What Is Dubai Like? (Solution found)

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• Dubai is a city of skyscrapers, ports, and beaches, where big business takes place alongside sun-seeking tourism. Because of its large expatriate population, it feels like a Middle Eastern melting pot, and the atmosphere is generally tolerant. Religious affiliations are not a prominent aspect of city life.

What is living in Dubai like?

Dubai is a very tolerant emirate – tolerant of others’ beliefs and ways of life. It is also one of the most moderate in terms of applying the rules of Islam to everyone’s everyday life. Expats can buy alcohol in Dubai and also they are allowed to eat and drink during the daylight hours of Ramadan.

Is Dubai a safe place to visit?

General safety in Dubai There’s not much dispute that Dubai is quite safe for tourists. Dubai is heavily monitored, so violent crime directed at tourists is rare. Most tourist-directed crime in Dubai is likely to be petty stuff like pickpocketing, scams, or sexual harassment.

What should I avoid in Dubai?

10 things you can’t do in Dubai

• Cross-dressing.
• Writing a cheque that bounces.
• Sleeping with your partner.
• Being gay.
• Smoking electronic cigarettes.
• Staying in a hotel if you’re under 18.
• Being drunk.
• Taking drugs.

Is it good living in Dubai?

It’s a very safe place to live In 2020, the UAE was the world’s only country to have three of its cities – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah – all among the top ten safest cities in the world.

Are there poor people in Dubai?

The UAE is one of the top ten richest countries in the world, and yet a large percentage of the population lives in poverty — an estimated 19.5 percent. Poverty in the UAE can be seen in the labor conditions of the working class. Migrants come to Dubai looking for work and send remittances back to their families.

Why you shouldn’t go to Dubai?

Aside from petty crime such as pickpocketing, scams and sexual harassment, person-on-person crime is not much of a concern for tourists in Dubai. Another thing tourists need to remember is that despite Dubai being moderate and open towards Westerners, it is not a democratic society.

What language do they speak in Dubai?

The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic. Modern Standard Arabic is taught in schools, and most native Emiratis speak a dialect of Gulf Arabic that is generally similar to that spoken in surrounding countries.

Is there a death penalty in Dubai?

Capital punishment is a legal penalty in the United Arab Emirates. Under Emirati law, multiple crimes carry the death penalty, and executions can be carried out through either a firing squad, hanging, or stoning. Overseas nationals and UAE nationals have both been executed for crimes.

Is there a dress code in Dubai?

Is there a dress code in Dubai? The dress code in Dubai is quite liberal. Usually, you can wear pretty much what you like, certainly in tourist places and hotels and their adjacent beaches.

Can I bring a girl to my hotel room in Dubai?

As per local regulations, we are allowed to allow access to guest rooms only if the person has been preregistered on check in as an occupant and a valid ID is provided on arrival of the visitor. If the visitor does not have an ID, they are more than welcome to meet our guests in any of the public areas of the Hotel.

Is it OK to wear shorts in Dubai?

There are no fixed rules regarding wearing shorts. When it comes to wearing shorts in Dubai, even in case of tourists, remember that thigh grazing shorts, hot shorts, booty shorts and mini-skirts that barely cover may not be a good choice in Dubai, unless you are wearing them at a beach.

Can you kiss in public in Dubai?

The Dubai code states: “Holding hands for a married couple is tolerated but kissing and petting are considered an offence to public decency. “Public displays of affection, as well as sexual harassment or randomly addressing women in public places, is liable to be punished by imprisonment or deportation.”

Can a woman work in Dubai?

Can women work in Dubai? A common misconception that people often have is that women can’t work in Dubai. In fact, the opposite is true; women can work in Dubai and many who do would claim the opportunities are better than many places in the West.

Do you have to wear hijab in Dubai?

Dress code in public places in Dubai Women do not have to cover their head, face and hair with a scarf or something similar in public, although Muslim women, particularly Gulf Arabs, do cover their hair, face and head with a scarf for cultural and religious reasons.

Is Dubai overrated?

The city is clean, safe and highly efficient – in transit, it is definitely worth a look. However, the problems with Dubai run deep, which is why we’re considering it an overrated travel destination. Firstly, those gigantic skyscrapers were built using what critics compare to modern-day slave labour.

10 Things I Wish I Knew About Dubai Before I Moved Here

6 minutes are allotted for reading. Here are ten key facts about Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that I wish I had understood before relocating halfway across the world. The following is a table of contents:

• 1. It is humid
• 2. Transportation is inexpensive and convenient
• 3. Tinder is a real thing
• 4. Everyone smokes indoors (cough)
• 5. Yes, people are indeed that wealthy
• 6. It is outrageously risk-free for women. I swear to you
• 7. Yes, you are permitted to consume alcoholic beverages at this establishment. 8. Yes, there are individuals who speak English. And, certainly, there are people who speak Arabic. 9. It does, in fact, become chilly (at least in my perspective)
• 10. No, not all women are required to cover their heads. However, witnessing individuals in hijab, kandura, abaya, and niqab rapidly becomes a part of one’s everyday life

1. It ishumid.

Seriously, what is it about the internet that makes it so dysfunctional? What was going on that no one told me about? How could I have been so blind? When I left the United States, I was aware that Dubai was quite hot, but I had the impression that it was a dry heat—you know, because of the desert. When I first arrived on the island on September 1, I was taken aback by how humid it was outside. It seemed as though I was walking into a steaming hot shower when it happened. I requested that my taxi driver stop at a gas station so that I could withdraw some dirhams (UAE money) from an ATM, and the window panes of the petrol station were pouring with water due to the amount of humidity outside the vehicle.

