What Documents Do You Need to Move to Dubai?

Start strong: who this guide is for

If you are planning a fresh start in Dubai - as a professional, investor, student, or a family moving together - this guide is for you. We outline exactly which documents you will need at each stage, from your first entry to securing long-term residency. Our aim is to help you avoid delays, budget time for attestations and tests, and arrive prepared for Emirates ID, banking, and everyday life.

The paperwork path, made simple

Relocating to Dubai is a two-step journey: first, you obtain entry approval, then you complete residence formalities inside the UAE. Most movers begin with a valid passport that has at least six months remaining, recent passport-style photos, and an entry permit or visit visa. Once in Dubai, long-term residents complete medical fitness tests if aged 18 or older, pass routine security checks, register biometrics, and receive an Emirates ID - your primary identification for banking, telecoms, and services. Proof of address, such as a tenancy contract or property title, is commonly required during these steps.

If you are moving for work, your employer typically arranges a work entry permit. You should prepare a signed employment contract and, where relevant, attested degrees and professional licences. Families relocating together should carry attested marriage and birth certificates alongside passports and photos. Investors targeting Golden Visa options will need evidence of qualifying investments, such as property ownership or approved fund letters that meet the required thresholds, as well as proof of residence in the UAE. Students and medical travelers follow the same identity foundations, adding university letters, tuition or sponsorship proofs, or treatment confirmations from licensed facilities.

Your Emirates ID becomes the key to everyday life in Dubai - plan your biometrics and address documentation early.

Plan ahead for attestation and translation of civil and educational documents that are not in Arabic or English. Begin this in your home country to prevent costly delays. Remember that many visas are issued as e-visas - keep digital and printed copies ready for airlines and border checks. Health insurance is often required, and your certificate of medical fitness will be needed for renewals or upgrades later.

How ARK makes your move effortless

ARK is a Dubai-based specialist helping entrepreneurs, professionals, families, and investors relocate with confidence. We map your ideal pathway, confirm the exact document list for your visa type, coordinate attestations and legal translations, and manage entry permits, medical tests, Emirates ID, and residence stamping. Our team also supports address setup, bank introductions, and health insurance so your life in Dubai starts smoothly and compliantly.

Next steps to get started

1. Check your passport validity - target at least 6 months remaining.
2. Gather recent passport photos and scan your documents in color.
3. Identify your route: employment, family, investor, student, or visit-first.
4. Begin attestation of marriage, birth, and education documents if required.
5. Arrange health insurance quotes suitable for your visa category.
6. Contact ARK for a tailored checklist, timelines, and cost estimate.

Quick visa route snapshot

Living in Dubai - useful essentials

Dubai runs on efficient digital systems, yet originals still matter. Expect to use e-visas for travel and your Emirates ID as your primary credential once issued. Tenancy contracts are registered, which helps with utilities, banking, and school admissions. Public and private healthcare is high quality, and medical fitness tests are standard for residents aged 18 and over. The city is well connected, safe, and business-friendly, with clear rules for company setup and employment. Prepare your documents carefully, and your transition from arrival to everyday life will be fast and predictable.