INTRODUCTION

GENERALITIES

What is this Dubai guide? 

How was this guide to Dubai and the UAE written?

Is this guide about Dubai or the UAE?

Who is this guide to Dubai and the UAE for? 

Why emigrate to the UAE and not to other countries like Canada, Australia, Europe or the USA?

How is the personality of Dubai? 

Why write this guide to Dubai and the UAE?

What will you find in this guide to Dubai and the UAE?

What you won’t find in this Dubai and the UAE guide.

Is it possible to tailor-make your own plans for living in Dubai and the UAE?

Why are Dubai and UAE guidebooks almost outdated after just one year?

What is the pace of change like in the UAE?

What are the best reasons to immigrate or travel to Dubai and the UAE?

STEP 1: POINTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ARRIVING IN DUBAI AND THE UAE

How do you get to the UAE?

What are the values of Dubai and the UAE?

Do you need to show proof of monthly income or bank statements to enter Dubai?

Is it necessary to present an invitation letter to enter the UAE?

Why should you visit or live and work in the UAE?

When should you emigrate to the UAE?

How and when should you roll the lucky dice in Dubai?

What plans should you include when in Dubai?

STEP 2: DETAILS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR JOURNEY TO DUBAI AND THE UAE

How do you contextualize your travel plan to the current situation in Dubai and the UAE?

What can you take to Dubai in your luggage?

How much luggage can you take to Dubai?

How is it recommended to fly to the UAE?

What should you do during check-in to travel to the UAE?

How can you prepare yourself mentally before landing in Dubai?

What is the food like in the UAE?

What should you avoid doing in Dubai?

What is Ramadan or the holy month in the UAE?

How is Ramadan lived in Dubai?

What is the recommended wardrobe for the UAE?

Is it possible to drink alcoholic beverages in the UAE?

Are there limitations on the food available in Dubai?

Is it possible to eat pork in the UAE?

What is the recommended behavior for public spaces in the UAE?

STEP 3: TRAVELING TO DUBAI AND LANDING IN THE UAE

How can you travel to Dubai?

Is it safe to travel alone in the UAE?

How much does all the logistics of traveling to Dubai cost?

How much does a tourist visa to the UAE cost?

Which countries do not require a visa before arriving in the UAE?

Do I need a visa to enter the UAE?

How much is a ticket to travel to Dubai?

How can you travel to the UAE from anywhere on the planet?

How can you travel to Dubai cheaply and easily?

How long will the trip to the UAE take?

How can you travel comfortably on an intercontinental flight to Dubai?

Who are the best tour guides in the UAE?

How can I communicate as soon as I land in Dubai and the UAE?

STEP 4- FINDING YOUR BEST OPPORTUNITIES IN THE UAE

How can you organize the best plan for living in Dubai and the UAE?

What is the easiest way to live in Dubai?

Can you come to Dubai as a student?

What is required to live in Dubai?

Do I need to validate my university degrees in the UAE?

How much money do I need to live in Dubai? How much does it cost to live in Dubai?

How much does it cost to rent a room or apartment in Dubai?

Can you share an apartment in Dubai?

What are the most expensive and cheapest neighborhoods in Dubai?

Where should you look for an apartment to buy or rent in Dubai?

How much does daily and monthly food cost in Dubai?

What requirements are there for living in Dubai?

How can you discover Dubai, the city of opportunities?

What is Expo 2020 Dubai?

Why should you live in Dubai?

Why is Dubai the city of opportunities?

Is Dubai a safe city? How secure is the UAE?

Are Dubai and the UAE safe for women?

What geographical advantages does the UAE have?

What is the economy of the UAE?

What are the most common myths about Dubai?

What are the downsides of living in Dubai?

What are the advantages of living in Dubai?

STEP 5- WORKING IN THE UAE AND LIVING AN EMIRATI LIFE

How do you get a job in Dubai or the UAE?

What jobs are the most requested and sought after in Dubai?

What are the requirements to apply for jobs in Dubai?

On which portals can you apply for jobs in the UAE?

What do employment contracts in Dubai include?

How much is the minimum salary in Dubai?

How is the work environment in Dubai and the UAE?

Are there job guarantees for workers arriving in Dubai and the UAE?

What employment benefits do companies offer in the UAE?

Is it easy to find a job to live in Dubai and the UAE?

Is it possible to work in Dubai as undocumented or illegal?

How to work as an independent or freelance in the UAE?

How to find a job even before arriving in Dubai?

Where to live in Dubai while looking for a job?

How to organize a plan to search for a job in Dubai in 1 month?

How to organize a plan to look for work in Dubai in 3 months?

What types of jobs can be found in Dubai?

How do you negotiate contract, salary, and job position in Dubai and UAE?

How do you get a job as a flight attendant in Dubai?

What documents are required to get a job in Dubai?

How to offer your products or services in Dubai?

How do you get health and life insurance affiliation in Dubai?

How can you set up your own company in Dubai?

What are the requirements to obtain a work permit in Dubai?

Is it easy to change from a tourist visa to a work visa in the UAE?

How much does it cost to live in Dubai in summer months vs winter months?

STEP 6- ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE IN DUBAI AND THE UAE

What is the population of the UAE?

What are the neighborhoods of Dubai?

How can you move around in Dubai using public transport?

How can you get a driving license in the UAE?

How can you buy and sell a car in Dubai?

How much does it cost to tank a car in Dubai?

How much does a car wash service cost in the UAE?

How much are parking and tolls in the UAE?

What is the maximum speed you can drive a car in the UAE?

How much are traffic fines in Dubai?

How can you register in a gym in Dubai?

How can you become a permanent resident in the UAE?

How can you get a golden visa from the UAE government?

What is the financial system of the UAE like?

What important recommendations are there for your economic well-being in Dubai?

How can you open a bank account in Dubai?

How can you apply for a credit card in Dubai?

How do you apply for a bank loan in Dubai?

How do you apply for a mortgage to purchase a home in Dubai?

How do you choose which bank or banking product is best in Dubai?

What are the most important banks in the UAE?

Which Dubai and UAE projects require special talents?

How can you send money from your savings to your home country from the UAE?

How can you bring your family to live in the UAE?

How can you invest in real estate and real estate in Dubai and the UAE?

What price ranges does real estate have in the UAE?

How can you invest in businesses in Dubai?

How can you stay updated with local news from Dubai and the world?

How can you get a sim card, a phone number, and keep in touch by phone?

STEP 7- THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI AND HOW TO ENJOY LIFE IN THE UAE

Which sector and areas of Dubai and which Emirate or region in the UAE is it best to live in?

What recommendations should be considered in Dubai for your health?

What are the best beaches in Dubai and the UAE?

What are the best recommended destinations in Dubai?

What places are essential to visit and know in Dubai?

What is essential to know in Abu Dhabi?

How can you enjoy a weekend in Dubai?

What exclusive places and hidden gems does Dubai have?

What recommendations are there to save on the cost of living in Dubai and enjoy the UAE?

How can you save money on the cost of rent or lease in Dubai?

How can you save money on meals and restaurants in Dubai?

How can you save on purchases in Dubai malls?

What recommendations are there to experience the luxuries of Dubai?

FINAL NOTES

ANNEXES

INTRODUCTION

laguiadedubai.com/en Version 1 Digital

This guide was written by Carlos Castañeda, a resident of Dubai since 2016, having worked in different parts of the world in the digital field. Among his latest experiences are jobs in the e-commerce, retail and banking industries. Carlos Castañeda also belongs to a vibrant community of expats who have lived in the UAE for several years and who inspired the writing of this guide.