2. Transport is affordable and effortless.

The Dubai Metro System is faultless in every way. There are stations around every mile or so, and they are all quite accessible by car. Even my school has a metro station right in front of it, which is less than a one-minute walk from the building. Most importantly, each journey on the metro costs only 3.5AED (1USD/.88EU), which is quite affordable. Taxis are also very inexpensive, with a minimum fare of 12AED (3.2USD/3EU) for every ride—most 5 to 10 minute journeys don’t even wind up exceeding the 12AED fare if you don’t get stuck in traffic—and most rides are less than that if you don’t get stuck in traffic.

With them, I always tend to find up in a talk about where they’re from and what brought them here.

3. Yes, Tinder is a thing.

Before I moved to the UAE, I had heard a lot about how restricted the government was when it comes to personal use of applications, software, and other technologies. However, since moving here, I haven’t seen much of a shift in my everyday routine. Although I have not personally used the meet-up app in question, let’s just pretend that it is functional. Other dating apps, such as Hinge, Bumble, Plenty of Fish, OkCupid, Match, and others, follow a similar pattern. (I assure you, Mom, I’m not going to use all of these.) Yes, it is a Muslim nation, but due to the large number of expatriates who live here, dating applications such as Tinder are becoming increasingly popular among them.

To send a tweet, simply click here.

• Snapchat (although you can’t do Snapchat live video)
• Netflix (but only about a third of the episodes are accessible)
• And other services. Whatsapp (although you cannot make a Whatsapp call)
• IMessage

4. Everyone smokes indoors (cough).

I definitely shouldn’t limit myself to only saying inside. Every building, park, and restaurant in the entire city, as well as on its roof, is filled with people who smoke. Since the Middle East has been a cultural standard for centuries, smoking tobacco is probably more prevalent here. Shisha (hookah, for you hipster Americans) has long been a cultural norm in the region. However, I was completely unprepared for the amount of smoke that was present inside. People smoking shisha at every sofa and countertop, as well as cigarettes at every hand in a bar, are particularly common at nightclubs and bars.

Even today, three months later, I wave my hand in front of my face to attempt to breathe at nightclubs (rude, I know, sorry, but oh well), and I walk home smelling like a pack of Marlboro cigarette smoke from the experience. Yuck.

5. Yes, people really are that rich.

Yeah, I’m not sure what it was about this that surprised me so much. Dubai is literally known for having the most affluent, lavish, and ostentatious individuals on the planet, and this is no exaggeration. The casual boat party invitations, the expensive automobiles, and the apartment parties in the Burj Khalifa are all examples of this. To send a tweet, simply click here. However, seeing it in person is a very other experience. For example, the Lamborghinis and Audis that occupy the parking lot at my school.

• My first impression of the Mall of Emirates was based on the stores immediately surrounding me.
• Of course, there are reasonably priced stores in this area.
• I would not have brought my pillow and linens with me if I had known I would be staying here!
• I had been invited to a boat party that one of my classmates was hosting.

6. Ladies, it isridiculouslysafe. I promise.

This came as a complete surprise. I’d heard before I came here that Dubai was a highly safe place since the penalties for disobeying the law are so harsh. I was skeptical until I arrived. As it turns out, this is entirely correct. So let me to alleviate some of your greatest concerns right now: In Dubai, I never have to worry about a terrorist assault, a bombing, or an abduction. No, I’ve never been assaulted or targeted in this community because I’m black, American, and 5’3′′ tall. No, I’ve never had anything taken away from me in my life.

1. Every.
2. time.
3. My experience with getting into a cab when inebriated in the middle of the night has been completely positive.
4. Of course, you shouldn’t deliberately choose to be reckless.
5. That means you should avoid being belligerently drunk in public, don’t disrupt the peace with fighting or swearing, and don’t dress scandalously while you’re in a public place like the mall.

You can see what insane things I’ve done in Dubai and what I still have on my bucket list before I leave in April by reading my articleMy Stereotypical, Excessive, Awesome Dubai Bucket List.

7. Yes, you can drink here.

I had only turned 21 a few days before I arrived here, and one of my main concerns was that I would be unable to consume alcoholic beverages in this country. However, fortunately for me, there is a bar or club in almost every hotel in Dubai, which is a blessing in disguise. In addition, there are several hotels in Dubai. The nicest part about partying here is “Ladies Night,” and the best part about Ladies Night is that it happens almost every night of the week. That’s right, ladies, you may enjoy up to three free cocktails every night from a variety of establishments.

Dubai is also well-known for its weekend brunch specials, which are normally held on Fridays.

At Cove Beach, we had a lovely breakfast table.

8. Yes, people speak English. And yes, people speak Arabic.

As a student who traveled to Dubai to learn Arabic, you would not believe the amount of negative feedback I received for my decision to study here.

“No one even speaks Arabic there”, “It’s so Westernized everyone just speaks English”, “WHY would you go to Dubai to learn Arabic?”

Yes, I digress, living in a nation such as Oman, Jordan, or even Morocco for a period of time may have been preferable in order to become totally immersed in the language and therefore become proficient. But don’t be too harsh on Dubai! First and foremost, I am a student in a school. If I truly wanted to learn French, Spanish, or Portuguese, I could come to Dubai and study there. And, thank you very much, I received an A in my Arabic class. Second, Arabic is still the official national language in this country, and it is absolutely extensively spoken in the community.

On the other end of the scale, I frequently heard people express concern that there would be no one who spoke English and that traversing the city would be nearly impossible.

I would estimate that 80 percent of the folks I come across are fluent in English, or at the very least comprehend it.

9. It actually gets cold (in my opinion).

Ugh. What the hell, I’ll take it. I came to this place because people told me it had summertime feelings all year round, yet it’s now early December and the temperature at night is 60°F/15°C. I’d like my money back. Okay, I’ll admit that I’m being dramatic. But I honestly imagined it would be 90 degrees all year, and now I’m asking my mother to mail me my leather jacket from back home in the United States. It’s strange how things work out.

