Introduction
Dubai, the glittering metropolis of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has for years been a magnet for people from all over the world looking for a new life abroad. With its vibrant economy, high standard of living and tax advantages, Dubai also attracts many Germans. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of emigrating to Dubai, including the 183-day rule, which is of great importance to many emigrants.
Why Dubai?
Dubai offers a multitude of advantages for expats:
- Economic stabilityDubai has developed into one of the most important economic centers in the world. Many international companies have their headquarters in the city, which offers numerous job opportunities.
- Tax advantagesThere is no income tax in Dubai, which is a big incentive for many people.
- Standard of livingThe city offers a high quality of life with modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare and a wide range of leisure activities.
- Cultural diversityDubai is a multicultural city where people from over 200 different nations live and work.
Preparation for emigration
Before taking the step to emigrate to Dubai, there are some important preparations to be made:
- Research and planning:
- Inform yourself thoroughly about the living conditions, culture and laws in Dubai.
- Visit the city to get a feel for life there.
- Job and apartment search:
- Search for job opportunities via job portals and networks.
- Take a look at the housing market and decide which district you would like to live in.
- Visa and residence permit:
- Find out about the different visa categories and apply for the right visa.
Visa and residence
To live and work in Dubai, you need a visa. There are different types of visas, which vary depending on the purpose of your stay:
- Work visaThis visa is applied for by your employer and allows you to work in Dubai.
- Investor visaIf you want to invest in Dubai, you can apply for an investor visa.
- Family visaIf you want to bring family members to Dubai, you can apply for a family visa.
The 183-day rule
The 183-day rule is an important aspect for expatriates, especially with regard to tax matters. This rule states that a person is considered tax resident in a country if they spend more than 183 days in that country. For Germans emigrating to Dubai, this means
- Tax residency in DubaiIf you spend more than 183 days per year in Dubai, you are considered a tax resident in the UAE. As there is no income tax in Dubai, you may be able to enjoy tax benefits.
- Tax residency in GermanyIf you spend less than 183 days in Germany, you may lose your tax residency in Germany, which may also result in tax advantages.
Life in Dubai
- Culture and society:
- Dubai is a city with a rich cultural diversity. Although the official religion is Islam, tolerance towards other religions is practiced.
- It is important to respect local customs and laws.
- Language:
- The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.
- Education and healthcare:
- Dubai offers excellent healthcare with modern hospitals and clinics.
- There are numerous international schools and universities that offer a first-class education.
- Leisure and entertainment:
- Dubai offers a wide range of leisure activities, including beaches, shopping, restaurants and cultural events.
Challenges and tips
- Cultural adaptation:
- Adapting to a new culture can be challenging. Be open and respectful of local customs.
- Cost of living:
- Dubai can be expensive, especially in terms of rent and cost of living. Plan your budget carefully.
- Climate:
- Dubai has a hot desert climate. Summers can be extremely hot, which requires adaptation.
Expatriating to Dubai can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but one that requires careful planning and preparation. The 183-day rule plays a crucial role in determining your tax residency and can bring significant tax benefits. With comprehensive preparation and an open mind, Germans can lead a fulfilling and successful life in Dubai.
