Comprehensive Guide for Families Moving from Abu Dhabi to Dallas-Fort Worth
- Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
- Feb 21
- 4 min read
Moving from Abu Dhabi to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) is a major transition, but with the right planning, it can be a smooth and exciting journey. This guide covers everything you need to know about relocating with your family, from lifestyle differences to choosing the best neighborhoods and schools.
1. Understanding the Lifestyle Shift
Similarities Between Abu Dhabi & DFW
Diverse communities with a mix of cultures, expats, and professionals.
Car-centric lifestyle, as public transportation is limited.
Family-oriented communities with parks, schools, and entertainment.
High-quality healthcare with modern hospitals and specialized clinics.
Key Differences
Weather: Abu Dhabi is hot year-round, while DFW has four seasons with hot summers and mild winters.
Cost of Living: Housing in DFW is generally more affordable than in Abu Dhabi’s prime areas.
Education System: American schools follow different curriculums compared to British, IB, and Indian schools in Abu Dhabi.
Taxation: Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes are higher than in the UAE.
2. Choosing the Right Neighborhood in DFW
DFW is a large metropolitan area with diverse neighborhoods. Here are some of the best areas for families relocating from Abu Dhabi:
Luxury & Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods
Frisco: Top-tier schools, new homes, and a growing international community.
Southlake: Prestigious schools, luxury homes, and a peaceful suburban feel.
Westlake: Exclusive gated communities with custom-built mansions.
Las Colinas (Irving): High-rise apartments, luxury villas, and a diverse expat community.
Affordable & Family-Friendly Suburbs
Plano: Great schools, family parks, and a safe environment.
McKinney: Beautiful master-planned communities and a historic downtown.
Coppell: Close to DFW Airport, with excellent schools and a strong Indian and Middle Eastern community.
Flower Mound: Green spaces, lakeside living, and a suburban lifestyle.
3. Schools & Education Options
If your children attended British, IB, or Indian curriculum schools in Abu Dhabi, you’ll need to find the best fit in DFW.
Top Public School Districts (Free for Residents)
Frisco ISD: Ranked among the best in Texas.
Southlake Carroll ISD: Highly rated, with a strong academic and sports culture.
Plano ISD: Offers advanced placement and gifted programs.
Coppell ISD: Known for its diversity and strong academic performance.
Private & International Schools
The British International School of Dallas: Follows the UK curriculum.
Dallas International School: Offers IB and French curriculum.
The Hockaday School & St. Mark’s School: Elite private schools with strong academics.
4. Housing & Cost of Living
Home Prices & Rent
Buying a Home: Prices range from $400,000 to over $2 million, depending on location.
Renting: Luxury apartments start at $2,500 per month, while family homes range from $3,500 to $6,000 per month in top areas.
Utilities & Living Costs
Electricity and water costs are lower than in Abu Dhabi but vary by season.
Grocery prices are similar, with Middle Eastern and Indian products available in specialty stores.
Dining out is comparable in cost, with plenty of international restaurants.
5. Healthcare & Medical Facilities
DFW has world-class hospitals and clinics, including:
Baylor Scott & White, a large hospital network with specialists.
UT Southwestern Medical Center, one of the best research hospitals in the U.S.
Medical City Dallas, a family-friendly hospital with top pediatric care.
Children’s Medical Center Dallas, offering specialized healthcare for kids.
Most employers provide private health insurance, but if you’re self-employed, you’ll need to choose a plan.
6. Transportation & Commuting
Unlike Abu Dhabi, where taxis are common, DFW is car-dependent. Key things to know:
Driving License: You can drive on an international license for 90 days, but a Texas driver’s license is required after that.
Buying a Car: Vehicles are more affordable in the U.S., and financing options are available.
Public Transport: Limited to Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) in some parts of the city.
DFW Airport and Love Field provide major international and domestic flight connections.
7. Shopping & Halal Food Options
DFW has many international supermarkets catering to Middle Eastern and Indian families:
Halal Meat & Groceries: Al Markaz, Sara’s Market & Bakery, IndoPak, Zam Zam.
Indian & Pakistani Stores: Patel Brothers, Subzi Mandi, India Bazaar.
Luxury Shopping: NorthPark Mall, The Shops at Legacy, Highland Park Village.
Popular Middle Eastern restaurants include Zatar Lebanese, Afrah, and Medina Oven & Bar.
8. Community & Cultural Integration
DFW has a growing Middle Eastern and South Asian community with:
Mosques and Islamic Centers, such as the Islamic Association of North Texas, IANT, and East Plano Islamic Center.
Social and business networking events through Meetup, Facebook, and LinkedIn communities.
Cultural events and festivals, including Eid celebrations, Diwali events, and international food fairs.
9. Residency & Legal Considerations
Visa & Immigration
Most families relocate on:
Employment-based visas such as H-1B, L-1, or EB-5 investor visa.
Family sponsorship if a spouse or relative is a U.S. citizen or resident.
Student visas (F-1) for those enrolling in U.S. universities.
For immigration advice, consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney.
10. Tips for a Smooth Transition
Plan your move early by securing housing, schools, and job arrangements before arrival.
Understand the legal process, including banking, healthcare, and tax systems.
Join expat communities to connect with other Middle Eastern and Indian families for support.
Prepare for cultural adjustments, as life in Texas differs from the UAE, but the diversity and opportunities make it a great place to settle.
Need Help Finding the Perfect Home in DFW?
As a real estate professional with expertise in helping international families relocate, I can guide you through every step of your move. Whether you’re looking for a luxury home, top school districts, or an investment property, I can help you find the right fit.
Call us at 469-269-6541 for more information about Plano real estate!
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