Moving from Mauritius to Dubai means swapping island life for one of the world’s great trading cities: bigger, faster and more expensive, but with strong air links home and a well-established Mauritian community. Most moves are driven by work, so this guide follows that pattern, covering the visa sequence, what to ship and what to leave, housing, money and the first month on the ground, with figures given as guides only.
Before you leave Mauritius
Your move normally starts with a job offer from a UAE employer, who sponsors your entry permit and residence visa. Before accepting, confirm in writing the salary in AED, housing or housing allowance, annual flights home, medical insurance cover, schooling support if children are moving, and who pays relocation costs. Gather and organise your documents early: passports valid for at least six months, birth and marriage certificates, education certificates which may need attestation for your visa category, and medical records. Attestation chains take weeks, so start them before you resign or give notice on your home in Mauritius.
- Passports for every family member, renewed if close to expiry
- Attested education, marriage and birth certificates as your employer advises
- Driving licence and, if you plan to drive, an international permit for the transition period
- Medical, dental and vaccination records, plus prescriptions in generic names
- Bank statements and a reference from your Mauritian bank
Shipping, selling and travelling light
Sea freight from Mauritius to the UAE is possible but relatively slow and, for small loads, often poor value compared with replacing items in Dubai, where furniture and electronics are easy to buy new or second-hand. Many movers ship only personal essentials, books, and items with sentimental value, sell or store the rest in Mauritius, and arrive with suitcases. Get written quotes from reputable international movers, check what customs paperwork is needed at both ends, and never ship medicines, cash or documents you will need during the move itself. Keep a detailed inventory for insurance.
Your first weeks: visa, ID and essentials
- Enter on the entry permit your employer arranges, then complete the medical fitness test and biometrics for your Emirates ID.
- Open a bank account once your ID or passport and visa allow, and arrange a local SIM immediately on arrival.
- Stay in temporary accommodation for the first few weeks while you learn areas and commute routes.
- Sign a tenancy only after viewing in person, and register it through Ejari; expect agency fees and a security deposit as a guide of around 5 per cent each of annual rent.
- Set up utilities (DEWA in Dubai), internet and a nol card for public transport.
Housing and areas
Rent is usually paid annually in one to four cheques, which surprises many newcomers, so budget for a large first payment. As a guide, studios and one-bedroom flats in mid-range areas typically cost from around AED 30,000 to AED 70,000 a year and rise steeply in prime districts, while family villas cost considerably more. Choose by commute first: Dubai traffic is heavy at peak hours, and living near the Metro or your workplace saves hours weekly. Mauritian families are spread across the city, with popular mid-range choices including areas with good schools and community facilities.
Money, schools and healthcare
The UAE has no income tax on salaries, but Dubai living costs, rent, school fees, car costs and eating out, are higher than in Mauritius, so model your budget on real prices rather than the tax saving. Private school fees vary enormously, as a guide from around AED 15,000 to well over AED 80,000 per child per year depending on the school, so confirm whether your package includes an education allowance before signing a lease far from affordable schools. Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and employers must provide at least a basic policy for employees; check whether dependants are covered or budget to insure them yourself.
FAQ
Can I move to Dubai without a job?
Long-term residence usually requires a sponsor or a qualifying category such as business ownership or family sponsorship. Visiting to explore is fine on the correct visit visa, but you cannot work until an employer processes your permits.
How long does the relocation process take?
As a guide, allow six to ten weeks from signed offer to being settled, mainly for attestation, entry permits and housing. Timelines vary by employer and season.
Should I ship my furniture from Mauritius?
For most people, no. Shipping costs and delays usually outweigh the value; bring essentials and buy or rent furniture in Dubai.
Plan the paperwork early, travel light and give yourself a soft landing, and Dubai settles quickly. For more relocation and settling-in guides, visit DXB Talk and explore our Dubai category.
