In just a short period, Dubai has become one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists and global entrepreneurs. With zero income tax, mobility, and various lifestyle benefits, the place remains the most popular choice for relocation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
If you’re planning to move to one of many apartments in Dubai ‌soon, ‌ensure that you’ve got everything covered before the big day. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of seven useful moving tips every new Dubai resident needs to know:
1. Don’t go without a budget and a plan.
Everything must start with a plan to be successful. No matter what, you must never rush into an apartment move. Instead, come up with an outline of what needs to be done at least two months before your target moving date.
Create a checklist of the things you need to do to stay organised. This can come in the form of a handwritten list or a spreadsheet saved on your computer or the cloud.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you itemise everything and add as much detail as possible. You can also include a target date for each task to know whether you’re ahead, on time, or late in your preparations.
Besides a to-do list and timeline, you also need to set a budget for the move. This will allow you to use your financial resources efficiently. Don’t forget to add a buffer to the total amount set to ensure that you don’t go over your current income.
After all, there’s nothing more stressful than having insufficient cash when starting fresh in a new neighbourhood.
2. Hire professional movers.
Moving is a significant change that requires skill, expertise, and experience. Even if you have all those things, having people assisting you with the preparations could take a load off your shoulders.
When selecting professional movers, make sure you consider the following factors:
- Your budget
- Your specific needs
- Your belongings
- Your origin and destination
As much as possible, look for comprehensive relocation packages that include packing, unpacking, and transporting your belongings. Some relocation specialists also have maintenance and storage services that you could take advantage of.
3. Go house hunting.
Unless you already have an apartment ready, this is a great time for you to go on a hunt for your next home. Look into listings of apartments for rent in Dubai and narrow down the selection based on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
There are plenty of real estate websites you can use to do this. You can also visit a real estate agent’s office to discuss exactly what you want in an apartment.
Dubai has a fast-paced real estate market, which means new properties could be added to the listings on an hourly basis. This means you might be able to find a new apartment fairly quickly.
4. Disconnect or transfer your utilities.
When moving from one apartment in Dubai to the next, you must remember to include the transfer or disconnection of your utilities in your relocation plan.
You’ll have to clear your bills and close or transfer your account with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). You should also plan for the transfer or disconnection of your Du or Etisalat (internet and cable) connection.
You can do these things two to three days before moving day, provided you already have the necessary documents and cash to pay for any fees attached to your service requests.
5. Complete the necessary paperwork for the move.
Besides those intended for your utilities, you also need to accomplish a few documents for your move, starting with a formal notice to your previous landlord.
Property laws in Dubai require tenants to provide notice at least 90 days before the tenancy contract ends. You can also consider this timeline when selecting a date for your moving day to stay cost efficient.
After that, you must update Ejari by registering your new tenancy contract.
Depending on the location, you could also be asked to apply for moving permits with the building management. Some places also require a moving-out permit from the community management.
Bonus Tip: Although technically not paperwork, you also need to make sure that the apartment you rented previously is returned to its original condition before you move out. The condition of your old home will determine whether you’ll get your full apartment security deposit.
6. Purge and declutter.
Dubai renters could also benefit from purging and decluttering before a move.
These two things let you have a fresh start in your new Dubai apartment and save a few bucks from the relocation at the same time.
Get rid of the old stuff you haven’t been able to use in a while. You should also separate objects that have duplicates to reduce the number of items to be packed and transported into your new home. You can even sell some of them and use the money to fund your move if you have extra time.
7. Get to know the neighbourhood.
When moving, you must learn as much as you can about your new neighbourhood before the big day. You’ll become a part of the community soon, so you need ample knowledge to get settled and start a new life there.
If you have school kids, check if the best schools in Dubai are anywhere near your new apartment. If there are, this would remove the need to find an educational institution after your relocation.
Proximity to groceries, shopping malls, offices, and leisure clubs is also a good thing to have in Dubai apartments for rent.
Also, don’t forget to look into the property’s accessibility to roads and parking spaces. While you’re at it, greet and introduce yourself to your new neighbours.
Start Fresh
Moving to Dubai is one of the best decisions you can make in your life. To make sure you get a fresh start, heed our advice and follow the moving tips provided in this article.
Looking for your next home? Browse our website or contact us for available apartments for sale or rent in Dubai Festival City.
