Moving to Canada from Dubai
If you’re considering a relocation from Dubai to Canada, or already on your way, this guide is for you.
Discover everything you need to know for every part of the process. From the first step of choosing an immigration pathway, all the way to moving your furniture, settling in, and finding specific information about your region.
Dubai to Canada Immigration Options
The most common pathway:
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Express Entry
This system manages several immigration programs for skilled workers, based on a points system.
If you already have family in Canada:
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Family Sponsorship
Canadian citizens can sponsor their relatives and help bring them to Canada to live, study, and work.
If you’re relocating to a specific region, or open to:
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Provincial Nominees
Get nominated to live in a specific province or territory. Each province has its own programs and requirements.
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Atlantic Immigration Program
Apply to work and live in 1 of the 4 Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador.
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Quebec-selected skilled workers
Apply to work and live in the province of Quebec.
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Rural community immigration pilots
Apply to work and settle in 1 of 14 rural communities in need of specific skilled workers.
If you have a specific skill or industry:
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Caregivers
Specific immigration pathway for caregivers such as home care workers.
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Start-up visa
An immigration pathway for immigrant entrepreneurs who have the skills to build businesses in Canada.
If you speak French or want to study in French:
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Francophone Mobility work permit
For French speakers who want to live and work outside of Quebec.
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Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot
For French-speaking students who want to study at designated learning institutions.
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Francophone community immigration pilot
Apply to work and settle in 1 of 6 Francophone communities in need of specific skilled workers.
Work with a relocation expert
New Roots Relocation can help you choose the best pathway and support your relocation from Dubai to Canada with our bespoke services.
Dubai to Canada Moving Logistics
The shortest distance between Dubai and Canada is at least 11,000 kilometres, varying greatly depending on your destination, so the logistics of your move will depend on where exactly you’re headed.
Here’s what we recommend:
→ Start by determining your budget for moving costs.
→ Then, make an inventory or at least get a sense of what items you’ll need to move. Write down a general list of items (especially bigger items like furniture)
→ From there, you can acquire quotes from different moving companies, narrow down your options, and compare.
The best option depends on your specific situation, and may even be a combination of these 3 moving methods! Experienced relocation experts can help you make the right decision, find trusted companies to work with, and keep costs as low as possible.
Air Freight
Air freight is generally the fastest way to get things from point A to point B, but it also tends to be expensive. For your move from Dubai to Canada, air freight is likely best for lighter/smaller belongings, or to get your most important items to Canada as fast as possible.
Sea Freight
If you have a large amount of belongings, shipping them by sea freight container is another option. You can load the container with everything you’re taking, big and small. While it’s generally the most cost-effective option, it does take time. Containers from Dubai to Canada typically take between 4-7 weeks to arrive.
Buying New
You may also consider buying new items upon your arrival in Canada instead of bringing everything with you halfway across the world! This can help you save big on shipping costs and travel a bit lighter.
For big items like furniture, bedding, and other household items that are heavy and expensive to ship, this is a great option.
Other Considerations & Tips
Immigration and moving logistics are two of the biggest elements of any relocation, but there are plenty of other considerations for before, during, and after your move.
For UAE citizens moving to Canada, here are a few top tips and reminders from New Roots Relocation’s experts:
Banking
You can usually open a Canadian chequing account even before arrival. Generally, you will need your UAE passport, Canadian address, and relevant job offer or visa information.
Consider holding both AED and CAD for some time, to help simplify transfers and handle swings in the exchange rate while you get settled in.
Your Canadian credit file is separate from your UAE file, so it’s important to start working on your new score right away. Applying for a Canadian credit card as soon as possible is a good idea.
International taxes and finances can get complex. We recommend working with an expert both before and after your departure. Keep in mind that many Dubai residents earn income that is currently tax-free in the UAE. Moving to Canada means entering a tax-filing country for the first time. You'll be subject to Canadian income tax from the date you establish residency.
Healthcare
Most Canadian provinces impose a waiting period for healthcare coverage to kick in, so you’ll want to apply as soon as possible. For the gap, check if your current UAE-based or international policy covers a certain period of emergency care abroad. If not, you can opt for a short-term travel or expat policy to keep you safe.
It’s always a good idea to bring relevant health records to help inform your new Canadian healthcare providers, and this is especially important if you have any prescriptions or ongoing health issues. If you can, opt for your yearly check-up right before moving. This way, you can request files and address any immediate issues.
Keep in mind that Canada’s free health insurance doesn’t cover dental, vision, and many prescriptions. You can consider opting for additional coverage with your workplace, or purchasing privately from providers like CAA, Blue Cross, or Manulife.
Settling In
Moving from Dubai to Canada will likely come with some meaningful lifestyle adjustments, from climate and cost of living to how daily life is structured. Give yourself time to settle in and don't underestimate the adjustment period.
Community is crucial: We highly recommend looking for local groups or online forums to connect with other expats. Search for local Facebook groups or community organizations in your destination city, such as Arab Canadian community groups or cultural associations, as well as broader newcomer networks.
One common surprise for Dubai residents: Canada has provincial and federal sales taxes added at checkout. The price you see on a tag or menu is exclusive of tax. In the UAE, VAT (5%) is sometimes included and sometimes not, but Canadian tax rates are higher and vary by province (ranging from around 5% to 15% combined). Expect your total at checkout to be noticeably higher than the listed price.
Dubai residents are accustomed to a very car-dependent lifestyle with low fuel costs. Depending on your Canadian city, you may find public transit is a viable or even preferable option. It’s worth researching before deciding whether or not to buy a car.
Getting to Know Your New Home
Explore our collection of resources for a few of Canada’s top cities!
Ready to embark on your journey from the Dubai to Canada?
Let us be your trusted guide, starting with a short consultation to help us understand your unique relocation needs.