Will, here is the sensible thing to do.
If the company whom you are going to work for does not make housing arrangements, then just pack your suitcase and make your way to Dubai at the time you are expected. You do not have to make any lease/rent arrangements while still being abroad.
If you have an EEC or USA pasport you dont need a visa, they stamp your passport on arrival.
Once off the flight, clear customs and luggage and in the arrival hall there is a huge counter for all sorts of services, hotels, appartments, car rentals etc. Go to a counter which has "Golden Sands" appartments. They are the biggest furniture appartments outlet in town. There is ample choice, ranging from living nextdoor to a noisy Russian/Indian/Pakistani family to more upscale busineslike environments. Prices are very reasonable.
Choose one and lease it for one month. Do not commit to anything else without having been in Dubai for at least one month. Look around and take your time cause a permanent lease will commit you for at least one year, payable each six months in advance.
So settle in, buy a newspaper and call the 10 or 15 real estate agents which are run by UK expats. Tell them what you want and they will drive you around town and show you 4-5 appartments each day till you made up your mind. Again, dont rush it, get to the layout of the city and find your spot. No need to rent a car first month, Dubai is not a big city and taxis are cheap and in abundance. No need to worry about food, there are plenty good food outlets, cheap as well and lots of take home and home delivery. The golden Sands are in Bur Dubai, which is across the creek but a lot of things to go to are within walking distance, altough in summer only at night. Crossing the creek by "boat" will set you back 1 Dirham (30 cents)
Expat type entertainment is plenty in Dubai, you will be suprised.
So, in summary, arrive, dont rush anything, take your time and make up your mind. Nothing to your liking after one month, take another month, sometimes it pays to wait.
With best regards
A.V.