UK embassy launches social media campaign for new expat arrivals in UAE

Published:  8 Sep at 6 PM
Want to get involved? Become a Featured Expat and take our interview.
Become a Local Expert and contribute articles.
Get in touch today!
The new ‘Checking In’ campaign aimed at UK expat workers newly arrived in the UAE follows on from the recent ‘Checking Out’ campaign aimed at Brit workers leaving the emirates after their contracts ended.

September is the busiest time of year for new arrivals taking up jobs in the UAE, with the campaign aiming at providing useful tips on all aspects of settling into unfamiliar surroundings. The site, available on Facebook and Twitter, focuses on the paperwork and licenses expats need before they can start their new working lives.

According to the embassy, many new arrivals find they’re in trouble and need consular assistance as they haven’t taken care to provide the correct documentation or fill in the right forms. It’s easy to find you’re an illegal immigrant or contravening UAE laws if your paperwork is incorrect. Health insurance, residency visas, an Emirates ID card and a UAE driving license are just some of the requirements, and online hints on respecting local cultural values will help avoid embarrassing mistakes.

Around 100,000 Brits are living and working in the UAE, with a further million or so visiting. Expats in both categories are advised to remember where they are as regards the cultural values of the UAE and its laws, some of which may seem strange to new arrivals. Islamic traditions are strong here and have been so for generations, and also include the region’s tribal heritage.

Tips available on the website include the fact that employers are responsible for getting visas for their expat employees and their families. New arrivals should note that travelling outside the UAE whilst their visas are being processed is illegal. The site also points out that all medical treatment must be paid for, and emphasises the necessity of health insurance covering not only the expat but also his family if they are accompanying him.
Like this news?

Comments » No published comments just yet for this article...

Feel free to have your say on this item. Go on... be the first!

Tell us Your Thoughts On This Piece:

Your Name *
Email * (not published, needs verification one time only)
Website
Type:
  • Facebook
  • Follow us on Twitter
  • RSS feed
  • Facebook

Latest Headlines

News Links

News Archive