International
 

Working abroad

So you have accepted an offer and you are moving to Dubai.......where do you start?

There is a quick turnaround with media companies in Dubai and most employers expect you to be joining them within four to six weeks from initial application.

Visa requirements

Visa requirements for entering Dubai vary greatly between different nationalities, and regulations can often change with little or no warning.  For most western nationalities, the residency process is straightforward.  There are several ways to obtain a residence visa in the UAE - sponsorship by employer, family sponsorship or residence through investment. Residency for work purposes almost always requires employer sponsorship.

Living in Dubai

Some media companies in Dubai will provide subsidised serviced accommodation or a period in a hotel at the start of employment.  After this time you will need to find accommodation, however this is fairly easy to do.

Dubai does not have a home delivery postal service, so you can either have personal mail sent to your place of work, or if you prefer you can hire a P.O.Box for the equivalent of around £150.00.

The UAE Embassy provides some useful tips for visiting and living in Dubai, from climate and health advice to dress code and conduct. Working in Dubai you will need to understand the culture around you as it key to success.

The British Business Group in Dubai is one of the largest and most active business groups in the world. It works very closely with the British consulate and they run numerous networking events. The BBG is a great way to meet people, and to start to develop a network and list of contacts.