Better job opportunities are one of the most common reasons why people migrate to Dubai. Given its high migrant population, people here are very warm and welcoming. Dubai has a diverse culture and an active art scene. Work hours in Dubai vary between 40-48 hours per week.
Why does Dubai have so many immigrants?
The United Arab Emirates is the home of immigrants from all over the world; this may be because UAE nationals prefer to work for the government or military. The country’s relatively liberal society compared to some of its neighbours has attracted many global expatriates, including people from western nations.
Why are there so many immigrants in UAE?
Economy. The GCC area is the most popular destination for temporary labor migrants worldwide. The economy is supported by the oil and gas reserves that are among the largest worldwide. Immigration of labor, along with natural resources, fuel the UAE economy which is the largest consumer market in the Middle East.
Is Dubai Good for immigration?
Dubai is a tourist destination as many people visit this city on a tourist visa. And those who migrate to work in Dubai come on a job visa. This North American country is one of the ideal nations of the world for those who are looking for immigration and also for those who are looking to settle down in this country.
How much of Dubai is immigrants?
Nearly 90% of Dubai’s 3.1 million residents are expats, many of whom are migrant workers brought in to work on construction projects or in service jobs. Most come alone on the promise of much higher salaries than in their home countries, so they can send money back to their families.
Why do birds choose to migrate to UAE?
It’s the time of the year again when migratory birds fly hundreds and thousands of kilometres to the UAE from across the world to find a suitable habitat to feed, breed and raise their young. Some species can even detect polarised light, which many migrating birds may use for navigation at night.”
Which nationality is more in Dubai?
Ethnic breakdown Approximately 85% of the expatriate population (and 71% of the emirate’s total population) was Asian (chiefly Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan). About 25% of the population have Iranian origin. About 3% of the total population of Dubai was categorized as “Western”.
What impact has migration had on the UAE?
The technological advancements of the region attracted many immigrants which lead to the development of the UAE as a major technology hub. As a result of the migration of foreign individuals the region has developed and the resources of the country have been utilized to the maximum extent possible.
Is migration good for the UAE?
First, the economic benefit to migrant workers is extraordinarily and systematically large: migration to the UAE for basic construction work causes their daily wage to rise by a factor of five, and causes employment to rise by at least 20 percentage points.
Which nationality is more in UAE?
Currently, the Indian population in UAE is the highest with 2.75 million, followed by Pakistanis with 1.27 million. The UAE has around 0.75 million Bangladeshi nationals, 0.56 million Filipinos, and 0.48 million Iranians.
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.
Is Dubai good for living?
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.
Is life better in Canada or Dubai?
Canada is also a safe country to live but crime rates here are generally higher. Crime Index of Dubai is presently 16.35 and Safety Index is as high as 83.65. For the last three years, increase in the rate of criminal offences in Dubai is about 40.44. Canada’s Crime Index is 41.96 and Safety Index is 58.04.
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 are there more males than females in UAE?
Currently the UN calculates the UAE population at 9.69 million, or 94th in the world and slightly higher than the official UAE number. The UAE’s imbalance of men to women is a result of the country’s high dependence on foreign male labour especially in the construction industries.
What language is spoken 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.
25 Great Reasons to Move to Dubai and The United Arab Emirates
Recently, Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have made news because a large number of celebrities and influencers have relocated there amid the coronavirus lockdown. Yazmin Oukhellou and James Lock from Towie, as well as Ellie Brown from Love Island, are among those who have signed up. This is not a new phenomenon; celebrities have long resided in Dubai, ranging from the Beckhams to Madonna. However, it is not only the wealthy and famous that opt to relocate to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.
Do you think of gleaming skyscrapers, lovely beaches, or wealthy Sheikhs?
No matter if you are wanting to migrate for employment in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or one of the lesser-known Emirates, you will find that they all have a number of excellent advantages.
We are certain that the United Arab Emirates is an excellent destination to live and work.
The Top Ten reasons to move to Dubai or Abu Dhabi (UAE)
To get things started, we’re going to provide our top ten reasons for relocating to the United Arab Emirates right away:
1. The professional opportunities are vast
In the United Arab Emirates, earning a living is not the only consideration. It may also be an excellent method to accelerate your professional development, opening the door to new chances and more responsibility. Large, urban cities with booming corporate economies, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, are always in need of English-speaking new workers to help them advance their innovation and technology. Dubai, in particular, is fast becoming a worldwide economic centre, and it is already unquestionably the most important commercial and industrial center in the Middle East.
