Moving from USA to UAE / Dubai

The USA-to-UAE corridor is a major expat route. Dubai and Abu Dhabi attract American professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking tax-efficient living, career growth, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Unlike most countries, the UAE does not tax personal income — but US citizens must still file with the IRS.

• Employment visa sponsored by your UAE employer is the standard route
• Investor visas and freelancer permits available for entrepreneurs
• Golden Visa for qualifying professionals, investors, and specialists
• US passport holders receive visa-on-arrival for tourism, but work requires sponsorship
• Family sponsorship available once your residence visa is issued

• Open a UAE bank account with Emirates ID — Emirates NBD, FAB, ADCB are popular choices
• FATCA compliance: UAE banks will ask for your US tax ID (SSN) and may report to the IRS
• Maintain US bank accounts for ongoing tax payments and obligations
• Wire transfers via SWIFT or use Wise/OFX for better exchange rates
• Credit history does not transfer — expect to build local credit from scratch

• No personal income tax in the UAE on employment income
• US citizens must file annual tax returns regardless of where they live (worldwide taxation)
• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) can exclude up to ~$120,000 of foreign earnings
• Foreign Tax Credit is limited since the UAE has no income tax to offset
• FBAR filing required if foreign bank accounts exceed $10,000 at any point during the year
• Consult a US expat tax specialist before and after the move

• American curriculum schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi: American School of Dubai, GEMS American Academy, ACS Abu Dhabi
• IB and British curriculum schools also widely available
• School fees range from AED 30,000–100,000+ per year
• Apply early — popular American schools have waiting lists
• Higher education options include NYU Abu Dhabi and American University of Sharjah

• Popular for American expats: Dubai Marina, JBR, Arabian Ranches, The Springs, Abu Dhabi's Al Raha Beach
• Rent paid via post-dated cheques (1–4 payments per year)
• Ejari registration mandatory for Dubai rentals
• Property purchase possible in freehold areas
• Budget AED 70,000–200,000/year for a 2-3 bedroom apartment or villa depending on area

• Health insurance is mandatory and typically employer-provided
• Excellent private hospitals: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, American Hospital Dubai, Mediclinic
• US Medicare does not cover you abroad — arrange international health insurance
• Prescriptions may differ — bring a supply and documentation from the US

• Valid US passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Attested educational certificates
• FBI background check (apostilled)
• Marriage and birth certificates (apostilled)
• Employer offer letter and visa documentation
• Detailed household goods inventory for customs

• Used personal effects can be imported duty-free with a valid UAE residence visa
• Detailed packing list required for UAE customs clearance
• Alcohol, certain medications, and restricted items require permits
• Ocean transit from East Coast USA: 5–7 weeks; West Coast: 7–9 weeks
• FCL recommended for full households; groupage for smaller shipments
• Air freight for urgent items: 7–14 days