My Checklist

  • Follow up on Residency Visa - your passport will need to go to the Department of Naturalization & Immigration for Visa stamp. (This will take no more than 2-3 days).
  • Take a medical test for Visa - HIV blood test / Chest X-Ray.
  • Obtain a Health card.
  • Work permit issued once visa is stamped on your passport.
  • Obtain a UAE driving licence, as soon as you receive your residency visa - you will need a temporary licence in the meantime if driving a privately owned car.
  • Open a bank account - you will need a residency visa to open a current account, a savings account will only be possible with a visitor’s visa.
  • Ensure adequate funds in your account to cover present outgoings.
  • If you have not already secured a school place, check waiting lists placements and consider other options if necessary.
  • When a school place is secured arrange an informal visit, purchase uniforms, books etc
  • Settle into temporary accommodation whether hotel / short term rental whilst securing more permanent accommodation.
  • Follow up on your shipment, quoting the reference number given. Arrange for custom clearance or liaise with your relocation company to arrange same and arrange delivery of your goods to your Abu Dhabi location.
  • Once permanent accommodation is secured, arrange for water, and electricity connection.
  • Ensure house/ content Insurance is in place.
  • Ensure health cover is in place.
  • Arrange for gas supply delivery and drinking water delivery.
  • Apply for telephone line, internet line, cable TV.
  • Apply for a PO Box in Abu Dhabi.
  • Buy / Lease a car and organize SALIK registration if you will be travelling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai.
  • If suffering from a pre-existing medical condition register with a Doctor.
  • Research Doctors and Dentists - recommendations or on-line research. 
  • Arrange domestic help - maid, gardener, driver etc
  • Familiarize yourself with your local supermarkets / shopping malls.
  • Register your pet with a vet.
  • If appropriate apply for an alcohol Licence.
  • Explore social network groups.
  • Apply for Loyalty cards Air miles, Etihad Guest etc
  • Continue to learn about local culture and traditions of the UAE.