Just arrived in the UAE — or planning the move?

Visa, housing, banking, transport, healthcare and education guides — from people who've done the move.

First 30 days checklist →Browse by category

First 30 Days Checklist

What to do, in order, after landing in the UAE·Last verified: April 22, 2026

Week 1

Right after arrival

Verify the entry stamp (ROK passports get 90 days on arrival)

Week 2

Residency setup

Apply for Emirates ID (ICP app or in-person)

Week 3

Finance & transport

Open a full bank account (requires Emirates ID)

Week 4

Settling in

Confirm your health insurance registration

WarningTourist-visa 90-day limit — must convert before it runs out

The 90-day tourist stamp you get on arrival starts counting immediately. Convert to employment or dependent status before it expires or daily fines kick in. The 4-week plan above is sized to clear that deadline with margin.

WEEK 1Right after arrival

Verify the entry stamp (ROK passports get 90 days on arrival)
Check into temporary housing & get a SIM (du / Etisalat)
Ask your bank about a pre-Emirates-ID interim account
Gather tenancy registration docs (Ejari / Tawtheeq, emirate-specific)

WEEK 2Residency setup

Apply for Emirates ID (ICP app or in-person)
Register Ejari / Tawtheeq after the tenancy contract
Open utility accounts (Dubai DEWA · Abu Dhabi ADDC · Sharjah SEWA · northern FEWA)
Prepare documents to convert your driver's license (bilateral treaty applies to ROK licenses)

WEEK 3Finance & transport

Open a full bank account (requires Emirates ID)
Get a Nol card (metro and bus)
Convert your home license (RTA / Abu Dhabi Police)
Decide on car purchase / rental or transit pass

WEEK 4Settling in

Confirm your health insurance registration
Register children for school (if applicable)
Apply for family / dependent residence visas (if applicable)
Check tax & pension reporting obligations in your home country (residency status, etc.)