10. NO, not all women have to wear hijab. But seeing people wear hijab, kandura, abaya, and niqab becomes daily life very quickly.

Eat your heart out, you cretin. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the ruler of Dubai. Please understand that foreign/visiting women are not required to wear hijab or to cover themselves entirely at all times in the United States. You are not required to dress in black. You are not required to dress in long abayas. You must be aware of when it is suitable to dress. For particular fashion suggestions and wearing circumstances, please see my post on what ladies can wear in Dubai in 2019 for more information.

• And if I did, all I’d be able to think about would be where she was born and when she came to the United States of America.
• I honestly believed that every man dressed in the kandura (a white robe with a long scarf tied over his head) was the Sheikh.
• However, it didn’t take long before I began to notice this particular style of attire as the standard.
• Not only do we have Emirati clothing, but we also have Pakistani, South Indian, Omani, and other national costumes.
• But I’ve discovered that anyone can wear a hijab—only it’s a scarf, after all.
• Dubai often seems to receive a terrible name in the media, and this is no exception.
• The detention and imprisonment of individuals for reasons that they would not have been held and imprisoned for in other parts of the globe have occurred in Dubai in recent years, and these are horrific events.
• Just because one country lives and runs in a specific way does not imply that it is incorrect; rather, it indicates that you must open your mind and attempt to comprehend their point of view, even if you do not completely agree with it.

In any case, you’ll need a lot of papers to be able to reside here. However, if you’re interested in visiting one of the most multicultural, extravagant, adventurous, spontaneous, and beautiful cities on the globe, Dubai will be waiting for you to come and see it for yourself.

Have you ever been to Dubai? Have any more questions about it?Let me know in the comments below.

To pin anything, click on it. To pin anything, click on it. To pin anything, click on it. Gabby is a multi-award-winning author and illustrator. She is a full-time travel influencer, Gen Z travel marketing specialist, and public speaker that works in the travel industry full time. You’ll find her on shows like Good Morning America, National Geographic, CNNTravel, Forbes, Travel+Leisure, and even the TEDx stage, where she’s spoken about her work. Gabby Beckford’s most recent blog entries (See all of them)

12 things I wish I’d known before I went to Dubai

The tourist boom in Dubai is showing no signs of abating. During the first six months of the year, the city received more than eight million foreign overnight travelers, representing a 10.6 percent rise over the same time in the previous year. If you’re considering a vacation to the United States in the next months, here are some tips I’ve gleaned from my multiple journeys that you should be aware of.

1. There’s life beyond the skyscrapers

If you scrape beyond the surface of Dubai’s opulent wealth, you will discover a fascinating culture that is worth learning about. Were you anticipating something like that? Make your way to the souks that line Dubai Creek, the city’s historic center, where vendors from all over the Middle East gather to sell their products. Turquoise trinkets from Iran, silver jewels from Oman, and dates from Saudi Arabia may all be found here for bargain prices. There’s even a stunning gold souk dedicated to the precious metal — well worth a visit even if you don’t intend to buy anything.

2. The food is fantastic

Dubai’s vibrant culinary industry is one of the many advantages of having such a large expat population: there are several meal options to choose from. Moreover, it is not limited to high-end dining establishments — although there are many of those as well. In the Bur Dubai neighborhood, you may savor Iranian, Filipino, Yemeni, Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani, and even Afghan cuisines, among others. Frying Pan Food Adventuresprovides a variety of entertaining gastronomy tours. Bur Dubai is home to some of the best Indian street cuisine in the world.

• Is this the world’s most underappreciated foodie destination?

3. You don’t need a burkini

A bikini will do the trick. Despite the fact that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, it is not as conservative as you might assume. Dress in the manner in which you would in Europe: shorts and skirts are acceptable. In addition, there is no requirement to conceal your hair. The use of a burkini is not required. Credit:alamy

• 10 shocking facts about Dubai that you probably didn’t know
• A travel guide to Dubai
• And more.

4. But bring a coverup

Because of all of the air conditioning, the retail centers are freezing. You’ll also want one if you intend to take a guided tour of the Jumeirah Mosque, which is highly recommended.

5. Taxis are cheap

Although the Metro is less expensive, the majority of its stations are in inconvenient places. Instead, take a cab — and remember to tip the driver. What is the most efficient method of avoiding traffic on The Palm? Helicopters. Credit:alamy

6. The Palm is underwhelming

Take heed, urban planners: a palm tree does not make an appropriate form for an island.

What a nightmare the traffic is! Those residing on the fronds will have to travel an additional half-hour in order to reach to Dubai Marina or Downtown – otherwise known as Dubai’s party spots.

7. There is alcohol

And it is plenty. The sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted to hotel restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, which may seem strange at first, but is not in fact the case. From pubs with terrific live music to high-end Champagne bars, there’s a drinking establishment to fit any occasion in the city of London. Consult Time Out Dubai for ideas, or ask your concierge for suggestions. Before getting into a cab or going home, be sure you are not staggeringly intoxicated. This is strongly discouraged and may result in a police investigation being launched.

This isn’t your typical hotel bar.

8. Kissing is a no-no

Avoid smooching in public places since this will draw unwanted attention to yourself and your partner. Nightclubs, hotels, the backs of cabs, and the beach are all examples of where this is true. Several cases of couples getting detained for “having sex” in public locations have been told to us throughout the years. A casual kiss in public might land you in the same kind of problems as a serious infraction.

9. When it’s hot, it’s HOT

In the summer, the temperature is, to put it mildly, absurdly high. When the temperature is above 55 degrees Celsius in the shade, you have around a 60-second window before you transform into a dripping, puce-colored mess. Visit between November and March to enjoy a less humid environment.

10. Stop looking at the skyscrapers

Pavements in Dubai are shaky at best and non-existent at worst, making it difficult to get about. Keep your gaze fixed on the ground, or hire a cab as the locals do, and gawk to your heart’s content!