This guide mainly seeks to contribute to the growth of expatriate communities in the different Emirates, hoping that by sharing these stories and experiences, they will facilitate the plans to emigrate, not only for those who aspire to a life that includes the enjoyment of sunny weather and beaches  almost every day of the year, but also for everyone who dreams of starting new projects and taking on new life adventures in a warm and hospitable country. This guide includes different perspectives taken from the life experiences of all types of people who have come to seek opportunities in Dubai, from designers, marketers, bankers, accountants, financiers, doctors, office assistants, chefs, engineers, interior designers and many other professionals from all different backgrounds who have forged a career and a new life in this wonderful land. When you read this guide, we want you to feel that it is possible to start a new version of your life here, in what we passionately and proudly call the desert of dreams.

In the digital version of this guide, you will find the famous “7 Basic Steps” to put into practice in an easy and simple way that will accompany you throughout your process of living and working in Dubai or in any other Emirate. There are also links to many other support websites and references available in the digital version, since, due to the ever-changing nature of global circumstances & information, it is necessary to be able to obtain updates  in travel policies, airlines and different essential elements for the development of these 7 steps. The main recommendation is to always use this guide as a base and starting point, a guide that can clarify common questions but can also help you ask the right questions and think about how to guide your concerns in the search for the best answers and always emphasizing the importance of re-confirming relevant details that include decisive data with the local government entities of your country. It is also vital that you consult with the official pages of the government of the UAE and the different companies involved in this process.

Without further ado, we hope you enjoy reading this guide and that you also join existing communities on social networks and contact platforms through laguiadedubai.com/en if you need additional resources & support.

GENERALITIES

Before starting with the aforementioned “7 Basic Steps” which constitute the recommended roadmap of actions to live and work in Dubai, there are very important questions that you need to ask yourself first, in case you had not considered them already. It is also important that you know details of the reasons for this guide and why it’s specifically for the UAE. Perhaps by understanding these reasons the 7 Basic Steps will become much easier for you to implement and will help you re-confirm that your life in Dubai will be the best decision for you. Keep in mind that it is possible that some of the questions and answers in this guide can be easily recategorized or prioritized depending on your personal priorities and perspective, and you may even have your own vision of the 7 Basic Steps to move to and to work in Dubai. However, keep in mind that all of these questions, regardless of the way they were categorized, are everything you need to consider to emigrate and live and work in the UAE.

What is this Dubai guide? 

This practical guide to living and working in Dubai and the UAE is a quick and easy guide written in basic and personal language in the form of stories that include different life experiences of my many years as an immigrant in the Middle East. It also compiles bits of many other stories taken from conversations and experiences with friends and companions of this immigrant adventure through their own stories and Dubai life experiences These conversations include laughter, tears, farewells, welcomes, reunions, housewarmings, fears, concerns, birthday parties in restaurants, bars, yachts, beaches, villas and streets at the beat of electronic, Latino, Arab, intercultural parties and rhythms and different situations that have allowed us to cross paths and meet many other immigrants in similar situations -people who may have only arrived recently or people who came many years ago to live this adventure in Dubai and the UAE.

After all, from the newcomer to the experienced resident of the UAE, we are all part of the same journey living, discovering and working in Dubai and its surroundings in the UAE and even in the other countries around the region, and for all of us, this has been a fascinating journey full of discoveries, adventure, growth and learning that is being summarized for you in a guide of 7 basic but fundamental steps that will make your plans to join the adventure of visiting or moving to work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi or any other Emirate much easier to carry out. and implement. 

How was this guide to Dubai and the UAE written?

This guide was written between trips in Dubai metro, outings by the beach, hanging out in coffee shops and cafes, between tourist photos, photos for the many work and residence visas, visits to shopping malls, luxury stores, crystal clear water beaches, enjoying 50 degrees in summer, sand storms, local business offices, global international meetings through different time zones, and after many years that accumulate all the different experiences that from different lives have contributed here. It must also be taken into account that some of the experiences mentioned in this guide are also part of each small microworld and context of those who have landed in these lands from different stories in their pasts and all kinds of backgrounds, different idiosyncrasies, languages, religions, accents from different countries, different educational levels, the most diverse socioeconomic status possible but all with the same common goal: to make the most of the open doors of this region that is so hospitable and welcoming.

This guide was written after having gathered a vast body of knowledge from experiences traveling by Dubai metro, taking outings to the beach, hanging out in coffee shops and cafes, visiting tourist destinations, taking photos both in the capacity of a visitor as well as for official government visa regulations, shopping at malls and luxury stores, enjoying crystal clear water and pristine beaches, enjoying 50 degrees celsius in summer, taking cover during sandstorms spending time in local business offices as well as hosting and participating in global international meetings through different time zones. It must also be taken into account that some of the experiences mentioned in this guide are centered around the worldviews of different individuals who may have come from different backgrounds, idiosyncrasies, languages, religions, and educational levels. The most diverse socioeconomic backgrounds possible exist here, people from such diverse backgrounds coexist here with the common goal of making the most out of the open doors of this region that is so hospitable and welcoming.

This guide was also written from the perspective of people living in different countries of the world where other life opportunities have also been sought, and it is from those discussions between friends and family where solving the problems of the different issues that appear in daily life is the main focus. In this, I would also like to discuss the possibilities of how to solve the problems of a society or even of an entire country  whose citizens yearn for better times, better opportunities, more security, more social well being and more job opportunities and quality of life for everyone.

Hopefully this guide will motivate you and help you chart a path so that those dreams and aspirations of finding your way in life and working for your goals and projects in the pursuit of manifesting these goals, whether for a short, medium or indefinite period. Rest assured that with this guide all those crucial steps will be easier for you to plan and execute.

Is this guide about Dubai or the UAE?

For those who are not very familiar with the geographical difference, it is important to clarify that although it may seem like a very simple difference at first glance, it is very common to confuse Dubai with a country and have less knowledge of where the UAE is specifically and also, which ones are the 7 Emirates that make up the country.

Dubai is one of the cities, also called «Emirates’ that are within the United Arab Emirates (the UAE) which is the official name as a country and this brings together the 7 different Emirates that make it up in its entirety. In the illustration on the map, you will find the geographical distribution of these 7 Emirates:

Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras Al-Khaima and Fujairah.

Dubai as a city and the UAE as a country are typically the names that resonate most in peoples’ memories and in the global image of this region, since they are the most publicized worldwide and for this reason, they are the most famous and recognized globally. However, it is very important that when you read in this guide,   you do not exclude in your mind the other Emirates within the scope of opportunities and scenarios arranged throughout the guide.

Who is this guide to Dubai and the UAE for?

This guide hopes to facilitate those who have plans to emigrate and try their luck in new lands, immigrants who seek to open new opportunities for their lives in a city that has open doors for those who seek adventures and great challenges. This guide is for the father of a family who would like to seek other opportunities for his family outside of his country, also for the young couples who feel that their country has not been able to provide the opportunities to invest some of their most full of energy and life years. This guide is also for the recent graduates who want to go out and conquer the world full of ambitions and dreams. It is also for those who need to take a break from their hectic routine and try a different life change, it is also for the investor and entrepreneur who is looking for a place to see their project grow and be consolidated in a solid and stable economic environment. This guide is for those who are looking for a new chapter in their life where they need inspiration. and also for those who might need to take a gap year or a semester off. If you need to seek inspiration and explore a new world, almost utopian, this country can also show you other realities which are very different from what you may be used to seeing in your day to day life. This city and this country, which are one of the safest in the world, are the perfect option for the person who is tired of not being able to walk down a dark street at night without the fear of being robbed or assaulted. It is also for those who may have had a hard time in their life, whether due to a personal loss or a difficult work, family or sentimental experience. You’d be surprised how many people have found their second and maybe even a third chance to restart life in Dubai and a fresh start from scratch. In conclusion, this guide is absolutely for everyone.

Why emigrate to the UAE and not to other countries like Canada, Australia, Europe or the USA?

