Living in Dubai: Pros and Cons

One of the most developed megacities in the world attracts tens of thousands of foreigners each year who analyse the pros and cons of living in Dubai. Over the past decades, the emirate has drastically transformed, becoming associated with luxurious architectural projects, skyscrapers, and upmarket resorts. It offers a high standard of living, high salaries, modern infrastructure solutions, and many opportunities for professional and personal growth. Thanks to its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the emirate has become an important international business and trade hub, making it desirable for expats and investors.

However, the city may not suit everyone. It offers numerous benefits but also has its downsides, including high living costs. Prices on certain goods and services here exceed those in many countries worldwide. Social support, including state pensions, free education, and healthcare, is only available to UAE citizens. The hot climate, especially during the summer, can be a challenge for individuals who are sensitive to high temperatures.

In this article, we will discuss the main advantages and disadvantages of the emirate, helping you decide whether to relocate.

Pros of living in Dubai

The city attracts foreigners with a combination of several important factors, including career growth opportunities, developed infrastructure, resort amenities, and a wide selection of real estate for purchase or rent. Another significant advantage is the abundance of events, fostering a vibrant social life. Given its multicultural nature, it offers comfort to people of various nationalities and religions.

Economic opportunities

The emirate offers opportunities for well-paid jobs and career growth. It is in demand among professionals from various industries, including finance, technology, construction, tourism, and healthcare. The presence of offices of many world-renowned foreign companies, such as Google, Microsoft, Kaspersky Lab, DHL, Robert Half, and others, highlights the region’s advantageous location and favourable business environment. The emirate regularly hosts major business events and exhibitions, such as Expo 2020, fostering the development of business connections and the exchange of innovative ideas. As a result, the labour market is characterised by an active demand for qualified specialists, creating favourable conditions for career development.

Living and working in Dubai is comfortable due to high salaries and the absence of income tax. According to World Salaries, in 2024, the average annual salary is about AED 258,000 (USD 70,000), and the monthly salary is AED 21,500 (USD 5,850). Annual figures range from AED 57,500 (USD 15,500) to AED 1.19 million (USD 324,000). On average, salaries increase by 6% over 12 months, with the most active growth in the healthcare, IT, and education sectors—8%, 6%, and 5%, respectively. Additionally, some companies offer specialists additional benefits, such as health insurance, housing, and transportation allowances. These factors render the metropolis one of the world’s most sought-after work destinations.

Right to start a business

One of the advantages of living in Dubai is a broad spectrum of opportunities to initiate and manage your own business, especially facilitated by the free zones. These were created to attract foreign investments and stimulate economic growth. The free zones expedite the process of starting a business and make it less bureaucratic, which is especially important for startups and small enterprises.

Key privileges include:

• Foreigners can fully own their business;
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits;
• Exemption from customs duties and some taxes;
• Simplified registration and licencing procedures;
• Independent laws and regulations;
• Access to modern infrastructure facilities.

There are 26 free zones in the metropolis, covering a wide range of industries, including technology, media, healthcare, logistics, and finance. Here are some examples:

• Jebel Ali Free Zone, one of the largest free zones in the world, is home to thousands of companies, manufacturers, traders, and exporters. Its popularity is due to its proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport and the seaport.
• DIFC is a leading financial centre with over 41,500 employees and more than 5,500 enterprises.
• Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City are major hubs for IT and media companies.
• Dubai Healthcare City attracts healthcare and medical education specialists.
• Dubai Design District specialises in design, innovative manufacturing, art, and fashion.

These zones promote business development in the UAE and create an ecosystem where companies can collaborate and exchange experiences. As a result, the emirate is gaining popularity among foreign entrepreneurs seeking to implement their business ideas and tap into international markets.

High standard of living

The city is renowned due to its modern infrastructure, international schools, and universities, attracting families with children. Local healthcare meets global standards, with highly qualified personnel from various countries and clinics and hospitals fitted with advanced equipment, making medical tourism in demand.

The local roads are considered some of the highest quality in the world. One of the best things about living in Dubai, frequently praised by both visitors and residents, is the well-developed public transport network. This includes the metro, buses, trams, ferries, monorail, and both land and water taxis. Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai International Airport, one of the largest and busiest in the world, provide access to numerous destinations globally. All these factors make getting around the city and beyond quick and comfortable.

Wide range of real estate

Popular areas to purchase real estate include:

• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC): This rapidly developing community features apartments, townhouses, and villas. It attracts families with its green parks, convenient infrastructure, schools, and nurseries.
• Business Bay: Known as a central business district, Business Bay is renowned for its modern skyscrapers and office buildings. Buyers and renters can choose from apartments, penthouses, and commercial spaces.
• Dubai Marina: One of the most prestigious and popular locations, the district boasts high-rise towers and a picturesque waterfront. It offers luxurious penthouses and apartments in Dubai with views of the yacht club and the Persian Gulf.
• DAMAC Hills 2: This modern community includes villas, townhouses, and apartments. The area is surrounded by green parks and golf courses, creating a secluded and peaceful atmosphere. It features tennis courts, a water park, and playgrounds, making it an excellent option for families.
• Dubailand: A large cluster offering various housing options, from affordable apartments to exclusive villas. The area is well-known due to the IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park and the Global Village fair, along with its shopping and sports centres.

