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Moving to Dubai with Family: Everything You Need to Know
We packed up our life in the UK and moved to Dubai as a family of four — and we quickly learned that the process is nothing like what the internet tells you. This guide is everything we wish someone had told us, combined with what I've learned helping dozens of families make the same move. Whether you're just considering it or you've already made the decision, this is your starting point.
Visa Options for Families
Your visa determines everything else — where you can work, how long you can stay, and who you can sponsor. Most families relocate on an employment visa, but there are several routes depending on your situation.
| Visa Type | Duration | Sponsor | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa | 2-3 years | Employer | Most common for relocating families |
| Golden Visa | 10 years | Self | For investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals |
| Freelance Visa | 1-3 years | Free zone | For self-employed professionals |
| Investor Visa | 2-10 years | Self | Requires property or business investment |
Schools in Dubai
Choosing a school is usually the single biggest decision for relocating families. Dubai has 47 schools offering 4 different curricula, with fees ranging from AED 18,000 to AED 115,000 per year.
47
Schools listed
4
Curriculum types
18,000–115,000
Annual fee range (AED)
| School | Curriculum | KHDA | Fees (AED/year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| American School of Dubai | American | Outstanding | 60,000–102,000 |
| Brighton College Dubai | British | Outstanding | 55,000–98,000 |
| Deira International School | British | Outstanding | 48,000–82,000 |
| Dubai English Speaking School | British | Outstanding | 55,000–75,000 |
| Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills | IB | Outstanding | 65,000–110,000 |
| The English College Dubai | British | Outstanding | 35,000–70,000 |
| GEMS Dubai American Academy | American | Outstanding | 58,000–96,000 |
| GEMS Jumeira Primary School | British | Outstanding | 58,000–78,000 |
| GEMS Modern Academy | Indian | Outstanding | 28,000–55,000 |
| GEMS Wellington International School | British | Outstanding | 56,000–108,000 |
Best Neighbourhoods for Families
Dubai has 33 distinct communities, each with their own personality. From beachfront apartments to gated villa communities, there's something for every family and budget.
33
Neighbourhoods profiled
8
Price segments
| Neighbourhood | Segment | Rent Range (AED/year) | Family Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arabian Ranches 2 | Mid-Market | 120,000 – 500,000 | 10 |
| Arabian Ranches | Mid-Market | 150,000 – 700,000 | 10 |
| The Springs | Upper Mid | 78,000 – 280,000 | 10 |
| Villanova | Mid-Market | — | 10 |
| Arabian Ranches 3 | Mid-Market | 100,000 – 280,000 | 9 |
| Damac Hills 2 | Budget | 50,000 – 150,000 | 9 |
| Dubai Hills Estate | Upper Mid | 65,000 – 600,000 | 9 |
| Jumeirah | Premium | 80,000 – 800,000 | 9 |
| Mirdif | value | 50,000 – 250,000 | 9 |
| Mudon | Mid-Market | 80,000 – 200,000 | 9 |
What It Actually Costs
The cost of living in Dubai varies enormously depending on your choices. Here's a realistic monthly breakdown across three lifestyle tiers for a family of four.
Budget: AED 15-20k/moMid-Range: AED 25-35k/moPremium: AED 45-70k/mo
| Expense | Budget (AED) | Mid-Range (AED) | Premium (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | 5,000-7,000 | 10,000-18,000 | 25,000-45,000 |
| School fees (per child) | 1,500-3,000 | 3,500-6,000 | 6,500-8,500 |
| Groceries | 2,000-3,000 | 3,000-4,500 | 4,500-7,000 |
| Transport | 1,000-1,500 | 1,500-2,500 | 3,000-5,000 |
| Healthcare | 500-1,000 | 1,000-2,000 | 2,000-4,000 |
| Utilities (DEWA) | 500-800 | 800-1,500 | 1,500-3,000 |
Your Relocation Timeline
From research to feeling settled, here's what the process looks like step by step.
6 months before
Research & Apply
Research schools and apply for placements. Start curriculum and area shortlisting.
3 months before
Visa & Documents
Secure visa sponsorship. Attest documents (marriage, birth certificates) in your home country.
1 month before
Housing & Banking
Find housing remotely (or plan viewing trips). Research bank options and set up international transfers.
Week 1
Arrival Admin
Medical, Emirates ID biometrics, UAE phone number, open bank account, pick up car.
Month 1
School & Routine
School starts. Build daily routine. Set up DEWA, internet, Salik (toll). Explore your neighbourhood.
Month 3
Settled In
Routine established, friendships forming, kids thriving. You start calling Dubai home.
Sara's Honest Advice
Real words from our videos and conversations with families who've made the move.
“If you're moving here as a family, you will almost certainly need a car.”
“I relate Dubai to Vegas – if you're a gambler, Vegas is the best place in the world to take your money. If you come here without a plan and stay in holiday mode, this place will just continue to extract money from you.”
“Kids are way more resilient than you think. Take them on the journey with you so it doesn't feel like a shock or a surprise.”
“Basically, they kicked to us... this kid had his back to me and I just went – gosh, I got the ball! I was all across the pitch that half and then I just ran, picked the ball up and scored a try.”
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7 min readFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move to Dubai with a family?
A family of four can expect to spend between AED 15,000 and AED 70,000+ per month depending on lifestyle choices. The biggest variables are rent (AED 60,000-500,000/year) and school fees (AED 15,000-100,000/year per child). Budget for upfront costs of AED 30,000-50,000 for deposits, visa fees, medical, and setup.
Which visa do I need to move to Dubai?
Most families relocate on an employment visa sponsored by their employer. Other options include the Golden Visa (10 years, for investors/skilled professionals), freelance visa, or investor visa. Your employer typically handles the process, but freelancers can sponsor themselves through a free zone.
How do I choose a school in Dubai?
Start with the curriculum that matches your long-term plans (British, American, IB, or Indian are most common). Check KHDA ratings, visit shortlisted schools in person, and involve your children. Choose your school before your neighbourhood -- the daily commute matters enormously.
Is Dubai safe for families?
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world for families. Crime rates are extremely low, and children enjoy a freedom that many families find refreshing compared to life in the UK or US. Gated communities, school transport, and a family-friendly culture make it an excellent environment for kids.
What's the best area to live in Dubai with kids?
It depends on your budget, preferred school, and lifestyle. Popular family areas include Arabian Ranches (community feel, villas), Dubai Hills Estate (modern, central), Jumeirah (beachside), and JVC (affordable apartments). Always choose your school first, then find housing nearby.
How long does the relocation process take?
From decision to settled, most families take 3-6 months. School applications should start 6-12 months before your move date. Visa processing takes 2-4 weeks once sponsored. Allow a full month after arrival for admin: Emirates ID, bank account, phone, housing, and car.
Related Guides
🎓
Best Schools in Dubai
Compare 47 schools with KHDA ratings, fees, and curriculum options.
🏘️Best Neighbourhoods for Families
Compare 33 neighbourhoods with rental prices, walkability, and family scores.
💰Cost of Living for Families
Real numbers on rent, school fees, groceries, and what families actually spend.
Want Personalised Help With Your Move?
Every family's situation is different. If you want tailored advice on schools, housing, and the whole relocation process, I'd love to help.
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Guides give you the ranges. Runway gives you your number: your area, your school and your monthly all-in, priced from real invoices and run as a monthly plan. Priced from real invoices and the move we made ourselves, then run as a monthly plan until your date arrives.
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