Revealed: UAE among top countries for remote working

Dubai - Dubai recently launched a new visa for remote working professionals.

Remote working is the new norm after the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Though some destinations are still inaccessible due to travel restrictions for foreigners, but a few countries are open and welcome foreigners with open arms. The UAE is one of them.

Travel portal Lonely Planet has named the UAE among the world’s top 10 countries for remote working, thanks to city-wide WiFi, sunny weather and multi-cultural work atmosphere.

Importantly, Dubai recently launched a programme that enabled overseas remote working professionals to live in the emirate while continuing to serve their employers in their home country.

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The move provides remote workers - and their families - the opportunity to relocate on an annual basis to one of the world's leading tourism and business destinations and enjoy a safe and high-quality lifestyle underpinned by a strong digital infrastructure that provides seamless connectivity.

Below are the top 10 countries for remote working professionals released by Lonely Planet:

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has been chosen as one of the best destinations for remote working, thanks to its diverse population, technologically advanced infrastructure, easy availability of Wi-Fi and a wide array of entertainment facilities in Dubai and other emirates. Dubai also recently announced one-year long visa for freelancers in order to attract professionals from different countries. Dubai is also open for tourists and other foreign visitors. But they have to take PCR swab test 96 hours prior to the arrival and also undergo another PCR swab test upon arrival.

Australia

Canberra is tentatively easing travel restrictions but currently only citizens and residents can enter the country. People can rent a furnished studio in central Sydney or Perth for $1,100 and even less in Adelaide or Hobart. Internet connectivity quality is also pretty good.

Japan

Whether you’re in the big cities like Tokyo or in the far-flung urban areas, remote workers can enjoy the best quality of life in the Asian country. Wi-Fi is zippy in the cities and leisurely in the country. Average monthly rent in Tokyo is around $1,000 and $600 elsewhere.

Thailand

The southeast Asian country has coped with the pandemic very well, restricting foreign travellers despite the fact that it relies heavily on tourism. Thanks to its white sandy beaches and delicious street food, Thailand is one of the top rated countries by remote workers. Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is just $260.

Georgia

Georgia is also considered an affordable and safe place for remote workers. Remote workers, or freelancers, are allowed from certain countries – around 95 – and earn at least $2,000 (Dh7,340) a month. People flying into Georgia will have to quarantine on arrival. Of late, Georgia has been a popular destination among the UAE residents for tourism.