Moving to the UAE comes with new opportunities and a chance to experience life in a different culture. But settling in isn’t just about finding a job or a place to live—it also means figuring out how to access essential government services like visa applications and local registrations. Knowing where to start can make everyday life much easier.
But at Remitly, we understand that knowing where to start can sometimes be the problem. So this guide breaks down key aspects like residency renewal, Emirates ID applications, and housing document verification. We’ll also walk you through the main government portals, and share some tips to help you make the most of the available services.
How government services work in the UAE
The UAE is made up of seven Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. While the country has federal ministries that handle visas, work permits, and passports, each emirate also has its own government offices that take care of local services like housing, healthcare, and school registrations.
As an expat, you’ll likely need to apply for things like a residence visa, Emirates ID, and other official documents. The good news is that many of these services are available online, saving you trips to government offices. However, some steps like identity verification and biometric scans still require you to go to these places in person.
Why it’s important to understand the system
Knowing how the UAE’s government services are structured can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. At the federal level, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security manages residence visas, Emirates ID cards, and passport services for UAE nationals. Each emirate also has its own departments handling property registrations, labour regulations, and other local matters like EJARI in Dubai, which is required for rental agreements.
For expats, keeping track of deadlines and following the correct procedures is essential because missing a renewal date for your residency, or forgetting to submit a required document, can result in fines or legal issues. By understanding how the system works you can avoid such complications and settle into life in the UAE more smoothly.
Essential services for expats in the UAE
There are lots of things to consider when moving to a new country, so knowing how the processes work for essential services will make your transition a lot more straightforward. This could be anything from getting your residency permit and arranging medical coverage to enrolling your children in school.
Residency and visa services
If you’re living or planning to live in the UAE as a foreigner, you’ll need a valid visa. Depending on your situation, this could be a work visa, family sponsorship, or investor visa. The process usually involves a few key steps.
- Entry Permit
Your employer or sponsor will usually arrange this so you can legally enter the UAE and begin your residency application. - Residency Visa
Once you’re in the country, you’ll complete medical tests, submit application forms, and provide biometric data. A federal or local immigration office will then confirm your eligibility. - Emirates ID
Issued along with your residency visa, this card will be your main form of identification. You’ll need to provide biometric data and a copy of your passport.
Remember to keep track of your visa and Emirates ID expiry dates. If you miss a renewal, you could risk fines or even visa cancellation.
Health and medical services
The UAE has a well-developed healthcare system that’s managed by both federal and local authorities. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have their own health regulators, while other Emirates follow federal guidelines. If you’re employed, your company is required to provide at least basic health insurance. However, coverage for family members may be different, so it’s worth checking what’s included in any proposed plan if you’re job hunting in the UAE.
To register for public healthcare services, you’ll usually need your Emirates ID, residence visa, and proof of address. If you need specialised care, like therapy or major surgery, you might need extra approvals from medical authorities.
Education and schooling
If you’re relocating with children, finding the right school will likely be a high priority. Since public schools mainly cater to UAE nationals, most expat families choose private international schools.
- Admissions
Many private schools handle applications online. You’ll typically need to submit a copy of your child’s passport, Emirates ID, and previous school records. - Higher education and “Emiratisation”
Bear in mind that some universities and vocational programs in the UAE focus on training UAE nationals for the workforce, but many do also welcome international students. - Transfer of certification
If your child is transferring from another country, some schools may ask for previous educational certificates to be officially verified by the Ministry of Education or other authorities.
The UAE is a technologically advanced nation, which makes it easier for residents to access important government services online. However, there are generally still in-person options for setting up or enquiring about the most essential services.
Online portals for public services
Online services make it more convenient to apply for permits, pay fees, and track applications, especially if you’re a newcomer juggling other personal priorities. There are some useful platforms to familiarise yourself with:
- Smart Services portals
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security has a unified platform where you can apply for visas and Emirates ID. These sites usually allow you to upload documents, complete forms, and pay fees online. - Emirate-specific apps
In Dubai, the DubaiNow app provides access to various services, from paying utility bills to renewing your driver’s license. Other Emirates have similar online portals, too. - Chatbots and helplines
The UAE government’s online support is extensive, with many agencies offering live-chat support and customer service hotlines where you can ask questions about your visa status, work permits, or other official matters.
