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Move to Australia from UAE

Last updated: 24 May 2026

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Why UAE residents move to Australia

Many professionals living in the UAE consider Australia as a long-term destination. The UAE has a large expat population, and many of these professionals look to Australia for permanent residency, education for their children, and lifestyle benefits.

Popular visa pathways

  • Subclass 189/190 (Skilled Migration): Professionals from the UAE (both Emirati citizens and expats based in the UAE) apply through the points-tested pathway.
  • Subclass 188 (Business Innovation): Business owners and investors use the business visa pathway.
  • Subclass 500 (Student): UAE-based families send children to study at Australian universities.

Practical considerations

  • If you are an expat in the UAE (not a UAE citizen), your visa application is based on your citizenship, not your UAE residency.
  • The UAE has no income tax, so moving to Australia means adjusting to the Australian tax system. Plan for this.
  • Health insurance in the UAE is employer-provided; in Australia, permanent residents get Medicare.
  • The cost of living in Australia is comparable to Dubai for most expenses, though housing outside Sydney is generally cheaper.

UAE community in Australia

There is a small but growing community of UAE nationals and former UAE residents in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. Many maintain business ties with the Gulf region.

Visa options for UAE citizens

Subclass 482
Skills in Demand Visa
Subclass 189
Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190
Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 491
Skilled Work Regional Visa
Subclass 500
Student Visa
Subclass 186
Employer Nomination Scheme
Subclass 417
Working Holiday Visa
Subclass 485
Temporary Graduate Visa
Subclass 188
Business Innovation and Investment Visa
Subclass 858
Global Talent Visa
Subclass 600
Visitor Visa
Subclass 309
Partner Visa (Offshore)
Subclass 820
Partner Visa (Onshore)
Subclass 143
Contributory Parent Visa
Subclass 407
Training Visa
Subclass 462
Work and Holiday Visa
Subclass 887
Skilled Regional Visa
Subclass 191
Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)
Subclass 494
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional
Subclass 870
Sponsored Parent (Temporary)

FAQ: Moving from UAE

Can I apply from the UAE if I am not a UAE citizen?

Yes, but your application is assessed based on your citizenship, not your UAE residency. You apply as a citizen of your home country.

How does the tax difference affect me?

The UAE has no income tax. Australia taxes residents on worldwide income. You will need to adjust your financial planning. Speak with a tax adviser before moving.

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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.