The retirement visa (55+) and property-linked residence visas are available.
A few things to line up early:
Visa rules change often — treat this as a starting point and confirm the latest official requirements before you plan.
Remember: buying a home and gaining the right to live there are usually separate steps. See how ownership works in Dubai, UAE, and what it costs to live there in our cost-of-retiring guide.
The UAE levies no personal income tax, so pensions and investment and rental income are received free of local tax; UK tax may still apply to certain pensions and to anyone who remains UK-resident, so confirm your status with an adviser.
Dubai has world-class private hospitals and clinics, and health insurance is mandatory for residents; unlike the UK model it is largely privately funded, so budget carefully, as comprehensive cover for older retirees can run into several thousand pounds a year. Dubai is very safe with low crime, and English is the everyday language of business and daily life; driving is on the right, and the city is modern and easy for British retirees within local laws and customs.
Dubai Marina and JBR for a walkable waterfront lifestyle, Downtown and Business Bay for city convenience, the Palm Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches for premium villa living, and quieter Jumeirah for suburban calm.
Thinking seriously about Dubai, UAE?
Two honest Brits, a private call, and straight answers — see if a freehold home abroad is a fit for you.
See if you qualify →