The complete relocation guide for French expats in Dubai, UAE

Did you know that there are over 30,000 French nationals in the UAE and that the demand for French speakers is surging (5% year on year)?

Dubai is an international hub, with over 600 French companies based permanently in the UAE. In fact, many French companies operate in Dubai, and the demand for French-speaking nationals makes the prospect of working in Dubai an exciting and lucrative one.

But hold on a second. Before you jump on the next flight to the UAE, Pacific Prime’s complete relocation guide for French expats in Dubai has what you need to know!

Moving abroad to Dubai as a French expat

Whether you are an experienced, well-traveled expat or looking for a new chapter away from France, you’ll find useful information and tips in this complete guide. We have carefully curated this, so you’ll be able to plan and prepare for life as a French expat in Dubai, UAE.

Our interactive guide is split into the following categories. Be sure to scroll down or simply select the category you are most interested in:

A word about Dubai, UAE

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About Dubai’s healthcare system and expat/family health insurance

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Getting a work permit and residency visa for Dubai

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Searching for accommodation in Dubai

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Getting around Dubai

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Securing a school placement for your child

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Joining a French expat community in Dubai

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A word about Dubai, UAE

Dubai is one of the most modern cosmopolitan cities in the world with plenty of opportunities and things to do. The combination of outstanding coastline, majestic desert backdrop, and incredible cityscapes will have you wanting to move over in no time!

Further, reading: UAE overview

Population size

City life

Work/business haven

Culturally diverse

Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the UAE and is home to more than 3.5 million locals, foreign workers, and expats.

The city is a magnet for tourists and those from France looking for a new start career-wise and in life. The modern infrastructure, amenities, and excellent urban planning mean getting around and living in the city is easy, friendly, and hospitable.

Tax-free living for locals and couples, and a strategic location to do business, Dubai is an incredibly attractive destination to move to for French expats and foreign workers.

The diverse communities and rich Arabic culture puts Dubai high on the global rankings for languages, diversity, and safety. There are over 200 nationalities in Dubai, speaking over 300 languages and dialects, including French.

Looking for expat health insurance or family health insurance?

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About Dubai’s healthcare system and expat/family health insurance

As a French expat living in Dubai with loved ones or on your own, you’ll be pleased to know that Dubai is home to a number of excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

If French is your preferred language to communicate in, then worry not, as most private hospitals and even public facilities will have French-speaking medical professionals.

Note: List of hospitals and clinics in Dubai

If you have international health insurance, then you can visit any of the public and private hospitals on your insurer’s network of insurance providers. However, you can also seek medical help in public healthcare settings once you have a health card.

Further reading:

How to apply for public healthcare in Dubai

Since you will be working legally in Dubai, it’s worth signing up for healthcare coverage at public hospitals. The benefit of doing so is that you can receive basic healthcare and treatment at government-run facilities, such as Dubai Hospital and Latifa Hospital, and use private health insurance for other health claims (if already insured).

To apply for a health card, simply apply online via www.dha.gov.ae or visit your nearest medical center and do the following:

Pick up an application form
Submit the application form along with the following documents:
- your Emirates ID number
- passport details
- residence visa
- two passport photos
- a copy of your tenancy contract

Note: Fees are AED 320 for adults and AED 120 for children under ten. The center will process your card on the same day. The health card is valid for one year for expats, and you can renew it online at www.eservice.dohms.gov.ae.

Frequently asked questions regarding health insurance in Dubai

Is private health insurance mandatory in Dubai?

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) mandates that health insurance is required for all expats and Emirati citizens.

Where can I secure health insurance?

Expats will usually have coverage from their employers but will often get additional coverage from local insurers and insurance brokers. Insurers will offer their own plans, whereas insurance brokers can compare and offer plans from all insurers and recommend the best one.

Should I get the cheapest health insurance plan?

Most expats will think getting the cheapest plan is good enough for them, but it isn’t necessarily true. The cheaper the plan the fewer (or restricted) the benefits are on a plan. The higher the premiums, the more benefits there are, including higher limits. It’s about striking the right balance between price and value.

What plans do expats with loved ones typically get for Dubai?

Depending on the family’s circumstances, family health insurance will provide what everyone will need. Individuals can also apply separately, but family health plans will often include benefits that apply to children. Maternity health insurance coverage can also be added to an individual plan for expat couples who are planning for a child

Why secure insurance through Pacific Prime Dubai?

