Living in Dubai 101
Are you thinking about moving to Dubai and starting a new life there? Living in Dubai brings a lot of different opportunities and new experiences. It is a totally different world than you used to in the USA, UK or any other western country. To know what to expect and to adjust faster, you should have the right information.
If you are already in Dubai, then you know some facts, but there is a lot to learn about this amazing city in the UAE. Many expats choose Dubai because the rules and regulations are less strict than in other Muslim cities and of course because of job opportunities.
Pros and cons of living in Dubai
Why live in Dubai and why not? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Every city in the world has both sides, good and bad, Dubai has them too.
Pros
Social and working life is well-balanced. It is an exciting destination and tourists love to be here to enjoy.
The weather is amazing most of the time (about 8 months are great). If you don’t love snow and low temperatures, Dubai is perfect.
Education is highly rated and there are a lot of new colleges and other schools.
A lot of major international corporations have a base here. Getting a job shouldn’t be a problem.
There is no income tax.
Salaries are high as well as the standard of living in Dubai.
Dubai is tolerant when it comes to religion and alcohol, which is very unusual for Arab countries.
The crime rate is very low. Alcohol and crime are not common.
Cons
Unmarried couples can’t live together, it is against the law. If you want to live there with your bf/gf you must get married first.
You need to get permits for everything after moving, even for buying alcohol besides working and driving permits.
Summer months are VERY hot. From June to September, people go outside just if it is necessary. After all, you are in the middle of a desert.
You will need time to adjust to public toilets.
Housing and education costs are very high as well as other costs of living.
Some films and websites are censored.
Working hours can be very long and companies expect a lot from employees.
Dubai is still being built and there are many tourists, so get used to noise and busy streets.
The job market in Dubai
One thing you should not worry about when living in Dubai is getting a job and having a low salary. One of the main reasons for moving to Dubai is plenty of job opportunities, not just amazing nightlife and hot weather. A tax-free salary is a big deal, and you will be able to save some money and to send it back home if needed.
Currently, open jobs are in almost every industry. Education, healthcare, economy, engineering, etc. The average salary per month is almost 3,000 U.S. dollars. The job market is growing, so hurry up and grab your opportunity. Find a dream job in Dubai and move there in the long-term. If you lose your job, you have 30 days to find another, or you need to move out of Dubai.
Costs of living in Dubai
Be prepared for the high costs of living here, especially housing. But not everything is expensive.
The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is $1,500 and the outside of the center is about $1,050.
Basic utilities per month are $170 for a 2-bedroom apartment. Plus the internet for a month (unlimited) is $98.
A monthly pass for public transportation is $70, but gas and car are very affordable here. One liter of gas is $0.6.
A lot of people are going to the gym, and if you want to get rid of your beer belly and be fit like others, a monthly pass is about $90.
The average price for a 3-course meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant is $55.
Where to live in Dubai?
Some neighborhoods in Dubai are better for single expats, some are better for families with kids, etc. Depending on your job and lifestyle, you will choose where to live. But, some of the best places to move to are:
Dubai Marina
Downtown
Mirdif
Arabian Ranches
Jumeirah Lake Towers
Jumeirah Beach Residence
Emirates Hills
Staying fit after moving to Dubai
Most people in Dubai want to be fit and healthy. Also, working out will help you with feeling nostalgic after moving and feeling sad. Get a personal trainer, try new sports, be active every day, meet new people…Dubai PT can help you be fit, healthy, and to have an active life there.
Healthcare
Every resident in Dubai needs to have healthcare insurance and also to obtain a visa it is necessary to have health insurance. Healthcare is affordable and quality here in Dubai. You won’t have a problem when you get sick and need a doctor or you need to look for a dentist, etc.
The climate is different, and there are insects and bugs, of course, so having insurance is one of the most important things. The good thing is that health insurance is mandatory, and every employer must provide it for employees.
Shopping is special in Dubai
A shopping experience in Dubai is one of a kind. The biggest shopping mall in the world is located here. You can buy traditional things and modern ones. The luxury brands also have stores here. Women in Dubai love to shop and to dress up. For everyday shopping (such as groceries) you should choose more affordable stores and local markets. Malls on Friday nights is something you should avoid. Shopping and living in Dubai is a special experience, you can’t get anywhere else.