Dubai is located in the United Arab Emirates and is not only one of the world's fastest growing cities, but is also an epicenter for employment and new job opportunities. It is estimated that around 30 new companies are established in this burgeoning city every week; and this has been the case since late 2002.
But why is Dubai such an attractive city to live and work in? The short answer Dubai is tax free. If you live and work in the area you are paid your gross wage with no tax deducted from this amount. Why? Unbelievably, direct personal taxation is against the law, meaning any income you make is 100% yours.
If you are looking in the fields of tourism, IT, media or finance, and are qualified in your area, there is an abundance of job opportunities waiting to be snapped up. Every year, thousands of international people are making the move to Dubai to become part of the workforce and make some real, tax-free money.
Likewise, if you are looking to establish your own business in the Emirate, the government offers numerous incentives to overseas business to take up in the free trade zones. There are currently 15 free trade zones, with 7 more planned for the coming months and years. These zones allow for foreign businesses to establish themselves and grow without corporate taxes and without a shareholding structure. You will quickly realize why there is an abundance of job opportunities in Dubai.
In order to work in Dubai, you will be required to hold a work permit and residency visa. Most employers will arrange for these details to be sorted for their employees once they are appointed to their position within the company. On the other hand, if you are planning a holiday to Dubai, you will be issued with a temporary visa (depending on the country you are from), and you can use this opportunity to scout around and look for job opportunities. Once you have done this, the process of applying for a work permit and visa is fairly straight forward.
A notable difference in Dubai is the working hours, which you will quickly become used to. Many businesses close for a few hours each afternoon and Friday tends to be a day when no meetings are held.
Dubai, as a city, is unbelievable. The living standard for expatriates is wonderful, as is the fast-paced social life many of these people enjoy. Prepare to play and work hard, and enjoy the many wonders Dubai has to offer from indoor skiing, to playing golf, or taking a 4wd safari in the desert Dubai has it all.
You will never feel alone in Dubai. The majority of the current population is made up of expatriates and you will have no problem meeting acquaintances and new friends almost immediately. The multi cultural environment allows for numerous social clubs and events to encourage new people to meet. All of this helps new residents ease into their new life in Dubai.