Pros and Cons of Living in Dubai

Dubai is a city that is constantly growing and developing, and it’s easy to see why. With a bustling economy, fantastic weather, and endless activities, it’s no wonder people from all over the world are flocking to this vibrant city. However, not everything about Dubai is perfect. In this blog post, I’m going to take a look at the Pros and Cons to living in Dubai so you can decide if it’s right for you and your family.

Quick list of Pros and Cons of Living in Dubai

+ Tax-Free Income
+ High Standard of Living
+ Low Crime Rate
+ World-class Shopping and Dining
+ Excellent Infrastructure
+ Amazing Weather
+ Access to a Variety of Outdoor Activities
+ Easy Access to International Travel

– High Cost of Living
– Limited Freedom of Expression
– Restricted Access to Alcohol
– Limited Access to Healthcare
– Difficult to Obtain Permanent Residency
– Limited Employment Opportunities for Expats
– Culture Shock
– Isolation from Home and Family

Religious Independence

Dubai is a city steeped in history and culture, particularly that of Islam, the official religion of the United Arab Emirates. The city has dedicated places of worship for multiple religions, including Christianity, Hinduism, and Judaism.

Apart from this, Dubai has developed a reputation for religious independence and tolerance. While Islam is the predominant religion in the city, it is a place that is friendly to people of all faiths.

Anyone living in Dubai is free to practice their own religion. There are no restrictions on religious activities such as worship and ceremonies, and no special permission is needed for religious services.

The government also guarantees the right to observe religious holidays, and the city is home to many groups and organizations that promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Dubai is a city where religious freedom is respected and celebrated. People of all beliefs are welcome, and its open-minded atmosphere makes it a great place to live and work.

The city’s commitment to religious independence and tolerance is something that sets it apart from other cities in the region.

High Wages and Low Taxes

Dubai is a highly attractive destination for people seeking to work abroad. It offers many advantages, including high wages and low taxes. Many individuals and companies come to Dubai to take advantage of the low taxes and the excellent wages.

Dubai has almost less than 5% taxes, which makes it an ideal destination for those looking to increase their take-home pay. This is especially true for those working in the financial services sector. This low tax rate is in contrast to many other countries, where taxes can range from 10-40%.

Salaries in Dubai can be some of the highest in the world, as employers are willing to pay for talent and experience So, those coming to Dubai to work can expect to receive a generous salary package.

So, overall Dubai has become a desirable destination for those seeking to work abroad and make the most of their hard-earned money.

Affordable Accommodation

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it is no surprise that travelers are looking for affordable accommodation.

There are a variety of options for travelers to choose from when looking for an affordable accommodation in Dubai. From budget hotels to luxury resorts, there is something for everyone.

For budget travelers, Dubai has a range of hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels which offer basic amenities and services at reasonable rates.

For those looking for more luxurious and comfortable accommodations, Dubai has a wide range of resorts and hotels with all the amenities one could ask for.

The city also has a variety of serviced apartments with kitchenettes, living rooms, and private balconies. These apartments provide guests with a sense of independence and freedom to explore the city at their own pace.

For those looking for a more traditional and authentic experience, Dubai also has a number of Bedouin camps located on the outskirts of the city. These camps offer an authentic Bedouin experience, with tents and traditional furnishings, as well as access to a variety of activities.

Whether travelers are looking for a luxurious stay or an affordable and unique experience, there is something for everyone in Dubai’s diverse and vibrant accommodation market.

Great Business Opportunities for Entrepreneurs and Professionals

Dubai, a prosperous emirate located in the United Arab Emirates, is a haven for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. With its booming economy and skyrocketing population, Dubai offers an incredible range of business opportunities for those wishing to invest and expand their operations in the region.

From its world-renowned hospitality to its world-leading infrastructure, Dubai provides a platform for businesses to reach their maximum potential.

In addition to its thriving tourism and hospitality industry, Dubai has a number of other industries that offer great business opportunities which include below industries,

• Retail and e-commerce
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Finance and banking
• IT and telecommunications
• Media and entertainment

Moreover, the government of Dubai is highly supportive of entrepreneurial activity, offering a number of tax incentives and grants to support new business ventures. With the right business acumen and the right partnerships, entrepreneurs can find tremendous success in Dubai.

