UAE Arrival & Setup Timeline

Most employment visas require a medical test in your home country at a UAE-approved centre. Tests check for TB, HIV, Hepatitis B/C. Results are linked to your passport.

Your employer's PRO service issues an entry permit. This is different from your residency visa — it just lets you enter UAE to start the residency process.

At the airport immigration counter, your entry permit is activated. Keep your arrival date in mind — your residency visa process must complete within 60 days of this date.

Your employer's PRO will typically do this for you. You'll need to attend a typing centre to enter your details, then book a biometrics appointment at an ICP service centre.

A second medical test is required inside the UAE to finalise your residency visa. Tests check for TB and other communicable diseases. Usually arranged by your employer's PRO.

Once biometrics and medical are done, your residency visa is issued and stamped in your passport. This is the official permit confirming you are a legal resident.

Your Emirates ID is usually ready within 5–10 working days of biometrics. You'll get an SMS when it's ready. This is your primary document for almost everything in the UAE.

Health insurance is mandatory. If employer-provided, confirm your insurance card has arrived and is activated. If arranging your own, enrol now — you need a policy before any medical appointments.

You need your Emirates ID to open a bank account. Most major banks can open within a few days. Digital banks (Liv., Wio) are fastest — often same-day with just an app.

Rent in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is typically paid upfront in 1–4 post-dated cheques for the year. Negotiate the number of cheques — more cheques often means slightly higher rent.

This is mandatory before you can connect utilities or sponsor dependents. Must be done within 30 days of signing your tenancy contract.

Once you have your Ejari/Tawtheeq number, apply for utilities. A security deposit is required and refunded when you move out.

Residents from ~32 countries can convert without a test. Others must take a full UAE driving course (AED 2,000–5,000+). Check eligibility first.

If you drive in Dubai you need a Salik toll tag. For public transport in Dubai, get a Nol card. Abu Dhabi's toll system is called Darb.

If you have school-age children, start this process immediately — popular schools have 1–3 year waitlists.

UAE PASS is the government's single sign-on for all digital services. Once fully verified, you can access 5,000+ government services without separate logins.

Employment visas are typically issued for 2–3 years. Start the renewal process 1–2 months before expiry. Fines apply if you overstay.

Emirates ID validity matches your visa validity. Renew both together. Fine for expired Emirates ID: AED 20/day (min AED 500).

Health insurance policies renew annually. If employer-provided, HR typically handles it. Self-arranged plans need active renewal.