The Ultimate Leaving Dubai Checklist: 60 Steps to a Clean Exit
Don’t miss a single step. This comprehensive checklist covers every legal, financial, and practical task for leaving Dubai.
Phase 1: Planning (3-6 Months Before)
Financial Planning
Review end-of-service gratuity. Calculate outstanding loans. Check bank account closing requirements. Review investment portfolios. Consult tax advisor about destination country obligations.
Logistics Planning
Research international moving companies. Get quotes for shipping household goods. Decide what to sell vs ship. Research pet relocation if applicable. Book storage if needed.
Family Planning
Research schools at destination. Request school transcripts and records. Begin application process for new schools. Arrange medical records transfer. Update vaccination records.
Employment
Review contract notice period. Understand non-compete clauses. Negotiate exit terms. Request employment reference letters. Understand gratuity calculation.
Phase 2: Execution (1-3 Months Before)
| # | Task | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Submit resignation | Per contract | Written notice required |
| 2 | Notify landlord | 90 days (Ejari) | Check lease early termination |
| 3 | Cancel/transfer Ejari | 30 days before | Need landlord NOC |
| 4 | DEWA final bill | 2 weeks before | Schedule disconnection |
| 5 | Du/Etisalat cancellation | 30 days notice | Check early termination fees |
| 6 | Salik account closure | After last drive | Refund takes 30 days |
| 7 | RTA fine clearance | Before visa cancel | Check online portal |
| 8 | Sell/export vehicle | 4-6 weeks | Need police clearance |
| 9 | Sell furniture | 2-4 weeks | Dubizzle, Facebook groups |
| 10 | Cancel gym/club memberships | 30 days notice | Check refund policies |
Phase 3: Financial Exit (2-4 Weeks Before)
Bank Accounts
Close accounts after all transactions clear. Keep one account open for gratuity deposit. Transfer funds internationally. Request bank reference letter.
Credit Cards
Clear all outstanding balances. Cancel cards. Request closure confirmation letter. Check if any annual fees are pending.
Insurance
Cancel health insurance (or keep if self-sponsored). Cancel car insurance after sale. Cancel home contents insurance. Get premium refunds where applicable.
Phase 4: Visa & Legal (Final Weeks)
Visa Cancellation
Employer initiates visa cancellation. Receive exit permit. 30-day grace period to leave. Emirates ID automatically cancelled. Can convert to visit visa if needed.
Document Collection
Police clearance certificate. Salary certificate. Experience letter. NOC from employer. Attested educational certificates. Driving record from RTA.
Phase 5: Final Days
In your last week: confirm all utility accounts are closed, do a final DEWA meter reading, hand over keys to landlord with inspection report, collect security deposits, do a final check of all government portals for outstanding fines, and ensure your bank has your international contact details for any pending transactions.