11. The spas are amazing

Even the most discerning spa connoisseur will find something to rave about – and for those who are unfamiliar with luxury spas, nothing will quite compare to what they will experience in Dubai. Avoid the beauty clinics found in shopping malls (although they offer a good mani-pedi), and instead book a stay at one of the luxury hotels — they’re expensive, but well worth it. Jumeriah Zabeel Sarayand is a name in the music industry. The Palace Downtown Dubai hotels are exceptionally nice, and there are frequently discounts available (especially during the summer months).

Credit:jumeirah

12. Malls are actually quite fun

Pay little attention to the folks who smell the beautiful malls in Dubai. Sure, they aren’t “culturally enriching,” but they are tremendously entertaining. In one of these sparkling temples of capitalism, you might easily lose track of time. Aquariums, ski slopes, ice rinks, movies, and other attractions are all available. A complete ‘district’ (district!) dedicated to shoes can be found at the Dubai Mall, which is the most impressive of the bunch.

Top 10 things to know before visiting Dubai

Dubai is one of the most visited cities on the globe and is home to a number of world-record-breaking structures, including the world’s tallest building and the busiest international airport in the world.

In spite of all of the positive press surrounding the city, there are still many misunderstandings about the flashy Gulf emirate. Here are some things you should be aware of before you go. You can get vistas like these in Dubai without spending a fortune. courtesy of Naufal MQ / Getty Images

You don’t have to be a millionaire

Junoon, the restaurant owned by Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna, serves a Tandoori Tequila drink. courtesy of Rubina A. Khan / Getty Images

Dubai is not dry

The beaches in Dubai do not necessitate the use of a separate bathing suit. Photograph by Jorg Greuel / Getty Images

Skip the burkini

A cosmopolitan metropolis, with expats accounting for about 85 percent of the population, Dubai is a popular tourist destination. Many venues do not require you to cover your hair; in fact, shorts and t-shirts are acceptable attire, and you may even wear a bikini on the beach or by the pool. It’s also a fashionable city, so make a statement at breakfast and while you’re out clubbing. Dress modestly at the malls, mosques, and souks to show respect for the local Islamic culture, which involves covering your shoulders and knees.

Dubai is incredibly forward-looking

Don’t be fooled into thinking that Dubai is a metropolis that is entirely fueled by oil; the city has effectively diversified its economy away from oil to become a booming hub for transportation, commerce, banking, and tourism. On top of that, authorities are cooperating with leading technology firms in the development of autonomous vehicles, flying drone taxis, and 3D organ printing. One of the most fascinating collaborations is with Hyperloop One, which is creating a supersonic transportation system that may link Dubai and Abu Dhabi in as little as twelve minutes.

The weekend is Friday and Saturday

Friday is a day off for most people since it is when Muslims congregate for congregational prayers. On Fridays, Dubai Metro service begins at 10 a.m., and businesses are usually closed for a few hours in the afternoon, but many are now open throughout the day. If you’re seeking to party, Thursdays and Fridays are the busiest evenings of the week, while malls are also full with people shopping into the early hours of the morning.

Dubai wants to rival Orlando

In Dubai, it is quite safe to go out and do some shopping at night. Photograph courtesy of Enyo Manzano Photography / Getty Images

Dubai is probably safer than your home city

According to the World Economic Forum, despite turbulence in the area, the United Arab Emirates remains the second safest country in the world. When compared to other big cities across the world, Dubai is quite safe, and street violence is extremely rare. It is safe to use taxis at night, and it is also safe to stroll about on your own in most neighborhoods. The most dangerous situations are those involving irresponsible driving and crossing the street, with many motorists failing to see pedestrian crossings.

There’s (almost) a new super-tall tower in town

Dubai is a city that thrives on the use of superlatives. The emirate is not satisfied with the 828mBurj Khalifa, which is the world’s highest structure; instead, it is constructing another monumental skyscraper. The Tower, which will be finished in 2020 and reach 928m tall, will be located at Dubai Creek Harbour and will have a 360-degree viewing platform, as well as a hotel, restaurants, and vertical gardens. It will have competition for the title of “world’s highest” tower, though, since Saudi Arabia’s kilometer-high Jeddah Tower is also scheduled to debut in 2020.

Make the most of your trip experience by taking advantage of sightseeing excursions and activities offered by our trusted partners. The original article was published in June 2017 and was last updated in July 2019.

20 Reasons Not to Move to Dubai (In No Particular Order)

Being a resident in Dubai is not as fantastic and glamorous as many people would have you believe it to be. Forget everything you’ve read, seen, and heard; those gleaming structures and man-made islands are nothing more than a smokescreen to deceive the public. There are so many things wrong with this town that I’ve decided to build a list of them, which you should read if you’re thinking on moving to Dubai in the near future.

1. Try Getting Something Delivered To Your Place

Because there is no standard address system in place, mail-to-door delivery is not an option. In fact, it makes practically everything nearly hard to accomplish. The cab driver, who has just been here for two days and has only learned English through listening to old Beatles recordings, has no idea where your home is. He won’t tell you that, of course; he’ll simply keep phoning and repeating, “All right, all right. “Yeah, that’s right.” When you purchase something that requires delivery, you will not see an address line, but rather a box in which you will be requested to create a map of the location.

As an example, consider the following: After the airport road, but before the roundabout, I live on a side street that is quiet and peaceful.

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Mail-to-door delivery is impractical due to the lack of an uniform address system. Everything becomes practically impossible under these conditions. He has no idea where your house is because he has only been here for two days and has learnt English from old Beatles recordings. He won’t tell you, of course; he’ll simply keep phoning and saying, “All right, all right. ‘Yes,’ I say. It is not uncommon to see an address line when purchasing goods that will be delivered, but instead a box in which a map will be drawn.

