The United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is famous for its advanced cities, rich lifestyle and quick industrial progress, is an interesting country to settle down for both foreigners and natives alike. The UAE – with the city center of Abu Dhabi and the ultra-modern Dubai – offers a blend of traditional and contemporary living. Be it for work, studying, or tourism, here is a helpful description of life in the UAE so you can best prepare for your move.
The UAE: A Multicultural Society
The United Arab Emirates is diverse in nature, with people from a variety of racial backgrounds and almost 80% of the population as foreign expatriates. The mixture of cultures create multicultural surroundings. This is pronounced in the monuments, food, language, festivals and social life. From a delicious Indian dish to Chinese trinkets, or Western festivities like celebrating New Year’s, the UAE is the place where global culture comes together.
Cost of Living
Similar to other countries, the cost of living in the UAE depends on the Emirate and personal lifestyle choices. In general, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have the most expensive rents, luxury items, and dining out. For those living in more economically priced areas and utilizing public transport, there are many ways to cut down expenses.
Charges in apartments can be the most costly for most people and their rent depends on where they live. In Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai, apartments are priced at premium range. Cheaper alternatives can be found in Deira and Al Nahda. Shared accommodation is the most preferred option among most expats since it significantly lowers their costs.
Chances are that most people’s utilities (water, electricity, and cooling) price will increase especially during the summer months when air conditioning is a must. Most rents do cover utilities, but one should always be sure before signing any deals.
Grocery prices tend to be reasonable, but imported goods will always be more expensive. Local food markets and family-owned grocery stores tend to be more cost-effective, though.
Dining and Entertainment: In the UAE, eating out can range from cheap to pricey, with street vendors and Michelin star chefs all offering their menus. There is no shortage of entertainment options from theme parks to shopping malls. Everyone’s tastes are catered to.
Work and Career Opportunities
With its abundance of international companies, the UAE is a hot spot for job opportunities for foreigners, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Since the region is an epicenter for hospitality, healthcare, technology, real estate and finance, skilled professionals are always welcomed to work.
Employment Visa: An employment visa is a prerequisite for all foreign nationals looking to work in the UAE. Most of the time, the acquiring employer will sponsor the visa. The documentation process for the visa is easy as long as the prerequisites are all arranged.
Work Culture: As the UAE progresses, a great deal is offered in professional endeavors. Employment has a fast-paced scope coupled with extended work hours, and a good deal of sectors still require additional attention to fostering a work life balance.
Tax-Free Income: You are able to keep your entire salary while living in the UAE, due to the absence of an income tax. It is important to keep in mind, though, that a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in 2018, so it is necessary to adjust your budget accordingly.
Culture and Lifestyle
UAE is a unique mix of traditional Emirati culture and modern international features, making it very exciting to live there. Shoppers in the UAE enjoy spending on luxury items, and the vibrant nightlife and outdoor activities add to the fun, all while the Islamic traditions of the region are being respected.
Religious and Cultural Practices: Islam is the main and only religion of the UAE, and it is part of their daily life. In the month of Ramadan, the country reduces working hours and requires citizens to fast from sunrise to sunset. Expatriates should observe local customs during their stay, especially during the month of Ramadan.
Social Etiquette: Like the rest of the region, the UAE has a set of rules that govern dress code, public behavior, and alcohol consumption that are considered strict. While it is more liberal than conservative countries in the region, public modesty is encouraged. Unlike some other countries, alcohol can only be consumed in certain places such as licensed hotels or private residences, so people should be careful when choosing where to drink.
Outdoor Sports: There are many outdoor activities in the UAE, such as Desert Safari and hiking in the Hajar Mountains. Due to the country’s long coastline, Water Sports are also popular. Beaches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are refreshing, and those inclined towards adventure can indulge in jet skiing, kite surfing, or scuba diving in the warm waters of the Persian Gulf.
Healthcare and Education
The UAE has a welcoming health care and educational systems which enhances the living standards of expatriates looking to relocate for better prospects.
Healthcare: The public and private hospitals and clinics offer world-class medical assistance, making the UAE’s healthcare some of the best in the region. Most employers cover health insurance, with some residents opting for additional private coverage for easier access to top-rated healthcare facilities.
Education: Expatriate families in the UAE are given the opportunity to choose from a diverse selection of schools that offer international British and American curriculums as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB). These institutions tend to be very pricey, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The quality of education is generally high, and the country has made substantial investments in educational development.
Transportation
In the Emirates, getting around is quite handy because of the efficient public transportation system, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Public Transport: Dubai is home to one of the best public transport systems anywhere in the World which consist of the Dubai Metro, buses, and tram services. The metro is well-liked by commuters as it is the quickest form of intercity travel. Other forms of public transport also include taxis, Ubers, and Careem which are simple to access and very popular.
Driving: Inhabitants of the UAE are known to own private vehicles as the road networks are of a high standard. The roads are as busy as the drivers but most are well looked after and come fitted with modern released surveillance cameras. If you are an immigrant, you are eligible to make use of an international driver’s license for a period of six months after which you are required to obtain a UAE driving license.
Safety and Security
With little to no violence reported and with firm regulations in motion, the UAE is known as one of the safest countries around the globe. Rest assured, officials have a system in place to protect the citizens thereby increasing their level of satisfaction. For expatriates, they can and are encouraged to feel safe as the UAE chooses to focus heavily on protecting its citizens.
The UAE provides a rare and fulfilling experience considering the lifestyle, multifarious chances, and a high standard of living. For an individual moving because of career prospect, shift in a standard of living or the possibility of enjoying the combination of modernity and tradition, the country is truly a dynamic place. With the top infrastructure in the world, earnings which are not taxed, different cultures to enjoy along with a soaring security level, the UAE surely stands out as a construction region for individuals from everywhere.