UAE
Relocation Guide
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a multi-ethnic metropolis that offers a political and social system with longevity, consistency and stability. The unique cultures in the UAE may seem daunting to some however, for someone who is looking to further their professional experience, there is no better place than the UAE. Strategically sitting between Europe and the Far East, the UAE boasts a large, highly educational, multilingual and multicultural workforce. The UAE has so much to offer any individual, including fantastic financial benefits.
General Facts •
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The UAE is composed of seven emirates, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Quwain. However, the two main business centres are Dubai, the largest city, and the capital, Abu Dhabi. The population sits at 7.8 million with 81% of that being expats. The main languages spoken are Arabic (official language), English, Persian, Hindi and Urdu. The main religions are Islam, Christianity and Hinduism.
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Relocation Process COREcruitment has a great presence in the UAE with many of our clients being some of the biggest names in the area. COREcruitment has been working with these clients in the UAE for many years now and all candidates we’ve sent over have been extremely happy with our process. COREcruitment prides itself in keeping in touch with all our candidates throughout the process as well as after their appointment.
Working Lifestyle The main working week is SundayThursday, with Friday and Saturday being a weekend. However, this may vary depending on your employer. Friday is the main day or prayer, hence why this is considered the start of the weekend. Office hours are usually from 8.30 or 9.00 am to 5.30 or 6.00 pm. However, again, this will depend on your employer. In the month of Ramadan, the working day is reduced to six hours for Muslims, who fast during daylight hours. When greeting anyone in a formal setting you should be polite by using the terms ‘Sayed’ (Mr) or ‘Saydea’ (Mrs), followed by their surname. When you sit down in a meeting it is considered offensive if your feet are pointing directly at someone else. Therefore, try sit with your feet pointing to a wall or away from everyone in the meeting.
Once you have received a job offer from COREcruitment on behalf of our client, we will get all documentation required over to our client who will then sort out your Residence Visa. While you are living in the UAE, our client will act as your sponsor.
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The Economy
The Culture
Accommodation
Whenever anyone thinks about the UAE- they think tax free. This is the biggest sell for those looking to save; employees in the UAE aren’t subject to personal income tax. According to the UAE Economic Report 2012, the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (at constant prices) reached around AED 981 Billion in 2011 at a growth rate of 4.2 per cent compared to AED 942 Billion in 2010 at a growth rate of 1.3 per cent.
Although the UAE is becoming more modern and westernised it is still an Islamic country and this should be respected. Individuals should dress respectively by covering shoulder and knees in public areas such as shopping centres and in places of religious significance. This also applies to couples- public displays of affection should be kept private. Alcohol is not prohibited however; it should be consumed in hotel bars and restaurants. It is possible to buy alcohol for personal consumption however, you will need a licence for this. During the month of Ramadan, it is illegal for everyone to eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours and during this month alcohol isn’t sold and bars are shut. Even non-Muslims must adhere to these rules.
Accommodation should be sorted out for you by your employer before you get there. Most expat accommodation is a furnished apartment in a block with all other expats. Some accommodation may be shared depending on the nature of your position, this will be same sex sharing.
Current Exchange Rates as of June 2014: 1 GBP = 6.18 AED 1 EUR = 5.01 AED 1 USD = 3.67 AED
Lifestyle Shopping: If you like to shop- you will have a field day! The UAE is buzzing with souks, malls, department stores and supermarkets all filled with a variety of products. Another bonus is there is no sales tax! Food & Drink: Just like the shopping, any type of food and drink can be found in the UAE. There is also a large variety of European style restaurants scattered around for you to find. Healthcare: Again, this will be sorted out through your employer. Healthcare in the UAE is considered excellent. The only different is certain prescription drugs and over the counter medicine is not permitted in the UAE. Please check with your doctor before going over.
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