FALCO
FALCO
UAE Onboarding
Relocation Checklist

Your move, week by week.

A practical, time-boxed checklist used by hundreds of newcomers. Tick off each step and arrive with nothing forgotten.

Before moving

8 weeks before

  • Confirm your job offer, contract terms and visa-sponsorship details in writing.
  • Start collecting & attesting key documents in your home country: degrees, marriage certificate, birth certificates, police clearance.
  • Get your passport renewed if it has less than 12 months validity.
  • Notify your bank, accountant and tax advisor about your move — check tax-residency cut-off rules.
  • Research neighbourhoods, schools and commuting time. Shortlist 5 areas.
  • Begin school applications — Outstanding-rated schools have 6–18 month waitlists.

6 weeks before

  • Apply for the entry permit through your sponsor (ICP or GDRFA).
  • Book one-way or flexible flights. Avoid summer (June–August) for moving in.
  • Request quotes from international movers (Allied, Crown, Writer Relocations, MoveOne).
  • Sort out pet relocation if applicable — vaccinations, microchip, import permit (4–6 week lead time).
  • Plan medical & dental check-ups; refill prescriptions for 3 months.
  • Open a multi-currency account (Wise, Revolut) for the in-between period.

4 weeks before

  • Book 2–4 weeks of serviced apartment / Airbnb for arrival.
  • Cancel utilities, internet, gym, subscriptions — give 30-day notice.
  • Inform your landlord and arrange the deposit return.
  • Sell, store or ship furniture. Photograph everything for insurance.
  • Arrange international driving permit if your country isn't on the UAE conversion list.
  • Update your address with banks, insurers and government.

2 weeks before

  • Complete the medical fitness test booking (some employers pre-arrange).
  • Print colour copies of all key documents (10 sets) + scan to cloud.
  • Buy adapters (UAE uses Type G — UK 3-pin plug).
  • Withdraw 2,000–4,000 AED in cash for taxis, deposits and SIM cards.
  • Confirm airport pick-up with employer or pre-book a Careem.
  • Say goodbye properly — leaving parties matter.

After arrival

First week in UAE

  • Get a local SIM (Etisalat e& or du) — needs passport + entry permit.
  • Complete medical fitness test if not done pre-arrival.
  • Visit ICP for Emirates ID biometrics.
  • Activate UAE PASS — the national digital ID — at any kiosk.
  • View 5–10 apartments with a RERA-licensed broker.
  • Download must-have apps: Careem, Talabat, Dubai Now / TAMM, RTA, DEWA.

First month

  • Sign tenancy contract, pay cheques, register Ejari (within 30 days).
  • Activate DEWA (electricity & water) and chiller / cooling.
  • Set up home internet — Etisalat or du fibre (2–5 days install).
  • Open a UAE bank account once Emirates ID is issued.
  • Convert your driving licence at RTA / Tasjeel or enrol in a driving school.
  • Buy a car or set up Careem / RTA monthly transport.
  • Register children at school and confirm the start date.
  • Get private health insurance top-up if employer plan is basic.

First 3 months

  • Sponsor family members — spouse and children visas via ICP.
  • Apply for an alcohol licence (free, via Police app) if you'll drink at home.
  • Set up a will at DIFC Wills or ADJD — critical for expats with assets.
  • Join 3 community groups (one nationality, one interest, one location-based).
  • Explore the country — Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, Oman border, Liwa desert.
  • Schedule a 90-day review: insurance, banking, contracts — switch what isn't working.
  • Build your network: 1 meetup/week the first month, 2/month after.