This guide will also serve those who are looking for inspiration and compelling reasons to choose between multiple migration options. When thinking about emigrating, it is not very common to consider  the Middle East region among the different options at first, and it is very usual to focus on the typical destinations to which the world has been migrating for the past centuries, either because of the success stories that you might be able to hear or because of the advertising and the word of mouth that is heard about these other countries and the opportunities there. It is easy to think of how attractive it would be to emigrate to countries such as Australia, the USA, Canada or some country within the European Union. Perhaps at the end of reading this guide and after you take time to reflect before making such an important decision for life and you learn about the different aspects necessary to guide your course, you may realize at some point that these countries might not actually be the best options for your strategy to realize your dreams .

The UAE is a country built on the values of tolerance, unity, generosity and the synergies of all the cultures of the planet under a peaceful, respectful and harmonious coexistence is perhaps the ideal environment for your life. There are more than 200 nationalities that have been contributing to the development and growth of this country along its 50 years of foundation. The UAE is a young country compared to the rest of the countries in the world but definitely one of the new centers of global migrations at present. 

This guide can help define some of the important aspects of life for those who also have been in this country and its different cities for a long time, as well as those who have just arrived into the country, the ones who are just starting this adventure might be able to avoid having any of the most common mistakes or the typical inconveniences that we all always experienced when starting a new life adventure, so this can save you time, energy and, above all, money and unnecessary stress.

Regardless of whether you are a long time traveler or a short term adventurer, the important thing is that you are clear about your intentions and objectives in Dubai. A short term plan might allow you to adapt quickly and easily to the opportunities offered by the UAE, while someone looking into a long term plan perhaps will be more interested in taking advantage of more stable and solid opportunities. When you finish reading this guide you will be able to identify for yourself the best reasons to finally choose the UAE as your most favorable destination.

Now, perhaps before continuing to read this guide: the most important question at this point is to ask yourself: Is Dubai a city for me? Is the UAE the country in which I want to project my future? In order to answer this you need to understand this destination a bit more in depth. 

What is the personality of Dubai like?

Imagine a city that is now located where 50 years ago there was absolutely nothing more than a few shops, streets, ranches and boats used for fishing and collecting pearls at the bottom of the sea and one or another trade route with the nomadic tribes of the other Emirates and nearby countries. Now imagine that only 50 years after this country was established (50 years old in 2021) it is considered one of the most powerful countries and the one that has developed the fastest in the entire region, even outpacing other countries in the Middle East and Africa. Beyond global power, wealth and influence, Dubai alone is also one of the world capitals for tourism, shopping, business, commerce and leisure.

You only have to walk a couple of days around Dubai to understand that the character of Dubai is mainly marked by the fact that it is always attempting to be the best, to build the biggest, and to reach the greatest achievements from the tallest buildings, to have the happiest population of the planet. This culture is something that is impregnated in all areas of society. The strength and the projection to success is something that was developed from the first leaders who founded this country and the ambition and vision of the leaders of this country are what have really managed to transform and execute in this society as a result of one of the most impressive development projects in the world.

Why write this guide to Dubai and the UAE?

This guide has a simple and concrete mission: to facilitate and make the experience of living, working, starting a business or simply visiting Dubai and the UAE as easy and comfortable as possible, the recommendations made here should be a reference for those who have decided jump into the ring, but it can also be the final push that someone needs to make the decision to come and seek opportunities in Dubai and the UAE. 

It is also important to know that this guide is not intended to disturb your original plans and dreams, but rather to focus on helping guide you when it comes to living in the UAE. This is why again, being repetitive, (yes, stop it!) the objective of this is to be an easy, quick and practical guide to apply as soon as you decide that Dubai and the UAE is your next travel destination, or in search of opportunities, an adventure and a better future. 

It is also good enough to read just a little about the plan to make Dubai the best place to live on the planet by the year 2040 and realize how ambitious the projected success of this city is, which is also evident throughout the whole country.

If you do a quick calculation you will realize that in 20 years the city plans to increase its population by approximately 2.5 million new people who live and work here, almost doubling its current population, in quick calculations this represents a rate of almost 10,000 new residents per month in order to achieve the aspiration of the almost 5.8 million people in total.

Come and be part of the lucky and exclusive community of expatriates from all over the planet who have decided to discover Dubai but also to live in Dubai and enjoy working and doing business here to develop your life projects.

For all the details of the Dubai 2040 plan you can also refer to the images and links below

https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-initiatives-and-awards/local-governments-strategies-and-plans/dubai-2040-urban-master-plan

Emirates News Agency – Mohammed bin Rashid launches Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan (wam.ae)

On the different development plans of each of the different Emirates you can also find more details in the link below

Local governments’ strategies and plans – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

What will you find in this guide to Dubai and the UAE?

Whatever you have heard about the location, this guide provides the most comprehensive set of information in one place about living and working in Dubai and the UAE. Perhaps you have seen a few videos on YouTube, read the odd blog post, or seen some news articles, but if you focus now on these pages, you will understand the whole picture about one of the most progressive and transformed cities and societies in recent decades.

Understanding Dubai and the UAE in just seven short steps will bring you benefits and many advantages for whatever reason you are planning to explore the many different opportunities offered by this country and city.

In just seven short steps, the same as the number of Emirates, you can start making a concrete plan to use as inspiration, as a reference, or as motivation for your adventure. This information-rich guide answers more than 150 questions about the most common topics and concerns about how to work and live in Dubai and the UAE.

What you won’t find in this Dubai and the UAE guide.

This is not an in-depth, detailed travel guide to tourist destinations, places to visit, or restaurants to dine in. Although some of the best possible recommendations are made below for you to enjoy life in the UAE, we will not delve into tourism issues or the history and geopolitical events of the region, much less take political positions or comments on religion and society.

This guide is not in any way attempting to replace the official guide provided by the government of the UAE where you can find detailed government sourced information on the different vital elements of life in the Emirates and the legislations and rules that cover it. Today, available in English and Arabic, that guide can be found here: Home – The Official Portal of the UAE Government Please always refer to the government’s guide when you have any questions or concerns about legal and organizational aspects of life in the UAE.

Is it possible to tailor-make your own plans for living in Dubai and the UAE?

With enough information to understand Dubai and the UAE, you will also discover the main characteristics, statistics, and general data about the country, as well as expert recommendations and annotations that could only be written by people who have lived and worked, as they cover all the different situations of daily life in a deep and complete way, including arriving in Dubai, looking for work, being unemployed, job changes, searching for a home, buying your first car, and all other situations concerning everyday life.

Through the entire guide, together with the appendices, you will also be able to enjoy a large amount of recommended digital material, magazines, blogs, and Internet content that can help resolve and expand even more details and clarify many of your doubts.

You can sign up for a private advisory service and design your own life plan in the UAE according to your needs by referencing the page at http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en , although I emphasize that the hope of writing this guide is that in the end you will not need to hire an agent or private consultant service to move to the UAE, since this guide is designed to deliver all the necessary details. However, a private guide and personalized consultancy could be useful in case your life plan in Dubai is already specified and you need a little guidance or need to learn about very specific options tailored to the plans that you have already outlined.

It is also important to explain that the Arabic, Emirati, Gulf Arabic, and Muslim cultures are so fascinating, rich and complex that it would be impossible to try to summarize in a guide how to try to adapt quickly and easily and cover all the different angles from the cultural point of view. However, it is certain that this guide will give you the important generic context needed in aspects of culture and society that are most relevant to your preparation for the future.

Why are Dubai and UAE guidebooks almost outdated after just one year?

