Rank #42 · Feb 2026
UAE (Dubai) Virtual Working Program
Very hot, so pets must stay indoors 8 months of the year.
Key Requirements
- Visa Fee
- $611
- Processing
- 1 week
- Validity
- 1 year
- Income
- $3,500/mo
- Savings Option
- N/A
- Pet Friendliness
- 4/10
- Tax trigger
- 183 days
- Insurance required
- Yes
Cost of Living (Nomad Premium 2026)
Based on short-term rentals, coworking, and expat amenities—not local long-term rates.
- Cost Tier
- High
- Total (est.)
- ~$4,500/mo
- 1BR Center
- ~$2,100/mo
- Coffee
- ~$5.5
- Internet
- 180 Mbps
- Coworking
- ~$300/mo
Visa Overview
Dubai is the ultimate tax haven with 0% income tax. Everything is high-tech, high-speed, and very safe. The 'Virtual Working' visa is basically a year-long residency card (Emirates ID).
Pet Entry & Rules
Very hot, so pets must stay indoors 8 months of the year. Import rules are strict (rabies titer test required). Dubai is becoming more pet-friendly with dedicated dog parks in areas like JVC.
Tax Residency
0% Personal Income Tax. Period. This is the main reason nomads choose Dubai.