), so go to an international employment agency and think about your next move after you’ve spoken with them.
2. Earnings are tax-free in the UAE
Tax-free incomes in the United Arab Emirates are a significant perk that may seem too good to be true, but it is genuine. Because of this, as well as the absence of any taxes on food, drink or any other items, the UAE can be a very affordable place to live – provided, of course, that you can resist spending on all of the high-end luxury brands that the city is awash with! Maintaining as much frugal a lifestyle as possible will soon accumulate in your savings account. Additionally, they are tax-free.
If you want to reap the greatest benefits, though, you’ll need to get professional guidance on your tax residence so that you don’t end up having to pay tax on your income or capital in your native country.
3. It’s the perfect balance between city and seaside
Situated on the south-eastern coast of the Persian Gulf, the city of Dubai extends along the coastline, with its metropolitan area sandwiched between the sea and the mountain range in the background. Because it is located inside the Arabian Desert, its beautiful sandy beaches, combined with luxury and ultra-modern metropolitan buildings, provide a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s simple to work all day in an office but spend your breaks on a beach, or to trek up a mountain in the morning and then have lunch in the middle of a busy metropolis.
4. It’s the best planned city in the world
Dubai’s expansion over the last two decades has been explosive, and there are few other cities on the earth that can compete with it. Despite its desert location and noticeable absence of the natural resources that most other cities and towns rely on, it has grown as a result of excellent town planning and the technology that has been implemented throughout the whole city. You’d have no idea how near you are to extinction unless someone told you.
5. Food is not just an attraction, but a lifestyle…
Eighty percent of the UAE’s present population is made up of expats, and they all yearn for the comforts of home every once and again. This means that the culinary scene in the UAE is genuinely unparalleled when it comes to variety — there isn’t a single place in the world where you won’t find a restaurant devoted to it, allowing you to eat your way around the world without ever having to leave your new home town. But, of course, while you’re in the UAE, you’ll want to enjoy the distinctive flavors and fragrances of Middle Eastern food, which you can find in plenty.
6. Dubai is an international transport hub
As a result of Dubai’s big foreign population, a major airport as well as a variety of transportation options are necessary. The international airport is the third busiest in the world in terms of passenger volume, and because flights to practically all tourist sites are just 5-6 hours away, it is commonly used as a stop-over for long-distance travelers arriving from other countries. You can go on a vacation to either Greece or Goa, and neither will cost you a lot of money or take you too long to complete.
The options are virtually limitless!
7. Safety is paramount
As a result of Dubai’s big foreign population, a major airport as well as a variety of transportation options are necessary. Considering that it is the world’s third busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic, and because flights to practically all tourist locations are just 5-6 hours away, it is commonly used as a stopover for long-distance travelers. You may go on a vacation to either Greece or Goa, and neither will cost you a lot of money or take you too long to complete the journey. So close is the Far East that you can practically touch it, and you’re nearly halfway to Australia.
8. Culture grows and thrives here
As a result of Dubai’s diverse population, residents and tourists are exposed to not just traditional Middle Eastern cultures, faiths, and languages, but also to those from all over the world — all inside the city’s 1500 square miles!
It genuinely is a melting pot of globalisation, with a strong sense of belonging to a larger community. Every day offers the opportunity to learn something new and meet someone new.
9. It’s not as restrictive as the press likes to make out!
Lawsuits and terrifyingly tight requirements for people who live and travel in Dubai are frequently reported in the press. But don’t be fooled: life in the United Arab Emirates is not all modest clothing and devout behavior. You can drink alcohol (you just need to obtain an alcohol license from the state), you can dress however you want (with the exception of places of worship and sacred ground, of course), and relationships and dating can take place just as they do at home, with the exception of ‘public displays of affection’ (which are prohibited by law).
