Study Abroad Survival Kit for Emirati Students: Everything you need for a smooth start abroad

Your documents are one thing you absolutely cannot afford to misplace. Before you fly, create a “document vault” with both physical and digital copies of everything important. 

This should include: 

• Passport 

• Student visa and visa approval letters 

• University offer and Confirmation of Enrolment 

• Accommodation details 

• Flight tickets 

• Health insurance documents 

• Emergency contacts 

• Bank and payment details 

Store digital copies securely in cloud storage so you can access them anytime, anywhere. Because if your phone dies, your luggage is delayed or you lose a document, having backup copies can save you from major stress.

One of the biggest mistakes Emirati students make? Thinking: “I’ll just sort accommodation out when I get there.” 

That sounds flexible in theory; however, in reality, arriving in a new country without a place to stay can be stressful, expensive and overwhelming. It’s much better to secure accommodation before departure. 

Common options include: 

University Halls 

A popular option for first-year Emirati students. Benefits include: 

• Close to campus 

• Easy to meet other students 

• Bills are often included 

Student Apartments 

Ideal if you want more independence. They offer: 

• Greater privacy 

• Flexible room options 

• A more independent lifestyle 

Homestay 

A great option for Emirati students moving abroad for the first time. With a homestay, you live with a local host family, which gives you: 

• A safer transition into a new country 

• Local guidance and support 

• A more comfortable adjustment period 

For many parents, this extra safety net offers real peace of mind. Through IDP Student Essentials, Emirati students can arrange accommodation before travelling, whether that’s a student apartment or a homestay, depending on what suits them best. 

Health cover isn’t just another admin task. In many countries, it’s mandatory. And even where it isn’t, going without insurance can be risky and expensive. 

Medical costs abroad can add up quickly, even for something as simple as: 

• A doctor’s consultation 

• Prescription medication 

• Emergency treatment 

Depending on where you’re studying, health cover requirements vary. 

For example: 

• Australia requires international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). 

• UK students typically pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the visa process. 

• Canada health coverage depends on the province or institution. 

Managing money overseas is different from managing money at home. 

You’ll need a secure and practical way to: 

• Pay tuition fees 

• Cover rent and living expenses 

• Make daily purchases 

• Transfer money internationally 

Before departure, set up your financial essentials. Ask yourself: 

• Will your current bank card work internationally? 

• What foreign transaction fees apply? 

• What’s the best way to receive money from family? 

Having access to reliable international banking or money transfer solutions makes life much easier. The less time you spend worrying about payments, the more time you can spend settling in. 

Staying connected from day one matters more than most students realise.  

A local SIM card helps you: 

• Access maps and navigation 

• Contact family immediately 

• Receive university updates 

• Book transport safely 

Setting up your SIM before travel or arranging one upon arrival can make your first 24 hours much smoother. Because sometimes, the first thing you need after landing is simply Wi-Fi or data. 

Packing isn’t about bringing everything you own. It’s about bringing the right things. 

A common mistake Emirati students make is packing based on assumptions instead of reality. You have to research your destination properly. 

Pack smart by prioritising: 

• Essential clothing 

• Medications 

• Chargers and adapters 

• Basic toiletries 

• Comfort items from home 

This is the part people often forget. Moving abroad isn’t only a logistical change. It’s an emotional one too. Even if you’re excited, it’s completely normal to feel nervous, homesick, overwhelmed and unsure. Give yourself permission to not have everything figured out immediately. 

A few things that help: 

• Stay connected with family 

• Build routines early 

• Meet new people 

• Ask for help when needed 

Finding a support network can make a real difference during your transition. Through the IDP Student Community, you can connect with fellow students, share experiences, ask questions and feel supported as you adjust to life abroad. 

You need the right support for everything that happens before and after take-off. That’s where IDP Student Essentials comes in:  

• Accommodation: Find and book accommodation that suits your lifestyle and budget, whether that’s a student apartment for more independence or a homestay for extra support and comfort. 

• Health Insurance: Explore health insurance options that meet your destination’s visa and study requirements, including mandatory cover such as OSHC for Australia. 

• Banking & money transfers: Access solutions that help you pay tuition fees, transfer money internationally and manage everyday expenses abroad more easily. 

• SIM cards & connectivity: Stay connected from day one with mobile solutions that help you access calls, data and internet as soon as you arrive. 

Ready for take-off?  

Book your free appointment with an IDP counsellor today and get support with every step of your study abroad journey.