The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Dubai from Canada in 2025

Thinking about moving to Dubai from Canada in 2025? You're not alone!​

Whether you're seeking tax-free income, a vibrant lifestyle, or new career opportunities, migrating to Dubai offers numerous benefits for Canadians.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Dubai from Canada, including visa requirements, cost of living comparisons. Plus, we’ll share what it’s really like to live in Dubai as a Canadian.

Curious about the real estate market? Our Dubai Property Investment Guide 2025 has got you covered. Here, you will find the best areas to invest in, current market trends, and the legal stuff you need to keep in mind if you're thinking about investing.

Whether you're wondering how to move to Dubai from Canada, seeking information on living in Dubai as a Canadian, or even if Canadians require a visa to enter the UAE, this guide is here to address all your questions.

What Makes Dubai an Attractive Destination for Canadians?

Making the move from Canada to Dubai can be exciting for many people. It’s not just a change of scenery; it’s a chance to experience a different way of life. One major perk is the complete absence of income tax. That means what you earn stays with you.

Dubai also has a warmer climate, perfect for those who love sunshine. The real estate market here is often more affordable than in Canada, making it easier to find a great place to live.

Many people are choosing to live in Dubai, not just for the financial benefits but also for the opportunity to work and grow in a flourishing business environment. With a supportive community and a variety of visa options, relocating to Dubai has never been easier.

Do Canadians Need a Visa for Dubai?

If you're a Canadian thinking about visiting Dubai, you might be asking yourself: Do I need a visa? Let's break it down.

Visiting Dubai as a Tourist

As a Canadian, you don't need to arrange a visa before heading to Dubai for tourism. When you arrive, you’ll get a 30-day visa automatically.

If you love Dubai and want to stay longer, you can extend your visa for another 30 days. This is perfect if you want to see the city before deciding to move here.

Visiting Dubai for Employment or Residency

If you're planning to work or stay in Dubai longer, you’ll need a different type of visa. Usually, this means:

• - Your employer will help you get a work visa here.
• - If you’re investing in property, you can apply for a residency visa.

One more option for Canadians is the Dubai Golden Visa. This is a long-term residency program customised for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.

Want to Know More? Check out our blog on eligibility for a Golden Visa in Dubai.

How to Move to Dubai from Canada: A Simple Guide

If you’re considering moving to Dubai from Canada, there’s no need to worry.First, give yourself a little credit for making such a good decision.

As a Canadian, you’re likely to love living in Dubai and will find many chances to grow both personally and professionally. Moving for the first time can seem overwhelming, but it’s easier than you might think. You can treat the move to Dubai like a move within Canada by following these simple steps outlined below.

Let’s break down what you need to do to ensure a hassle-free move from Canada to Dubai.

1. Explore Your Reasons

First things first, why do you want to move? Are you looking for a job, wanting to invest, or just seeking a fresh start? Many Canadians choose to invest in property as a way to earn income and secure residency. Make sure you do your homework first. Gather all your important documents. Look for a place to live that suits you.

And find out what you need to take care of right away when you arrive in Dubai. This includes things like setting up a bank account, figuring out transportation, and learning about the local culture.

2. Find a Job or Make an Investment

Before you can get a visa for Dubai, it's important to have a job offer or a good investment plan. Many people secure a job before moving, which makes the transition smoother.

If a job isn’t your path, think about investing in property or starting a business. Whether you choose a job or an investment, having a solid plan is key to making your move to Dubai successful.

3. Get Your Visa and Think About the Costs

Once you've landed a job or set up a solid investment plan, the next step is getting your visa and understanding the cost of living in Dubai as you make the move from Canada. You can choose from a work visa, residency, or the Golden Visa.

Before you make a big move, it’s important to check out living expenses. Depending on your lifestyle, you might find that Dubai is more affordable than Toronto, especially when it comes to rent, dining, groceries and many more. So, if you’re considering relocating, Dubai might just be the budget-friendly adventure you've been looking for.

4. Plan Your Move and Find a Home

When planning your move, it's essential to think about where you want to live. Choose a place that suits your budget and is convenient for your job.

Some ideal locations for newcomers to Canada include Dubai Marina, Downtown, and Dubai South.

If you’re considering where to live, areas like Dubai South are gaining popularity among expats. Learn more in our Dubai South Property Guide. We recommend that you take your time and explore the options that would best suit your needs.

5. Settle In and Learn the Local Culture

Once you arrive, take some time to learn about local customs and laws. It’s also a great idea to connect with other Canadians in Dubai. Building a community will help you feel at home in your new city.

