07.05.2024 17.06.2024 269 0 0
One of the most developed megacities in the world annually attracts tens of thousands of foreigners for permanent residence, who analyze the pros and cons of living in Dubai. Over the past decades, the emirate has changed dramatically and has become associated with luxurious architectural projects, skyscrapers and fashionable resorts. It offers a decent standard of living, modern infrastructure solutions and many opportunities for professional and personal growth. Due to its strategic location between Europe, Asia and Africa, the emirate has become an important international business and trade center, which makes it in demand for expats and investors.
At the same time, the city may not be suitable for everyone. Prices for some goods and services are higher here than in Russia and other CIS countries. Only UAE citizens can receive social support, including a state pension, free education and medical care. A hot climate, especially in summer, can become an obstacle for permanent residence of people who do not tolerate high air temperatures.
In this article, we will talk about the main advantages and disadvantages of the emirate, which will help you make a decision about changing your place of residence.
The advantages of living in Dubai
The city attracts foreigners to move due to a combination of several important factors, including career opportunities, well-developed infrastructure, resort amenities and a large selection of real estate to buy or rent. Another important advantage is the variety of activities that will help you lead an eventful life. Since this is a multicultural region, people of different nationalities and religions will be comfortable here.
Economic opportunities
The Emirate offers opportunities for better-paying jobs and career growth. It is in demand among professionals from various industries, including finance, technology, construction, tourism and healthcare. There are offices of many world-famous foreign companies, including Google, Microsoft, Kaspersky Lab, DHL, Robert Half and others, which indicates the favorable location of the region and a favorable business environment. The emirate regularly hosts major business events and exhibitions, such as Expo 2020, which promotes the development of business ties and the exchange of experience in the field of innovation. Due to this, the labor market is characterized by an active demand for qualified specialists, which creates favorable conditions for career development.
It is comfortable to live and work in Dubai due to high wages and the absence of income tax. According to World Salaries, in 2024, the average salary for a year is about 258,000 AED ($70,000), and for a month – 21,500 AED ($5,850). Annual figures range from 57,500 AED ($15,500) to 1.19 million AED ($324,000). On average, salaries increase by 6% within 12 months: the most active growth in the fields of healthcare, IT and education is by 8, 6 and 5%, respectively. In addition, some companies offer additional benefits for specialists, such as medical insurance, housing and transportation costs. These reasons make the metropolis one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for work.
The right to open a business
One of the advantages of living in Dubai is the wide opportunities to open and run your own business, including through Free Economic Zones (FEZ). They were created to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. SEZs speed up the process of starting a business and make it less bureaucratic, which is especially important for startups and small businesses.
The main privileges:
- foreigners can fully own their business;
- 100% repatriation of capital and profits;
- exemption from customs duties and certain types of taxes;
- simplified registration and licensing procedures;
- independent laws and regulations;
- access to modern infrastructure facilities.
There are 26 free economic zones in the megalopolis, which cover a wide range of industries, including technology, media, healthcare, logistics and finance. Let’s give some examples:
- Jebel Ali Free Zone is one of the largest free economic zones in the world, where several thousand companies, manufacturers, traders and exporters operate. Its relevance is related to the proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport and the seaport;
- Dubai International Financial Centre is a leading financial center with over 41,500 employees and more than 5,500 businesses;
- Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City are major hubs for IT and media companies;
- Dubai Healthcare City attracts healthcare and medical education professionals;
- Dubai Design District specializes in design, innovative manufacturing, art and fashion.
These zones promote business development in the UAE and create an ecosystem where companies can collaborate and share experiences. Due to this, the emirate is becoming a popular location for foreign entrepreneurs who seek to realize their business ideas and enter international markets.
High standard of living
The city is famous for its modern infrastructure, international schools and universities, which makes it attractive for families with children. Healthcare meets international standards, as highly qualified personnel from different countries work here, and clinics and hospitals are equipped with advanced equipment, which is why medical tourism is in demand.
Local roads are considered to be among the highest quality in the world. The best things about life in Dubai that can be heard from visitors and citizens are the well–developed public transport network. There are subways, buses, trams, ferries, monorails, land and water taxis. Al Maktoum International Airports and Dubai International Airport, one of the largest and busiest in the world, provide access to many locations around the planet. All this makes moving around the city and beyond fast and comfortable.
