Founder of PlanUAE | Founding Partner of Obvio Financial Planning | Expat Financial Planning & Relocation Specialist Jonathan Howe is a Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA) and European Financial Adviser (EFA) specialising in life-centred financial planning for internationally mobile professionals, entrepreneurs,…
Most expats experience product sales, not financial planning. This article explains the difference between commission-driven product distribution and genuine life-centred, client-first financial planning built around lifetime cashflow modelling and personal goals.
Lifetime cashflow modelling is the core of real financial planning. This guide explains how projecting income, assets, spending and life events into the future helps answer the big questions: Will my money last? When can I retire? Can I afford my plans as an expat?
Understand your UAE credit score and Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) report. This guide explains how scores are calculated, what your number means, how to check it, why banks use it, and how to improve low scores for better approval chances on credit cards, loans, and mortgages.
Opening a bank account in the UAE is essential for living, working, or investing in the country. This in-depth guide explains who is eligible, resident and non-resident account options, required documents, minimum balance rules, the application process, why banks sometimes refuse accounts, and how to avoid common issues.
This in-depth guide explains loans and consumer finance in the UAE, including personal loans, car finance, credit cards, overdrafts and BNPL. Learn eligibility rules, AECB credit score impact, debt-burden ratio limits, salary transfer requirements, fees, approval factors and common mistakes to avoid. Mortgages are referenced briefly with a link to the full guide.
Learn how Islamic banking works in the UAE, including Sharia principles, profit sharing instead of interest, Islamic mortgages, credit cards, and bank accounts. Includes major Islamic banks, key concepts such as Murabaha and Ijara, and how Islamic banking compares with conventional finance.
The UAE Student Visa allows international students to live and study legally in the UAE at accredited schools, colleges and universities. This 2026 guide explains eligibility, sponsorship options, required documents, costs, medical and Emirates ID procedures, work permissions, renewals, and how to bring family members — so you can navigate the full student visa process with confidence.
The UAE Remote Worker Visa allows you to live in the UAE while working for a foreign employer or running a non-UAE business. This comprehensive 2026 guide explains eligibility criteria, minimum income requirements, required documents, application steps, costs, processing times, renewal rules and family sponsorship options.
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