10. Properties to live in are beautiful… and often very, very cheap
It’s not often that we describe a collapsed housing market as a positive development, but in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, it’s a terrific one – especially if you’re thinking about relocating there! The present economy makes purchasing a property in Dubai quite affordable; however, renting is significantly more expensive due to the high cost of living in the city. Most firms will assist new hires in relocating either by paying some advance rent (in most situations, you’ll be asked to pay a year upfront) or by assisting you with a deposit, so make sure to inquire about this during the interview process.
More alternative reasons to live and work in the UAE as an expat
Our top ten list includes the most often cited reasons for people relocating to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. However, this is only the beginning. There are other additional benefits to living in this area that are only discovered once you make the decision to relocate. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite, sometimes overlooked advantages of living and working in the United Arab Emirates.
11. Camel safaris are commonplace
Despite the fact that Dubai is only 3,500 miles away from the British countryside, the distance feels like a million when you realize that the out-of-town terrain in Dubai is made up entirely of desert! Bedouin camps dot the landscape, which are mostly traversed by camel, and serve as excellent genuine eating places; however, they are only accessible after a rough camel ride.
12. You can ski… in the desert
Avoid letting the heat go to your head by cooling yourself on the slopes! The Mall of the Emirates is home to a whole indoor ski resort that is maintained cold all year long and provides the option to ski five runs as well as several stunt elements without ever leaving the country.
13. The shopping malls are amongst the best in the world
If you’re not putting all of your excess money aside since you’re earning it tax-free, you’re going to have to do some major shopping. A plethora of shopping malls, as well as high streets jam-packed with designer retailers, making Dubai perhaps the finest city in the world for splurging your money.
14. The sun shines all year round
When you relocate to Dubai, you will never have to worry about experiencing an April rain again! There are normally 365 days of sunshine each year, and despite the fact that there are two different seasons, summer and winter, you may actually find the latter to be the most pleasant for being out and about, since the average high temperature is around 22 degrees Celsius.
The average temperature throughout the year is around 33 degrees Celsius. a number that we are fortunate to reach for even a single day in the United Kingdom!
15. A strong and stable economy really does rule
To avoid being reliant on oil, the United Arab Emirates has deliberately expanded its economy to include a range of technical and tourism businesses. As a result, a quickly developing and dependable economy with a stable currency was established. Financial interest rates, economic opportunities, and way of life continue to be competitive and favorable for both residents and visitors. Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are now firmly recognized as a global center for international commerce and finance.
16. Educational standards are high
The prospect of relocating with children, or of having children in a foreign country, may be stressful because you want them to enjoy the same – if not greater – chances than you did growing up. In Dubai, there are hundreds of international schools, each with strong academic standards, a wide range of extracurricular activities, dual-language possibilities, and favorable rankings in international school rankings. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to educational opportunities, from pre-kindergarten through post-secondary education.
17. Abu Dhabi offers many additional benefits
As an alternative to Dubai, Abu Dhabi provides expats with a plethora of additional perks as well as a distinct charm. A reduced cost of living and lower rental prices are available; Yas Island has world-class music events; and Corniche Beach offers peace and quiet. Dubai is only an hour and a half away by car or bus.
18. There’s no language barrier
In contrast to many other global economic powerhouses, you are not need to be proficient in another language in order to get by in the United Arab Emirates. Knowing Arabic might be advantageous in some situations, but you’ll most likely pick up the language as you become more familiar with the area. Because English is spoken so extensively, you’ll be hard pressed to find an activity that you can’t accomplish in English, even, of course, among expats who speak other languages as their native tongue.
19. Indexes for Quality of Living rate Dubai and UAE highly
Dubai routinely ranks high in surveys of “happiest places” and “best places to live” throughout the world. If there is one location that constantly ranks high in surveys of “happiest places” and “best places to live,” it is Dubai. Expats describe a high quality of life in their new home as a result of a mix of career advancement, increasing money, and a steady supply of attractions and activities to participate in. According to the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey, the UAE is ranked 10th overall.
20. Dubai and the UAE are very child and family friendly
Many expats prefer to relocate with their families, and as a result, there are several amenities and activities to keep them occupied and entertained. Indoor and outdoor activities are plentiful, with everything from Kite Beach to ice rinks, trampoline parks, and clubs to choose from. As for superb theme parks, you’ll be spoiled for choice – Legoland, IMG Worlds of Adventure, OliOli, Aquaventure Waterpark and KidZania are just a few of the attractions that are within easy driving distance of the hotel.
