Landing in Dubai for work is exciting, but the first three months can be overwhelming. From visa formalities and housing to cultural etiquette and weekend escapes, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to survive — and thrive — in your first 90 days.
Whether you’re a nurse, engineer, teacher, or retail associate, this guide is tailored to help you settle in quickly and confidently.
Table of Contents
Week 1–2: Arrival, Visa, and Setup
Airport Arrival & Immigration
- Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest in the world.
- Immigration is fast, but make sure you have:
- A printed copy of your job offer or employment contract
- Your visa approval (entry permit)
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Address of your accommodation or hotel
💡 Tip: If you’re arriving on a visit visa and plan to convert it to a work visa, notify your employer in advance.
Emirates ID & Medical Test
Your employer will typically guide you through:
- Medical Fitness Test – blood test and chest X-ray at a government-approved center
- Biometric Scanning – fingerprints and photo for Emirates ID
- Emirates ID Application – mandatory for banking, housing, and SIM cards
Timeline: 7–10 working days 📍 Locations: Al Muhaisnah, Al Quoz, Karama, JLT
SIM Card & Banking
To open a bank account, you’ll need:
- Emirates ID (or application receipt)
- Passport copy
- Salary certificate or job contract
Popular banks for expats:
- Emirates NBD
- ADCB
- Mashreq
- FAB
For SIM cards:
- Etisalat and Du offer prepaid and postpaid plans
- You’ll need your Emirates ID to activate
💡 Tip: Get a prepaid SIM first — easier and faster.
Week 3–4: Housing, Transport & Groceries
Finding Accommodation
| Type | Monthly Rent (AED) | Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Room | 1,200–2,000 | Bur Dubai, Karama, Al Nahda |
| Studio Apartment | 2,500–4,000 | International City, Discovery Gardens |
| 1-Bed Apartment | 4,000–6,500 | JLT, Business Bay, Al Barsha |
💬 Tip: Use platforms like Dubizzle and Bayut to find listings.
Public Transport
Dubai’s transport system is clean, safe, and affordable:
- Metro – Red and Green lines, AED 3–7 per trip
- Bus – Extensive network, AED 3–5 per trip
- Taxi – Starting fare AED 12, higher at night
- Careem/Uber – App-based, slightly pricier but convenient
Get a NOL Card for metro, bus, and water taxi access.
Grocery & Essentials
Popular supermarkets:
- Carrefour
- Lulu Hypermarket
- Union Coop
- Spinneys (premium)
💡 Tip: Indian and Pakistani stores like Baqer Mohebi and Al Adil offer spices, lentils, and regional snacks.
Week 5–8: Work Culture, Etiquette & Salary
Work Culture in Dubai
- Workweek: Monday to Friday (9am–6pm typical)
- Dress Code: Formal or business casual depending on industry
- Punctuality: Highly valued — always arrive 5–10 minutes early
- Hierarchy: Respect for seniority is important
- Language: English is the business language, but Arabic greetings are appreciated
Cultural Etiquette
- Greet with “As-salamu alaykum” or “Hello”
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Dress modestly in public areas
- Alcohol is allowed in licensed venues but not in public
- Friday is a holy day — avoid loud gatherings near mosques
Salary & Banking Tips
- Salaries are paid monthly, often between the 25th–30th
- Use WPS (Wage Protection System) accounts for salary deposits
- Transfer money via:
- Al Ansari Exchange
- Lulu Exchange
- Wise or Western Union
💡 Tip: Compare exchange rates before sending money home.
Week 9–12: Social Life, Weekends & Legal Tips
Weekend Escapes
Dubai offers incredible weekend options:
| Activity | Location | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Day | JBR, Kite Beach | Free–50 |
| Desert Safari | Lahbab Desert | 100–250 |
| Theme Parks | IMG, Motiongate | 150–300 |
| Malls & Cinema | Dubai Mall, MOE | 50–100 |
| Cultural Tour | Al Fahidi District | Free–30 |
Making Friends & Networking
- Join Facebook groups like “Dubai Expats” or “Indians in Dubai”
- Use Meetup.com for events and interest groups
- Attend free workshops at Dubai Knowledge Park or DIFC
- Visit cafes like Tom&Serg, The Sum of Us, or Arabian Tea House
💬 Tip: Respect cultural boundaries when socializing.
Legal & Safety Tips
- Always carry your Emirates ID
- Avoid posting sensitive content online
- Do not work for another employer without a permit
- Drugs and banned substances = zero tolerance
- Rent contracts must be registered via Ejari
📞 Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire: 997
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Dubai can be fast-paced. Here’s how to stay balanced:
- Exercise: Join gyms like Fitness First, GymNation, or community parks
- Mental Health: Free helplines include Lighthouse Arabia and Al Jalila Foundation
- Faith & Worship: Mosques, churches, temples available across the city
- Volunteering: Join Dubai Cares or Emirates Red Crescent for community work
💡 Tip: Don’t isolate — reach out and stay connected.
Final Checklist: Your First 90 Days
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Emirates ID & Medical | ✅ Completed |
| Bank Account & SIM | ✅ Completed |
| Housing Setup | ✅ Completed |
| Work Orientation | ✅ Completed |
| Weekend Exploration | ✅ In Progress |
| Social Connections | ✅ In Progress |
| Legal Awareness | ✅ Reviewed |
| Mental Wellbeing | ✅ Ongoing |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get my Emirates ID?
Typically 7–10 working days after completing your medical fitness test and biometrics. You’ll receive an SMS when it’s ready for pickup or delivery.
Can I work while on a visit visa?
No. Working on a visit or tourist visa is illegal in the UAE. You must wait for your employment visa and labor card to be issued before starting work.
What documents do I need to open a bank account?
Emirates ID (or application receipt)
Passport copy
Job contract or salary certificate Some banks may also ask for a tenancy contract or utility bill.
Is public transport safe and reliable?
Yes. Dubai’s metro, buses, and taxis are clean, safe, and punctual. Get a NOL card to access all modes of transport.
Can I rent a room without an Emirates ID?
Some landlords accept passport and visa copies for short-term rentals, but long-term leases require Emirates ID and Ejari registration.
How much should I budget for monthly living expenses?
On average:
Shared room: AED 1,500–2,000
Food & groceries: AED 800–1,200
Transport: AED 300–500
Mobile & internet: AED 200–300 Total: AED 3,000–4,500/month for modest living