This is how you can explain it: After the airport road but before the roundabout, I live on a side street with a few other people.

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Excellent podcast with Paul Rosenberg about virtual private networks (VPNs).

3. It Is Hot Here, Like REALLY Hot

Not hot like Florida in July; hot like if you were stranded in a car in Florida in July with enough humidity to make you feel like you are drowning. Heat indexes of 120 degrees with approximately 100 percent humidity are considered extreme. Avoid looking on the wind for assistance. Using this method is the equivalent of directing a hairdryer directly at your face at full intensity. You should imagine that you are pouring fine moon dust-like sand over your head while doing this.

4. Does Anything Even Grow Here?

There are much too few trees, plants, and grass — indeed, there are far too few living things other than us insane people – in the world. Have you ever seen a bird pant? Yes, I have. Human beings were not created to exist in such a hostile environment, in my opinion. If we were, there would be enough of water and shade for everyone. The only vegetation in the area is provided by the roadside gardens established by the government, which is responsible for watering them constantly throughout the day.

Thank you very much! Were you not the one who stated that we should reduce our water use since you were unable to keep up with the demand? It occurred to me that we should all relocate somewhere where it is not 120 degrees outside.

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This country takes such pleasure in its glitter and glamour that it has emblazoned an image of its 7-star hotel on the back of its registration plates. Despite this, the public bathrooms in the glitzy Gold Souk neighborhood are nothing more than holes in the ground with no toilet paper or soap available. Hoses, on the other hand, are provided for cleaning your underwear. Due to the accumulation of water on the floor, you must stand up to go to the bathroom. You may try squatting without putting your hands on anything and not letting your trousers come into contact with anything.

In addition, the temperature is 120 degrees in there.

6. Modern-Day Slavery

It is encouraged by this government for companies to employ individuals from other poor countries to come and work in this country. They force them to sign contracts that are ten years in length, and then they confiscate their passports. Despite the fact that snatching passports is technically against the law, the government is aware of the practice and does nothing to enforce the law. They are promised a specific wage, but the corporations fail to inform them that they would be subtracting their cost of living expenses from their paychecks, leaving them essentially destitute – if they choose to pay them at all – as a result.

They are imprisoned when the employees go on strike as a result.

These individuals will never be able to earn enough money to purchase a return ticket home, and even if they do, they will not be able to do so since they will not have their passports.

The kicker is that they are constructing hotels that will cost more to stay in for a single night than they would earn in an entire year, according to Forbes.

7. Things Are Not Cheaper Here

I’m tired of hearing people say things like that. People remark to individuals who worry about the growing expense of living in this nation, “Well, it’s cheaper than your home country or you wouldn’t be here,” according to the letters to the editor page of the newspaper I am reading. The only thing that is less expensive here is labor. Yes, you can hire a cleaner – but a bag of washed lettuce can set you back about $6 in labor costs.

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This is what I perceive to be cheating. Where have all the police officers gone? I traveled around this city for several weeks before I ever came across a police officer. I can assure you that traffic officers are desperately needed here. People behave in a clumsy manner. Turning left from the far right lane is totally legal, however exceeding the speed limit by even a few miles can result in a fine.

These cameras are deliberately positioned when you travel down slopes or just before the speed limit changes to prevent accidents. Before you know it, you’ve been BAM! Fined. You will have your automobile detained if you do not pay your payment on time.

9. What The Hell Are You Wearing?

The clothes that some of these women are wearing is just incomprehensible to me. I realize that you are obligated to dress in a certain manner as part of your faith, but wearing a black robe over your jeans and turtleneck and covering your head while it is 120 degrees outside seems a little excessive. Some ladies go to the gym dressed in five layers of clothing.sweatpants and t-shirts over sweaters with headscarves, for example. The men’s apparel, on the other hand, is completely logical: white, breezy, and with nothing below except their skivvies.

10. People Stare At You

I’m tired of being gazed at all the time. Men who have never seen a fair-skinned blue-eyed woman before, or who have seen one but believe we are all prostitutes and so it is OK to gaze, look at me. Whether I am fully clothed or with my spouse, they look at me and sometimes even follow me around the room. It’s just frightening, and it’s reduced me to tears on more than one occasion in the past. Men are not the only ones who are gazing at you. My husband and I are having a few drinks at the bar when we are approached by a group of female prostitutes who are enraged that I am intruding on their domain.

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There are prostitutes, there is no doubt about that. There were a ton of them. To clarify, I am not allowed to look at a naked photo of someone on the Internet in my own house, but I am allowed to go out in public and purchase a few for the night? Is that correct?

12. Alcohol Can Only Be Sold In Hotels And a Handful of Private Clubs

To enjoy alcoholic beverages in the privacy of one’s own home, one must possess a valid liquor license. If you want to receive a liquor license, you must first gain written clearance from your supervisor, then verify that you earn a particular amount of money, which affects how much you are permitted to buy, and then submit numerous mug shots (also known as passport photographs) to the state for review. Drinking at home is permitted if you pay the charge as well as the additional 30 percent tax on every purchase.

Why not simply go out to Ajman, where it’s a free-for-all, and fill up the SUV with all of your belongings instead?

It’s strange how things work out.

13. I Have to Ask Permission For Everything!

To get a liquor license, you must first seek permission from your employer. You must also receive permission from your employer if you wish to rent property, use a telephone, or subscribe to satellite television.

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While traveling down the highway at 160 kph, I’ll stop if I see one more youngster standing up and waving to me from the back window. How did seat belts end there in the first place?

15. When is the Weekend Again?

I want to make sure I understand what you’re saying: the weekend used to be Thursday and Friday, but no one took off all of Thursday, only a half-day at the most. However, although though the government declares Friday and Saturday to be weekends, many employees choose to merely take off Friday, while others choose to work a half-day on Thursday, while others choose to work a half-day on Saturday instead.

