Calling all digital nomads: Votes are in, and for the second consecutive year, Dubai retains its top spot for the best city to work in remotely. Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s serene capital, follows hot on its heels, securing second place on the Savills Executive Nomad Index 2024.
And what’s not to love? Speedy internet connectivity, world-class residential facilities, and sunshine all year round are just some irresistible amenities that make Dubai and Abu Dhabi a long-term dream for executive nomads.
It’s an easy choice between curling your toes in the hot sands of Cove Beach or starting the day with traditional Emirati breakfast at Arabian Tea House, as you juggle non-stop meetings out of office.
UAE, home to over 200 nationalities
Savills, the London-based global real estate firm, gathers world research experts to produce credible reports through its Impact program. Its Executive Nomad Index analyzes older remote workers, who are in search of a long-term yet temporary home away from home and most likely to shift with families in tow.
Dubai, followed by Abu Dhabi, ticked all the boxes in terms of access to safety and healthcare for these digital nomads, besides the basic concerns of internet speed. Proximity to air travel through Dubai International Airport (DXB), the busiest international airport in the world, also makes the city an indisputable haven for remote working.
Andrew Cummings, head of residential agency Middle East at Savills, said:
“Dubai and Abu Dhabi are incredibly appealing to executive nomads, because they offer everything you need to thrive both personally and professionally, from modern infrastructure to high quality of life. We’ve seen a real focus on creating a lively business environment where there are plenty of opportunities to grow, build networks and make lifelong connections.”
Naturally, these traveling executives look for a visa scheme that will allow them to stay in the country for longer. So, if you’ve been given the green light to work anywhere, and you’re eyeing the golden beaches of Dubai, all you have to do is apply for the UAE’s Virtual Work residence visa.
What is the Virtual Work residence visa?
Foreigners working in companies outside of the UAE can take advantage of a one-year virtual work visa that allows them to sponsor themselves. That said, remote workers don’t have to look for a guarantor and can fly directly to the UAE with little to no red tape.
You’ll need to provide proof on two accounts:
- Evidence that shows you work remotely for an organization outside the UAE; and
- A monthly salary of at least USD $3,500 or its equivalent in a different currency.
The one-year visa can be extended as needed upon renewal. If you’re specifically looking to move to the emirate of Dubai, apply to its virtual working program instead.
What is Dubai’s Virtual Working Program?
Similar to the remote work visa, the virtual working program allows foreigners to relocate to Dubai for one year as long as they’re employed outside of the UAE with remote eligibility. This includes entrepreneurs and start-up companies as well.
If you’re an employee, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of employment with a one-year contract validity that states a minimum monthly salary of USD $3,500
- Bank statements of three months preceding application
- Health insurance
If you’re a business owner, prepare:
- Proof of ownership of the company for one year or more
- A monthly income of at least USD $3,500
- Bank statements of the company’s account for the preceding three months
- Family documents, if applicable
Once your visa is processed, at the discretion of the UAE authorities, digital nomads can access all services for a comfortable stay, such as telecommunications, utilities, medical, schooling for children, and more.