Employment and work permits
If you’re working in the UAE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) handles job contracts and labour regulations. There are a few bits of bureaucracy to expect when finalising your employment:
- Job offer letter
This outlines your salary, job title, and employment conditions. - Work permit and residency visa
Your employer will handle most of the paperwork, linking your visa to an official work permit. - Residency stamping
Once your work permit is approved, your residency visa will be stamped, allowing you to stay in the country legally. - Emirates ID and health insurance
Some employers take care of this for you as part of their efforts to attract top talent, while others require you to complete these steps yourself.
Remember to keep copies of your contracts and official documents. If you switch jobs, be sure to follow the correct process to transfer your work permit and update your residency status.
Financial assistance in the UAE
While the UAE has a strong economy, its cost of living is high and hardship can happen. Government financial aid is usually reserved for UAE nationals, though, so expats facing difficulty may have to seek support through registered charities and community organisations.
For example, in Dubai, the Community Development Authority (CDA) runs welfare programmes to help those in need. If you’re struggling with rent, medical expenses, or other urgent costs, you can apply for assistance through approved non-profit groups.
Be prepared to provide proof of income, residency documents, and possibly employer references. And be sure to work only with verified charities and government-approved organisations to avoid scams.
Tips for accessing government services easily
Navigating government services in the UAE is much easier when you stay organised and use the right tools. Consider these helpful tips to help you avoid unnecessary delays and make the process smoother.
Stay on top of rules and deadlines
Each emirate has its own set of rules when it comes to things like residency, renting property, or business licensing. Keeping track of important dates like visa renewals and Emirates ID updates can help you avoid fines or last-minute stress.
Missing a renewal, even by a few days, can lead to penalties. Checking official websites and keeping an eye on official government announcements can help you stay informed and avoid any nasty surprises.
Making the most of digital services
As we mentioned earlier, the UAE heavily emphasises digital solutions. instead of waiting in long queues, use government apps and e-portals like DubaiNow—or MOHRE’s eNetwasal in the case of labour contract matters—to renew your residency or pay fees. These platforms save you time and also mean there’s a digital record of your applications, so you always have proof of your submissions.
Keep your documents updated
Having clear copies of your passport, visa, and Emirates ID can be a lifesaver when you need to submit applications or verify your identity. It’s also a good idea to check your email and app notifications regularly, to avoid missing any updates from the authorities.
We already mentioned informing the relevant government office if you switch jobs, and the same goes if you move to a new home, or indeed need to update any personal details. In a digital-first country like the UAE, it’s particularly important that your online records are accurate and up to date.
Making government services work for you
Settling into life in the UAE comes with plenty of new experiences, and handling official paperwork is just one part of the journey. While things might seem complicated at first, once you get familiar with the key services and digital tools available, managing residency, healthcare, and other essentials becomes much easier.
If you have any worries, remember you’re not alone and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Government centres, online chat support, and expat communities can all provide useful guidance. The more you engage with these systems, the more confident you’ll feel in understanding life in the UAE.
FAQs
What key services does the UAE government provide?
The UAE government offers a wide range of services, including issuing Residency visa, Emirates ID registration, public healthcare programmes, educational institutions for Citizens, social welfare schemes, and more. Also, local governments in specific Emirates like Dubai manage property registrations (e.g., EJARI), business licensing, and community development initiatives.
Can expats get financial assistance from the Dubai government?
Direct financial assistance from Dubai authorities primarily goes to UAE nationals. However, organisations operating under the Community Development Authority may offer some help to expats facing hardships. Typically, you need to apply with proof of your residency, income, and reason for requesting aid.
What are some online portals for UAE government services?
The UAE has several digital platforms that make accessing government services easier. DubaiNow helps with bill payments, visa renewals, and vehicle services, while MOHRE eNetwasal is useful for checking work contracts and labour-related queries. For visa applications and Emirates ID processing, ICP Smart Services is the go-to portal, and , provides a range of services in Abu Dhabi.