The decision to relocate is a significant life event. Today, Dubai and the UK have become prime destinations for clients as each offers unique and incredible advantages. However, recognising the financial implications before choosing to settle is such a crucial consideration. This is why at IMM Consult, we aim to provide a comprehensive cost of living in Dubai vs UK, serving our clients with informed advice.
Housing & Accommodation
In Dubai, clients often inquire about the contrast in rental costs between Downtown Dubai, for luxury apartments and International City, for more affordable places. It should be noted that there is no property tax but it’s essential to highlight the service charges, which add a considerable monthly expense.
Contrasting to Dubai, the UK presents a diverse housing landscape. With no debate, London has the highest rental prices, which at IMM Consult we emphasise to our clients. Nevertheless, cities like Manchester and Birmingham offer more affordable rentals. However, it’s important to note that the council tax and recurring expenses add and differ based on location and property value.
Salaries, Taxes & Cost of Living
Dubai’s tax-free income draws clients, leading to higher take-home pay. However, we ensure clients understand the cost of living, including groceries and dining out is considerably higher than anticipated.
In terms of the UK tax system, take-home pay is balanced by benefits like the National Health Service [NHS] and free public education. However, we ensure clients that these benefits can offset the impact of taxation.
Food, Groceries & Daily Expenses
In Dubai, usually imported goods have higher grocery values. Also dining out is a popular social activity in the Emirates, which is again quite expensive. However, these expenses can be controlled through a proper budgeting plan.
The UK, on the other hand, has a wider range of supermarket options catering to various budgets. Similarly, dining out in London is costly but smaller cities in the UK, offer more affordable dining options.
Transportation & Commuting
Dubai’s metro and bus systems are comparatively efficient and cheap. Since Dubai is located in the Middle East, fuel is affordable and encourages car ownership.
Contrastingly, the UK’s public transportation network is quite expensive in London. Car ownership in the UK has high insurance costs, which is a considerable fact in terms of transportation options in the UK compared to Dubai.
Healthcare & Education
Mandatory private health insurance is a significant add-on to healthcare required by the UAE government. Dubai offers excellent education in International schools which is expensive.
The UK provides free healthcare for residents which is an advantage. Public schools in the UK are free but private schools and universities charge a substantial fee. However, clients should recognise the quality of education between the public and private school systems.
How IMM Consult Can Assist
As IMM Consult, our role goes beyond processing visas as we provide,
- Personalised Immigration Solutions: We design our strategies to meet the unique needs of each client.
- Financial Planning: We offer guidance on budgeting for a smooth transition.
- Relocation Support: We assist with visa processing, job search support, and settling into a new environment.
- Extensive Experience: Our decade-plus of expertise in assisting clients with migration to destinations like the UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, and New Zealand ensures we provide informed and reliable advice.
Dubai offers the allure of tax-free income, but clients must be prepared for higher living costs. The UK, while having a tax system, provides significant benefits like free healthcare and public schooling. We at IMM Consult empower our clients to make informed decisions, about whether they relocate to Dubai or the UK. Let’s ensure we utilise these insights to best serve our clients.