A large selection of real estate
The Emirate is famous for its developed housing market. Thanks to the abundance of offers, everyone can find real estate that meets financial opportunities, goals and lifestyle. Luxury villas and penthouses in skyscrapers overlooking the Persian Gulf and inexpensive apartments in areas with developed infrastructure are available here. Commercial facilities are represented by office space in business centers, shops, warehouses and entire buildings.
The most popular areas for buying real estate:
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) is a fast–growing community with apartments, townhouses and villas. It attracts families with green parks, convenient infrastructure, schools and kindergartens;
- Business Bay is the central business district, which is known for modern skyscrapers and office buildings. Buyers and tenants can choose apartments and penthouses, as well as commercial premises;
- Dubai Marina is one of the most prestigious and popular locations with high–rise towers and a picturesque promenade. Here are luxury penthouses and apartments in Dubai with views of the yacht Club and the Persian Gulf;
- Damac Hills 2 is a modern community with villas, townhouses and apartments. The area is surrounded by green parks and golf courses, which creates an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility. It has tennis courts, a water park and playgrounds, making it a great option for families;
- Dubailandis a large–scale cluster that includes many housing options, from inexpensive apartments to exclusive villas. The area is famous for the IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park and the Global Village Fair, shopping and sports centers.
The opportunity to obtain a residence permit
The UAE is trying to attract foreign investment and highly qualified workers, including through long-term visa programs. Here are some of the types of residence permits in the table.
| Title | Who can get | For how long is it issued |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Visa |
|
5 or 10 years |
| Resident visa for the purchase of real estate | Owners of real estate in Dubai worth from 750,000 AED ($204,000) | 2 years |
| Green visa |
|
5 years old |
| Employee’s visa |
|
Usually for 2 years |
| Student visa | Students | For 1 year with the right to extend upon confirmation of continuing studies |
| Family visa | UAE residents who wish to sponsor their family members |
|
| Pension visa | The applicant must have worked for at least 15 years inside or outside the UAE, or he must be at least 55 years old at the time of retirement. This is the main condition, which can also be supplemented by one of the following:
|
5 years old |
| Blue Visa | Individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection and sustainable development inside and/or outside the UAE | 10 years old |
Safety
What is it like to live in Dubai? You can answer this question safely, because this indicator is at a very high level here. According to the Numbeo portal for 2024, the city ranks 7th out of 348 in terms of security. This is achieved through the effective work of law enforcement agencies, the use of modern technologies and strict laws. The police are actively implementing innovative solutions: video surveillance systems with artificial intelligence, smart patrol cars and drones for monitoring public order. The level of security is also supported by the active participation of the local community and numerous citizen awareness programs.
Cultural diversity
The city has become a prime example of cultural diversity, as people of more than 200 nationalities live and work together, creating a unique environment. The Emirate is popular with foreigners because of its tolerant attitude towards all kinds of cultures and religions. In addition to mosques, Orthodox and Catholic churches, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and synagogues can be found here.
What is good about life in Dubai is the variety of languages, cuisines, traditions and holidays celebrated here. The city actively supports this through events and international exhibitions such as Expo 2020 and Global Village, which promote the exchange of cultural experiences.
Entertainment and leisure
The lifestyle in Dubai can be described as active due to the many activities and places to visit. The metropolis has become a venue for major sporting events, including the World Cup of Horse Racing, the Duty Free Tennis Championships tennis tournament and international golf competitions. Music and art lovers can enjoy concerts by world stars and attend numerous exhibitions and festivals. It is also home to the impressive Museum of the Future and the Heritage Village Ethnographic Complex, which offer unique interactive exhibitions.
Gourmets can visit numerous restaurants, from street cafes to fashionable establishments with Michelin stars. For family holidays, there are Aquaventure and Wild Wadi water parks, as well as IMG Worlds of Adventure and Motiongate theme parks. There is a large selection of shopping malls, including the Dubai Mall, where there are more than 1,200 retail outlets and 200 restaurants. Thanks to this, people of all ages will be able to find places for recreation and entertainment according to their own preferences.
Cons of living in Dubai
In addition to the positive aspects, the emirate has negative ones. Knowing certain points related to the cost of goods and services, the climate and rules of conduct in the UAE will help you prepare for your stay in this city.
