Moving to the UAE is exciting, but also a bit overwhelming. If you’re moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah from abroad or within the country, there’s a lot to sort out before you feel at home. Some of these tasks are admin. Others are practical. Everything goes more smoothly when you know what to expect.
The UAE has seen more than 370,000 new internet users in the past year, meaning that 99 percent of the population is now connected (DataReportal, 2025). Most services can be set up online or through an app, which is good news for newcomers who may not yet know their way around the city. But knowing which services are available and how to arrange them can save you time and stress.
When you move into a new home, the first thing you need to do is connect the water, electricity, and air conditioning. In Dubai, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) handles this. In Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) handles this. In Sharjah, SEWA provides the service. You can register online in all three emirates. You will usually need your Emirates ID, a copy of your passport, and a copy of your tenancy contract. Deposits vary, but typically range from 2,000 to 4,000 AED, depending on the property type.
The internet connection is set up right away. Etisalat (now E&T) and Du are the two main providers. Most areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi now have fast internet connections. Plans start around AED 299 per month, and installation usually takes two to five working days.
Air conditioning is especially good. In Dubai, many buildings use district cooling (provided by Empower or other companies). This means that your air conditioning comes from a central plant instead of a single unit. The bill arrives separately from DEWA and can be surprisingly high in summer, so it is worth understanding the rate structure before you move in.
Even a brand-new apartment collects dust during handover. If you are moving into a flat someone else has just left, it’s important to clean it thoroughly before you start unpacking. The cleaning services market in the UAE was worth 2.1 billion US dollars in 2025 and is growing at about 4.9 percent every year. This is partly because many new residents need these services (IMARC Group).
Household cleaning makes up about 32% of the total market, and Dubai accounts for 40% of the country’s demand. Many providers offer these services, but quality and price can vary widely. Some companies charge a fixed price based on the apartment size, while others charge by the hour. A standard deep clean for a two-bedroom apartment usually costs between AED 300 and AED 600, depending on how much work is needed.
If you prefer to avoid guesswork, you can compare quotes from independent cleaners on Everlook and choose based on reviews and pricing. Having multiple options side by side makes it easier to find someone who fits your budget and schedule.
Many cleaning companies in the UAE also offer regular maintenance packages (weekly or biweekly visits) at reduced rates. Setting up a recurring arrangement early can save you from scrambling to find help later, especially during busy periods like Ramadan and the summer months.
If your apartment doesn’t have any furniture (which is common in Dubai), you will need to get furniture, appliances, and fittings. IKEA, Home Centre and Pan Emirates are good places to start if you’re looking for mid-range furniture. For appliances, Sharaf DG and Jumbo Electronics sell the most well-known brands and can deliver and install them.
Don’t forget to take care of your curtains and blinds too. The sun in the UAE is very strong, and without the right window coverings, indoor temperatures (and cooling costs) can quickly become very high. Many people also put blackout curtains on their bedroom windows, especially the ones that face east. Several companies offer free measurement and fitting as part of the purchase.
If you need someone to do any drilling, mounting or small structural work, you can hire a handyman by the hour. The cost for this service is usually between 50 and 100 AED for each hour of work. The exact cost depends on how complicated the job is. Make sure that anyone you hire has the right permits, especially for buildings with strict maintenance rules.
Beyond the physical setup of your home, there are several administrative steps that are easy to forget in the rush of moving.
| Task | Where / How | Typical Timeline |
| Emirates ID registration | ICP (Federal Authority for Identity) | 5-10 working days |
| Health insurance activation | Through employer or DHA portal | Varies; mandatory in Dubai |
| Vehicle registration transfer | RTA service centres or app | 1-2 days |
| Ejari (tenancy registration) | Dubai REST app or typing centres | Same day |
| DEWA / utility connection | Online portal | 1-3 working days |
| School enrolment (if applicable) | KHDA-approved schools | Varies by term |
Source: UAE government portals, 2025-2026
Ejari registration is particularly important. It is the official record of your tenancy contract and is required for visa processing, school enrolment, and opening a bank account. You can complete it through the Dubai REST app or at a typing centre, and it costs around AED 220 including the typing fee.
Once you are settled, regular maintenance can stop small problems from turning into big ones. AC filters should be cleaned or replaced every three to four months. Water heaters, especially in villas, need to be checked and serviced every year. And plumbing problems are best fixed quickly, because water damage in an apartment building can affect neighbours and create responsibility.
Having a reliable contact for each type of service means you won’t waste time when something breaks at an inconvenient moment. Many people who move into a new home will quickly make a list of electricians, plumbers and air conditioning technicians they trust. Online platforms that bring together service providers and display reviews make this process faster and clearer.
What is the first thing I should do after signing a lease in the UAE?
Register your tenancy (Ejari in Dubai), then set up utility connections through DEWA, ADDC, or SEWA depending on your emirate. Both can usually be done online within a few days.
How much does a deep clean cost for a new apartment in Dubai?
A standard deep clean for a two-bedroom apartment typically costs between AED 300 and AED 600, depending on the provider and scope of work.
Is health insurance mandatory for UAE residents?
Yes, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Employers are generally required to provide health insurance for their employees. Dependents may also need coverage, which can be arranged through the employer or purchased privately.
How do I find reliable home services in the UAE?
Online platforms that let you compare providers, read reviews, and request quotes are the most efficient way to find quality services. Word of mouth through community groups and building management is also common.
Living in the UAE as an expat comes with its own set of rules, procedures, and unwritten norms. Whether you've just arrived or have been here for years, there's always something to figure out — from renewing your visa and opening a bank account to finding the right school or navigating the healthcare system. We cover the practical side of life in the Emirates so you can spend less time on bureaucracy and more time actually enjoying it.
