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The specifics of moving to the UAE with your family in 2026

The specifics of moving to the UAE with family in 2026 - Makebiz

Moving to the United Arab Emirates is becoming increasingly popular among foreign citizens, and this is not surprising. According to analysts, about 88% of the population are expats, which makes the country one of the most international in the world. In 2026, moving to the UAE can be a great opportunity for families seeking a new life in a comfortable and stable environment. Let’s look at the key aspects that should be considered when planning relocation.

1. Choice of housing: rent or purchase of real estate

The first step towards successful relocation is the choice of housing. There are many options in the region, but the most common are renting and buying real estate. 

Renting is a convenient way to temporarily settle in a country and explore its features. In the major emirates, there is a wide range of apartments and villas that can be rented for short or long term.

Buying property in free zones is a more long-term solution. This is not only a reliable asset in a stable jurisdiction, but also an opportunity to obtain a resident visa.

It is important to note that for primary market projects in the UAE, there is a mandatory escrow mechanism that protects the interests of buyers: funds are placed in a special account and transferred to the developer only as the terms of the contract are fulfilled. This ensures transparency and security of transactions.

2. Business and work

The second important aspect is the choice of the main activity – work under an employment contract for a local/foreign company or business registration. There are several options here, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.:

  • Opening a mainland company allows you to work in the country and conduct business with local customers. It is often subject to stricter control by regulatory agencies.
  • The Free Economic Zone is a popular choice for expats who want to minimize their tax obligations. When doing business with clients outside of the country, VAT does not arise. There are also a number of benefits to avoid paying corporate tax.

Freelance license is another popular format, especially among specialists in a narrow specialty and creative people. She allows you to work for yourself without creating a full-fledged company. It is enough to obtain an activity permit and apply for a visa based on it.

The choice of business format directly affects tax obligations, reporting requirements, and the ability to open corporate or personal accounts. Therefore, it is important to carefully explore all available options and choose the one that best suits your goals and plans.

3. Registration of resident visas

There are several main categories here:

— Based on real estate investments. This is one of the most sought-after tools for obtaining long-term status in the country. Investors can obtain residency for 10 years or for 2 years, depending on the amount of investments. A special 5-year pension Golden Visa is provided for people over 55 years of age, which requires a minimum investment of AED 1 million.

— For freelancers and digital nomads. These visas allow foreigners to legally reside in the UAE and use all the necessary infrastructure without opening a full-fledged company. This is especially true for professionals working remotely.

— For family members and household staff. If you are planning to move with your family, it is important to keep in mind that proper preparation of documents and consular legalization will be required to apply for visas for spouses and children. It may take some time, so it’s worth taking care of it in advance.

After obtaining residency, you will also be able to apply for an international driver’s license, which will greatly simplify movement around the country.

4. Education for children

One of the key issues that most families are concerned about is the education of their children. The Emirates offers a wide range of international schools and universities, which allows you to choose the right educational institution depending on the educational program. There are schools in the country with the British, American and international IB programs, which ensure high standards of education.

In addition, the region uses an extensive insurance program that covers medical and educational expenses, which is an important aspect when planning a move.

Moving to the UAE in 2026 opens up many opportunities, but it requires a comprehensive approach. A mistake at an early stage — for example, in choosing a property, license, or visa strategy — can lead to additional costs and loss of time. Therefore, it is recommended to study all available options in advance and, if necessary, contact professional consultants who will help you avoid common mistakes. With the right strategy and carefully thought-out organization of the relocation process, your family will be able to quickly adapt to a new life in this dynamically developing country.

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