At Pacific Prime Dubai, our insurance experts are here to help make health insurance easy for you to understand, use, and make claims against unforeseen situations. Although we specialize in expat/international health insurance, our experience in the insurance industry spanning over 20 years means we now offer other popular insurance plans and solutions for expats including:

Group health insurance

Newborn insurance

Pre-existing conditions insurance

Business insurance

Property & Casualty insurance

Employee benefits

And more

Compare health insurance plans for FREE here!

Here’s why you should secure health insurance through Pacific Prime Dubai:

Fully-compliant insurance plans that are in line with DHA regulations and standards in Dubai

A substantial International and multilingual workforce consisting of locals and expats (French speaking too!)

Insurtech led operation with the latest updates and trends from the industry

Value-added services like administration assistance, insurer liaison, hospital recommendation, claims and renewal support, and more.

Reach out to an insurance expert today!

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Getting a work permit and residency visa for Dubai

To work and live in the UAE, you must secure a work permit through your employer, as well as a residency visa. The work permit allows you to work legally in Dubai, and be entitled to specific employment rights. A work permit is usually obtained from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), and your employer is responsible for processing this for you. You can also register for a remote work visa or freelance visa, but you should check with your employer for what’s best for you.

Note: If you are not employed in the UAE or work for a company with a registered branch in Dubai, you should apply for a job before attempting to get a work permit

Top 10 business sectors for French expats in the UAE

There are many fast-growing business sectors in the UAE to check out if you are looking for a job. Recruitment companies like Robert Walters reported that French is used in every sector, from aerospace, public transport, banking, insurance, renewable energy, and oil & gas. Here are the top 10 business sectors to consider:

Business sector in the UAE Did you know?	1. Construction	2. E-Commerce Solutions	3. Tourism and Travel	4. Real Estate	5. Health	6. Consultancy Services	7. Hospitality	8. Fashion Products and Jewelry	9. Marketing and Advertising	10. Security Services
Business sector in the UAE Did you know?	The UAE has developed quickly in the region thanks to the large investments in improving the country’s infrastructure. The UAE construction industry is estimated to be worth USD $90 billion.	Dubai alone accounts for one of the largest e-commerce activities and operations in the Middle East. Online sales are expected to surpass USD $8 billion in value by 2025.	The UAE’s infrastructure and transportation system make it attractive for visitors and tourists from around the globe. In the first half of 2022 alone, the UAE tourism sector took in USD $5 billion in revenue.	The real estate sector is growing exponentially and is poised to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 8% during the forecast period, 2022-2027.	Interestingly, the UAE is currently in the top 10 highly sought-after medical tourism destinations, with UAE healthcare spending expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9 percent over 2016 – 2029 to reach AED 107 billion (USD 29 billion) by 2029.	With investors and visitors returning to the UAE, consulting firms with knowledge in a particular field will be in demand. PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, Accenture, Mckinsey and Co, Boston Consulting Group, IBM, Bain & Co, and more are among those of interest.	The hospitality sector, consisting of food and beverage, meetings, and events, is said to grow at a CAGR of 1.2% by 2027. With tourism returning to normal pre-COVID-19 levels, this level may even be surpassed by increased visitors.	The UAE gems and jewelry market is expected to reach USD 10.71 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.53%. Growing demand from consumers, especially for branded jewelry, is the driving force for this market.	With competition increasing across all sectors, the marketing and advertising departments will surely adopt innovative strategies and social media campaigns to pump out messages to stand out in a very saturated market.	With crime coming in all shapes and forms, hiring a security specialist is more important than ever to protect against unwanted incidents and reduce damage and risk.

Need help looking for a French-speaking role in Dubai? Check out Edarabia for their list of the 30 best recruitment agencies in Dubai 2022

Discuss what your employee benefits are, and if a relocation package is available

Once you accept a job offer in Dubai, you are encouraged to openly enquire about what your employee benefits offerings are, as well as negotiate a relocation package - especially if you have a family. Such a package will provide much-needed support and benefits that will help make the transition easier.

General tips:
When discussing your employee benefits, be sure to consider:

private health insurance (benefits and offerings),
mental health benefits (how to access and use),
maternity insurance (the waiting period and policy details),
maternity leave or paternity leave (how many days and allowance),
annual leave (vacation days available), and
paid sick leave, and more.

Further reading:

Learn about Group Health Insurance Plans, Top-up insurance, Maternity Insurance, and More Here!