Professionals in Dubai also have a wide array of career opportunities to choose from. With its booming economy, there is a high demand for skilled labor, with positions ranging from marketing and sales to finance and engineering.

Professionals can also take advantage of the city’s exquisite range of educational and training institutions, as well as its large network of international companies.

From internships to senior management positions, Dubai offers numerous job prospects for those with the right qualifications.

Dubai is called a Fun City

Dubai is known as a fun-filled city where there is something for everyone. From its vibrant nightlife, the city offers a wide array of entertainment options.

Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town and a chance to dance the night away or just want to sit back and relax at a rooftop bar with a view of the city skyline, Dubai has it all.

With its great selection of pubs and discos, as well as some of the best nightclubs in the world, you’re sure to find something that fits your style.

Whether it’s the arcade-style games of the Game Zone or the live music and dancing of the famous clubs, you’ll find something worth coming back for.

Of course, no trip to Dubai would be complete without checking out the exotic restaurants, shopping, and other attractions that make this city such a popular holiday destination.

From its luxury resorts to its top-notch shopping malls, Dubai is the perfect place to experience all the best of the Middle East.

Crime rates are extremely low, Very Safe City

Dubai has very strict laws, which strictly forbid any public drinking or consumption of drugs. This is rare in the region, and Dubai stands out for having very strict laws such as these.

However, like anywhere in the world, there are crimes. Recently, there has been an increase in thefts from rental cars, and, although car theft is uncommon in the city, it is still an issue.

Most crimes are nonviolent. The most common crime is probably assault, followed by theft. Dubai is a not more crime prone than other cities.

Luxurious Lifestyle

Dubai is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, with its luxurious hotels, chic restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. It offers a range of services and amenities to ensure that visitors and residents alike can enjoy the very best in luxurious living.

From the finest dining experiences to exclusive spas and luxury shopping experiences, there is something in Dubai to appeal to every taste and budget.

The city is also home to some of the world’s most opulent hotels, where guests can enjoy a range of amenities including grand ballrooms, infinity pools, and private terraces.

Many of the hotels also provide exclusive access to world-class golf courses and beach clubs, allowing visitors to experience a range of activities while they take in the stunning views of the city’s skyline.

Dubai is also home to some of the world’s most spectacular shopping malls, with the likes of the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates being home to a variety of designer stores, restaurants and entertainment venues.

With its combination of luxury, convenience and quality of life, Dubai offers a truly unique and luxurious lifestyle that is sure to impress.

Dubai is More Liberal than Other Middle-East Countries

Dubai is often seen as the Middle-East’s most progressive and modern city. It’s a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub that is home to many cultures, religions, and languages.

It is the business and financial capital of the region and has attracted people from all over the world. It has a unique blend of East and West. What makes Dubai stand out from other countries in the region is its commitment to progress and liberal ideals.

Dubai is more tolerant and open-minded than most of its neighbors when it comes to religion, culture, and lifestyle. It is the only Middle-Eastern country that has no laws against homosexuality, allowing members of the LGBT community to live and work without fear of discrimination.

The city has also a vibrant nightlife, with bars and clubs that cater to everyone. The government also allows the public to consume alcohol, despite the Islamic law forbidding it.

Overall, Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and ideas, making it one of the most progressive cities in the Middle East.

It is an attractive destination for people looking for a safe, secure, and open-minded environment to live and work in.

The city’s commitment to progress and liberal ideals has earned it the reputation of being one of the most open-minded and progressive countries in the region.

Great Public Transportation services

Dubai has some of the best public transportation services in the world. From the world’s longest driverless metro system to affordable water buses, the city offers an array of options to get around.

The Dubai Metro is the longest fully automated railway network in the world, with over 75 kilometers of track.

It is also one of the fastest, with an average speed of over 50 km/h. The Metro is air-conditioned, with modern and comfortable carriages. It is safe and reliable, and operates from 5:30am to 11:30pm daily.

Dubai’s bus system is also comprehensive, covering all areas of the city and connecting to the Metro. The buses are comfortable, clean and air-conditioned, and are equipped with modern amenities.

For visitors to the city, the Nol Card provides access to the buses and Metro, as well as discounted fares.