21. The other Emirates are unlocked potential
If you want to go away and take a vacation from the hustle and bustle of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you don’t have to go very far to discover something new. There are seven Emirates in all, and taking a trip to visit each one might provide a refreshing change of scenery when you’re looking for something different. All of these places have strong English literacy rates and are culturally diverse, so you’ll feel right at home no matter where you go.
Although Abu Dhabi is the most well-known and has a large migrant population, you may also travel to Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain, among other places.
22. Excellent support for Expats
With so many expatriates in the UAE from the United Kingdom and other countries, you’ll have no trouble finding the assistance you require. There are several expat social groups and clubs to join, so you’ll have no trouble making new friends or receiving advise to assist you in settling in more quickly.
23. The new 10 Year Visa and 100% foreign ownership
The United Arab Emirates is a modern country that has recently implemented new regulations to make it more simpler for expats and businesses to relocate and establish long-term operations there. A new ten-year resident visa for overseas investors and professionals working in the medical, research, scientific, and technological industries was announced by the UAE federal government earlier this year. As a result, these visas are also extended to family members, so promoting long-term relocation to the United Arab Emirates, particularly for individuals involved in entrepreneurial or research-based activities.
Companies operating outside the free trade zones were formerly required to have a local partner with a minimum 51 percent ownership stake.
24. The UAE wants everybody to be happy!
In the United Arab Emirates, happiness is a succession of businesses! Not only do they have a Happiness Minister, but they also have happiness officers, happiness summits, and happiness meters to help them measure their progress toward happiness. Nobody has been left unturned by the UAE government in its efforts to provide the ideal circumstances for citizens to be happy. So, if happiness is essential to you, the United Arab Emirates may be the place for you to live.
25. Widen your outlook on life
Whether you choose to live in the United Arab Emirates for a few years or make it your permanent home, you will undoubtedly find that your view on life is transformed by your experience there. As you journey through the fascinating world of Arab culture and the exciting world of expat business, you’ll meet new people and discover new ways of life that will change your perspective on the world forever.
Bonus Reason:
Due to the large number of British expats who are relocating to and from the United Arab Emirates, it is comforting to know that exporting your personal things is straightforward and cost efficient. The benefit of this is that you can bring your comforts from home to help you adjust to your new expat life, and you can return home with all of your Arabian mementos, and you can buy conveniently in Dubai. Furthermore, transporting your personal items is something that should be considered. As one responder to the HSBC Expat Explorer suggested: “Shipping as much of your stuff as you need – it may seem pricey at first, but certain essential items that are reasonably inexpensive in the UK might be difficult to buy in other countries.” In the end, the added work and expense surpasses the transportation charges.” In order to obtain further information, please see our removals to Dubai / UAE page or the online cost calculator on our box shipping website.
When will you make your move to the United Arab Emirates?
So there are a plethora of reasons why expats continue to select Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as their new home, and the list could easily go on. On lists and polls year after year, Dubai is consistently ranked as a top destination for expats, presenting a unique chance for anyone looking to start a new life. Given that the population of the United Arab Emirates is estimated to be over 80% foreigners, the sense of community and belonging among those who have relocated there is unrivaled.
This is achieved while maintaining a positive relationship with the native Emiratis, who have fully embraced the development that has occurred in their home country (and is still seeing).
Help with moving and shipping to Dubai and the UAE
Whatever your motivation for relocating to the UAE, we can assist you in realizing your goals through a smooth, flawless move and a fresh new start from which you can get started right away. Having assisted many people and their belongings in relocating to Dubai and the rest of the UAE, our removal crews are well-versed in the appropriate regulations and logistics for such relocations in the region. A great deal has to be planned and considered before, during, and after your international house transfer – as with any overseas relocation – but we can assist, advise, and support you throughout the whole process.
Whatever your needs are, whether you need to ship a few boxes or relocate your entire home’s contents, get in contact with our professional relocation team for more information about our services.
Beautiful videos showing why you should seriously consider a move to Dubai and the UAE!
Depositphotos, iStock, Pexels, Pixabay, and Unsplash are all used as photo sources.
