Moving to the UAE – What are Your Property Choices?
This article looks at the types of property which are available in the United Arab Emirates, if you are moving to the area from overseas.
There’s also a look at how The Moving Partnership can help with all aspects of any move, not just the transportation of your possessions, but also ancillary services such as packing and unpacking, as well as any administrative queries you might have.
This article is a four-minute read.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the most popular destinations to move to, particularly if you are young, without too many family ties, or on your way up the career ladder. The latest figures show that up to a quarter of a million Britons have made the area their home, principally in Dubai.
But what kind of property could you be moving into, once you get there? The Moving Partnership has been finding out.
House Removals to the UAE with The Moving Partnership
The Moving Partnership can help you move to all parts of the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the remaining states or emirates - Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaiwan. Call us today on 0800 772 3709 to learn more.
Flats and Apartments
These are one of the most popular choices for those moving to the UAE for work reasons – and some may come as part of your employment contract. As with most of the UAE’s infrastructure, they are usually modern, with plenty of state-of-the-art fixtures and fittings. Some apartments (particularly serviced ones) may also boast additional features, such as gyms and swimming pools, as well as cleaning and security services. Even so, this option is usually cheaper than many of the other options available, and so might suit single people.
However, you may need a head for heights as many of them are in high-rise blocks. And if you opt for, or are given, a penthouse, that is particularly true as they are usually (but not exclusively) on the top floor of a residential complex (although sometimes the term is used to refer to any unit which has a larger floor plan than the others).
It also means that penthouses are usually more expensive than the other flats (but you will get some great views).
The most popular areas for flats and apartments are mainly in Dubai – particularly the marina, downtown, Dubai Creek (pictured) and the Jumeirah district. In Abu Dhabi, the most popular flats are on the islands of Al Reem and Saadiyat, which offer a contrast to the more densely populated mainland.
Townhouses
In spite of the name, UAE townhouses have lots of similarities with the UAE’s flats and apartments. These are likely to be multi-storey residences with neighbours on either one or both sides of a shared wall, and their outward appearance is likely to be similar in any given location.
They are usually managed by a homeowners’ association, who will be in charge of any gardens and shared amenities; only the interior of the property is the resident’s responsibility.
They are ideal for families or those wanting a sense of community and are usually in the mid-price range compared to the other options. As with flats and apartments, there are plenty of these in and around Dubai.
Villas
UAE villas are standalone properties which have plenty of space, both indoors and outdoors. So not only will you get a garden, but you could also get other amenities such as your own pool – and there’s usually plenty of privacy too.
These are perfect for larger families who need lots of bedrooms and plenty of space to play. It does mean, however, that these are among the most expensive property options in the UAE. Again, you will find plenty of these in and around Dubai, but Khalifa City (in Abu Dhabi) is also popular with expats looking for larger homes.
Traditional Homes
Traditional Emirati houses are often known as barajeel houses. Common features include central courtyards, front reception rooms and wind towers – this last feature helps to catch and redirect any wind, which is important in a harsh desert climate with lots of sun.
However, these types of properties aren’t always available to non-native people, and you may have to do a lot of work to them to bring them up to today’s modern standards of comfort and convenience. You often find them in older neighbourhoods, such as Al Fahidi in Dubai Creek.
International Removals with The Moving Partnership
At The Moving Partnership, we can help with international removals to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and all parts of the UAE. And if you are moving in the opposite direction, we can assist you as well.
You will have the choice of a dedicated service (your own shipping container) or a groupage option, where the container will be shared with other consignments. For more information, follow this link, where you can book a video survey or receive an online quote.
FAQS:
Q: What is the current situation with visas to the UAE?
A: Tourist Visas will usually only cover you for a limited period of time (citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, EU, Australia) get a free 90-day visa on arrival, valid for 90 days within a 180-day period).
For Work/Employment Visas, you will need a sponsor and approval from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources. Some long-term visas are available for ‘exceptional talents’, and there are bespoke visas for entrepreneurs, investors and students. For more details, if you are considering house removals to the UAE from the UK, check out the official gov.uk page.
Q: How much of your salary are you likely to spend on housing costs in the UAE?
A: In the UAE, particularly in high-cost cities like Dubai, you are likely to spend 30% to 50% of your monthly income on housing (whether that’s as rent or on a mortgage). Rising rental costs in 2025 mean many residents, especially in popular areas, often need to allocate a higher percentage of their income to their housing budget.
Q: Can your employer help out with housing costs?
A: Employers are not legally required to subsidise or meet employees’ housing costs in the private sector. However, offering a housing allowance or accommodation is a very common practice, especially for expatriates and skilled professionals, as this can help to attract and retain talent to a region with a high cost of living.
*all information correct at the time of writing