Understanding Cultural Etiquette in Dubai

When you move to Dubai, it’s really important to respect the local culture to make your experience enjoyable. Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

• - Public Behaviour: In Dubai, showing affection in public, like hugging or kissing, isn’t accepted and can even lead to fines. So, it’s best to keep things respectful and modest when you’re out and about.
• - Dress Codes: Dubai is a bit more laid-back compared to other parts of the UAE, but it’s still smart to dress modestly. Try to cover your shoulders and knees, especially when you’re visiting malls, government buildings, or places of worship.
• - Ramadan Practices: If you’re in Dubai during Ramadan, remember that eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day isn’t allowed. It’s a good habit to be respectful by avoiding these activities during fasting hours.
• - Respect for Religion: Being loud, playing music, or being disrespectful towards Islamic customs can be seen as offensive. Always be polite and considerate, particularly when you’re near mosques.

Moving to Dubai can be an exciting journey! By getting to know the local culture, you'll be set for an amazing new chapter in your life.

Cost of Living Comparison: Canada vs. Dubai

Thinking about moving to Dubai from Canada? One of the big questions you might have is how the cost of living in Dubai stacks up against Canada. Let’s break it down together.

Housing

Dubai has a wide range of housing options. You can find everything from luxury apartments to more budget-friendly family homes.

Property Type	Toronto (CAD/month)	Downtown Dubai (AED/month)	Dubai (CAD Equivalent)
1-Bedroom Apartment	2,400	6,000	2,200
Studio Apartment	2,000	4,500	1,650

Want to know what fits your budget? Check out our blog on different types of houses in the UAE .

Transportation

Public transport in Dubai is pretty modern and up to the mark. However, many expats choose to buy a car because fuel is very affordable here.

Transportation	Toronto	Dubai
Monthly public transport	CAD 156	AED 300 (CAD 110)
Gasoline (per liter)	CAD 1.70	AED 3.50 (CAD 1.30)

Plus, Dubai has lower parking costs and fuel subsidies, making car ownership more practical for many expats.

Daily Necessities

When it comes to daily expenses, you might find that groceries, eating out, and utility costs can be lower in Dubai. Plus, there’s no property tax to worry about. Curious about the details? Our blog, Zero Property Tax in Dubai? Not Quite - Here’s the Fine Print , covers that!

Item	Toronto	Dubai (AED & CAD equivalent)
Milk (1 litre)	CAD 2.60	AED 6 (CAD $2.20)
Bread (500g loaf)	CAD 3.50	AED 5 (CAD $1.80)
Electricity/Water Bill	CAD 100+	AED 300 (CAD $110)

Overall, the cost of living in Dubai is more affordable than living in Canada. Knowing these differences is important if you’re planning to move to Dubai from Canada. It also helps you prepare and make the best choices for your future.

What Does Dubai Have to Offer Canadian Expats?

Dubai is an exciting place for Canadian expats! Here’s what you can expect:

Job Opportunities

Dubai’s economy is booming, providing numerous jobs for expats as well. If you're in tech, healthcare, finance, or renewable energy, you’re in luck. There's a high demand for roles like data analysts, engineers, healthcare professionals, and AI specialists.

Boost Your Chances

To make the most of it, consider getting local certifications. Networking on platforms like LinkedIn and attending events can help you connect with potential employers.

Family-Friendly Choices

If you’re moving with your family, Dubai has great schools and healthcare. There are many international schools, including ones that follow Canadian curricula, like the American School of Dubai and Maplewood Canadian International School.

Top-Notch Healthcare

When it comes to health, you’ll find a high-quality system here. Many hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff, such as the Canadian Specialist Hospital.

Weather and Lifestyle in Dubai

There's one big thing to keep in mind that the summers here are hot in Dubai. From June to September, temperatures go over 40°C (that’s about 104°F). During this time, most people stay indoors, but that’s not a problem because Dubai is ready for the heat. You’ll find lots of air-conditioned malls, cosy offices, public transport, and even playgrounds that are shaded.

On the brighter side, from November to March, the weather is absolutely lovely - perfect for enjoying outdoor fun!

Fun Things Canadians Might Enjoy:

• - Gorgeous beaches like JBR Beach and Kite Beach.
• - Amazing shopping malls, including The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
• - Exciting adventure activities like desert safaris, dune bashing, and skydiving.
• - A diverse food scene where you can find everything from Canadian poutine to delicious Middle Eastern shawarma.
• - Weekend trips to beautiful places like the Hatta Mountains and Abu Dhabi.

In short, Dubai has so much to offer Canadians! You’ll find great job opportunities, good schools, quality healthcare, and a chance to experience a lively new culture filled with sunshine, beaches, shopping, and endless adventures.

Bottom Line!

In a nutshell, moving to Dubai from Canada can be an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities. By understanding the visa options, finding a job or making an investment, and choosing the right place to live, you can make the move easier and more enjoyable.

Don't forget to learn about the local culture and connect with other Canadians; it will help you feel right at home. If you’re thinking about renting a home in Dubai while on a work visa, it’s a good idea to know about the RERA Rental Index to help you find the right rental price.Ready to make the move? Contact SSG7 Properties today to schedule a consultation and explore properties that suit your needs.​