Dubai’s personality has always been dynamic, fast, and ambitious. In just the last six years in Dubai macro-projects have been built that at first glance can be highlighted in the Guinness Book of Records, including a water channel that crosses half the city, approximately four new islands, namely Bluewaters, Dubai Marina Harbor, the Dubai Marina cruise port, and the island in the shape of a seahorse where the Bulgari hotel is located, the world’s largest mechanical wheel almost 250 meters high launched in October 2021, and several of the tallest hotels in the world. Then there is the most recent important global event Expo 2020 from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022. This is not to mention that the city already had the record for the tallest skyscraper in the world, the Burj Khalifa in the last 15 years, the largest shopping center in the world, Dubai Mall, and the largest and most populated artificial island in the world, Palm Jumeirah with the 7-star hotel Burj Al Arab. It will be extremely normal for you to see that, each year, restaurants have moved around locations and new venues have been built with hundreds of new options to dine out and enjoy heading out of your home.

What is the pace of change like in the UAE?

Therefore, just as the UAE’s landscape is abruptly, wonderfully, and continually being transformed, so are different aspects of life in the country.

For a visible example of the transformations that this country has experienced in a short period of time, here are two photos of one of the most recent megaprojects, the construction of Expo 2020. This is a photo of the Sheikh of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Source https://www.instagram.com/hhshkmohd/

The city is evolving not only in the context of large infrastructure developments but also as a city that is young and vibrant, marked by leisure and entertainment facilities that open and close regularly. It is common that after two or three years the businesses in the hospitality industry (bars, restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, and hotels) are no longer located in the same sector that they used to be or are simply rebranded. Likewise, with the permanent development of civil works, bridges, highways and new streets and urban projects, it is normal that a bit of confusion is generated in geolocation applications. This also in turn represents part of the fun of life in Dubai, having the opportunity to always discover new places for leisure, entertainment, and enjoyment.

Rest assured that perhaps half of this guide will need to be revised in a year, not only because of the natural changes in society but also because, as one of the most dynamic, globalized, modern and progressive societies on the planet, it is very directly influenced by events in the region and the world. This also implies vulnerabilities, as in any part of the world, to global financial crises, health crises such as the covid-19 pandemic, and geopolitical events in the region.

Up to here, you will clearly understand the reasons for this guide, so it is time to go into more specific details that you need to know before arriving in Dubai and the UAE.

What are the best reasons to immigrate or travel to Dubai and the UAE?

The UAE is considered one of the most open countries in the world, considering the ease with which most nationalities can obtain a visa and could easily establish themselves as a resident, worker, investor, student, visitor, or businessperson. The UAE can also be considered one of the developed countries with the greatest growth and expansion potential in the coming months and years, according to Bloomberg magazine. This means that it is not only an open and hospitable country for the visitor but also offers many opportunities that can be taken advantage of for those whose vision and life ambition is to explore the lands of the Middle East.

Some of the immediate Dubai projects that we will be detailing later are the 50 initiatives developed in celebration of the 50th anniversary, in 2021, of the formation of the country that covers different areas including business, migration, visas, investments, and technology. Some of the projects that are still in the process of being revealed to the public can be found in this article from The National.

https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/2021/09/06/projects-of-the-50-the-first-13-are-announced/

If you decide that Dubai will be your next life destination in either the short or medium term, you must go through the common stages whatever your reason or reasons for coming to one of the seven Emirates of the UAE.

Take some paper, make notes, and let yourself be guided by the seven steps in this guide to living and working in Dubai and the UAE:

1- Points to consider before arriving in Dubai and the UAE.

2- Details for organizing your journey to Dubai and the UAE.

3- Traveling to Dubai and landing in the UAE.

4- Finding your best opportunities in the UAE.

5- Working in the UAE and living an Emirati life.

6- Organizing your life in Dubai and the UAE.

7- Things to do in Dubai and how to enjoy life in the UAE.

There are sure to be many situations and compelling reasons in your life to choose your next geographical destination and conclude on your emigration project, but it is important that you review all the angles and aspects necessary in all your options so that you can choose correctly. Although this guide is not guaranteeing that you will find an easy path or a quick way to achieve your dreams, it is guiding you towards the natural steps of all those who also decided to put their dreams in Dubai and the UAE, starting from a base of real-life experiences where there was also a process of struggle, learning and adventure.

STEP 1: POINTS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ARRIVING IN DUBAI AND THE UAE

There are many mental, physical, financial, logistical, and other factors that are important to prepare for when making the final decision to immigrate to Dubai. The below questions are part of essential considerations for you.

How do you get to the UAE?

When you are sure that the UAE will be your next destination, or even if it is not yet final, have no doubt that the easiest part to organize and discover in this guide will be the different options on how and when to land in the UAE. In a country with cities so open to visitors and designed and dedicated to welcoming all different nationalities, religions, and races of the world with open arms, deciding if you really want to take this challenging step will be a piece of cake. I assume you have already gone through the internal process of deciding your main objective, whether to come as a tourist for a certain defined time, or for a specific academic, work, or business reason, or perhaps a relaxing adventure trip, or some combination of all the above. Based on your main purpose, which in all honesty you may end up expanding, modifying, extending, or abruptly changing at the last minute, this guide will help you shape whatever that purpose is, even in moments of indecision and doubt.

What are the values of Dubai and the UAE?

What is it like to live in Dubai? This is one of the most important questions you will have at the beginning of your process and throughout your experience. But to understand how people live here, it is essential first to take a global look and, from a different perspective, understand the values that represent life in the UAE, some of which have already been mentioned above with the personality of Dubai being ambition, tolerance, inclusion, flexibility, opportunities, prosperity, generosity, and security. During the tour in this guide, it is very possible that you will identify with these values and, if so, rest assured that you have chosen the right country to live in, put down roots, work, visit, invest, and develop your life project.

Do you need to show proof of monthly income or bank statements to enter Dubai?

It is not necessary to present any income proof or bank statements if you are thinking of entering the country in tourism mode, unlike other countries where there might be some limitations for some nationalities and these need to show a proof of income before their arrival. For the nationalities where you need to pre-arrange a tourist visa, it will depend on the agency process that is advised to you. Remember that you can also request visa processing through airline companies such as Emirates or FlyDubai in case your trip to the UAE from your origin country is with either of these two airlines. For people interested in having a residence visa as a freelancer there are also a few options mentioned later in this guide.

Is it necessary to present an invitation letter to enter the UAE?

Currently it is not necessary to present an invitation letter to enter the UAE, however, if your nationality requires you to present yourself with a previously approved visa, it is possible that the agency managing your visa will include this document within their paperwork. Later you will find all the details in which nationalities require a visa.

Why should you visit or live and work in the UAE?

The UAE and Dubai are proud of their great variety of races, cultures, creeds, gastronomy options, languages, and global mix. Although it is officially an Arabic and Islamic country, in its streets only ten percent of the population is native to the country. This means most of the population are immigrants and to this is added a very high percentage of visitors and people who are only transiting or visiting the city temporarily. Unofficial data estimates that in 2019, the number of tourists was more than ten million people. In 2020, even with a huge global crisis due to Covid-19 this number exceeded five million tourists and for 2021, including the calculation of visitors for Expo 2020, it is expected to exceed twenty million until the first quarter of 2022. There are also approximately 200 different nationalities found throughout the country.

But what makes it most interesting to come to visit or live in the desert lands of the UAE? While you may already have read about the cultural contrast and the vast opportunities to explore different ways of understanding, it is quite typical to find many established and very active intercultural communities. When you move to the UAE you will no doubt wish to search for and meet people from your own country and culture you can relate to, but do not forget to also enjoy and take advantage of the huge array of different cultures, interactions, foods, tastes, traditions, and the enrichment that discovering different realities between different civilizations has. The people who came to the UAE to seek their dreams will allow you to interact with the entire planet.

When should you emigrate to the UAE?