Monday through Friday are considered workdays, with only a sliver of activity completed on Sundays and Monday through Wednesday.

16. There are a Few Satellite Television Operators

The movie networks broadcast films that are antiquated and out of date. Many of them moved directly to video when they returned to the United States. Every comedy that was a failure in the United States has been acquired and is being broadcast here. Old episodes of Knight Rider are marketed as though they are the most amazing thing that has ever happened to mankind. Because the television ads are repeated so frequently, I am resolved not to purchase anything offered on television in this country just for the sake of principle.

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It is not uncommon to have to drive 10 minutes out of the way in order to perform a U-turn. People are unable to provide instructions the majority of the time (remember reason1), and maps are of little assistance because they do not have road names or have only a few of them. What is the location of interchange number four? The only thing you can do is hope you got on the motorway in the correct spot and start counting because they are not numbered on the freeway. If you miss it, you’ll most likely find up on the other side of town before you have the opportunity to turn around and return.

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Cab drivers work really hard to make a livelihood in this country because, despite the fact that the cost of living is rising, travel by taxi is still quite affordable (see reason7). As a result, you may find yourself with a driver who has had little sleep or had no time to shower for many days. In addition to having just as much difficulty finding their way about as you do, many of these drivers have a driving style reminiscent of a third-world nation and are extremely exhausted. Please remember to strap up for your own protection.

19. Speeding is an Emirati sport and Emirates Road is Just an Extension of the Dubai Autodrome

I know I keep bringing up the subject of the roads, but the fact is that many of the city’s problems can be traced back to the chaotic and illogical behavior that is demonstrated on its streets. As I pull into the highway, visions of flashing lights on even flashier, limo-tinted SUVs plague me. Somehow, locals are able to obtain the sun-blocking black window tint that we lowly foreigners are refused, and they use it to conceal their faces while they tailgate you ceaselessly at ridiculously high speeds, their lights flashing constantly on and off and their horn blasting constantly.

Don’t even consider giving someone the middle finger; doing so might result in you being arrested and sentenced to prison.

20. Dubai is Far From Environmentally Friendly

You’ve probably wondered how much harm those man-made islands are causing to the fragile maritime environment. A deluge of dredged up sea sand has engulfed coral reefs, seagrass beds, and oyster beds that were formerly part of protected marine areas, causing them to become strangled. When you combine the garbage generated by the construction of structures on top of these sand monsters and the waste generated by the people who live in them with the lack of an effective recycling program, you have the makings of an environmental disaster on your hands.

The fact that there are more gas-guzzling SUVs on the road than fuel-efficient vehicles, as well as the necessity for strong air conditioning that is available 24 hours a day, makes it clear that the environment is not a top priority in the United Arab Emirates.

20 Reasons Not to Move to Dubai (In No Particular Order)

Apart from tax incentives, multi-cultural surroundings, and gorgeous skyscrapers, I’m sure there are many advantages to living in Dubai. But if any of the reasons listed above resonate with you, I strongly advise you to reconsider your decision to relocate to this city. Dubai is a metropolis that is suffering from an identity problem. With its head stuck somewhere between its ambition to be a playground for the wealthy and its allegiance to traditional Islamic traditions, the city of Karachi struggles to maintain its delusions of grandeur while lacking the necessary infrastructure to sustain them.

If you are looking for the ideal location to call home, please contact our officeHERE, and we would be delighted to discuss your future plans with you.

Check read this post to check if you qualify for the quickest and most straightforward resident visa in history.

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Things You Should Know Before Moving to Dubai

As a new inhabitant of Dubai, you may take pleasure in the rush and bustle, as well as the always changing skyline.|Hanna Slavinska / Alamy Stock Photo The most crucial piece of advice for anyone relocating to Dubai is to leave all prejudices at home. Remember that you will only be prepared to embark on the thrilling adventure that is living in Dubai if you let go of your preconceived notions about the emirate. In many ways, Dubai is unlike any other city in the world: it is bursting with life, vitality, and surprises around every turn.

1. The lifestyle is non-stop, and the term “hustle” is commonly used while interacting with friends and acquaintances.
2. No one can completely escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai, therefore it’s important to be prepared for a busy and sometimes frantic schedule.
3. Weekends are not observed in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday and Sunday.
4. Due to the fact that Friday is considered a holy day in Islam, individuals should refrain from working on this day.
5. courtesy of Delphotos / Alamy Stock Photography People are sometimes unaware of the fact that the cost of living in Dubai is quite expensive.
6. Although many people who relocate to Dubai believe they will soon be driving a Lamborghini and drinking champagne on a regular basis are mistaken, this is not always the case.
7. They may appear bizarre at times, such as the prohibition on public displays of affection, but they are an integral aspect of life in Dubai, and breaching one can result in your imprisonment or expulsion.

courtesy of Alessandro Biascioli / Alamy Stock Photography Because expats account for more than 80 percent of Dubai’s population, anyone who relocate here will quickly make friends with people from all over the world.

Having an open mind and avoiding any prejudice against different nations and cultures is essential when visiting this country.

Please be courteous.

Almost every bar and club in the city will have a ladies’ night, which is generally held on a Tuesday and includes free beverages as well as substantial discounts on food and drinks.

Alamy Stock Photo courtesy of Q-Images It is unlikely that you would ever feel the need to be fluent in Arabic if you are relocating to Dubai from another part of the world.

Everyone who lives in Dubai, on the other hand, is familiar with a few important terms from the local language.

As a result, when a buddy says “yalla,” they are requesting that everyone speed up; when someone says “inshallah,” they are expressing their hope for the best outcome from a certain event.

Massive cranes can be found in every corner of the city, working on the latest and greatest thing the world has to offer.

