May 24, 2025
Moving from KSA/UK/India: A Practical Family Set-Up Checklist (near Al Barari)
Residency, banking, driving licences, schools, healthcare, and day-to-day - everything families typically organise in their first month.
Relocating to Dubai is straightforward with the right sequence. Use this checklist to plan your first 30–60 days around Al Barari.
1) Residency & ID Secure UAE residency and Emirates ID (EID). Many onboarding steps (banking, utilities, licence exchange) require your EID or the EID application receipt.
2) Banking Major banks typically request: passport, residence visa/EID (or receipt), proof of UAE address/tenancy, and a salary letter or trade licence (if self-employed). Ask for relationship onboarding if you’re opening a priority account.
3) Driving licence Residents from approved countries can exchange a home-country licence for a UAE licence (no driving test). Apply via RTA (eye test required). Visitors from approved countries may drive on their home licence temporarily.
4) Schools (popular with Al Barari families) Dunecrest American School (American curriculum; IB Diploma option) Kings’ School Al Barsha (UK curriculum) Repton School Dubai (British/IB pathways) Book tours early; many operate waitlists in peak intake periods.
5) Healthcare Large multi-specialty hospitals (drive-to) include Saudi German Hospital (Al Barsha 3), with numerous clinics for routine care close by.
6) Everyday essentials Waitrose (Al Barari) plus additional supermarkets and cafés in neighbouring communities. Utilities (DEWA), internet (du/e&), and home insurance can be arranged once residency is in progress.
7) Short-term letting & modifications (owners) Short-term rentals require DET Holiday Home permits and must comply with community rules. Structural changes (pools, basements, extensions) need developer/community NOC and, where applicable, municipal approvals.