The job opportunities offered in the UAE may not be very different from those that are being offered in the rest of the world, but some job sectors might be more accessible and easy to attain in Dubai compared with positions in European countries, Australia, the US, or Canada. Some industries have a higher demand for professionals because there is a lack of them in the local market. Although it is understood that the process is mainly based on having the motivation to find a job, it will also influence your ability to adapt to the different jobs you can find here. There is a huge array of opportunities from waiters, receptionists, and chefs in hotels and tourism to advertisers, designers, musicians, dancers, engineers, scientists, teachers, digital animators, marketers, web designers, and programmers. There are also jobs as top executives of multinationals, investors, bankers, and construction project managers, and all these jobs are available here for those who have the motivation, conviction, and talent necessary to compete in a globalized environment. This country may not have a large population compared with other rich countries, but you will be dealing and competing with a diverse array of talent. If you have strong work experience and consider yourself an expert in your field, industry, or profession and it is aligned with the country’s development projects, you should not miss out on any of these opportunities to apply for these well-paid jobs. Later in this guide you will find more details about these projects.

If you wish to explore non-professional employment that is unrelated to your academic background, you must understand that this city, being one of the most visited in the world, has hundreds of jobs available in the hotel and tourism industry. The only essential requirement is being fluent in English. However, there are some companies that may also recruit other languages for their non-English-speaking agents for international clients.

Essentially, my advice is to start exploring the different potential spaces outside what is familiar to you. It is worth exploring all the different possible employment options; you will hear many stories from people who did a very different job than the ones they had trained for in their countries of origin, or who started with ‘less professional’ or ‘poorly paid’ jobs but who have also managed to climb and progress in their job ambitions and professional careers, just as in any other country.

How and when should you roll the lucky dice in Dubai?

It’s never too early or late to roll the dice and try your luck in Dubai, as soon as you can consolidate a budget that allows you to start an adventure to get to know Dubai and thus start your process of seeking job opportunities and consolidating your plan. All you need to do is follow the seven steps in this guide then jump into the ring and try your luck. Always keep in mind that in this country it is important to believe in yourself, take risks, explore and encourage adventure, try new things, and have a mindset of overcoming challenges.

What plans should you include when in Dubai?

I really cannot overvalue or oversell Dubai and the UAE, whether you want to have rest and relaxation or a cultural, gastronomic, nature, or business trip, this city and country are designed to satisfy you with a huge number of interesting options. And if your plan is to start a life from scratch, start a new career, learn a new trade, expand your professional experience, start a company, develop your working life after graduation, or expand your international career, this city and this country are more than ready for that, too.

Without further ado, let’s begin one of the most exciting and thrilling adventures of your life with the seven steps that will be the key to your success. Buckle up and get ready for a successful adventure of working and living in Dubai and the UAE.

STEP 2: DETAILS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR JOURNEY TO DUBAI AND THE UAE

Consider the essential elements below when planning your trip to the UAE.

How do you contextualize your travel plan to the current situation in Dubai and the UAE?

It is vital that during your process of planning to travel to Dubai you are aware of the latest developments and news in the country and region, as well as any progress regarding travel restrictions, changes in entry permits to the country, and any other major events. Be on the lookout for international trade shows and global expos that perhaps you can take advantage of to showcase your resume or find opportunities for future business. It is also very important to be aware of the social and cultural elements such as Ramadan or other global or local events that can present conditions on aspects such as employment and different seasons.

What can you take to Dubai in your luggage?

Many people have the misconception that it is not allowed to bring certain foods or drinks when traveling to the Middle East region, the UAE, or Dubai. The reality is that the same policy and conditions that exist for any other international flight destination to any country in the world are the same for trips to any country in this region, including the UAE and Dubai. The airlines will allow a certain weight in your luggage, and it is recommended not to bring more than five liters of any type of beverage, whether alcoholic or not, and to avoid any food that is not canned or properly packaged under industrial hygiene standards. You should also avoid explosive or corrosive materials that can damage cabins or suitcases when stored under pressure. This applies mainly to spray cans that are normally not allowed on any international flight. Feel free to bring all the non-perishable canned food you want, as well as your favorite beverages, as part of your luggage, but not in your carry-on. Medications must be properly packaged with paperwork if they are prescription medications. Avoid drugs as any attempt to bring in any type of psychoactive substance, including any type of cannabis, is the biggest ban in the UAE.

How much luggage can you take to Dubai?

The simple answer is this will depend exclusively on the airline you use. The baggage weight regulations constantly change depending on the routes, but it is known that on airlines such as Emirates you can carry up to a suitcase of 32 kilos from the US and South America, and for flights with a stopover in Europe or Turkey you can also carry up to two suitcases of 23 kilos each as hold luggage. Depending on the conditions of your ticket, you could also carry hand luggage that usually should not weigh more than 10 kilos and include one personal item, laptop, small bag, or accessory.

For this, it is always recommended to check the exact conditions of the airlines’ luggage conditions pages and, if necessary, call the airline to confirm the allocation of weight and number of suitcases that can be transported, both in your luggage and carry on. 

How is it recommended to fly to the UAE?

One of the most important recommendations will always be to try to travel as comfortably as possible. The time difference between Dubai and most countries in the western hemisphere, or the entire continent of the Americas, is between six and twelve hours, which implies a drastic change not only between different time zones but also in total hours traveled on flights and in waiting times at airports. In very lucky and mostly expensive scenarios the minimum amount of waiting time at airports and connections can be two or three hours at any point in Europe, the US, or other nearby country in the region such as Turkey or Qatar.

Flights from Europe and Africa are quite comfortable as they might last a maximum of six hours, while longer flights might come from Australia and Southeast Asia.

What should you do during check-in to travel to the UAE?

When you are checking in at the airport and delivering your bags, you should consider that your personal luck plays a very important factor in situations where you may be able to travel with a few extra kilos without paying a penalty, or perhaps you may even get an upgrade to your ticket.

Later in this guide you will find more details on how to make your journey comfortable and cheap, but for now the main recommendation is be aware of the weight of your luggage and travel light in comfortable clothes. If you are comfortable, you can even wear pajamas. Take an extra change of clothes, the occasional favorite snack, your personal hygiene kit, and drink plenty of water. If you take a nap at the airport, always make sure to synchronize your mobile phone and your watch to the local time where you are making a connection to avoid missing your flight due to an oversleep at the airport or because you got distracted with too many stores and restaurants around.

How can you prepare yourself mentally before landing in Dubai? 

The first impression of contrast that you will have when you arrive in Dubai is one of a new culture and language, even for those coming from Arabic-speaking countries. Although Dubai is a global city, many languages are much more common than others and this makes it essential for you to be able to at least read public notices and understand sentences and basic English. The second shock will come in the environment and the weather, depending on the date and month in which you land. You may feel almost like in your native city during the winter, or you may be surprised to feel 52 degrees Celsius at noon in summer between July and August. Although this level of heat is not common, Dubai is prepared with acclimatization spaces on public transport, public streets, bridges, and private areas. If you want to have the experience, you just need to go outside and enjoy the overwhelming heat.

What is the food like in the UAE?

In terms of food, you will be exposed to the greatest variety of choices and sensations, as you will find smells and flavors from all corners of the world. Even those who seek variety will be surprised by the many options, including pork and dishes with alcoholic ingredients, which is not easy to find in the rest of the countries of the region. You will be mentally prepared for aspects related to your use of money, the cost of living, and other elements that are part of daily life in the Emirates when you have finished reading this guide, so in this part of the guide there is only a brief mental preparation for your arrival in the UAE.

What should you avoid doing in Dubai? 

As in any other place in the world, you must be guided by the basic norms and rules of civility, good manners, tolerance, and respect. There is no difference between any cities in the world in this respect. Most illegal things in other countries apply, so you should not worry about situations that may put you in trouble if you use common sense respecting local laws. The below recommendations are simply situations that could have an added value, especially for those who are new to the city or who prefer to avoid look like awkward newcomers.

What is Ramadan or the holy month in the UAE?

Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims. It is essential that before planning your trip you have in mind the social and environmental context as this will impact the time available that you will have to work or look for a job and the way you see the whole society interact with each other during this special time.

