How To Relocate From Ghana To Dubai

Known for its futuristic skyline, tax-free salaries, and multicultural atmosphere, Dubai has become a top destination for expats across Africa. But before you pack your bags, here's a guide to help you plan your relocation, including costs and realities.

Why Dubai appeals to immigrants

Dubai might be famous for tourism, but it's a thriving hub for business and technology. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers strong job markets, tax-free income for many categories of workers, and excellent living standards.

For Ghanaians, the appeal is clear:

Career growth: Dubai's economy is diverse, and key sectors like technology, real estate, and renewable energy are projected to become multibillion-dollar industries. 

Global exposure: You'll join a melting pot of professionals worldwide. Dubai's population is largely expatriate, with people from over 200 nationalities. This creates a highly diverse environment with opportunities to work, network, and socialize.

Ease of travel: Regular flights connect Accra to Dubai in under 8 hours.

Safe environment: Low crime rates and efficient infrastructure make settling smoother.

Of course, relocating isn't straightforward, and the planning and processing can take years. You'll need proper documentation, financial planning, and cultural awareness, especially if you're moving long-term or supporting family back home.

Getting your visa and residency sorted

For Ghanaian citizens, entering Dubai requires a visa, and the type you choose depends on your travel purpose.

Tourist visa

If visiting first to explore, you can apply for a 30- or 90-day tourist visa. Applications can be made online through onlinedubaivisa.com or UAE-based airlines and travel agencies. You'll need:

A valid Ghanaian passport (minimum six months' validity)

• Passport-sized photo
• Proof of accommodation and return flight
• Bank statement or sponsor's proof of income

A Dubai tourist visa for Ghanaian citizens typically takes 3 to 4 working days to process. However, expedited services can take as little as 24-48 hours. Processing times can vary based on the visa type and the applicant's circumstances.

Work visa

Your employer will usually sponsor your work visa for those relocating for employment. The process involves:

1. Receiving a job offer from a UAE-based company
2. Employer applying for an entry permit.
3. Medical tests and Emirates ID registration after arrival
4. Issuance of your residence visa (valid for 2–3 years)

For more details, see Velocity Global's guide to UAE work permits.

Freelancer or remote work visa

If you work remotely or freelance, Dubai now offers a Virtual Work Visa, which allows professionals to live in the UAE for a year while working for companies abroad. You'll need proof of employment or business ownership, a minimum income (currently around USD 3,500/month), and valid health insurance.

Document attestation

All Ghanaian certificates (education, marriage, etc.) must be attested by the UAE Embassy in Accra and Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs before submission. You can confirm the requirements at mofa.gov.ae.

Finding work or organising your income stream

If you don't already have a job offer, you should begin your search at least a year before arriving. Popular job portals include LinkedIn, Bayt, and GulfTalent. For Ghanaians in hospitality, construction, education, and IT, opportunities are growing, but competition is high.

For freelancers or remote workers, Dubai's free zones offer licensing options for independent professionals. You can operate legally, invoice clients, and open business bank accounts.

However, according to Business Insider, the cost of living in Dubai is rising while salaries can remain flat. The city remains one of the most attractive destinations for expats, but daily expenses have increased sharply in recent years.

For example, rents in popular areas like Marina or Downtown have surged by 15–25%, making accommodation the largest monthly cost. Even in mid-range neighborhoods, one-bedroom apartments can cost between AED 6,000–9,000 monthly (around GHS 30,000–45,000). Utility bills add another AED 500–800, depending on usage.

Groceries and dining out have also become pricier; a simple restaurant meal averages AED 40–60, while monthly grocery shopping for one person may run AED 1,000–1,500. 

Transportation is affordable compared to Western cities (the metro is reliable and cheap). However, owning a car can be costly due to insurance and parking fees.

‍

Banking and staying connected

Once your residency is approved, you can open a UAE bank account with Emirates NBD, Mashreq, or Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. You'll need:

• Passport and visa
• Emirates ID
• Proof of address or tenancy contract

Dubai's robust financial system makes sending money home easy, but fees and exchange rates vary. Many Ghanaians use secure online services like Pesa, which offer faster and more affordable transfers than traditional banks.

Compare transfer fees regularly; even small differences can save a lot when remitting monthly.

You can join Ghanaian expat communities through Facebook or WhatsApp groups for support, housing tips, and networking opportunities.

Legal, cultural, and social integration

Dubai's laws differ sharply from Ghana's. While it's safe and welcoming, remember:

• Avoid posting critical political content on social media.
• Public intoxication, swearing, and offensive gestures are punishable.
• Never overstay your visa — fines accumulate daily.  In 2024, Dubai authorities fined and deported over 160 people in a visa scam case, which is a reminder to stay compliant.

Dubai is friendly and inclusive socially. English is widely spoken, and there's a growing African community. Learning basic Arabic greetings like "Shukran" (thank you) or "Marhaban" (hello) goes a long way in daily interactions.

If you're moving with your family, you can sponsor dependents once your income meets the threshold (around AED 4,000–5,000/month). Several international schools offer British, American, and IB curricula.

‍

Moving your belongings and setting up life

Flying from Accra to Dubai is straightforward. Emirates and FlyDubai offer daily direct flights. You can also connect via Ethiopian Airlines or Qatar Airways.

If you're moving household items, use licensed international shipping companies. Most expats start with short-term furnished rentals until they find permanent accommodation.

Upon arrival, your immediate priorities in the UAE should focus on establishing yourself legally and practically: you must first obtain your mandatory Emirates ID, which is essential for all services. 

Following this, you must open a local bank account for financial transactions and register for health insurance, a legal requirement. Finally, to ensure you are connected for personal life and remote work, purchase a local SIM card from providers like Etisalat or Du, then set up reliable internet access at your residence.

Common relocation challenges 

Visa delays 

Visa and permit processing times are frequently subject to unforeseen administrative backlogs, unexpected documentation requests, or policy changes. To mitigate this: Apply early, ideally months before your planned move, and dedicate time to double-check every document against the official checklist. Any minor discrepancy can send your application back to the start. Have a contingency plan for a later arrival date than you initially hoped.

High rent deposits 

Unlike many Western countries, where a one or two-month security deposit is standard, most landlords or property management companies require a significant portion of the rent upfront. Budgeting for three to six months' rent, plus a security deposit, is important.

Culture shock and strict rules 

While many international hubs are incredibly diverse and welcoming, you should still anticipate a degree of culture shock. This may stem from a society with more strict rules and conservative public conduct than your home country. These rules often govern dress, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. The key is to embrace diversity while understanding and respecting local laws and customs. Researching local etiquette and legal guidelines beforehand will minimize unexpected friction.

Remittance strain 

If you plan to send money back home (remittance), be prepared for strain caused by fluctuating exchange rates. A rate change of just a few percentage points can significantly affect the local currency your family receives. Set up an account with a reliable money transfer service that offers competitive, fixed rates and transparency. Monitor the rates and consider sending larger, less frequent amounts when the exchange rate is favorable, rather than sending small amounts weekly.

Job uncertainty 

Even with a job offer, initial employment can sometimes be unstable or lead to unforeseen issues, especially in high-turnover industries or during probation periods. Maintain savings sufficient to cover at least three months' expenses (rent, food, utilities) without an income. This financial buffer provides a crucial safety net, reducing the pressure of job hunting if your initial employment doesn't work out, and allowing you to take the time needed to find a better, more stable long-term role.

Conclusion

Ghanaians can settle in Dubai long-term through renewable residency visas or long-term options like the Golden Visa, offered to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. While UAE citizenship is rarely granted, long-term residents enjoy excellent living standards and global mobility.