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Searching for accommodation in Dubai

Once you have arranged a work permit for yourself and agreed on a suitable relocation package for you and loved ones, it’s time to look for a place to stay.

Normally, as part of your relocation package, your company will usually cover the cost of moving and storing furnishings and household goods, provide assistance with selling an existing home, the costs of finding accommodation or temporary housing, and all travel costs.

There may be accommodation options already available for employees, but if you are independently looking, here’s what you need to know.

Types of accommodation

Apartments

Apartments are normally the preferred choice for French expats looking for a temporary place to stay while settling in Dubai during the first few months of moving over. They normally range in size from small studios to 1 to 1 bedrooms. If you prefer better amenities and services, then condominiums are highly recommended.

Condominiums

Condominiums are great for families as they typically have a range of facilities, including an onsite gym and swimming pool, playroom/library, laundry service, a common room, 24/7 security, and more. They are also safe and secure and offer a nice sanctuary for families to stay and enjoy.

Villas

Villas are normally standalone and offer privacy for expats and families. They tend to have large expansive rooms and a garden. Long-term French expats may prefer renting or buying a villa as they offer more space.

Where to look for accommodation?

Just like anywhere around the globe, looking for accommodation presents the same challenges for expats, like who to reach out to, where to start looking, what rules and processes apply to expats, and how to reach out to places of interest.

Luckily there are real estate agents available in Dubai who can provide guidance and support during your search. You should make sure your chosen agent is registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to avoid red tape and minimize the risk of being duped. French-speaking professional agents are also readily available.

General tips:

Check online for properties that are available for rent or for sale. (Make sure they have credentials, e.g. RERA certification.)
Create a list of places and contact details of renters or sellers.
Visit the places in person and ask for a viewing.
Visit the places in person and ask for a viewing.

To rent or to buy as a French expat in Dubai?

As a new arrival in Dubai, you’ll most likely choose to rent, as buying is more of a long-term investment. But whatever your accommodation needs and plans are, it’s worth knowing each option.

Renting as an expat

French expats can choose to rent apartments, condos, and even villas for the short term (typically for a year minimum).

Making an application

Making an application through an agent is highly encouraged as the agent will represent you throughout the process of submitting and drawing up a contract. You should go through the details of the contract thoroughly by understanding the clauses before signing.

Ensure all verbal agreements are in print and acknowledged by all relevant parties, including you and the landlord. Review the lease agreement, particularly utilities (e.g. internet, electricity/gas, and water) and maintenance, and how the bills should be paid. Also, discuss the contract renewal process to know what to expect when your short-term lease ends.

Note: The landlord and/or real estate agent may do a background check to verify that you are on the required type of permit/visa.

Property/home insurance for expat homeowners

Buying a property in Dubai means acquiring an investment worth protecting, which is why French expats should consider homeowners insurance to safeguard their homes and possessions from a range of losses stemming from natural disasters, theft, and other unforeseen incidents.

Learn more and get a FREE quote here!

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Getting around Dubai

The best way to travel around Dubai is by taxi or metro. You can also rent a car to drive yourself, but it’s worth considering getting around on public transport first for the first few months of arriving in Dubai. This is, so you become accustomed to the different locations and places of interest in Dubai. There are also other forms of transport, like public buses and boats, that can give you a different perspective of the city.

Modes of transport	Description	Fares
Taxi	Dubai is a taxi-centric city with a fleet of government-licensed vehicles, from the common red rooftop taxis to the pink-topped cabs (which are designated for female and family passengers only). To get around, you can flag down a Dubai taxi or call for a radio taxi.	All taxis are metered with rates starting at AED 12 (roughly USD $3.25) and increasing by about AED 2.82 (around USD $0.75) per mile.
Metro	Dubai’s metro consists of two lines: the red line and the green line. In total, there are nearly 50 stations in total including the airport. The routes are divided into 7 zones and offer quick, safe, and easy travel for expats and family members.	Dubai Metro tickets must be purchased in the form of a Nol card, with fares beginning from AED 4 in zone 1.
Bus	The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai operates over 100 bus routes, and can help expats get from one destination to another with ease. Buses also run frequently so you won’t have to wait for long.	Similar to the Dubai Metro, fares start from AED 4, and a Nol card can be purchased at selected bus stations, ticket vending machines, and RTA service centers.
Boat	In the past, boats were the primary mode of transportation in Dubai, and today many still use them to cross Dubai creek. Enjoy the city’s abra, a traditional wooden boat, or RTA’s more spacious and high-tech boat service known as the Dubai Waterbus.	For AED 1 (roughly USD $0.27) per trip, you can cross the creek via the abra or travel on the Waterbus for AED 2 per trip (roughly USD $0.54).
Car	Dubai’s roads offer greater freedom if you have an international driver’s license or permit. Driving your own car is also handy if you prefer to travel at your own convenience and to destinations outside the city.	Putting car insurance premiums and maintenance expenses aside, fuel is the main ongoing cost that fluctuates over time.

