Living in Dubai; Everything You Need to Know
This article was published on April 15th, 2021
Are you planning to move to Dubai soon? If so, you're in luck! Dubai has become a global city and a leading business hub in the Middle East region. It's a popular destination for ex-pats, tourists, and international students. However, to make the most of your time in Dubai, you must understand the moving requirements and the lifestyle you can expect in this dynamic city.
Dubai is home to around 9.2 million people, with approximately 70% of the population being ex-pats from Asian countries such as the Philippines, India, and Pakistan. Iranians and westerners make up the rest of the people. Islam is the main religion in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE's capital city is Abu Dhabi, and the currency used is the dirham (AED).
The official language of Dubai is Arabic, but due to the large number of ex-pats living in the city, English is also widely spoken. Regarding food, Dubai offers a diverse range of cuisine to cater to its diverse population.
The cost of living in Dubai can be high, but this can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle. The real estate market in Dubai is well-regulated, and various housing options are available, including furnished and unfurnished rentals. In 2018, the UAE introduced a 5% value-added tax (VAT), but Dubai's cost is still relatively affordable compared to other major cities worldwide.
Dubai's unique culture and norms govern how people live and interact. It's essential to be aware of the dos and don'ts when living in Dubai. For example, it's necessary to dress modestly in public and to avoid making rude hand gestures or displaying signs of affection. Alcohol consumption is only allowed in restaurants, hotels, and bars, and drinking and driving are illegal. Despite this, Dubai has low crime rates, which is why many ex-pats feel safe living in the UAE.
The transport and healthcare systems in Dubai are top-notch. There are modern medical facilities, including public hospitals, that offer high-quality care at affordable prices. There are also many top-quality medical facilities for ex-pats with private medical insurance. There are both public and private transport options in Dubai, which are efficient and affordable.
Dubai has a warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-40°C throughout the year. It's an excellent destination for sun lovers and attracts many tourists from countries with extreme weather conditions, such as the US and UK. It's a good idea to pack various casual and formal clothes, as you'll likely need them in different settings, and the weather can be unpredictable.
By understanding the population and dynamics, language and cuisine, cost of living, way of life, transport and healthcare systems, and weather in Dubai, you'll be better prepared to move to this exciting city. Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready before moving to Dubai.