First 7 Days Checklist
A structured folder setup for contracts, payments, and identity documents.
Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.
📁 Identity — Passport (all pages) — UAE Visa copy — Emirates ID (front + back) — Entry stamp page 📁 Housing — Tenancy contract — Ejari registration certificate — DEWA account number + first bill — Chiller account (if applicable) — Landlord contact details 📁 Work — Employment contract — Offer letter — Salary certificate (once issued) 📁 Finance — Bank account details — Insurance card + policy number — Transfer receipts
iCloud / Google Drive: reliable, encrypted, accessible from any device Adobe Scan (free): scan documents with your phone camera — auto-crops and sharpens SAFE (UAE government app): store official UAE documents locally on device Avoid storing passport scans in unencrypted WhatsApp or email threads — these are common identity theft vectors.
In Dubai, the following documents are requested often: Passport + visa copy: required for almost every government or banking form Tenancy contract: needed for DEWA, internet setup, some bank applications Emirates ID: required once issued — apply as soon as your visa is stamped Salary certificate: needed for bank account upgrades, large purchase financing Tip: make 5–10 photocopies of passport + visa on arrival. You'll use them faster than expected.
City context: Dubai
These steps are tailored for newcomers in Dubai. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.
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