There is a lot to think about when making the decision to relocate for business, and plenty to do, too!
With all of the necessary and unavoidable steps you have to go through before you leave, saying goodbye to friends and relatives (for now) and packing up all of your possessions, there are important steps you might miss out on, without realising, before you embark on your new and exciting adventure. Here are five points to think about before you make your move:
Do Your Research
Do some research about the UAE. There may be facts you did not know about, for example what visa you will need or the difference between setting up a business in one of the five Free Zones or onshore. The internet is a great place to start your research, but if you are unsure of anything and would like to double check facts you found online or heard from a friend or colleague, visit your local embassy for more accurate information.
Calculate Your Cost of Living
The cost of living varies across the globe, and although you may live comfortably on your salary in your current city, there is a chance of your bills piling up if your new destination is more expensive than the last. Calculate your new cost of living beforehand and make sure to include all of your likely outgoings. These could possibly include renting of property, school fees, groceries, water and electricity. And, depending on the outcome of your calculations, you might have to make some changes in order for your move to work.
Visit the Destination you are moving to beforehand
This is not always possible, but visiting at least once before you move means you have the opportunity to check things out beforehand. This could give you a chance to look at possible areas to live in, schools for your children, view apartments and villas for sale in Dubai or other areas in the UAE you are interested in or attend job interviews in person. If you are not able to visit the UAE before you arrive, ask any of your friends if they have visited or lived there – word of mouth advice is valuable.
Research the Culture
Find out about culture differences and business etiquette in the UAE. This will help you create good relationships and connections with the people you meet, and it will help you avoid any misunderstandings. By being respectful of certain practices, for example - avoid scheduling meetings on Fridays as it is the Muslim day of prayer and rest, could be the difference between forming an important relationship with a contact, or them being discouraged from doing business with you in the future.
Investigate the Right Property
When relocating to a new place, you will be looking at a wide variety of property options. You will need to find a home and, if you’re starting your own company, the appropriate type of property for your business. If you have an idea of what you are looking for, or want to get a feel of what is available, start with an internet search. Or, if you would prefer to talk to someone in the property market with knowledge and expertise, search for and contact real estate companies in Dubaior other areas in the UAE, they will then be able to send you relevant or applicable brochures and suggestions.
