Preparing to move

The preparation is perhaps the most difficult and time-consuming part of your move abroad when relocating to Abu Dhabi. But rest assured, Abu Dhabi is a very modern city and has almost everything that you could wish to find, so if you forget anything you can almost always find it here.

Before you arrive, it’s a good idea to prepare photocopies of your documents (such as your passport) and up to twenty passport photos (you’ll be amazed at how many you’ll need for various applications and documents).

Citizens of many countries, including the UK, the US and Australia, are granted a tourist visa on arrival. This is valid for 30 days. The next step is to apply for employment and residence visas; these are almost always taken care of by the company (this is one occasion when those passport photos will come in handy).

Sponsoring your family may or may not be taken care of by your employer. Your company is legally obliged to cover your health insurance, and once you’ve been set up on a scheme you’ll be given a medical card which you’ll need to bring with you on all trips to the hospital.

Remember that we are here to help, and will do our best to reduce the stress that goes along with moving, and involve you and your family in our community before you have even set off for Abu Dhabi.

From the outset, you will be assigned an admissions officer to assist you with your application for your child. Our dedicated admissions officer will remain at your disposal throughout the application and preparation process and immediately once you have joined school.