High cost of living
Is it expensive to live in Dubai? Prices for some goods and services may be significantly higher than in some other countries. According to the BDEX portal, the cost of a grocery basket in the emirate for 2024 is 1,820 AED ($500), and in Russia – 12,540 ₽ ($140). The cost of renting housing and utilities is high, especially in prestigious areas or in the summer, when the air conditioning system is constantly working. Medical services and education are provided at a good level, but they are paid for non-citizens of the country.
Living expenses here are partially offset by the absence of income tax and a decent salary, but for many expats this can be a significant factor in budget planning.
Climatic conditions
The region is characterized by a hot and arid climate. In the warmest season, which lasts from May to September, the temperature can exceed 40 °C, and sometimes reaches 50 °C. Because of this, in the summer months, locals and tourists prefer to spend time in air-conditioned rooms or by the pools.
Why live in Dubai in the summer? Many adapt to high temperatures quite quickly. People who do not tolerate high temperatures well leave for the period of the greatest heat. At other times of the year, it is comfortable here: in October, the average is 29 °C, and in the coolest month of January – 19 °C.
Cultural and social constraints
The United Arab Emirates has a number of restrictions that are based on local traditions, laws and religious norms.
- It is recommended to wear modest clothes in public places, but it is acceptable to wear bathing suits in beach areas.
- Public displays of affection, such as kisses and hugs, are not welcome. Any form of public indecency is prohibited.
- Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed establishments. Drinking alcohol on the street or in public places is strictly prohibited.
- Special care should be taken during the holy month of Ramadan. It is forbidden to eat and drink in public places from sunrise to sunset. It is also important to respect local religious customs and not interfere with prayers.
- Photographing local residents without their permission is considered a violation and can lead to legal consequences. You should also be careful when posting content on social media.
These restrictions may seem strict, but they reflect the cultural and religious values of the country. Compliance with these standards will help to make your stay in the emirate comfortable and safe.
Difficulties with citizenship
It is quite difficult to obtain citizenship of the United Arab Emirates, and the process requires the fulfillment of a number of strict conditions. The main methods include:
- naturalization, for which it is necessary to live in the UAE for at least 30 years, and for citizens of some Arab countries – 7 years;
- a marriage with a citizen of the country, which must last at least 7 years, and the spouses have at least one child together. If there are no children in the couple, then the minimum waiting period increases to 10 years. At the same time, marriage to a citizen of the UAE does not give the right to citizenship;
- investments in a significant amount in the economy of the state;
- special achievements in science, culture, sports or other important field.
The decision to grant citizenship remains with the UAE Government and is exceptional. But foreigners can get a residence permit, for example, for the purchase of real estate and constantly renew it if the object remains in ownership.
Lack of social support
UAE citizens enjoy a number of social and economic benefits that are not available to expats. Let’s look at the main differences:
| Citizens | Expats | |
|---|---|---|
| Pension | They are entitled to a state pension, which is paid upon reaching a certain number of years of work experience or upon retirement due to disability. | They are not eligible for a state pension, but they can participate in private pension programs personally or from their employer, if such a project is provided. |
| Education | Free education is available in public institutions. | Tuition at private schools and universities is paid. In some cases, employers may provide educational benefits for the children of their employees, but this depends on the terms of the employment contract. |
| Medical care | Free medical care is provided in public hospitals and centers. | They are required to purchase health insurance, while employers must provide it to their employees, but the conditions and scope of coverage may vary. |
| Social benefits | Benefits are paid:
|
They cannot receive these benefits. |
Thus, the privileges of UAE citizens and expats differ significantly. It is necessary to think in advance how life in Dubai will help to accumulate additional savings that will go to education, medical care, retirement or unforeseen cases.
We will help you choose and buy real estate in Dubai
Emirates.Estate is a real estate aggregator with thousands of offers for the purchase of apartments and villas in Dubai. The portal offers options from reliable agencies and developers who have implemented projects in the most prestigious locations. Use the search function for price, number of bedrooms, amenities, location and proximity to the coast to select the ideal housing option. Fill out the form on the website so that the agent will contact you and tell you in detail about the appropriate option and ways to conclude the transaction.
here you can put a link to this article https://emirates.estate/ru/faq/how-much-cost-life-in-uae-2021 / if the CEO department allows it
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