Modes of transport	Taxi	Metro	Bus	Boat	Car
Description	Dubai is a taxi-centric city with a fleet of government-licensed vehicles, from the common red rooftop taxis to the pink-topped cabs (which are designated for female and family passengers only). To get around, you can flag down a Dubai taxi or call for a radio taxi.	Dubai’s metro consists of two lines: the red line and the green line. In total, there are nearly 50 stations in total including the airport. The routes are divided into 7 zones and offer quick, safe, and easy travel for expats and family members.	The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai operates over 100 bus routes, and can help expats get from one destination to another with ease. Buses also run frequently so you won’t have to wait for long.	In the past, boats were the primary mode of transportation in Dubai, and today many still use them to cross Dubai creek. Enjoy the city’s abra, a traditional wooden boat, or RTA’s more spacious and high-tech boat service known as the Dubai Waterbus.	Dubai’s roads offer greater freedom if you have an international driver’s license or permit. Driving your own car is also handy if you prefer to travel at your own convenience and to destinations outside the city.
Fares	All taxis are metered with rates starting at AED 12 (roughly USD $3.25) and increasing by about AED 2.82 (around USD $0.75) per mile.	Dubai Metro tickets must be purchased in the form of a Nol card, with fares beginning from AED 4 in zone 1.	Similar to the Dubai Metro, fares start from AED 4, and a Nol card can be purchased at selected bus stations, ticket vending machines, and RTA service centers.	For AED 1 (roughly USD $0.27) per trip, you can cross the creek via the abra or travel on the Waterbus for AED 2 per trip (roughly USD $0.54).	Putting car insurance premiums and maintenance expenses aside, fuel is the main ongoing cost that fluctuates over time.

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Securing a school placement for your children

As education for your kids will be a top priority when you move over, you’ll be pleased to know that Dubai is home to many French international schools offering excellent curricula and quality facilities.

French international schools for expat students

Finding a school isn’t the hardest part for French expats in Dubai as there are many schools to choose from. Let’s have a look at some of the top French international schools in Dubai.

International school in Dubai	Details
Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou	KHDA Rating: Oud Metha Campus: Outstanding \| Academic City Campus: Very Good Fees: AED 29,688 to AED 29,668 (Oud Metha) \| AED 35,021 to AED 48,093 (Academic City) Location: Oud Metha, Dubai \| Dubai Academic City, Ruwayyah, Dubai Contact: +971-4-337-4161 \| +971-4-326-0211 Website: https://lfigp.org/
International Concept for Education (ICE)	KHDA Rating: Good Fees: AED 45,000 to AED 82,000 Location: Al Meydan Rd. Nad al Sheba 1, Meydan. Dubai Contact: +971-4-337-7818 Website: https://icedubai.org/
Lycee Francais Jean Mermoz	KHDA Rating: Good Fees: AED 36,000 to AED 56,000 Location: Al Quoz 1, Behind bowling centre, Dubai Contact: +971-56-338-8223 \| +971-4-334-4111 Website: https://lfjm.education/
Lycee Francais International (LFI)	KHDA Rating: Very Good Fees: AED 26,922 – AED 56,936 Location: Oud Metha Road, Al Nasr Club. Dubai Contact: +971-4-379-5002 \| +971-4-336-8552 Website: https://lfidubai.aflec-fr.org/
Further reading: Your guide to schooling options in Dubai Homeschooling in the UAE: Things you should consider

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Joining a French expat community in Dubai

The French community in Dubai is large, and networking events are plentiful. You will surely get to meet other people from all walks of life and even see other families, which is good if you have children. If you don’t know where to start, here are a few recommended expat groups and networks for you to join, including:

Want to learn more about life in Dubai and the rest of the UAE?
Get in touch with our friendly and experienced insurance experts at Pacific Prime Dubai!
You can also reach out and visit our experts in person.

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