Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, boasting a diverse population comprising residents from all walks of life. Several factors entice people to move to Dubai. Its record-breaking architecture, high-end lifestyle attractions, and pristine beaches are the most obvious draws, but once you look past the glitz and glam, the city has much more to offer. Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world to live in, has an excellent business infrastructure, does not levy any personal taxes, and features some of the finest homes in the world.

If you are planning to move to Dubai, it’s essential to know the processes involved and to have a deeper understanding of the city and its unique cultural offering. Our comprehensive guide will show you everything you need to know about living in Dubai. 

Obtaining Residency in Dubai

As a Canadian citizen, you won’t require a visa when visiting Dubai, but you will need one if you intend to become a resident. Here are the main categories of visas that will be available to you, subject to the circumstances of your move. All residence visas are subject to renewal at the end of their validity period.   

1. Employment Visa: Upon commencing work in Dubai, your employer will provide you with a residence visa that extends to two years and can be renewed beyond that term.
2. Investor Visa: If you are setting up a business in Dubai, you will be granted a three-year residence visa.
3. Property Investor Visa: This is a special category of Investor Visa that is granted to foreign nationals who invest a minimum of AED 750,000 (CAD 282,760) in Dubai real estate. This visa has a validity of 2 years, though investors can also be eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa (see below).
4. Golden Visa: This highly sought-after category of visa is Dubai’s equivalent of permanent residency. There are two categories of Golden Visa, valid for either 5 or 10 years. Investors who make a minimum investment of AED 2 million (CAD 750,000) are eligible for a Golden Visa – this could be investment in a business, an investment fund, or properties. Entrepreneurs can obtain a 5-year Golden Visa and there are certain professional categories – particularly the sciences and fine arts – that are also eligible for a Golden Visa. 
5. Retirement Visa: Valid for five years, this visa is granted to residents who are at least 55 years of age and meet the following financial criteria: proof of a monthly income of AED 15,000 (CAD 5,600), personal savings of at least AED 1 million (CAD 373,000), or ownership of property in Dubai valued at AED 1 million (CAD 373,000).

Finding the Right Home in Dubai

Dubai offers a varied selection of residential properties to suit any lifestyle, whether you are looking to rent for a few years or you want to buy a home. Single professionals and smaller family units can find apartments and penthouses in key districts such as Downtown Dubai and DIFC. Those who prefer to live further away from the hustle and bustle of the city can choose tranquil communities like District One, Tilal Al Ghaf, and Emirates Living. Golf enthusiasts will find their perfect haven in Jumeirah Golf Estates, Emirates Hills, and Dubai Hills Estate, where palatial homes are set around championship 18-hole golf courses.

Dubai is perhaps most famous for its waterfront properties, with apartment towers overlooking the Arabian Gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Harbour. For those who are seeking the ultimate in luxury, there are man-made islands such as Palm Jumeirah, Pearl Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and the upcoming Palm Jebel Ali. These islands are home to the most exquisite villas and mansions in Dubai, featuring bespoke designs, unique amenities, and vast stretches of private beachfront.

Cost of Living

Dubai’s real estate market has become one of the busiest in the world and property values are continuing to rise. However, it is still very undervalued compared to its global contemporaries and has properties available for rent and for sale at various price points.

As a tenant, you will be responsible for paying rent, which is typically paid upfront for the year. Many landlords are flexible and accept multiple rent instalments, but it is rare to pay monthly. Utilities are paid separately, though in some cases they might be included with the rent. For grocery shopping, most essential items are quite cheap, but it’s recommended to keep a monthly grocery budget so your costs don’t creep up.

Dubai imposes no income tax on residents, which includes earnings from the job, businesses, or investments. This tax-free environment is a major draw for many people moving to Dubai. However, it's important to be aware of other taxes: Dubai imposes a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on goods and services, and a 9% corporate tax, which was implemented in 2023. These tax rates are lower compared to many other countries and do not impact quality of life.

Since 2002, Canada and the UAE have had a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA). This means that Canadians living in the UAE are not subject to taxation on their income back in Canada. But it’s crucial to understand that Canada may still tax your global income if you’re considered a Canadian resident.

