American Expats in UAE

Travelling and exploring is fun, especially when you meet new people in different directions. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the countries where you will come across people from different backgrounds. The UAE has offered many opportunities to expats, especially American expats. American expats are having jobs and businesses in United Arab Emirates and playing a key role in the progress and development of UAE.

UAE is a good place to work and live for the American expatriates. The UAE job market is thriving. The economy of UAE is driven by several but fully developed sectors e.g. oil, finance, healthcare, technology, hospitality, and tourism. However, Americans have an edge to get into good employment as they have experience, education and exposure. The Americans have found Dubai and Abu Dhabi to be two global hubs for multinational companies and they enjoy living and working in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

There is no income tax, which is the biggest advantage of Americans find when relocating to the UAE. It ensures maximum savings and optimizes their earnings by investing in the future. Especially the American businessmen and entrepreneurs, they find the tax free UAE very much favorable to do business.

The UAE has a rich lifestyle, modern buildings, the best healthcare services, education and top-tier education. Americans find the facilities available here like USA. Many have bought expensive apartments or villas while admitting their children into international schools. The comfort and luxury what they have in America, they can have better in UAE.

People come to the UAE for its multicultural environment. The country provides various networking and work-gathering platforms arranged by different organizations. This helps them professionally. It allows American people to build up strong connections all over the world by staying in UAE.

The UAE is known for its minimum crime rate. Therefore, expatriates experience a secure environment whether they want to live alone or have a family to stay with. American people has a peace and safety in their country. Therefore UAE appeals them like US, where they feel themselves more secure and protected.

Relocating takes work and it’s not easy. For some people, adjusting to other parts of the world isn’t easy, especially when they have lived somewhere for so long. Americans do face the problems when relocating to the UAE, as follows:

• Cultural Difference

The UAE is an Islamic country. Regarding Islamic traditions, Americans must respect the dress codes and Halal food. An American can drink alcohol, but its availability and consumption are limited in some places.

• Cost of Living

Although there is no income tax, the living costs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi could be high. It might be comparatively lower than America, but overall, it comes at the higher side.  Therefore, they can find cost of living extremely higher here.

• Work-Life Balance

The work-life is different everywhere. People in China have different styles, so they can have a separate way of working. The long hours are not appreciated in America, unlike in the UAE. Employment is robust in the UAE, and people work longer hours as expectations are high. The higher the role, the more competitive it becomes, so managing work is difficult.

• Requirements for Visas

When it comes to any expatriate’s residency in the UAE, it becomes difficult for people to understand the immigration and labour laws. Therefore, they might have to hire an immigration lawyer to ensure a smooth transition of the visa status. However, like other expatriates, American expatriates should have a valid job offer or family to sponsor their visa. Even though, if they open a business, still they are dependent on immigration requirements and protocols.

• Climate and Environment

The UAE is one of the hottest countries due to its geographical location in the desert. Americans are not used to living in such hot temperatures. They have to rely on air conditioners and, in some cases, limited outdoor activities.

While relocating to Dubai, the most common thing is to understand the Emirati customs and traditions. The more you understand their manners and communications, the better you will absorb the culture and develop strong ties. Here are the tips to smoothly relocate in United Arab Emirates:

• Learn About Local Culture

Before settling in the UAE, learn about its cultures and traditions. You should also examine how Emiratis balance work and personal life. Further, the Emiratis are very respectful of expatriates; therefore, you should also respect them when talking to or meeting them.

• Budgeting is Essential

If you are in the UAE as an expat, you must put everything on a budget to understand the pricing of groceries and other utilities. Therefore, American expats, like othets should create a yearly, monthly, or Bi-annually budget for education, housing, and transportation in the UAE.

• Active Social Skills

If you are considering relocating to the UAE, activate your social skills. The UAE has a diverse population with which to interact. Never miss a chance to meet others; you may land a good opportunity.

• Ensure Legal Compliance

You must be good at legal books. Talk to a legal advisor whenever you make a big decision, whether related to family or professional. It is essential to keep your documents updated to avoid legal penalties. You can consult our lawyers in Dubai.

American expats like the strategic location of the UAE as they can explore Europe, Africa, and Asia in the future. American expatriates enjoy their stay in UAE and prefer to stay in UAE:

The UAE government welcomes every nationality in the region. However, the UAE embassy and associations help Americans settle down and adjust easily. Other than personal life, the Americans are also assisted with the following legal services:

• Establishing a Business

Many Americans come to the UAE to expand or start new businesses. Dubai business lawyers assist Americans in forming the company, reviewing and drafting agreements and contracts, and ensuring the legal compliance of the business with UAE business laws.

• Guidance on Employment Law

Though the UAE tries to apply international business practices, employment laws might differ. Therefore, American expats must hire a labour and employment lawyer if they have a dispute at work or want the employment contract reviewed before they join.

• Assistance with Real Estate

The UAE has designated areas for expatriates’ residency. American expatriates will need a real estate lawyer to help them locate appropriate housing and review their tenancy agreements.

• Family Matters

American expatriates might need help with family matters in UAE. Family matters are different for Muslims, as they are governed by Sharia law. Considering American expats, non-Muslims follow the laws of their home country that comply with the UAE.

• Legal Representation in the UAE

If an American expat violates any rule, minor or major, they will need a legal advisor. Violations can be of several types. Please check with Ask The Law USA, lawyers and legal consultants. We have dedicated team for American expatriates and all the other expatriates living in UAE.

American expats must fulfil certain legal requirements to obtain residency in the UAE. An immigration lawyer can help them decide whether to get a job or invest in the UAE.

Choosing a lawyer could be difficult for expats, especially when they have not learned about legal services. However, to find a good lawyer, they should have expertise in law and amazing communication skills. Also, American expats must see their budget before hiring a legal expert for their problem. Some lawyers charge an hourly rate, while others might ask for an upfront cost.