Dubai: a city of temporary migrants
According to this article, the noncitizen and migrant majority of the population of Dubai, the most important metropolis in the Gulf area, lives in an insecure and inhospitable environment. Often referred to as “the city of the future,” Dubai is a high-tech metropolis and global transportation center that boasts the world’s highest building, artificial islands shaped like palm palms, and cutting-edge recreational and cultural activities. With more than 2.5 million residents, today’s metropolis would not exist if it were not for the influx of immigrants from throughout the world.
- They are also the individuals who literally built up the city from its humble beginnings as a little village in the 1970s, and they are the ones who ensure that the city functions on a daily basis.
- However, while the strong demand for labor in Dubai provides more work options for migrants than in many other parts of the globe, it also has a negative impact on the quality of life in the city.
- As a result, low-level workers in particular are more likely than other workers to be engaged on a temporary basis, to have few or no labor rights, and to be subjected to substandard working and housing circumstances.
- This system necessitates that foreign workers get direct sponsorship from their employers (who must be UAE nationals) in order to work and remain in the country.
- As a result, it raises the likelihood of physical and emotional abuse as well as economic exploitation for migrants who do not have the option of seeking legal recourse.
- In recent years, human rights organizations and worldwide media campaigns have campaigned for the elimination of thekafalasystem, claiming that it results in “unfree labor” and other violations of human rights.
- This was followed in early 2016 by the promulgation of a regulation to prevent migrant workers from becoming forced laborers, albeit this did not apply to domestic employees hired by private houses.
While national institutions have slowly begun to respond to the poor working conditions in Dubai and other Gulf cities, migrant workers have long developed their own survival strategies in order to ensure that the possibility of earning higher wages outweighs the range of difficulties that they must overcome in order to survive.
There are formal national associations as well as informal community and family links that constitute part of this web of relationships.
European University Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting higher education throughout Europe.
Top Ten Reasons to Move to Dubai
With more than 70% of its young, professional population having been born outside of the country, Dubai is an expat’s paradise, providing everything you need for a successful, safe, and enjoyable time abroad. Thousands of Britons are presently taking advantage of the pleasant weather, wonderful lifestyle, and interesting employment prospects that the city has to offer. We’ve put together our top 10 reasons to live and work in the United Arab Emirates so you can make an informed decision before you start planning your international removals to Dubai.
1. Lifestyle and Leisure
From camping under the stars in the desert to skiing on 22,500 square metres of indoor slopes, Dubai is a city with a plethora of recreational opportunities. The city’s retail malls are world-renowned for their design and layout. Apart from housing hundreds of stores, the two main shopping malls also house a bewildering selection of eateries ranging from quick food restaurants and coffee shops to glitzy fine dining establishments. There are also movies, ice rinks, aquariums, play areas, and theaters to keep you occupied without ever leaving the air-conditioned comfort of the mall itself.
There are beach parties, club nights, and other social activities practically every day and night throughout the summer months in the Caribbean.
If you’re a sports lover, you’ll be able to take in some amazing international competitions, ranging from motorsports and horse races to rugby and tennis.
2. Weather
Dubai is a sun-heaven, lover’s with year-round sunlight and temperatures that seldom drop below 20 degrees Celsius. In the months of September through May, you may enjoy the sunshine at your leisure in the park or on the beach. Due to the fact that Dubai has an average of 342 sunny days each year, it is possible to arrange a BBQ or picnic without being concerned about the weather. Expats from the United Kingdom will almost probably notice a significant improvement in the weather. As soon as the weather starts to become a bit too hot, you can head inside to one of Dubai’s numerous indoor attractions where you can enjoy some food and entertainment as well as, of course, shopping.
When compared to the unpredictability of the weather in the United Kingdom, this has to be one of the top ten reasons to relocate to Dubai.
3. Strong Economy
The city of Dubai’s growth may not be accelerating at the dizzying pace that it did at the beginning of the century, but it is nevertheless thriving at a steady and sustainable pace. The Emirati Dirham (AED), the official currency of Dubai, has remained steady and strong, particularly when compared to the US Dollar and the Euro, respectively. This, along with the consistent rise in GDP of around 5 percent each year, has helped to establish Dubai as one of the most financially stable locations in the world.