How is Ramadan lived in Dubai?

During Ramadan, it is vital to avoid drinking water or eating in front of people who are fasting, although many of the people fasting may say that this does not bother them, but it is an act of respect to put yourself in the place of those who are fasting while, for example, spending all day at the office. Currently the restaurants in the UAE are allowed to serve food during fasting hours without having to cover restaurant windows as public displays of eating were forbidden in the past. Here is the latest news about Ramadan 2021: Dubai restaurants not required to screen off dining areas during fasting hours | UAE – Gulf News

Ramadan is a great event of spiritual introspection and internal reflection; you will surely enjoy living it and appreciating the sharing and generosity that is breathed during the holy month across the whole country.

What is the recommended wardrobe for the UAE? 

Even though Dubai is a coastal and beach city par excellence, it is also common to find establishments, restaurants, or areas in which visitors are preferred to be fully dressed, not in beach or pool attire. This is mainly in public areas. If you are wearing a very revealing garment, you will see public announcements recommending you cover up a little, for example, in stores and shopping centers and most closed environments. These have controlled temperatures that might force you to cover up. It is not uncommon to see people wearing cold weather clothing while walking through shopping malls, going to the movies, or using public transportation, while in the outside areas it can be over 50 degrees Celsius.

Only in Dubai and the UAE is there so much freedom of clothing that you can go to a beach and find a person in a bathing suit enjoying the beach or walking quietly next to someone wearing a burka or burkini. This cultural acceptance is something unique, exclusive, and special to the UAE and you will not be able to appreciate it anywhere else on the planet.

Is it possible to drink alcoholic beverages in the UAE? 

As for alcoholic beverages, these can only be consumed in authorized establishments, hotels, and licensed restaurants and never in public places or open areas, so avoid trying to find a beer in any store in Dubai; this is more common in Abu Dhabi or Ajman.

Are there limitations on the food available in Dubai?

In the UAE there are multiple food options, international cuisines, and ingredients from all over the planet. Although it is a multicultural country with a wide variety of local food supplies, most food consumed in the country is imported. This means that you can find local fruits and ingredients from your origin country, although it must be added that not all options will be available as if you were actually at home, you will have a wide variety of options to choose the same fruit from different parts of the planet. Get ready to delight your mouth with different flavors than the ones you are used to for the same fruits and vegetables that you would normally know in your home country.

Is it possible to eat pork in the UAE?

As with alcoholic beverages, pork can be found in authorized market stores and restaurants licensed to serve this type of food.

What is the recommended behavior for public spaces in the UAE? 

In some spaces where the cross-cultural element is marked, you must take into account that people can be drastically different from you, especially coming from different cultures, ways of life, and with different idiosyncrasies. The spaces can seem very small for cultures that have a tendency to speak in a louder tone of voice than you are used to, or that use less perfume than you do. In some forms of culture or religion it is not appropriate for different genders to shake hands, so it is better to wait for the other person to take the initiative. There is no reason to feel offended if you suddenly find situations in which your hand might wait for an answer and stay on hold, especially now, in the context of the pandemic that the planet has just gone through.

As in the rest of the planet, obvious care and considerations must be taken. Be careful to attend to and obey the announcements and prohibitions that are placed in advertisements on public roads and the guidelines recommended by the authorities in places such as public transportation, streets, government buildings, and your daily life interactions. Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, royal palaces, highway police checkpoints, traffic accidents, or where there is a notice not to do so. This will avoid unnecessary sanctions or fines.

Now, with all the recommendations and advice from steps number 1 and 2 that you have just read, you are more than ready to go into details about how to travel to Dubai and everything you need to land in the UAE.

Also, just as a reference, it is important that you read the recommendations promoted by your country’s embassy in the UAE. Although many regulations are constantly changing, it is important that you know what your local government recommends.

UAE – Embassies and Consulates (embassypages.com)

STEP 3: TRAVELING TO DUBAI AND LANDING IN THE UAE

After preparing yourself mentally and financially and having done all the logistical steps, it is time to board your flight and take the big jump, or rather … the big flight.

How can you travel to Dubai?

It is time to explain in detail about traveling to Dubai. There are many possible routes to reach the UAE and an extensive choice of airlines and airport connections to organize your flight in many ways.

For people who are given to adventure and discovering new destinations, there will always be the opportunity to make a connection from your point of origin with a stopover for one or two days, usually in the US, Europe, Turkey, or another country near the gulf or some destination in Africa.  You might have the chance to get to know a little about your surroundings, take a break, and return to your final flight for the end of the journey to Dubai. For those who do not want to miss a moment of the experience of landing in the UAE, as mentioned above, the options are extensive and from anywhere on the planet you can count on multiple connections and flights that vary in cost, time, and possibilities. 

Is it safe to travel alone in the UAE?

The UAE is a country with one of the highest security statistics in the world. There is no risk when visiting it as a group or individually, just as it does not matter if you are a man or a woman; the levels of security are the same for both genders. The most important thing will always be to behave respectfully and tolerantly towards other cultures and use common sense as in any other destination. One more reference on the subject of security when traveling from the newspaper: UAE named world’s safest country to walk at night: Gallup report | Al Arabiya English

How much does all the logistics of traveling to Dubai cost?

For many countries there is the advantage that your entry to the UAE can be first as a tourist with a visa on arrival free of charge without the need to pay the extra cost for a visa. It is also possible to opt for longer visas and there is even a tourist visa valid for five years with multiple entries. If you first get a job from your country of origin, your company or employer will oversee managing the entry permit. If your job offer is strong, your employer may also offer you a ticket to the UAE and take care of the cost. For these very lucky situations, that can still happen, initially all the logistics of your first trip to Dubai are almost free. In a different scenario, if you need to pay for your trip, you should have approximately $100 from nearby destinations on low-cost airlines up to $800 to $1,000, which an average economy flight ticket can cost from most destinations further away.

How much does a tourist visa to the UAE cost?

If your nationality requires requesting a tourist visa to arrive in the UAE, you have several options from one month to three months to buying a five-year visa that will allow you to visit the country for up to 90 days, which can be extended.

Local airlines Emirates or flyDubai can advise you on the entire process of generating a visa and including it in the cost of your ticket. The cost can also vary if you decide to do it through a local agency for which you need to consult about the different offers. You can get in touch through the form to request the type of visa that interests you most from Enjoy the best tours to travel and visit Dubai and the Emirates – The Guide to Dubai and the UAE (laguiadedubai.com)

Which countries do not require a visa before arriving in the UAE?

Check out the full list of countries that do not require a visa to enter the UAE below, but remember that it is important to always be aware of developments so always make sure to confirm and check the latest situation on visa requirements and permits with your local embassy on the link below:

https://www.mofaic.gov.ae/en/Missions/UAE-Missions-Abroad

Currently, there is a long list of countries that do not require a visa to enter the UAE and land in any of its cities.

Do I need a visa to enter the UAE?

The most important recommendation is that you need to be aware of updates and changes in visa policies according to your country of origin and nationality in the below links. It is important that you are always informed and up to date with airlines, news, and official government communications about the different changes of these visa regulations in:

https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information

https://www.emirates.com/ae/english/help/covid-19/dubai-travel-requirements/tourists/

How much is a ticket to travel to Dubai?

As mentioned above, the cost of a flight ticket to Dubai depends on four basic things:

1- The point of origin of the flight.

2- The type of ticket, whether economy, business, or first class.

3- The number of connections you must make and the time of these connections.

4- The season or date you decide to travel.

The less waiting time at airports and connections you want to make on your flight, the more expensive it may be for you, but this is not a definitive rule. It is possible with luck that you get a flight ticket with only one stopover that allows you to land fast without spending a fortune. For this, it is important that you learn to recognize the most common and cheapest routes to land in Dubai or Abu Dhabi from your city of origin.

