Moving to Spain from UAE

To begin your journey, you must first apply for the correct Spanish visa. Most UAE residents moving for work apply for the Spain work visa for UAE residents, while others may seek family reunion, student, or non-lucrative visas. Visa applications are made at the Spanish Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai.

You’ll need a valid passport, visa application form, biometric photos, proof of employment or invitation letter, medical insurance, police clearance, and proof of accommodation in Spain. Once you arrive, you must complete the Spain residence permit process by registering your address and scheduling your TIE (residency card) appointment.

When shipping household items to Spain, start by sorting essentials and discarding unused belongings. Label each box clearly and prepare a detailed inventory in Spanish or English with estimated values for customs purposes. Items must be clean and non-commercial in nature.

To import goods duty-free, you’ll need to prove a change of residence and that you’ve owned the items for over six months. Required documents include your Spanish rental contract or title deed, NIE number, passport, and UAE exit documentation. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services ensures your paperwork meets all requirements for Spanish customs and manages clearance directly.

To receive your visa, you must have private health insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation. After obtaining your residence permit, you may switch to Spain’s public healthcare system if eligible.

Spain’s healthcare is largely public and funded through taxes. We help expats determine eligibility for Seguridad Social, assist in policy selection, and manage transitions from UAE’s private healthcare model. Our team also recommends English-speaking providers where needed.

Spain has public, semi-private (concertado), and private international schools. Many expat families moving to Spain from UAE prefer international schools for continuity. Top cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia have excellent British and IB curriculum schools.

Required paperwork includes your child’s passport, previous academic records (translated into Spanish), vaccination records, and proof of residence in Spain. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services helps secure placements, schedule interviews, and manage documentation with the schools on your behalf.

You’ll need a local bank account to pay rent, utilities, and receive salaries. To open one, bring your NIE number, passport, proof of address, and visa. Popular banks include BBVA, CaixaBank, and Santander, with online account options available.

Budget for first-month housing, security deposits (usually 1–2 months’ rent), school enrollment fees, relocation services, and government paperwork fees. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services provides financial planning support so you can estimate your costs and ensure a stable arrival.

Before securing a permanent home, book temporary lodging through serviced apartments or Airbnb in your target city. Areas near schools or work hubs—like Chamartín in Madrid or Eixample in Barcelona—are great for first stays. Short-term leases help ease the transition while house-hunting locally.

Most expats moving to Spain from UAE begin by renting. Lease terms usually range from 6 months to 3 years, with one or two months’ deposit required. Foreigners can purchase property in Spain, though legal assistance is recommended. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services connects clients with real estate agents and manages documentation reviews for rentals or purchases.

Spain’s job market is steadily growing, particularly in tech, tourism, education, healthcare, and remote work. Larger cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Malaga have more expat-friendly openings. Fluency in Spanish is helpful, though many multinational companies hire English-speaking professionals.

Certain professions—such as doctors, architects, or teachers—require official recognition of foreign degrees through the Ministry of Education or relevant bodies. We help UAE residents gather the necessary paperwork, apply for equivalency, and connect with legal advisors to fast-track employment readiness.

Spain enjoys a Mediterranean climate in most regions—mild winters, warm summers, and lots of sunshine. Coming from UAE’s desert environment, adjusting to seasonal variation (and possibly using heating in winter) may take some getting used to.

Spanish culture values family, food, and face-to-face interactions. Punctuality is more relaxed than in the UAE, but building relationships is key. Embracing the local rhythm—siestas, late dinners, neighborhood festivals—helps you integrate. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services offers cultural orientation to support smoother adaptation to expat life in Spain.

Spain’s public transportation is excellent. Major cities have metro, bus, and tram systems that are clean, safe, and affordable. Monthly travel cards cost around €40–€60 depending on the city. Many residents use public transport daily instead of owning a vehicle.

UAE driving licenses are not directly exchangeable in Spain. You can drive for up to 6 months using your UAE license and an International Driving Permit (IDP), after which you must pass Spanish driving tests to obtain a local license. We help clients schedule theory and practical exams, and handle translations and legal procedures.

Book flights well in advance and confirm baggage allowances—especially if relocating with children or pets. Keep key documents (passport, NIE, visa, health records, school letters) in your carry-on. It’s wise to scan all paperwork and store backups digitally.

Cancel all UAE utilities, terminate your rental agreement, and collect salary and exit documentation. Close local bank accounts if not needed, and notify telecom providers. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services offers a complete UAE exit checklist and coordination support so you can leave fully prepared and stress-free.