Dubai Residence Visa Guide

How to Move to Dubai in 2025: Visa, Emirates ID & License Guide

Learn how to legally move to Dubai in 2025. This step-by-step guide covers UAE residence visas, Emirates ID applications, and Dubai driving licenses for expats.

Solid Cars

May 5, 2025 • 5 min read

Dreaming of starting a new chapter in Dubai? You’re not alone. With its tax-free salaries, luxury lifestyle, and pro-expat policies, Dubai is one of the world’s top destinations for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking to relocate.

But before you’re brunching at the Burj or road-tripping through the desert, you’ll need three essentials:
✅ A UAE residence visa
✅ An Emirates ID
✅ A Dubai driving license

This 2025 step-by-step guide will show you how to secure all three—quickly, legally, and with confidence.

🌍 Why Move to Dubai in 2025?

Dubai is more than a skyline—it’s a launchpad for global careers and lifestyle freedom. Thanks to bold government initiatives like the Golden Visa and Green Visa, expats from the UK, India, Canada, and beyond can now live in the UAE without a local sponsor.

Other perks?

Zero income tax
World-class infrastructure
Easy global connectivity
One of the safest cities globally

🏙️ Step One: How to Get a Dubai Residence Visa

To legally live and work in the UAE, you’ll need a residence visa—your golden ticket to life in Dubai.

🔹 Types of UAE Residence Visas

Visa Type	Description
Employment Visa	Sponsored by a UAE-based employer. Valid for 2–3 years. Learn more
Golden Visa	For entrepreneurs or property investors. Self-sponsored. Investor process
Family Visa	Sponsor your spouse, children, or parents if eligible. Family visa details
Green Visa	For freelancers, digital nomads, and skilled professionals. No employer required. Green Visa info
Retirement Visa	For 55+ residents meeting income/savings criteria. How to retire in Dubai

🔸 Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Get a Sponsor
Can be an employer, family member, or yourself (if investing or freelancing).

2. Apply for an Entry Permit
This allows you to enter the UAE to finalize your visa.
➤ Entry permit details

3. Complete a Medical Fitness Test
Includes chest X-ray and blood tests for communicable diseases.
➤ What to expect at the medical

4. Submit Your Visa Application
You'll need:

Original passport
Entry permit
ID photos
Medical results
Proof of sponsorship

5. Register Biometrics + Emirates ID
Visit an ICP center for fingerprinting and a photo.
➤ Where to register

6. Visa Approval & Passport Stamping
Your residence visa is stamped into your passport and valid for 2–3 years.

Step Two: Apply for Your Emirates ID

The Emirates ID is your legal identity in the UAE—it’s mandatory for all residents and required for almost everything.

🔹 What You’ll Use It For

Opening a bank account
Getting a SIM card
Renting a car or home
Accessing healthcare
Driving license applications
Government portals (like UAE Pass)

🔸 How to Apply

1. Submit Biometric Data
Usually completed during visa steps at an ICP center.

2. Provide Documents

Passport
Residence visa
Passport photo

3. Pay the Fees
Typically AED 100–200 per year. Some companies cover this.

4. Wait for Delivery
Your Emirates ID arrives in 7–10 business days.
Track it here

➤ Full Emirates ID guide

🚗 Step Three: How to Get a Dubai Driving License

Dubai is built for cars. Whether you plan to cruise along Sheikh Zayed Road or head to the mountains, you’ll need a valid UAE license.

🔹 Who Can Apply?

Residents aged 18+ with a valid Emirates ID.

🔸 Required Documents

Emirates ID
Residence visa
Passport copy
4 photos
Eye test from an RTA-approved optician
NOC from sponsor (if applicable)

🔸 Licensing Process

Step 1: Eye Test
Visit any optician authorized by the RTA.

Step 2: Register with Driving School
Choose from schools like Emirates Driving Institute or Galadari.

Step 3: Theory Test
Take the multiple-choice test after attending theory classes or using the RTA app.

Step 4: Parking Test (Yard Test)
Demonstrate reverse, parallel, angle parking, and hill start.

Step 5: Road Test
An RTA examiner will test your real-world driving.

Already Have a License?
You may be eligible to convert your foreign license without a test if you're from:

UK
Canada
USA
Germany
France
Australia
➤ Full list of convertible countries

✅ Dubai Residency Checklist

Step	Action Required	Notes
Visa	Sponsor, medical, stamping	Pick the right visa for your status
Emirates ID	Biometric scan, application	Mandatory for all services
Driving License	Eye test, theory, road test	Or convert a valid foreign license

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get UAE residency?

1–3 weeks depending on your visa type and document readiness.

Can I apply for Emirates ID before my visa?

No. You need a valid residence visa first.

Can I use my foreign driving license in Dubai?

Yes, if you're from an approved country. Otherwise, you'll need to pass local tests.

What visa should I get if I'm a freelancer?

The Green Visa or Virtual Work Residency are perfect for you.