How can you travel to the UAE from anywhere on the planet? 

Dubai is characterized as a world hub for tourism and air travel connections. This has positioned its airport as one of the busiest in the world. Airlines such as Emirates and Etihad have developed a vast network of connections with all the cardinal points of the planet. Low-cost options landing from various continents have also been developed with airlines such as FlyDubai, Pegasus, and Wizzair.

There are other very diverse options from different countries and cities, the main capitals of the world being an easy starting point. In some countries of the Americas there are a variety of airlines and route options. Those mentioned below are the main points of origin of the flights to Dubai but it does not mean that there may not be a more direct or easy connection flight to the UAE from your city of residence. 

In Latin America from Panama, Bogotá, Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Santiago de Chile, and Lima, and from cities in the US, it is possible to find routes with direct connections to Dubai, as well as routes with connections in Europe. For the cheapest routes, explore connections including:

In the US from cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, NYC, Washington, Boston, and Atlanta.

In Canada from Toronto or Montreal.

In Europe the cities with the cheapest connections are Madrid, Amsterdam, Paris, and Frankfurt, but you may also get flight options through London, Lisbon, Istanbul and Rome among many other options in medium and small cities.

In Asia, the main financial centers have many flights and connections from Manila, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and many Chinese and Indian cities also have direct connections to Dubai.

Australia has diverse city routes from Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra as well as most capital cities of the African continent.

How can you travel to Dubai cheaply and easily?

In addition to the different types of flights, airlines, and connecting stopovers in the countries mentioned above, you also sometimes have the option to book these flights separately on different airlines. Some flights can be booked with low cost airlines such as Spirit, Viva Air, Latam, and Wingo in Latin America and then, one or two days after your first flight, with a connecting flight to the final destination in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. There is also a wide choice of low cost airlines from Europe such as Pegasus, Wizzair, and airEuropa. FlyDubai, which is considered the low-cost option of its partner Emirates, offers several routes that cover Africa, Central Asia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

You must be very careful and calculate accurately if you decide to make this trip with connecting flights from different airlines booked separately. You must be sure to calculate that the two flights have enough time between them, avoiding the risk of missing the next flight in case of delay, either for the security or immigration queue or in the case of flight cancellation.

Make sure your baggage allowance is the same for both routes or you will have to pay an extra fine for overweight baggage. Likewise, if you wish to visit the country of transit, you must ensure the local visa situation is covered and have a separate budget for the hotel cost and food for that temporary place to visit.

How long will the trip to the UAE take?

Depending on your departure city and the connections you make on your trip, it is possible that the travel time of a trip to Dubai can be anything from half an hour from nearby destinations such as Qatar and Bahrain up to fifteen hours on transatlantic flights departing from Miami, Toronto, or São Paulo in Brazil.

Most big capital cities in the world offer a chance to get to Dubai directly and quickly, but this may not be the cheapest option. It is commonly known among travelers and travel agencies that flight search engines could be their best ally to get these cheaper flights.

Always try to fully explore all the different options that exist in the market both for flights from search engines and the airlines’ websites. It is very common for competitive airlines to have good sales and ticket offers. If you use a credit card, some banks may offer discounts with miles or promotions according to different marketing campaigns in your local market.

Some of the most popular flight search engines are:

• Skyscanner

• Google Flights

• KAYAK.

How can you travel comfortably on an intercontinental flight to Dubai?

If you are traveling in an economy cabin, do not neglect a very basic recommendation that is often ignored. In low season, when the flights are not full or completely sold out, it is important to ask during the airline check-in about the status of occupancy of the plane and, if possible, ask to be placed in a row where there are no reserved or confirmed seats. This will allow you to lift the armrests and make your own bed to be able to sleep during the long and strenuous transatlantic flights once the plane has achieved a cruising speed and altitude.

Who are the best tour guides in the UAE?

The best possible recommendation, if your focus of interest is to travel for a visit and do tourism in the UAE, is to consult the official tourism guides that have been developed by each of the Emirates. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah have separate guides with the best suggestions for visitors. Here, you will find all the possible details necessary for visitors in many different languages. If you plan to live in the UAE, this is also an excellent guide for you to explore the different Emirates in vacation plans or the famous weekends staycations:

Dubai: Visit o Dubai (visitdubai.com)

Abu Dhabi: There are so many things to do in Abu Dhabi! Visit Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi’s official visitor website, offers travel and tourism information to plan your holiday!

Sharjah Visit Sharjah

Now, if what you are looking for is a guide to get established in Dubai and live there, either for a season or indefinitely, the next part of this guide will give you even more details and reasons to expand your visit trip and perhaps start exploring the different opportunities that a life in the UAE can bring you.

How can I communicate as soon as I land in Dubai and the UAE?

You will find an internet connection at Dubai airport, and in some Dubai metro stations you should be able to access a free, limited time connection. Do not miss the opportunity if you get it to take the free SIM card that some telco companies offer you when you leave the airport. These are normally handed out to tourists.

STEP 4- FINDING YOUR BEST OPPORTUNITIES IN THE UAE

After landing in the UAE, it is time to explore the opportunities that this wonderful land can offer.

How can you organize the best plan for living in Dubai and the UAE? 

You can travel to the UAE for a very long list of good and valid reasons. If your main interest is in getting to know the country and visiting the region for a while you can opt for a travel or vacation plan to Dubai at any time. If you decide you want to try your luck and live there for some time, or find a job opportunity and would like to work for a season or with no time limitation, then you can take notes from the below recommendations and find the best scenario that suits your expectations and plans.

What is the easiest way to live in Dubai?

Throughout this guide you will find details of different scenarios where you can create various options for living in Dubai, either to look for work or to move to any of the seven different Emirates, although this does not mean that they are the only options available and it would be impossible to cover all the options. There are many different alternatives in the academic, leisure, business, and other work fronts. Later in this guide you will find  some of the most common situations and opportunities and the easiest ones described by people who have managed to come to work and live in the UAE.

Can you come to Dubai as a student? 

It is more common than you would imagine finding people who have decided to start some type of study or academic training in Dubai, from English courses to postgraduate degrees. This city also allows you to come as a student and worker at the same time, which is another of the benefits of this destination. This model, which is very popular in many other countries, is also available throughout the Emirates.

You can consult (laguiadedubai.com ) about courses to learn business English in Dubai.

What is required to live in Dubai?

To live in the UAE, it is essential to have good communication skills in the English language to be able to connect and interact with most of the population and to live a normal and pleasant life. It is also common to see people who come to the Emirates as language students then decide to focus on looking for a job and are open to options for jobs of any kind. In this case you will need an almost professional fluency in the English language and at the same time, having professional experience in a job field that is in demand in the UAE can leverage you more easily.

Do I need to validate my university degrees in the UAE?

In most professional interviews and job application processes you might need to take a technical exam to demonstrate your skills. Make sure you bring with you all the documentation, necessary academic certificates apostilled in the UAE embassy in your country of origin, since this can avoid having to request these documents and pay extra costs later.

It is worth mentioning that the desire, motivation, and a positive attitude and accepting challenges are also essential qualities to get a job and stay in Dubai.

How much money do I need to live in Dubai? How much does it cost to live in Dubai?

It is important that you get enough money to allow you to maintain your cost of living while you find a job. All job offers need to be fair and reasonable to begin with. Keep in mind if you are determined to find a job or are already requested to be an interviewee, this also implies a travel cost for face-to-face interviews.

The cost of living in this country is marked mainly by the cost of housing and accommodation. Depending on the city and the area where you decide to live, this will be the largest part of your monthly budget. This is also why a large part of employee contracts could potentially include a specific allowance for part of your accommodation or perhaps, if you are lucky, the company will place you in a residential space for some time.

Regarding the cost of living, the type of life you decide to lead, whether you decide to cook at home or prefer to go out exploring, take advantage of the recommendations at the end of this guide to fully enjoy life in the UAE.

