Expats moving to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can anticipate a rich and rewarding experience. The nation's cosmopolitan cities are among the most westernised in the Middle East, and its competitive business environment – bolstered by the added incentives of generous expat salary packages and no income taxation – has been drawing foreign professionals to its shores for many years. The UAE consists of seven emirates (the equivalent of principalities), namely Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Quwain. The most popular destinations for expat workers in the UAE are the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Moving to Dubai
 

Dubai is the most established expat destination in the UAE. In recent years, thanks to the vision (and the petrodollars) of its leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Dubai has transformed itself into a cosmopolitan metropolis, with the majority of its population actually being comprised of expatriate workers. There is plenty to see and do in Dubai, and there are fantastic work opportunities available for skilled and qualified expats looking to start a new life in the UAE. Read our full guide to Dubai, and learn more about this beguiling emirate.

 

 

Moving to Abu Dhabi
 

The capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is an enormous urban metropole that has seen tremendous growth in recent years. The majority of expats move to Abu Dhabi city, which boasts some great expat-heavy residential areas and suburbs, as well as fantastic employment prospects. Check out our full guide to Abu Dhabi, and learn about the pros and cons of expat life in the UAE's capital city.
 

Moving to Al Ain
 

Al Ain is located within the emirate of Abu Dhabi, and is fast becoming a hot-spot for expatriate workers in the UAE. Read our introduction to Al Ain, and see if its slower pace of life seems like it'd be a good fit for you and your family.