth conversation with you regarding relocation and can assist you the best way they can.

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