Relocation Package to Dubai: What Nobody in HR Will Tell You
Relocation Package to Dubai: What Nobody in HR Will Tell You
The offer includes a relocation package. It sounds generous. Until you calculate what the move actually costs and realise the package covers about 40% of it.
What a Standard Package Includes
Economy or business class flight. 2-4 weeks temporary accommodation. Shipping allowance of $2,000-$5,000. Visa processing costs. Some companies add a settling-in allowance of 5,000-15,000 AED.
What the Move Actually Costs
Security deposit: 4,000-15,000 AED. DEWA deposit: 2,000-4,000 AED. Furniture: 15,000-40,000 AED. School registration: 5,000-15,000 AED per child. Car deposit: 5,000-15,000 AED. Incidentals: 2,000-5,000 AED. Total realistic cost for a family: 40,000-100,000 AED.
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What to Negotiate
Temporary accommodation for 4-8 weeks. Furnished apartment for the first year. School fee advance. Settling-in allowance of 10,000-25,000 AED.
The relocation package is the most under-negotiated component of a Dubai offer. Companies expect you to ask for more.
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