Movers and setting up your new Dubai home

1. Book your move-in permit and lift slot.
2. Choose your movers from written quotes. How to pick reliable movers.
3. Check insurance and damage cover. Who pays if something breaks.
4. Clean, service the AC and do pest control before furniture goes in.
5. Move in, then set up and install.

Measure your largest items (sofa, bed, wardrobe, fridge) and compare them with the front door, corridors, turns and the service lift's internal size and door opening. Ask building management for the lift dimensions. Tell your movers about anything that needs dismantling.

Usually, once you have the keys. But deliveries may need their own building approval, lift booking and someone there to receive them. Your move-in permit may not cover a different day.

Some buildings accept small parcels at reception, but most won't take furniture or sign for large items. Ask first, and never assume.

Yes, if you have the keys. An empty home is far easier to clean. Book the cleaners after any painting and repairs are finished, and register them with building security.

Do both first. Pest treatment and duct cleaning are easier and more effective in an empty home, and you avoid fumes on your belongings. Check who pays: see who pays for pest control and chiller & AC servicing.

Check there's a suitable water supply, drain and power point, and ask the landlord before changing plumbing, electrics or replacing their appliance. Gas cookers must be connected by the gas supplier's technician. If you replace the landlord's appliance, agree in writing where the original goes and whether you put it back when you leave.

The retailer's installer for most appliances, the gas supplier for gas cookers, and a qualified electrician or plumber for anything needing new connections. Test for leaks before first use, and don't let anyone modify gas, water or electrics without approval.

All usually need landlord and often building approval. Doorbell cameras can raise privacy issues in shared corridors, and balcony nets or covers may have to meet building rules on appearance and safety. Ask first, and agree whether you remove it when you leave.

• Boxes: flatten them and use the building's recycling or bin room. Big piles may need a bin-room slot or collection.
• Furniture: ask building management about bulky-waste collection, request a Dubai Municipality bulky-waste pickup, or donate or sell usable items.
• Never leave items in corridors, stairwells or car parks.

Yes. setl helps you keep movers, cleaning, permits and installations in order, so moving day runs to plan.