Understanding the Culture of Dubai

Dubai is an incredibly diverse city with a population that is largely made up of expatriate residents from every corner of the globe. As such, the culture is quite open and welcoming of different lifestyles, beliefs and faiths. However, all residents should be aware that as a Muslim country, the UAE does have certain traditions and customs that should be respected by everyone, regardless of faith.

Respect is a cornerstone of the city’s culture. There is a deep emphasis on respecting women, the elderly, and authority figures. Non-Muslim residents are not expected to dress modestly in the same way as their local counterparts, but attire should still be respectful. Government institutions are an exception – everyone should be dressed modestly when visiting any government building.

Language and Communication

While Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is widely spoken and understood in Dubai, given the large expatriate population. Over 40,000 Canadian nationals live in Dubai, so you’ll find a significant community from back home.

Dubai’s Climate

Dubai experiences a tropical desert climate that varies between hot, humid summers and exceedingly pleasant winters. The peak summer months, from May to September, often see temperatures exceeding 45°C with high humidity levels. The city cools down significantly between October and April, and the winter is peak tourist season for the city.

Healthcare in Dubai

Dubai has one of the world's leading public healthcare systems and is the 2nd most visited city in the world for medical tourism. The city integrates cutting-edge medical technology in its hospitals and clinics, ensuring the highest standards of patient care. It should be noted that unlike Canada, free healthcare in Dubai is available only to UAE nationals. However, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, and all employers are expected to provide insurance as part of their employment benefits.

Many hospitals in Dubai have won awards for excellence in service and have been recognized by international healthcare institutions. They adhere to the highest quality and safety standards and have even begun to incorporate artificial intelligence to enhance the level of care offered to individual patients. 

The UAE does have a very strict policy with regard to drugs and medication. Certain over-the-counter medications may be prohibited by law; however, residents can apply for exemptions from the Ministry of Health and Prevention if those are required medications.  

Education in Dubai

Dubai is home to numerous private international schools, each with its own educational focus. Some follow the British education system and the National Curriculum of England, while others adhere to the American system or offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, providing ample choices for parents.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) regulates education in Dubai, guiding school selection and application procedures. The KHDA conducts inspections and publishes reports on school performance, providing insights into each school’s strengths, weaknesses, and successes. Their school directory includes information on programmes and curricula.

Children in Dubai benefit from a multicultural experience, as most schools have students from over 40 nationalities. This diverse environment fosters global awareness, cultural understanding, and an inclusive outlook, enhancing their educational experience and personal growth.

The Dubai Lifestyle

Dubai is famed for stunning beaches, picturesque deserts, and record-breaking architectural feats such as the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa. It is a leading lifestyle destination that hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and major global events such as Expo 2020.

The social scene in Dubai is bustling with activities, including camping and off-roading in the desert during the cooler months, as well as water sports like flyboarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Classic car shows and scenic hiking trails are popular pastimes. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy world-class courses designed by some of the legends of the sport such as Colin Montgomerie and Greg Norman. Dubai also hosts golf tournaments like the DP World Tour and the Omega Desert Classic.

Whether you want to enjoy a musical night at the Dubai Opera, watch the latest blockbuster at Roxy Xtreme (the largest cinema screen in the Middle East), or learn more about the city’s vision at Museum of the Future, there is no shortage of cultural attractions around the city. Dubai also has a vibrant nightlife with high-end rooftop lounges and beach clubs dotted around the city.

Dubai's restaurant scene reflects its multi-cultural population, offering everything from regional cuisine to international fare including Asian and Latin American flavors. Several Michelin-starred chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Jose Andres have opened up restaurants in Dubai to international acclaim. In 2022, Dubai’s first Michelin guide was launched, and the city now proudly offers homegrown Michelin-starred restaurants such as Orfali Bros and Tresind Studio.

Closing Thoughts

Moving to another country is always a big step, filled with an equal measure of excitement and uncertainty. Dubai is an ideal choice because of its unique lifestyle, diverse population, and the many opportunities it offers for personal and professional growth. Moving to Dubai from Canada presents a unique chance for new beginnings in one of the world's most cosmopolitan cities.