Moving to Dubai With Family: What to Know Before You Go

Ready to move your family to Dubai?

Starting a new life in Dubai is exciting for parents and kids alike. This guide is for families who want a smooth transition with clear steps on visas, housing, schools, and daily costs. We explain timelines, paperwork, and budgeting so you can plan confidently and avoid surprises.

Dubai’s tax-free salaries help families redirect more income to housing, schooling, and savings.

The essentials that matter most

Family visas are your first milestone. After you receive your residence visa, you typically have 60 days to sponsor dependents. You can sponsor sons up to age 25 and daughters if unmarried without an age cap. Parents can be sponsored on an annual basis. Processing usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, so align your housing search and shipping accordingly.

Where you live shapes your daily rhythm. Many families choose gated communities for security and shared amenities like pools and parks. Jumeirah is popular for beach access and proximity to well regarded schools such as Kings College. Emirates Hills is known for leafy streets, parks, and pet friendly living. If you value space and value for money, Arabian Ranches and Jumeirah Village Circle offer greenery and more affordable options. Rental contracts are typically one year and paid with post dated cheques. For listings and market feel, explore Bayut and Property Finder.

Budgeting is central. In 2026, the average city center rent is around 1,661 USD per month for a one bedroom and about 3,256 USD for a three bedroom. Villas in premium areas cost more, while chiller free rentals include air conditioning, which can lower utility bills. Expect monthly utilities for an 85 m² apartment to average roughly 189 to 310 USD due to cooling needs. Groceries are similar to many US cities, dining out is higher, and public transport is efficient with metro, buses, and taxis.

Schooling is a major line item. International primary school fees often range from about 11,556 to 22,944 USD per child annually, depending on curriculum and location, with strong options in areas like Jumeirah. Waitlists can form fast, so research and register early to secure seats.

Shipping your household is manageable when you prepare. Work with experienced movers who handle packing and customs clearance, and provide your passport, visa, and a detailed inventory in advance to qualify for duty free import of personal belongings. Professional unpacking helps you settle quickly and establish routines for kids.

A simple timeline helps you stay in control. Start with your visa process, plan housing viewings as approvals progress, ship belongings with a buffer for delays, and align school registration with your move in date.

Pro tip: finalize your budget early to cover visas, moving, deposits, and the first months of living expenses.

How ARK makes your move simpler

ARK is a Dubai based team that helps families relocate their lives with confidence. We coordinate visas for spouses, children, and parents, guide you on the right neighborhoods for your lifestyle and budget, and connect you with trusted agents and movers. We help you compare schooling options, prepare compliant documents, and plan a realistic timeline so nothing slips. From first consultation to move in, we keep every step clear, quick, and compliant.

Your next steps

1. Book a free consultation with ARK to map your family’s goals and timeline.
2. Confirm your residency route and start your sponsor visa application.
3. Prepare family sponsorship documents and plan for 2 to 3 week processing.
4. Shortlist neighborhoods and schedule viewings via Bayut or Property Finder.
5. Reserve school places early and gather required transcripts and records.
6. Select a mover, share passport, visa, and inventory for duty free import.
7. Plan your budget, including rent, deposits, utilities, and school fees.
8. Arrange utilities setup and consider chiller free rentals to manage costs.

Helpful facts for day to day life

Dubai’s safety, beaches, and year round sun make it a strong family destination, and the lack of personal income tax helps you save more. Gated communities provide security and amenities that children love, while areas like Arabian Ranches and JVC balance space and affordability. Public transport is clean and reliable, though many families still prefer a car for school runs and weekend trips. Expect higher dining costs, similar grocery prices to the US, and notable utility use due to air conditioning. Involve kids early by exploring neighborhoods, joining clubs or sports, and setting routines quickly after unpacking to ease their adjustment.