Businesses in Dubai are well aware of this and will offer excellent wages to anyone who is prepared to take the jump and relocate to the United Arab Emirates. Many people are drawn to Dubai just because of the financial advantages.
4. Tax Free Living
For the vast majority of expats, it is an exciting work opportunity, and in particular the prospect of earning a little more money, that first draws them to the UAE. For many, earning a tax-free wage is one of the most important top ten reasons to relocate to Dubai, since it ultimately results in more money in your pocket. This might allow you to increase your savings, indulge in a few little indulgences, or even go on a vacation or two if you want. Because there is no VAT to pay on products or food, you may discover that you are spending less as well, assuming you can resist the temptation to visit the fancy stores.
5. Reliable Health, Education and Transport
Several billion dollars in government investment has guaranteed that Dubai’s infrastructure remains one of the world’s most technologically advanced and dependable. Healthcare and educational standards in Dubai are on pace with the best elsewhere in the world, which is one of the most crucial top ten reasons to relocate to Dubai if you are relocating with your family. In addition to public international schools, there are also great private international schools where children can continue to follow the British or American Curriculum.
While you will almost certainly need to purchase private medical insurance, you may be assured that you will receive the best possible treatment in superb facilities manned by highly qualified physicians and nurses.
Dubai’s new metro system has benefited from significant investment and is now a contemporary, quick, environmentally friendly, and dependable alternative to driving.
6. Affordable Luxury
Dubai’s high-end designer boutiques, fine dining establishments, and seven-star hotels are world-renowned. If you prefer splurging on the finest cuisine, clothing, and entertainment that money can buy, you’ll find that whatever you desire is just a swipe of your credit card away in this glitzy metropolis. If you believe, on the other hand, that Dubai is only for the wealthy, think again. For a few pounds, you may savor delectable street cuisine from all around the world in a luxury environment.
Like any popular, successful city, Dubai’s real estate is in high demand, and housing is likely to be one of your most significant financial obligations.
You may have to make some concessions in terms of size or location, but not in terms of luxury. The majority of the time, the accommodations are of a very high grade, clean, contemporary, and well furnished.
7. International Cuisine
The cosmopolitan culture of Dubai, as well as its large expat community, have had a significant impact on the city’s culinary scene. With the influx of immigrants from all over the world who came to Dubai, they carried with them their most cherished recipes and most prized culinary items. Anyone and everyone, from Michelin-starred chefs to street sellers, may be seen making unusual international food these days. The city of Dubai is home to over 200 different ethnicities, and you can find restaurants that serve practically every cuisine, from Lebanese or Greek to Argentinian or Japanese.
8. Well Connected
You can be practically anyplace in Europe, Asia, and Africa in less than eight hours from Singapore, which is well positioned as a global gateway. Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest hubs in the aviation industry, with frequent flights to all major destinations with some of the most recognized airlines in the world. Dubai International Airport is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Not only would this make the occasional journey home more convenient and quick, but it will also open the door to some intriguing and exotic vacation spots.
9. Multicultural Melting Pot
As the country with the greatest number of foreign-born people in the world, Dubai is a fantastic place to live if you want to be an expat. Not only will you be at ease in the expat-friendly environment, but it is likely that the majority of your new colleagues were also born in a foreign country. It is estimated that over 70% of the city’s population was born in another country, and there are considerable communities of expatriates from nearly every major country, including a vibrant British community, in the city.
10. Safety
The city’s enviably low crime rate brings our list of the top 10 reasons to relocate to Dubai to a close. Dubai is one of the safest metropolitan cities in the world, in large part because of the stringent enforcement of laws and the well-regarded police force in the city. The streets of Dubai are generally pleasant and safe, despite the fact that a certain degree of street smarts is still required. Men and women can go through any public location at any time of day or night without feeling threatened or unsafe.
You have the right to practice any religion or none at all, as long as you treat others with kindness and respect.
Many significant religious festivities, like as Diwali and Christmas, as well as Islamic celebrations, such as Eid, are commemorated in the country.
If our list of the top ten reasons to relocate to Dubai has piqued your interest, read our guide to relocating to the United Arab Emirates and learn more about our international removals to the United Arab Emirates.
