Relocation · Published 9 November 2026 · 3 min read
By the House Of Trust Real Estate advisory team
In this article
Whether you are joining an employer, starting a business or moving with family, the sequence is broadly similar. Housing sits in the middle of it, because your tenancy contract is needed for several other steps.
The typical order of steps
- Residence visa. Usually arranged by your employer or your own company, or through a property or investor route.
- Medical test and Emirates ID. Residency applicants take a medical fitness test and register biometrics for the Emirates ID. These usually need to be completed within a set period after entry, so confirm the current deadline with the authorities.
- Find a home and sign the tenancy contract. See below.
- Register the lease on Ejari, which records the tenancy with the Dubai Land Department.
- Connect utilities, which typically needs your Ejari details and ID.
- Open a bank account. Banks typically ask for your passport, residence visa, Emirates ID and proof of address.
Fees and timelines in this list come from many sources and change, so check current requirements with the official bodies before you budget.
Choosing where to live
- Commute. Dubai traffic is real, so test the journey to work or school at the time you will travel.
- Lifestyle. Walkable and waterfront communities, quieter family suburbs and central business districts all feel very different.
- Schools and healthcare, if you have a family.
- Budget. Rents vary widely by community, and service charges and utility costs add to the monthly total.
- Metro and transport links.
Renting your first home
- View in person if you can, or through a trusted agent, and check the unit's condition.
- Understand the payment terms. Rent is often paid in a small number of cheques or instalments, plus a security deposit.
- Read the contract, especially notice, maintenance and renewal terms.
- Get the Ejari registration in place and keep a copy.
If you plan to stay long term, it is worth comparing renting with buying. Our first-time buyer's guide covers the costs, and the Golden Visa guide explains when property can support residency.
Setting up a business too?
Many newcomers do both. Your choice of company structure and business address affects your visa and your housing. See our guide to company formation.
How House Of Trust can help
Our relocation service helps with area orientation, shortlisting homes, lease review and settling in, and connects you with trusted partners for visas and company setup. Speak to an advisor before you land.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ejari and why do I need it?
Ejari is Dubai's system for registering tenancy contracts with the Dubai Land Department. It is typically needed for utility connections and other administrative steps.
What do I need to open a bank account in Dubai?
Banks typically ask for your passport, residence visa, Emirates ID and proof of address, though requirements vary by bank.
Should I rent or buy when I move to Dubai?
Many newcomers rent first to learn the city, then decide. If you plan to stay for years, compare the full cost of buying with renting.
How do I choose where to live in Dubai?
Start with your commute, budget and lifestyle, then visit shortlisted communities at different times of day.
Sources
Speak to an investment advisor
Tell us your goal and budget, and we will give you an honest view of the options, including when waiting is the right call.