Beware of a tax-free lifestyle
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Although the promise of a Dubai job and a high paying tax free salary may lure you over to Dubai, be aware that escalating rents and the rising cost of food may come as a huge shock to the system once you arrive and start settling in.
Costs such as setting up a new home, telecommunications - internet and phone, furnishings, car payments, school fees (if you have children), a live in nanny, and visa and health insurance may leave you cursing the recruitment company that set up your dream job package.
“The biggest problem is that expectations are not set properly before expatriates come here.” Colleen Robinson, a business development manager at a relocation company.
With a lack of decent public transport, expats are forced to buy or rent a car as soon as they arrive adding to their financial woes.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. Rent prices will eventually drop once the large proportion of properties (especially villas) currently under construction hit the market.
So, if you’ve found a job in Dubai, make sure you look closely at the benefits package (especially factors like the transportation and housing allowances), and if a home has been offered make sure you find out the size of it and the location before packing your bags and jumping on a plane to a tax free lifestyle.