How the United Arab Emirates, a Country of 90 Percent Immigrants, Handles Immigration
The United States’ policy to welcoming immigrants from the Middle East has received a great deal of attention. Countries in the Gulf States, on the other hand, are intimately aware with the difficulties and possibilities that immigrants face: The area boasts among of the world’s greatest rates of immigration as a percentage of its population, according to the United Nations. Several countries, including Kuwait and Qatar, which both have an immigrant population of nearly 75%, as well as many people from neighboring Gulf States and the broader Middle East, see this as a huge economic opportunity.
As he put it, “Not only is Arab emigration twice as high as the world average, but it has also experienced recent growth, and the potential for future expansion appears to be equally high.” Because of the country’s economic attractiveness and public infrastructure, the United Arab Emirates, which is quickly growing, is at the top of the regional immigration list – migrants account for about 90 percent of the country’s population, owing to the country’s rapid development.
- Those looking for job are welcome to enter the United Arab Emirates.
- However, in recent years, the system has begun to evolve.
- The outcomes are a mixed bag.
- Visas are only valid for a short period of time and must be renewed on a regular basis.
- It is interesting to note that the wordKafala also refers to the system of child adoption.
- However, parents may “sponsor” a kid, which means they guarantee the welfare of and accept responsibility for the child.
In addition to providing you with visas for your family, according to Joel Elecho, an immigrant from Uganda, “once the company gives you a promotion and a pay hike, they also provide you with visas for your family,” he explained — visas that can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on the nature of the work.
- By taking advantage of the UAE’s flexible visa regulations, immigrant employees are able to earn far more than they would have earned in their home countries and are able to transfer the money they have made back to their family.
- Accordin to a World Bank report published in 2016, the six Gulf Cooperation Countries, which include the United Arab Emirates, accounted for $98 billion in outward foreign remittances in 2014.
- The Kafalasystem, on the other hand, is far from ideal.
- According to Migrant-Rights.org, this method effectively provides sponsors with legal authority over their employees: Workers are unable to change employment, quit occupations, or leave the nation unless they get permission from their employer.
- Workers whose employers cancel their residency visas are frequently forced to leave the country through deportation processes, and many of them wind up spending time in prison as punishment.
- “Sometimes the firms have an excessive amount of electricity,” Elecho explained.
- Also in 2012, the UAE’s government initiated an Emiratisation program in order to address structural divides in the country’s labor market.
Employers in the private sector, such as Injazat and the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, have also cooperated with government programs to expand job prospects for UAE citizens and residents.
In part, this is due to the rhetoric used in the government’s Vision 2021 project, which emphasizes the need of a “cohesive society and retained identity,” among other things.
According to Giulia Senigaglia, education coordinator of the Sheik Muhammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, the experience was “wonderful.” “My children have arrived.
A two-month amnesty scheme was launched by the federal government in December 2012, which allowed undocumented migrant workers to either regularize their circumstances or leave the country without being prosecuted.
“Unlike in the past, immigrants are now able to own property.
According to the report, “However, if a migrant worker wishes to quit his current employment in search of a more promising future, his capacity to do so remains contingent on his existing sponsor.”
UAE No Paradise for Migrant Workers
The United States’ approach to welcoming immigrants from the Middle East has received a great deal of attention in recent months. Countries in the Gulf States, on the other hand, are intimately aware with the difficulties and opportunities that immigrants face. When measured as a proportion of its total population, the area has some of the world’s highest levels of migration. As Philippe Fargues, founder of the Migration Policy Centre in Fiesole, Italy, and professor at the European University Institute in Fiesole, says, for countries like Kuwait and Qatar, which both have immigrant populations of nearly 75%, as well as many from neighboring Gulf States and the broader Middle East, this represents a huge economic opportunity.
Because of the country’s economic attractiveness and public infrastructure, the United Arab Emirates, which is rapidly developing, is at the top of the regional immigration list — migrants account for nearly 90 percent of the country’s population, which is a testament to the country’s rapid development.
- However, for a society that is so reliant on its foreign labour, the rights of migrants have traditionally been constrained.
- Migrant mistreatment was reduced in the UAE as a result of labor laws implemented in 2015.
- If a foreign worker wishes to work in the UAE, he or she must be sponsored by an Emirati person or by a firm having Emirati national involvement (as a partner, director, or otherwise) through a sponsorship scheme known as Kafala (in Arabic).