No matter how hard you try to explain what living in Dubai is like to your family and friends in other countries, they will never be able to truly comprehend what it is like to live in this country.

Traveling in the Wild / Alamy Stock Image Those considering relocating to Dubai are likely to have heard about how hot the city is.

With summer temperatures frequently reaching highs of 40 degrees Celsius (115 degrees Fahrenheit), it might seem like you’re trapped inside an oven.

Everyone in the city has access to air conditioning — including bus stations, which are equipped with units.

Picture of the Middle East courtesy of Alamy Stock Photo Brunch is quite popular with Dubai locals.

Whether you’re among colleagues at work, friends at home, or family around the table, this is the most important meal of the day.

Photo courtesy of Robert Harding / Alamy Stock Photo This will come as a surprise to many individuals, especially those who are used to living in cities with excellent public transportation.

The bus is no better – it may take three times longer than taking a cab, which is why virtually everyone has their own vehicle (or several), and there is just too much traffic to make it worthwhile.

Image courtesy of Nino Marcutti / Alamy Stock Photo There will never be a dull moment in Dubai.

This city assures that every single one of its people will have improbable stories to tell, no matter how much fun they are having, how chaotic their lives are, or how insane they are.

Dubai (city)

As the city and capital of the emirate ofDubai, Dubai is also known as Dubayy. The emirate, which includes Dubai as its capital, is one of the wealthiest in the United Arab Emirates, which was established in 1971 following the country’s separation from Great Britain and became independent in 1971. When it comes to the origin of the term Dubai, there are various ideas. One believes it has something to do with thedaba, a species of locust that infests the region, while another believes it has something to do with a market that used to operate near the city.

13.5 square kilometers (13.5 square miles) (35 square km).

Character of the city

As well as sun-seeking tourists, Dubai is a city of skyscrapers, ports, and beaches, where substantial commerce is conducted alongside them. Because to its huge expatriate community, it has the appearance of a Middle Eastern melting pot, with a generally accepting attitude. Affiliations with religious organizations are not prevalent in city life. Islam is the predominant religion in Dubai, however churches and Hindu temples live peacefully alongside the city’s mosques. Quiz on the Encyclopedia Britannica Quiz on the world’s largest, tallest, and smallest structures What is the name of the world’s tiniest island nation?

1. Take this quiz to see how well you know about extremes all throughout the world.
2. Aerial image of Dubai, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
3. View all of the videos related to this topic.
4. Dissension with Dubai’s authoritarian government and ruling class, on the other hand, is not allowed, and a culture of covert corruption continues to prevail.

Landscape

Small lengths of sandy beaches may be found in the western region of Dubai, which have aided in the growth of the city’s tourism sector. Dubai’s leadership have tried to expand the city’s restricted seafronts, and, in the lack of natural offshore islands, developers have been urged to create massive man-made islands off the coast of the city, a move that has sparked international controversy. These include the Palm Jumeirah, which is shaped like a palm tree and is the most well-known of them.

Palm Jumeirah is a landmark in Dubai.

Image courtesy of NASA.

City site and layout

Dubai is located on the southern coasts of the Persian Gulf, straddling a natural inlet known as Dubai Creek. Because the early city’s economy was based on fishing, pearl diving, and marine trade, the area served as Dubai’s geographic center for more than a century. Those who have lived in Dubai for a long time may recognize the buildings that line the creek, the most of which date back to the 1960s and are rarely more than two floors high. A number of much older structures have been renovated in the Bastakiyyah area, which is located on the western side of the creek.

The new city center is comprised of a stretch of towers that along Sheikh Zayed Road in Abu Dhabi.

The Dubai International Financial Centre, which is housed in a futuristic arch-shaped building, and the Burj Khalifa, which was the world’s tallest building at the time of its official opening in 2010 and was named after the president of the United Arab Emirates and emir of Abu Dhabi, Khalifa ibn Zayed Al Nahyan, are both located close to Sheikh Zayed Road.

The Burj al-Arab, a massive sail-shaped structure that serves as a luxury hotel, is located on the outskirts of the city. A little further west, there are new clusters of skyscrapers encircling a man-made harbor and a number of artificial lakes.

Climate

In common with the rest of the Persian Gulf coastline, Dubai enjoys a hot temperature all year round. Humidity is highest during the summer months and lowest during the rest of the year, with the exception of the winter months. The coldest winter month is often January, with lows of approximately 15 degrees Celsius (49 degrees Fahrenheit), while the warmest summer month is typically July, with highs of more than 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

People

Over the past two centuries, Dubai’s population has slowly increased from a few thousand native residents to well over two million, representing a tenfold increase. The majority of the early population growth were the result of merchants from neighboring nations deciding to migrate to Dubai because of the city’s business-friendly atmosphere, according to the United Nations Population Division. The city’s building boom in the latter part of the twentieth century resulted in a significant increase in the number of South Asian laborers as well as an influx of talented expats from all over the world, who today play an essential role in Dubai’s multi-sector economy.

The majority of the expatriate population, with the exception of laborers who are housed in work camps outside the city boundaries, is scattered across Dubai.

There are large Christian, Hindu, and Sikh groups in this country, but the majority of the indigenous people and the majority of the expatriate population are Muslim.

What’s it like living and working in Dubai as an American?

What are your plans for residing in Dubai as an American citizen? Around 40,000 individuals from the United States live in the city, with Americans being one of the most significant expat populations in the emirate. 1. The vast majority of American citizens in the United Arab Emirates live in Dubai, with only 10,000 others scattered around the country. If you’re relocating or taking on a long-term work assignment, read our guide on visas, career prospects, and cultural differences before making your decision.

Preparation

If you’re planning a move to Dubai, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure are in order before you go.

