Dubai launches unique virtual working programme for overseas professionals

A new initiative has been launched which enables remote working professionals to live in Dubai while continuing to serve their employers in their home country.

The move provides remote workers and their families the opportunity to relocate to one of the world’s leading tourism and business destinations and enjoy a safe and high-quality lifestyle underpinned by a strong digital infrastructure.

The annual programme costs US$287 plus medical insurance with valid UAE coverage, and processing fee per person.

Criteria for eligibility are: 

• Passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Health insurance with UAE coverage 
• Proof of Employment from current employer with a one-year contract validity, a minimum of US$5,000 per month salary, last month’s payslip and 3 preceding months’ bank statements
• If the applicant is a company owner: proof of ownership of the company for one year or more, with an average monthly income of US$5,000 per month, and 3 preceding months’ bank statements

Through the programme, applicants can obtain all services in Dubai, including telecoms, utilities, and schooling. They will also benefit from Dubai’s zero income tax for individuals.   

As one of the world’s top property destinations, Dubai has a vast portfolio of housing options to choose from. Widely regarded as a leading entrepreneurial hub, the city also provides exceptional co-working spaces, with flexible packages ranging from hourly rates for meeting rooms to weekly, monthly or quarterly bookings.  

For those looking to broaden their contacts, Dubai is the first major global destination to fully open up its MICE sector internationally, providing opportunities for networking events and face to face engagement.

The full reopening of the sector is testament to the city’s successful handling of the pandemic, and the safety and hygiene protocols in place, which prioritise the wellbeing of citizens, residents and visitors.

Individuals can apply for the annual programme on https://t.co/AUOenvxuhb

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 14, 2020

Dubai and the UAE have been recognised for setting a global model for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The emirate, which opened itself to international tourists on July 7, has implemented robust safety and hygiene protocols that enabled the reopening of most sectors and destination offerings across the city, including hotels, restaurants, attractions, water and theme parks, beaches, shopping malls and schools and universities.  

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) awarded Dubai the Safe Travels Stamp in acknowledgement of its efforts to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and COVID-19 precautionary measures. The emirate also introduced the ‘Dubai Assured’ stamp to certify that establishments have implemented all public health protocols for the prevention and management of COVID-19.

"The global pandemic has changed how we live and work. As multinationals and leading start-ups across the world accelerate their rates of digital adoption, the need to be physically present to fulfil professional responsibilities has been redefined," said Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

Hamad Buamim, President & CEO of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry said: "The new initiative is a testament to the emirate’s ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and introduce new measures that improve ease of doing business and enhance its economic competitiveness."

#Dubai launches a unique new programme that enables overseas remote working professionals to live in Dubai while continuing to serve their employers in their home countryhttps://t.co/FUc4FjIB2p pic.twitter.com/3FyIA7r8mb

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 15, 2020