For those looking for a more scenic route, the city also offers the Dubai Water Bus. It runs along the Dubai Creek, offering great views of the city skyline. The city has a water taxi service, which provides a fast and convenient way to get around.

The taxis are clean and air-conditioned, and can take passengers to almost any destination. Dubai is also home to a number of taxi companies, providing reliable, safe and affordable rides.

Amazing Outdoor Recreation Activities

Dubai is a lively city that offers amazing outdoor recreation activities that both visitors and locals can enjoy.

From stunning beaches to picturesque mountains and dunes, Dubai has something to offer for everyone.

The city is full of exciting activities, such as dune bashing, paragliding, skydiving, and rock climbing.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are beautiful beaches, parks, and gardens to explore. There are also plenty of water sports such as kayaking, scuba diving, and sailing.

Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, Dubai has something for everyone.

The desert environment of Dubai also provides a range of activities for visitors. Hot air balloon rides, safaris, and camping are all popular activities that give visitors a chance to explore the desert.

There are also many outdoor activities such as sandboarding, camel rides, and quad biking that are fun for the whole family.

For those looking for a more daring experience, there are activities such as dune buggies and desert rallies available.

No matter what type of outdoor experience you are looking for, Dubai has something for everyone.

From thrilling activities to peaceful retreats, this city has something to offer for everyone.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Dubai has something to offer.

English is widely spoken language

English is a widely spoken language in Dubai, making it an ideal destination for expats from all over the world. This is because the city has a very expat friendly atmosphere and almost everyone in Dubai speaks English.

This makes the city very inviting for those who want to make it their home away from home.

From the locals to the expats, everyone is friendly and welcoming. This makes it easy to communicate with anyone and makes settling in much easier.

The city is filled with many amenities and services that are catered to expats. From international supermarkets to English-speaking banks, it is easy to find all the necessary services in the city.

Additionally, there are numerous international schools, universities and hospitals in the city, which makes it ideal for those who have families. All in all, English is the language of choice in Dubai, making it the ideal destination for expats seeking a place to call home.

Dubai is a Best Place to Raise the Kids

Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities of the world. It is also considered as one of the best places to raise kids. It is a perfect place to raise your kids because of the following reasons:

Educational opportunities

Dubai provides great educational opportunities to the kids. Dubai has various top educational institutions like Emirates School, Dubai Community school, Jumeirah community school, Gems International School, Regent Village School, etc.

They offer great educational facilities to the kids which make Dubai one of the best places to raise your kids.

Healthy lifestyle

Dubai is also a great place to raise your kids because of the healthy lifestyle it offers. People in Dubai are conscious about the food they eat. Hence, they generally eat fresh food. Moreover, they have good opportunities for sports.

The best thing about Dubai is that you can enjoy sports activities at free of cost. So, Dubai is a perfect place to raise your kids.

Friendly environment

Another reason that made Dubai one of the best places to raise your kids is friendly environment. People in Dubai are hospitable and very warm-hearted. Children in Dubai are seen playing with other children of all age groups

Therefore, Dubai can also be considered one of the best places to raise your kids.

Very Good healthcare system

Dubai provides high-quality healthcare services to the citizens. The healthcare services are expensive, but the citizens are insured by government-sponsored health schemes.

The healthcare facilities in Dubai offers a wide variety of services to the citizens. The healthcare facilities in Dubai include hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, health screening centers, and dental clinics. The healthcare service providers are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a well-known accreditation board.

The healthcare service providers in Dubai offer high-quality services. The hospitals in Dubai have state of the art facilities. The clinics in Dubai offer primary healthcare services at affordable prices. The healthcare facilities in Dubai provide emergency services to the citizens 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Dubai offers affordable healthcare services to the citizens. The citizens in Dubai can avail the government-sponsored healthcare schemes. The healthcare service providers in Dubai offer discounts on healthcare services to the senior citizens, students, and the disabled.

Dubai has Very strict laws

Dubai is a United Arab Emirates city that has strict laws. For example, if a man smokes in public, he will be fined 200 dirhams (about 50 U.S. dollars).

Another example of a strong law in Dubai is for men to wear long trousers. If a man is caught wearing shorts, he will be arrested and jailed for 24 hours.

