Everything You Must Prepare for a Smooth Start – Rules, Documents, and Expert Tips

Moving to Dubai means navigating some key administrative steps : driving license, banking, and (if needed) school for the kids. Here’s your up-to-date checklist for 2025 : documents, deadlines & pro tips for frictionless expat life!

Summary Table: What to Anticipate

Getting a Local Driving License

• Eligibility: Must be 18+, hold valid UAE residence visa & Emirates ID
• Direct Exchange: Many countries (EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Korea, Japan, etc.) allow simple conversion (eye test + fee, no classes).
• Others: Must open RTA “traffic file”, pass eye test, theory courses, driving lessons, and all exams (theory/parking/road). Number of lessons varies by experience.
• Documents: Original license (translated if not in English/Arabic), passport, Emirates ID, residence visa, photos, eye test certificate. Sometimes, No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer/sponsor (especially for students/housewives/self-employed).
• Process: All major driving schools handle paperwork, schedule tests, and issue final license. Appointments are online/phone; express processing available at extra cost.

Tip: If you have a recognized foreign license, you can be driving within a couple days of ID/visa approval!

Opening a Bank Account

• Documents: Passport, UAE visa, Emirates ID, local proof of address (rental contract/utility bill), salary certificate or employer letter, some banks ask for job offer.
• Opening current/savings account possible immediately after Emirates ID (required for most account types); some banks allow pre-opening with “in process” ID/visa.
• Process: Many banks (Emirates NBD, FAB, ADCB, DIB, etc.) offer digital onboarding via app and online portals. Few require in-person appointments.
• Debit cards issued in 1–3 days; check minimum balance rules (1,500–3,000 AED typical) to avoid monthly fees.
• Non-residents may open “savings only” accounts with more limitations.

Tip: For regular international transfers, choose a bank with low FX fees and global access (IBAN, SWIFT).

Enrolling Children in School

• Documents: Child’s passport/residence visa, birth certificate (sometimes translated/notarized), previous school records/transcripts, recent report cards, completed vaccinations, parent Emirates ID, student/parent photos.
• Private schools: Most popular for expats (British, IB, American, French, Indian, German, etc.) accept pre-applications online ; school year starts September, but rolling mid-year entry possible if seats open.
• Application process: Initial enquiry > application form > assessment/interview > offer > deposit to secure seat. Final KHDA (Dubai education authority) Parent-School contract signed online.
• Fees: Registration deposit: usually 10% of yearly fee. Tuition: from 15,000 up to 100,000+ AED/year; payment by term or by year.

Tips: Apply early for top schools (6–12 months before move). Prepare extra copies of all documents—schools may request several versions. Assessment is usually friendly, focused on “readiness” or language, not academic selection.

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FAQ – Newcomer Essentials

• Do you need Emirates ID for bank and license? Yes : this is the key document for almost every other step.
• Can non-residents open a full bank account? No; savings only, limited to basic functionality.
• Can school applications be started before arrival? Yes—apply online, secure spots in advance.
• What if I don’t have all school documents ready? Some schools allow “conditional” enrollment pending updates, but visa/passport is always required first.
• Which license can be exchanged? See official RTA or embassy lists; most Western and major Asian/Oceanian licenses accepted for exchange.

Bottom Line: Organize & Succeed

Dubai’s bureaucracy is efficient but document-first. Anticipate processes, gather every paper & digital copy, and use Pickeenoo for expert help at every step – you’ll save money, time, and stress during your new adventure!

Article Information:

• Article Length: ~5400 characters
• Internal Links: - Dubai Newcomer Essentials - Paperwork & Legal Tips Dubai - Best Dubai International Schools - Pickeenoo Expat Support - Digital Banking & Licensing UAE
• Last Updated: November 2025
• Category: Relocation / Paperwork / Life Admin