- Upon termination of employment, the employee is required to depart from the country.
- In the United Arab Emirates, Sharia law prohibits the practice of formal adoption, which accords adopted children the same rights as biological children.
- KAFALA takes on actual meaning in the immigration system.
- Immigrant workers who meet specific standards, such as earning a certain wage, stipulated by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs can sponsor the residence visas for their spouses and children (GDRFA).
According to Michael Clemens, co-director of migration, displacement, and humanitarian policy and a senior fellow at the Center for Global Development, “the economic benefit to migrant workers is extraordinarily and systematically large: migration to the United Arab Emirates for basic construction work causes their daily wage to rise by a factor of five, and causes employment to rise by at least 20 percentage points.
- In addition, there is little evidence that many of the commonly-mentioned costs of migration are systematically experienced by migrants’ households; migration to the Gulf causes the share of households in debt to fall considerably.
- This suggests that the UAE’s migration policies are a step toward closing global gaps in general living standards.
- Several stories in 2014 brought attention to the condition of foreign employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- The employer has the authority to terminate a worker’s residence visa if he or she quits their company without authorization, thereby converting the employee into an unlawful resident of the nation.
- As a result, the employer that will be sponsoring the immigrant worker is exclusively responsible for the procedure of accepting or rejecting visas.
- The Emirati government initiated an Emiratisation effort in 2012 in order to bridge structural gaps in the labor market.
- Companies in the private sector, such as Injazat and the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, have also cooperated with government programs to expand job prospects for UAE nationals in recent years.
A large part of this may be attributed to rhetoric used in the government’s Vision 2021 campaign, which emphasizes the significance of a “cohesive community and retained identity.” Although the UAE’s distinct culture, heritage, and traditions are being preserved, the government appears dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that embraces all sectors of society.
In response to the question, ‘Where are you from?’ they respond with the following: ‘I am from Dubai, but my father is from Egypt, and my mother is from the United States.” This provides them with a sense of belonging while also allowing them to maintain ties to their homeland.” While working to reduce unauthorized immigration, the United Arab Emirates A two-month amnesty scheme was launched by the federal government in December2012, which allowed undocumented migrant workers to either regularize their circumstances or leave the country without being prosecuted.
According to the Migration Policy Institute, almost 20,400 migrants had sought for amnesty as of January 2013.
Manohar Pinto, an Indian who has worked in the UAE for 25 years, advises people to “buy an apartment or a home on a 90-year lease, start a business, sponsor family members, and avoid being tied down to anybody.” According to the report, “However, if a migrant worker wishes to quit his current employment in search of a more promising future, his capacity to do so remains contingent on his existing sponsor.”
Commentary: Migrant labour abuse makes Dubai a questionable tourist destination
It is incorrect to propose Dubai as a tourist destination since “Dubai’s sparkling, futuristic city came at the expense of hundreds of thousands of employees”, writes the author. 15th of December, 2018. Expats account for about 90 percent of Dubai’s 3.1 million people, the majority of them are migrant workers who have been brought in to work on building projects or in service occupations. Most come alone, lured by the prospect of earning far larger wages than they would receive in their native nations, allowing them to send money back to their relatives.
Migrant workers claim they are frequently subjected to harsh working circumstances, including 12-hour or longer periods, and that employers withhold wages or workers’ passports in order to prevent them from quitting or returning home.
Despite recent assessments from Human Rights Watch and the United Nations recognizing progress, both organizations stated that labor violations remain.
The vast majority of the workers arrive on their own initiative, motivated by a desperate desire to earn money in their native countries, which are destitute.
Given the knowledge of the hardships endured by migrant workers in order to construct Dubai’s vast constructed reality — which is more or less set up to fulfill a person’s every desire, provided that person possesses sufficient financial resources — the city is difficult to recommend as a destination for tourists to spend their money.
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:
- You may discover that relocating to Dubai necessitates a change in perspective when it comes to cultural differences. Not only are some standards in the United States frowned upon here, but they are also criminalized in some instances. In order to ensure your own safety while living in Dubai, it is important to understand the laws that apply. It is against the law to do any of the following.
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. The average monthly salary in the United States 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.