RelocateCompass
UAE
Luxury, tax-free income and modernity
About UAE
The UAE attracts expats with high salaries, zero personal income tax, safety, and modern infrastructure. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the largest expat hubs, with routes ranging from employer-sponsored Employment Visas to the 10-year Golden Visa for investors and exceptional talent.
Visa routes
👔 Employment Visa
The standard UAE residence route sponsored by a local employer, with Emirates ID and medical screening.
🏆 Golden Visa
Long-term residence for investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, professionals, and top students.
💻 Freelancer / Remote Work Visa
Self-sponsored residence options for freelancers, remote employees, and independent professionals.
💰 Investor Visa
Residence for business owners, company shareholders, or qualifying property/business investors.
⭐ Green Visa
Self-sponsored 5-year residence for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors meeting UAE criteria.
Cost of living
Advantages
- 0% personal income tax
- World's fastest internet in the MENA region
- Central time zone overlapping Europe and Asia
- 10-year Golden Visa for qualifying residents
Disadvantages
- Very high cost of living, especially housing
- No path to UAE citizenship
- Extreme summer heat (June–September)
- Losing your job can mean losing your visa