First Week Checklist in Dubai

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

• 1Get a Nol card at any metro station (starts at 25 AED, includes 19 AED credit)
• 2Buy a SIM — du or Etisalat, available at airport or any telecom shop with your passport
• 3Open a bank account — Emirates NBD or ADCB are beginner-friendly, bring Emirates ID or passport + visa
• 4Set up DEWA (electricity & water) if renting — takes 1–3 working days, needs tenancy contract
• 5Download Careem or Uber as backup transport until you learn the metro routes
• 6Save key numbers: Dubai Police 999, Ambulance 998, RTA 8009090
• 7Prepare a digital folder: passport, visa, tenancy contract, Emirates ID (front + back)

Why the order matters

SIM first — without mobile data you can't verify accounts or call anyone. Nol card second — it's the cheapest way to move around while you sort everything else. Bank account third — most services require a UAE account number within the first 2 weeks.

What you'll spend in week one

Nol card: 25 AED SIM (tourist plan): 35–55 AED Groceries (basic stock-up): 150–300 AED Transport (Careem/Uber top-ups): 50–100 AED Total estimate: 300–500 AED for the first week, not counting rent or deposits.

Common first-week mistakes

Signing an apartment contract the same day you view it — take at least 24 hours. Paying any deposit in cash — always use bank transfer so you have a paper trail. Buying add-ons at the telecom store — start with the base plan and upgrade later.