One more, public displays of affection such as hugging or kissing in public are prohibited similar to Abu Dhabi Rules. Violators of this law may receive jail time or fines.

The government of Dubai also has very strict laws against drugs and alcohol. Possession or use of drugs is a serious criminal offense and can result in serious penalties, such as lengthy prison sentences.

Drinking alcohol is only permitted in licensed venues and the drinking of alcohol outside of these areas is strictly prohibited.

Tourists are also subject to this law, and can face fines and deportation if caught breaking it.

In general, Dubai is a very safe city, but it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations to avoid any potential legal problems.

Extreme Hit, Very bad Climate

Dubai is one of the hottest cities in the world. The temperature in summer sometimes reach 50C, and in some years, it reaches sometimes 50C, and in some years, it reaches 52C.

Summer in Dubai can go up to 53C, and the humidity in Dubai is 80%, and the temperature drops to 8C in winter. This on top with the lack of rains in Dubai, which makes the situation worse.

Extreme weather in Dubai causes some city infrastructure to need extensive maintenance, and this costs taxpayers a lot of money.

You must read this before move to Dubai city as an Expat.

Internet Censorship

An issue of censorship of internet websites, or few websites, came up in Dubai. The UAE government blocked certain websites, including Al Arabiya. This censorship has made many angry. This censorship is caused because of a new law which says that all media content has to be pre-approved before being published.

However, this is only happening in Dubai, not in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Many people say that this is just the beginning of more censorship. This censorship started after the Arab Spring, which happened in 2011.

A few popular blocked websites are:

• Al Arabiya English
• Al Arabiya News
• Al Bawaba News
• Amen TV – Islamic
• Islamic Education Institute
• London News
• News 7 – English
• News 7 – Arabic
• Sky News Arabia
• UAE News

Dealing with Real Estates and Landlords can be Tricky

Real estate business in Dubai is very competitive. Everyone in the country is investing there and buying their own properties. People from different parts of the world are investing in Dubai properties too. Real estate business in Dubai is booming and people are willing to invest their money there.

However, the real estate business in Dubai is not that easy. There are many things that you need to keep in mind when you are buying a property. The real estate market in Dubai is quite complicated. There are many terms and conditions that you should be aware of when you are buying a property.

There are many real estate companies in Dubai. They can help you buy a property in Dubai. However, before hiring a real estate company, you should make sure that they are reliable and trustable.

Real estate companies work on commissions paid by the sellers of the property. Therefore, if you hire a company, they will ask you to pay a commission. The commission is usually 5% of the property value.

The real estate market is very competitive in Dubai. There are many companies in Dubai. Therefore, you need to be very careful when you are choosing a real estate company.

It’s hard to Understand Addresses and Roads

Dubai is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, but it can be quite confusing to navigate due to its vast roads and complicated address system. Many people struggle to understand the numbering system of the roads in Dubai.

To make things even more confusing, the buildings in Dubai can have multiple entrances and exits, making it even harder to pinpoint the exact location of a particular building.

To make it easier to understand, it is important to understand the convention of the numbering system used in Dubai. It is based on a grid system which starts from the coastline and works its way inward.

The roads are numbered consecutively starting from the sea, with odd numbers representing the eastern side and even numbers representing the western side.

The buildings are numbered according to their distance from the coastline. For example, if a building is 80 meters away from the coastline, it would be designated as number 80. This numbering system is also used for the location of street signs, making it easier for navigation.

With some knowledge of the address system and roads in Dubai, it will be much easier to navigate this vibrant and exciting city.

Public Toilets are very Dirty

Public Toilets in Dubai are in a terrible condition. Poor hygiene and cleanliness standards have left many visitors and locals feeling uncomfortable and unimpressed.

The city is a tourist mecca, but its public bathrooms are incredibly dirty and uninviting. There are not enough facilities to meet the demands of the growing population, resulting in filthy bathrooms that are often overcrowded and poorly maintained.

In addition, some toilets lack basic amenities such as toilet paper, soap, and even running water. The odors coming from many of the bathrooms are unbearable, creating an unpleasant experience for anyone who uses them.

The Dubai government must take immediate action to improve the state of public toilets in the city. Improving the infrastructure of existing bathrooms and constructing additional facilities is essential in order to provide a safe and clean environment for visitors and locals alike.