Visa

If you are a citizen of the United States going to Dubai, you will require a resident visa as well as a work permit in addition to your initial 30-day entrance permission. If you are planning to remain in the nation for less than one month, you will not be required to submit an application for a visa in advance; visas will be available upon arrival at the airport in the emirate. A work visa, on the other hand, would be required if you want to live in the UAE. Your company will take care of obtaining a visa for you and arranging for you to live in the city.

A tourist visa is required for entry into Dubai, which may be converted into both a work permit and a residency visa later on.

Obtaining a spouse visa, which allows you to remain in the nation with your spouse who is already employed, is another option for those looking to relocate to the city of Dubai.

Accommodation

It’s probable that you’ll want to make arrangements for your housing before you relocate to the nation. When you are not married or living with a close family member, it is unlawful to live with someone of the opposing sex in the United Arab Emirates. Consequently, if you intend to relocate with your spouse but are not married, this is something to take into consideration. Despite the fact that many expats would do so without consequence, if anybody lodges a complaint or the police enter your residence for any reason 2, you might find yourself in serious legal difficulties.

Medication

When traveling to Dubai, it is critical to understand which medications you are permitted to bring with you and which you are not. Some medications that are easily available in the United States may be prohibited in the United Arab Emirates, which has a stringent drug policy 3. The Ministry of Health in the United Arab Emirates must approve the transportation of prescription medications before they may be brought into the country (MoH). If you bring any illicit or regulated substances to the airport without permission, you may be subject to criminal prosecution.

Also available is ourexpat’s guide to medical treatment in Dubai, which provides further information on the health-care system in the United Arab Emirates (remember that international health insurance coverage may be required if moving to the UAE or Dubai).

Is it safe for Americans to live in Dubai?

In most cases, the answer is yes. The crime rate in Dubai is extremely low 4, particularly when it comes to acts of serious crime — but it can be difficult to assess because the United Arab Emirates does not publish its crime statistics. Petty crime, on the other hand, is frequent in large cities, just as it is in any other large metropolis. Pickpocketing, frauds, and sexual harassment should all be avoided at all costs. Shopping malls, airports, hotels, and resorts, among other popular sites, are thoroughly watched, resulting in a reduction in the number of crimes committed.

Laws

As a Westerner, you may discover that relocating to Dubai necessitates a shift in perspective when it comes to cultural differences. Not only are many norms in the United States disapproved of here, but they are also illegal. If you are relocating to Dubai, it is critical for your personal protection to understand what is prohibited by the law. It is against the law to:

• Live with a person of the opposing sex who is not your husband or a member of your family Participants in public displays of affection are permitted to do so – married couples holding hands is acceptable
• Don’t be afraid to be homosexual. Being intoxicated in public or drinking and driving are both prohibited. Dress in attire that is deemed to be overly exposing
• Swearing or making disrespectful hand gestures are prohibited. Without their consent, take photographs of other individuals

Working in Dubai as an American

Expats from the United States can work in Dubai as long as they have the proper visa in place — and they must remain working in order to maintain their visa, unless they are in the nation on a spouse visa. The construction and real estate sectors, tourism and hospitality, technology, and finance are among the most important in Dubai. 5 There is little chance that the process of getting a job in Dubai will be very different from what you are accustomed to.

It is, on the other hand, a very competitive environment in which to seek job. We’ve put together this guide on obtaining a job in Dubai to assist you in getting your foot in the door of the job market.

What is the average salary in Dubai?

The average monthly wage in Dubai is AED 16,775 (6,570 dirhams), which is approximately $4,570. In the US, the average monthly salary is $3,900 7. The cost of living in Dubai, on the other hand, is fairly high – albeit not as high as in places such as New York. 8

Taxes

Dubai is frequently referred to be a tax-free sanctuary. However, while you are not required to pay income tax in the UAE, you may be required to do so in the United States. If you generate an income in the emirate, including through the rental of a property you own in Dubai, but you are a tax resident of the United States, you will be required to report your earnings and may be required to pay tax in the United States. More information can be obtained from the United States Embassy 9or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Please see our page on Dubai’s taxation for additional information on the subject.

Education

If you’re relocating to Dubai with children, you’ll want to learn about the educational opportunities available in the emirate. Dubai has both public and private education, with private schools accounting for 90 percent of all enrollments. All public schools are exclusively available to UAE natives and are mandatory for Emirati boys and girls aged 5 to 15 who live in the country. Expat children have been eligible to attend public schools in Dubai since 2001, when the country opened its doors to them.

11.

The majority of school weeks run from Sunday through Thursday, in accordance with the working week, with hours varying depending on the institution.

Please see our guide here for additional information on Dubai’s educational system and curriculum.

Driving

Drivers in Dubai are required to travel on the right-hand side of the road. With maximum speeds of 160km/h (99mph) on the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain and Sheikh Khalifa roads 12 and 160km/h (99mph) on the Sheikh Khalifa highway 12, the speed limitations in the emirate can be challenging to adjust to. In contrast to the 160km/h restriction, several motorways in Abu Dhabi have had their maximum speeds cut to 110km/h, notably Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road.

Never drive in Dubai if you have drank alcohol, no matter how small an amount you have consumed. The UAE takes drink driving very seriously, and you might end yourself in prison even if you do not appear to be intoxicated. For more information about driving in Dubai, please see our driving guide.

American women living in Dubai

A Western lady relocating to Dubai may discover that the city’s customs are much different from those she is accustomed to in her own country. It is recommended that women wear modestly in Dubai, with their shoulders, thighs, and midriffs covered. A minimum monthly wage of AED 10,000 (US$2,723) is required for women who wish to sponsor their family’s immigration to the nation. The minimum pay for males is AED 4,000 (US$1,089) per month. The city’s metro system includes a carriage reserved exclusively for women and children, and women-only lines frequently form outside government buildings.

For a more in-depth look at living as a woman in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, check out our guide here.