Dubai Expat Life: Some Considerations

[Lizza]

Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is probably one of the most popular expat destinations in the whole world. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which are the absence of income tax and the plethora of jobs available. Expatriates comprise the majority of workers in this Middle Eastern emirate. What do they say about living and working in Dubai, one of the leading contenders for the title of the business and pleasure capital of the Middle East?

Expats living in Dubai tell of the city and state’s economic and population growth. The construction and tourism industries are booming; foreign investment numbers are increasing as well. The opportunity to earn a significant amount of money is there, either through employment or investments. It’s not just all work; there are plenty of recreational options too. However, one should also keep in mind that there are challenges associated with expat life in Dubai, like the increasing cost of living and the local culture.

Cost of housing in Dubai

According to this article there is a shortage of accommodations in Dubai, and one reason for it is because foreigners buy apartments and then sell them on or before construction is completed. Also, rental rates are increasing, just like a lot of other costs in Dubai, due to inflation.

Land/property ownership is possible for foreigners, but it’s said that the ownership process can take quite some time. Renting a flat or a house is easier, but it’s also pricey. A one-room apartment goes for about 600-1000 euros a month, bigger properties rent for much higher. For example, a five-bedroom and five-bathroom fully furnished house can be rented for 11,500 euros a month. Utilities (water and electricity) are usually included in the rent. Services like garbage collection may or may not come with the rent. Infrastructure is excellent, but expensive.

Having household help isn’t only for the wealthy; both locals and expats avail themselves of this service. Many domestic workers are immigrants from Southeast Asian countries.

Eating out in Dubai

Wherever you are from elsewhere in the world, chances are you’ll find food that you’re familiar with in Dubai. This is because an abundance of imported food and drinks from various countries are available for sale. Understandably, they aren’t cheap.

There are numerous restaurants and bars; many bars and nightclubs offer happy hour or ladies’ nights, which make drinking out somewhat easier on the pocket. Outside of happy hour, a beer costs about 3 euros in some bars. Alcohol permits are required in order to order and buy alcohol.

With prices rising just about in every sector of the economy, both expats and locals say they cut on costs by eating out less and by buying food produced locally or in nearby regions. Many expats still feel the pinch of inflation – even those who don’t pay for housing since their company pays for their accommodations – and adjust their spending habits accordingly.

Shopping in Dubai

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. Plenty of big-brand stores and designer clothing can be found here…along with their high price tags. Still, there are bargains to be had, if you take the time to find out where to look. Clothes and fashion accessories manufactured locally are more affordable. Fuel and automobiles are inexpensive. Also, quality electronics are surprisingly less costly in Dubai. In fact, many expats buy things like cell phones, laptops, and digital cameras in Dubai and sell them at a profit when they go back home for a visit.

Schools for expat children in Dubai

One of the prime considerations for expats with children is finding a good school for them. Dubai being a multinational environment, it’s only natural to find a plethora of international schools there. Here are some of them:
Dubai International School
Cambridge International School Dubai
Dubai British School
Al Mawakeb School
Dubai English Speaking School

Fee schedules of international schools in Dubai can be found on the schools’ websites.

Local culture in Dubai

Because of the large number of foreigners in Dubai and because of the state's ultra-modern appearance, many tourists and expats are lulled into thinking it's okay to behave as they normally would back home. This is not always true. Respect and understanding of the local culture is important.

Some of the things expats take for granted in their home countries are significantly different in Dubai. Media censorship comes as a surprise to newcomers to Dubai, and the intricacies of the justice system. One helpful thing to remember is that although Dubai has all the impressive Western amenities, it’s still an Islamic state. Hence, learning something about Muslim customs – like when to keep your silence and when to shake a woman’s hand – will go a long way towards adjusting to local life more easily and avoiding unintended social offenses and awkward moments.

For personal stories on what a foreigner’s life is like in Dubai, look no further than our expats in Dubai section. Some of them have already moved back to their home countries; nevertheless, they provide interesting and informative information and tips about moving to and living in Dubai.

Canadian woman “Tainted”
Lebanese woman Sandie Mirfield
Indian expat “Woke”
Indian businessman “Prometheus”
Italian-Dutch expat Giovanni

Do you have tips or information you’d like to share about living in Dubai? Feel free to contribute!