The government should also take steps to enforce stricter regulations in order to ensure that all bathrooms are kept in a sanitary condition.

Finally, it is important to educate the public on proper hygiene practices and to provide access to necessary supplies such as soap, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

Overall, public toilets in Dubai are in a deplorable condition. Taking the necessary steps to improve public toilet facilities will go a long way in helping to make Dubai a more pleasant destination for all.

High cost of living

Dubai is no doubt, one of the most expensive cities to live in. From the high cost of rent, to the cost of groceries, transportation, and utilities, it can be challenging to make ends meet here.

Rent alone can take up a large portion of your income, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around AED 8,000 per month.

Groceries, on the other hand, cost much more than they would in many other countries, with a dozen eggs costing around AED 8, and a kilo of chicken breasts coming in at around AED 40.

Transportation costs in Dubai can also be high, with one-way tickets on the metro costing up to AED 6. Other transportation costs include taxi fares, petrol, and parking fees – all of which can add up quickly.

Finally, utilities such as electricity, water, and internet can be expensive, with the average electricity bill coming in at around AED 300. All of these costs can add up quickly, making it difficult to make ends meet in this expensive city.

Driving in Dubai can be a stressful and hazardous experience

Driving in Dubai can be a stressful and hazardous experience. This is especially true for those who are not familiar with the hard driving rules, strict enforcement of traffic regulations, and the many hazards posed by the desert terrain.

To stay safe on the roads, drivers must pay close attention to their surroundings and be mindful of any potential risks.

They must also be aware of the different driving rules, speed limits, and parking regulations that apply.

To ensure that they are driving safely, drivers should make use of the many navigational tools and resources available, such as GPS and smartphone apps, to help them determine the best route to their destination.

Drivers should also be aware of the different types of insurance coverage that can help protect them from any financial losses in case of an accident. With careful planning and by following the driving rules, drivers can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Dubai.

Difficult to find Job

Finding a suitable job in Dubai can be an extremely difficult task. With multiple employers vying for top talent, and employers seeking a certain type of employee, it can be hard to find a job that fits your skills and experience.

The competition is fierce and many job seekers find themselves unable to compete. It is important to understand the nuances of the local job market, and to be aware of the different job opportunities available.

Many people turn to the internet to research jobs in Dubai, but there is a lot of information out there and it can be overwhelming.

It helps to break down the search into categories such as industry, job type, or salary range. Researching these categories can help to narrow down the search and make it easier to find the right job.

It is important to take advantage of networking opportunities and to attend job fairs and other industry-specific events. This can help to make connections and increase the visibility of the job seeker.

In conclusion, finding a job in Dubai can be a difficult task. It is important to take the time to research the local job market and to be aware of the different opportunities available.

What are the few reasons not to live in Dubai?

Dubai is a vibrant and exciting city, but it may not be the right place to call home for everyone. The cost of living is extremely high, with rent and other basic necessities often costing substantially more than in other cities.

The hot, humid climate can be a challenge, especially during the summer months.

Due to the city’s large expat population, there may be less of a sense of community than in other cities.

Finally, the cultural and religious norms of Dubai may be difficult for some to adjust to.

Is It safe to live in Dubai as a woman?

Yes, it is safe to live as a woman in Dubai. Dubai is a safe city and there is no specific incidence of crimes against women

You should always take sensible precautions such as not walking alone at night and not travelling to areas that are unfamiliar to you

You need to be aware of your surroundings and keep your money and personal belongings secure.

Is It difficult to obtain a Permanent Residency in Dubai?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the process of obtaining a Permanent Residency in Dubai will vary depending on your individual circumstances.

Some tips on how to get a Permanent Residency in Dubai include researching the appropriate immigration laws and regulations, compiling a strong case for your residency application, and meeting with an immigration lawyer.

Concluding it now,

Living in Dubai is a unique experience, and many find it to be a great place to live. But, the cost of living and weather can be challenging.

Dubai weather is hot for most of the year. If high temperatures aren’t your thing, you might want to look elsewhere.

Even though the cost of living is high, it can still be considered a bargain when compared to other cities in the United Arab Emirates. So, is Dubai right for you? Let us know via email what you think!