Any time you move from one country to another, you can expect a bit of a cultural shock. An international move to the UK from Dubai is no exception. A lot will change for you when you move and live as an expat in the UK. There are a few basic things you need to know about before moving to London from Dubai so you can better understand the environment you will be living in.
To make the change easier for you and your family, try to book movers for your move to the UK. This will save you a lot of time to focus on other important things, and make your move stress-free.
Start House Hunting Before Moving to London from Dubai
Before actually moving to the UK from Dubai, you need to find a place to live! Finding housing after you make your move is extremely difficult, so it is best to start looking early and have a game plan in place. Set a budget for housing costs and start looking within your range. If possible, try to visit the UK before you make the big move. Otherwise, ask a friend who already resides there.
Don’t Take Everything
It can be tempting to pack up everything you own and take it with you. This is not a very smart idea. Before you move, you really need to declutter and cut down on your belongings. Separate your items into things you will keep and things you will give away. After you know exactly what you’ll be moving with you, look for the right international movers. Decide on the route you would like to take and any extra services you might need.
Check Animal Laws
If you are thinking of relocating from Dubai to England with pets, then get ready for a bit of a hassle. They have some very strict and stringent laws about bringing in international animals. All your pets must have the proper immunizations and paperwork to document their health status from certified vets. Read up and double-check all UK laws that apply to your pets to be sure they will be allowed in the country.
Socialize
Many expats living in the UK will tell you that you can’t be shy if you want to make friends. Big cities in the UK are full of fast-paced young professionals who won’t be knocking on your front door to welcome you to the neighborhood. If you want to make new friends, try asking people at work to hang out or join a gym to meet new people. All you need to do is get out there, have fun, and be friendly.
Check Business Hours
In Dubai, stores are open pretty much at any time of the day or night. It is really the city that never sleeps. The UK, on the other hand, does not share Dubai’s nighttime energy at all. On top of that, many businesses either close on Sundays or have reduced hours. This may be quite difficult to deal with especially if you are working a 9 to 5 job. Be sure to organize your time according to this new information.
Check Bank Account Rules
Much like the UAE, the UK has strict laws about residents opening bank accounts in the country. It is not possible for you to open a British bank account before you arrive in the UK, so plan accordingly. Make sure to keep your Dubai bank account open until you get a new one in the UK. A big step you can take to make this easier for you is to open a bank account in Dubai with branches in the UK. This will make your money-related issues less complex.
Save Up Money
Like Dubai, the UK is also very expensive to live in. Rent, utilities, high taxes, and many other things should be taken into consideration when saving up. Any time you move, you should be sure to have an emergency fund for any unexpected payment or crises.
Pack for Cold Weather
The UK is very cold and damp. You’ll be seeing rain for most of the year. In the winter, you will also be seeing a lot of snow which you never see in Dubai. This can be a bit of a shock and may cause you some discomfort at first. Be prepared for the UK weather and don’t let it dampen your spirits. So, pack the appropriate clothes with you and try to enjoy the change.
Driving
As you have probably already heard, people in the UK drive on the left side of the road. This change is no joke! Trying to drive in the UK is difficult and confusing. You will need to take a few driving lessons before you can drive in the UK. If you feel you can’t handle the driving change, learn about public transportation in the city you live in or save up for an uber. Cars are also a lot more expensive to buy and maintain in the UK than in Dubai due to taxes, high fuel prices, and insurance rates.
Conclusion
To make your relocation process less strenuous and much more relaxing, try hiring international movers for your move to the UK. These companies will help you find all the services you need to make the UK feel like home in no time.
If you’re moving to London from Dubai visit ServiceMarket now and mention your moving dates along with the services you require to find the best relocation companies in Dubai.
