The Realities of Relocating Without a Safety Net: Money Lessons from Moving to Dubai

Relocating to a new country is an adventure brimming with excitement and potential, but when you make the move with little to no financial cushion, the journey becomes a daunting balancing act. Dubai, a city synonymous with luxury and opportunity, attracts thousands of expats each year. However, the glittering skyline hides a harsh truth: moving here without proper planning can quickly become overwhelming.

Me and My Move...

Relocating to Dubai was one of the most daring decisions I’ve ever made—but it was far from easy. I packed my bags with £8k debt, no job prospects, and no savings to my name. For three months, I lived on my last UK salary, sharing a place with my boyfriend, and surviving on the 30-day tourist visas provided by the UAE upon arrival. By February 2023, I finally landed a job, and that's when things finally started getting easier.

Here’s what I learned from taking this leap without a financial cushion, how I navigated the challenges, and why a solid safety net could have made all the difference.

The Challenges of Relocating with Limited Funds

Relocating without financial resources can feel like starting a race several steps behind. Here's why:

1. High Initial Costs - Moving to Dubai involves substantial upfront expenses. Beyond flights, you’ll need money for:

   Accommodation: Without a residence visa, you might need to rely on Airbnbs or short-term rentals initially, which are more expensive than long-term leases. However, you may be able to speak directly to the owners renting and find a monthly solution depending on who you are dealing with. Facebook groups are also a good way to find people looking for a roommate or renting apartments on a monthly basis at a set cost.

   Visa and Residency: Applying for a work visa, including medical tests and processing fees, can cost hundreds of dirhams. Along with the transport to get there and your time as this can take a few hours of your day.

   Transportation and Daily Costs: Public transport is affordable, but getting around for interviews and errands adds up. Looking into renting a car you can do initially on your UK license; however, after you receive your visa, you will also be required to convert your license to a UAE one, which will also cost some money and a few hours of your time again. This, however, is a pretty easy procedure.

2. Delays in Employment - Landing a job can take months, especially if your expertise lies outside popular fields like real estate or hospitality. With limited funds, covering daily expenses while job hunting becomes stressful.

3. Survival Mode - Living on a shoestring budget limits your ability to network or explore the city for better opportunities. It can also impact your mental health, as the pressure to make it work will become quite overwhelming. Many times I considered going home and finding safety within my previous situation, and knowing you always have that option can save you and your mindset, but if you hold out and stay positive, it can work out for you.
   

The Job Market Outside Real Estate

Dubai's job market is diverse, but some industries dominate. Real estate, hospitality, and sales are go-to sectors for many newcomers. If these fields don’t appeal to you, the road gets tougher.

• Competition is High: Sectors like finance, healthcare, education, and tech require specific qualifications, and companies often prefer candidates with UAE experience and university educations.

• Networking is Crucial: A large percentage of jobs are filled through referrals, so breaking into the market as an outsider takes time. Having a large audience and many connections on your LinkedIn will be an asset to you.

• Cultural Adjustment: Understanding local business practices and tailoring your CV to highlight international and transferable skills is essential but often overlooked. Many HR will fit in as many interviews as possible within one day, and you can be waiting a long time.
  

Why You Need a Safety Net

A financial safety net isn’t just a buffer; it’s your lifeline. To manage the realities of relocating to Dubai, having enough to cover at least three months’ rent and living expenses is crucial to get yourself set up without anything.

Here’s why:

• Covers Initial Expenses - Short-term rentals like Airbnbs or serviced apartments can cost significantly more than long-term leases, especially in central locations. A safety net ensures you won’t run out of options while waiting to secure permanent housing.

• Time to Job Hunt Strategically - With enough savings, you can afford to wait for the right job rather than taking the first offer that comes along.

• Reduces Stress - A financial cushion alleviates the constant worry about running out of money, enabling you to focus on settling in and building connections.

• Unexpected Costs - Life happens—whether it’s an urgent medical expense, a higher-than-expected bill, or the cost of moving again if things don’t work out.

If You’re Already Here Without Funds

If you’ve already made the move and find yourself struggling, don’t panic. It’s tough, but not impossible:

• Freelance or Gig Work: Look into temporary freelance opportunities to keep afloat while you search for something permanent.

• Shared Living: Opt for shared accommodations to reduce rent expenses.

• Government Programs and Community Help: Seek assistance from expat communities or organizations offering support to newcomers.

• Upskill: Consider short-term courses to make yourself more marketable in industries with demand.

• Work from Home: Check to see if your job back home will allow for any work-from-home opportunities to get you going whilst you're settling here.
  

Final Thoughts

Now, The Realities of Relocating Without a Safety Net, note that it is possible but it’s a gamble with high stakes. The city offers immense opportunities, but they often require patience, resilience, and financial stability to access.

If you’re considering a move, plan carefully. Save enough to cover at least three months’ rent and living costs to give yourself the breathing room to adapt. And if you’ve already made the leap, focus on building a support system, staying resourceful, and giving yourself grace through the challenges. Moving here without that can be so difficult, and Dubai really does reward those who come prepared, so set yourself up for success by planning ahead—your future self will thank you.