Opportunity to obtain residency

The UAE strives to attract foreign investments and highly skilled workers through long-term visa programmes. Below is a table summarising some types of residence visas.

Safety

What’s it like to live in Dubai? Many would describe it as incredibly safe, thanks to the city’s high safety standards. According to Numbeo’s 2024 rankings, it is the 7th safest city out of 348. This remarkable safety level is achieved through the effective work of law enforcement agencies, the use of modern technologies, and strict laws. The police actively implement innovative solutions, including AI-powered surveillance systems, smart patrol cars, and drones to monitor public order. The safety is further enhanced by active community involvement and numerous citizen awareness programmes.

Cultural diversity

The city has become a vibrant example of cultural diversity, with people from over 200 nationalities living and working together, creating a unique environment. The emirate is popular among foreigners due to its tolerant attitude toward various cultures and religions. In addition to mosques, you can find Orthodox and Catholic churches, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and synagogues.

What is good about living in Dubai is the variety of languages, cuisines, traditions, and holidays celebrated here. The city actively supports this diversity through events and international exhibitions like Expo 2020 and Global Village, promoting cultural exchange.

Entertainment and leisure

The lifestyle in Dubai can be described as active due to the numerous events and places to visit. The metropolis hosts major sporting events, including the World Cup in horse racing, the Duty Free Tennis Championships, and international golf tournaments. Music and art lovers can enjoy concerts by world stars and attend numerous exhibitions and festivals. The city is home to the impressive Museum of the Future and the Heritage Village ethnographic complex, offering unique interactive exhibits.

Food enthusiasts can visit numerous restaurants, ranging from street cafes to upmarket establishments with Michelin stars. Families can enjoy water parks like Aquaventure and Wild Wadi, as well as theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate. The city offers a wide range of shopping centres, including Dubai Mall, which houses over 1,200 retail outlets and 200 restaurants. With such a variety of options, people of all ages can find leisure and entertainment activities that suit their preferences.

Disadvantages of living in Dubai

In addition to its positive aspects, the emirate also has some drawbacks. Being aware of certain issues related to the cost of goods and services, climate, and behaviour rules in the UAE will help you prepare to live in this city.

High cost of living

Is living in the emirate expensive ? Prices for some goods and services can be significantly higher than in many other countries. According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Plus Rent Index for 2024, the metropolis ranks 57th out of 431 cities. The cost of renting housing and utilities is high, especially in prestigious areas or during the summer when air conditioning systems are constantly running. Medical services and education are provided at a high level, but they come at a cost to non-citizens.

Living expenses are partially offset by decent salaries and the absence of income tax. However, for many expats, the cost of living remains a significant factor when planning their budget.

Climatic conditions

The region is characterised by a hot and arid climate. During the warmest time of the year, from May to September, temperatures can exceed 40°C and sometimes reach 50°C. Due to this, in the summer months, locals and tourists prefer to spend time in air-conditioned places or by the pool.

Why live in Dubai during the summer? Many people quickly adapt to the high temperatures. Those who cannot tolerate the heat well tend to leave during the hottest period. At other times of the year, the weather is comfortable: in October, the average temperature is 29°C, and in the coolest month, January, it is 19°C.

Cultural and social restrictions

The United Arab Emirates has several restrictions based on local traditions, laws, and religious norms.

• In public places, it is recommended to wear modest clothing, but in beach areas, swimwear is acceptable.
• Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are generally discouraged. Any form of public indecency is strictly prohibited.
• Alcohol can only be consumed in licenced establishments. Drinking alcohol on the street or in public places is strictly forbidden.
• During the holy month of Ramadan, extra caution should be observed. From sunrise to sunset, it is prohibited to eat and drink in public places. It is also important to respect local religious customs and not disturb prayers.
• Photographing locals without their permission is considered a violation and can lead to legal consequences. Additionally, caution should be exercised when posting content on social media

These restrictions may seem strict, but they reflect the cultural and religious values of the country. Adhering to these norms will help make your stay in the emirate comfortable and safe.

Citizenship challenges

Obtaining citizenship in the United Arab Emirates is quite difficult and requires meeting a number of stringent conditions. The main ways to acquire citizenship include:

• Naturalisation: Requires residing in the UAE for at least 30 years, or 7 years for citizens of certain Arab countries.
• Marriage to a Citizen: The marriage must last for at least 7 years, and the couple must have at least one child together. If the couple has no children, the minimum waiting period increases to 10 years. However, marriage to a female UAE citizen does not grant the right to citizenship.
• Significant Investment: Requires substantial investment in the country’s economy.
• Special Contributions: Requires outstanding contributions in fields such as science, culture, sports, or other important areas.

The decision to grant citizenship is at the discretion of the UAE government and is considered exceptional. However, foreigners can obtain a residence visa (e.g., through property purchase) and renew it indefinitely as long as the property remains in their possession.

Lack of social support

How is life in Dubai different for locals and expats? UAE citizens enjoy a range of social and economic benefits that are not available to expats. Let’s look at the main differences:

Therefore, the privileges of UAE citizens and expats differ significantly. It is important to plan ahead to accumulate additional savings covering education, healthcare, retirement, and unexpected situations.

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