How much does it cost to rent a room or apartment in Dubai? 

For this chapter, a minimum calculation for several different scenarios will be made with their associated cost, but with the note that this cost can vary significantly depending on the month or season of the year that might require an extra revision of the prices in the market. It is also very common to find options for both private and shared accommodation.

If you are considering renting an apartment of your own for a long period of time, perhaps a year, this will be possible after your visa and residence process is finalized, and you manage to obtain your identification as a resident of the UAE. There are many accommodation options where you can choose to commit yourself for a full year’s contract or on a monthly basis.  It is also common to have to pay a deposit in cash that is returned after you decide to move out of the rental space and therefore it is necessary to inform your landlord in advance, normally one month beforehand, that you plan to leave the property.

Can you share an apartment in Dubai?

It is also very common to find shared apartments between co-workers or friends in Dubai.

– If you decide to live in a shared apartment, the cost for a room in popular neighborhoods such as JBR or Marina can be as low as 2,500 dirhams a month in summer. It could be less in nearby neighborhoods such as JLT, Barsha Heights, or Discovery Gardens where you could find rooms from 1,800 to 2,000 dirhams a month.

– If you decide to live in a studio only in neighborhoods like JLT it is possible to pay from 3,000 to 3,500 dirhams a month. These options can also be furnished, and this clearly influences the price.

– If you decide to live in a shared room, this space can cost from 500 to 1,000 dirhams a month. Of course, make sure that you will share with your partner or a close friend or relative.

What are the most expensive and cheapest neighborhoods in Dubai?

The range of accommodation costs in Dubai is incredibly extensive and varied, with daily, monthly, yearly, and shared rental options. This also influences the cost price as well as the location according to the sector of the city. There is no general rule that determines the cost of housing around the same area as there are neighborhoods where you can find a mix of new and old constructions, like old and affordable neighborhoods like Deira or Burjuman but also newly built and low-cost neighborhoods like Arjan and Furjan.

There are expensive neighborhoods like Jumeirha, Downtown, DIFC ,and Palm Jumeirah as well as medium cost areas like Marina, JBR, and JLT. In these last three neighborhoods there is always a big change in prices depending on the season for accommodations that are negotiated to pay monthly.

Where should you look for an apartment to buy or rent in Dubai?

The options to find and rent apartments in Dubai are very varied, from Airbnb and Facebook groups where multiple offers are published to specialized portals such as dubizzle, Bayut, and Property Finder, and you can also take advantage of word of mouth among your friends and new contacts.

It is normal that most of the options that you find at better prices are negotiated on an annual basis, and it is common that you can request a lower payment for the number of months that suits you, distributing the value across year, and you can even haggle about the value or obtain an additional month for free. In some neighborhoods the cost of services or air conditioning and parking can be negotiated.

As mentioned before, there is the option of renting a property on a yearly, monthly, or daily basis. Although this is naturally more expensive, it is the recommended option to start exploring the city and after getting a little experience and spending time touring neighborhoods of interest to you, you can then choose where to live for a long time or even invest in buying your own apartment in Dubai.

How much does daily and monthly food cost in Dubai?

Regarding the cost of food, a monthly grocery shopping list in stores like Carrefour or Lulus for a person who cooks can start from 1,500-2,000 dirhams a month. If you want to enjoy a moderate level of the different restaurants and leisure options in the city the cost can start from 4,000 to 5,000 dirhams a month.

Making your calculations with these two references of housing and food costs will undoubtedly be the best guide for you to start calculating which is the best option and how much money you need to start saving to be able to cover your cost of living in Dubai while you are job hunting.

In conclusion, a minimum of 4,000 to 5,000 dirhams a month could be a realistic cost for you to enjoy your start in Dubai. For sure, it is possible to locate yourself on a cheaper budget but remember that quality of life is also a reason to move to the UAE.

What requirements are there for living in Dubai?

Fortunately, there are no specific requirements for living in Dubai. Through this guide, you will only find important recommendations to avoid repeating common mistakes or to help you avoid difficult episodes or situations. Use this guide as the shortcut to make your plan to live in Dubai easier to develop. Although it is not possible to create general rules that will apply to everyone in many of the cases and aspects mentioned here, and there is no guarantee that each one’s experience will be similar, for some people the experience of living and working in the UAE might be easier than to others. Speaking English fluently, having good communication skills, sales abilities, good interpersonal relationships, a good attitude, and motivation will undoubtedly be decisive and indispensable factors, sometimes well above your resume, so that your process in the UAE takes a more agile and rapid course.

How can you discover Dubai, the city of opportunities?

It is very easy to feel motivated and passionate when discovering, little by little, the opportunities that Dubai offers the world, not only in aspects already mentioned in terms of progress such as society, economy, employment, and innovation but also in the way in which this country is projected towards the future. A perfect example can be seen at the globally acclaimed EXPO 2020 Dubai

What is Expo 2020 Dubai?

Expo 2020 is a global event that takes place in Dubai from October 2021 for the next six months until March 31, 2022 and consists of national exhibitions where each participating country (approximately 190 confirmed countries) are showing their latest advances in terms of tourism, technological, and cultural development that it can offer to the world. You can see the complete and official program of the expo at Expo 2020 Dubai | Home | Connecting Minds, Creating the Future | Expo 2020 Dubai

This great event has generated special conditions where the economy and the productive sectors are in constant search of talent and opportunities for all. Perhaps your golden opportunity begins with the Expo, or perhaps after it.

Expo Dubai, a world fair to boost tourism in the UAE – France 24

Why should you live in Dubai?

Dubai is a metropolis located in the middle of the Arabian Gulf, in one of the most arid, desert landscapes that sometimes might make you feel you are on a different planet. Even so, the civilization that has developed here is rich in history and culture with a vast mixture of the different cultural and historical contributions of the region. All the major civilizations of the past have had an impact here for centuries and their influence is still felt with the great cultural and racial variety of this country.

One of the main reasons for living in Dubai (further details later) is simply that finding a job in Dubai also means enjoying a full salary without any tax deduction for the government. This is also due to the very low cost of taxes on most goods and services and an opportunity to generate income in different areas.

Why is Dubai the city of opportunities?

It is very easy to justify the need to emigrate when currently living in a complex and challenging context such as societies that are suffering with unemployment, insecurity, post-Covid crises, social inequality, and lack of opportunities. Although there is no perfect country nor is there a place that can replace home and where your family is, it is easy to want to explore new opportunities when the possibility of aspiring to better living conditions or exploring new directions and venturing into new projects is always there on the table.

The below questions are also part of a reflection of different reasons for you to be more confident and convinced that emigrating to the UAE will be your best decision.

Is Dubai a safe city? How secure is the UAE?

You can consider your security levels, not only from the perspective of very low percentages of violence and crime but also security provided from government policies of attention to the population in general, for both national and overseas residents.

In a simple example to understand this perspective, Dubai and the entire country were among the locations that best managed the Covid-19 pandemic and where most of the population were vaccinated. This is undoubtedly possible thanks to a national policy of always being at the global forefront of advances in science and medicine and in different initiatives in search of nationwide wellbeing.

In terms of security in the context of crime, the city also manages to position itself as one of the safest on the planet. Dubai underlines competitiveness as one of the Safest Cities in the world (mediaoffice.ae)

On this axis of security that provides confidence for the investor, the city develops new opportunities to explore with new laws helping to open businesses easier and faster, employment and adventure possibilities that will surely continue to be the trends of life in the UAE.

Why the World’s Rich Move to Dubai – Forbes Spain

Are Dubai and the UAE safe for women?

In the same way the UAE is considered one of the safest countries in the world, this also extends to the treatment of women. Most Dubai government employees are women, and they represent a very important presence in high public positions and directing both global and local corporations.

In this Vogue Arabia article, you can see that the Emirati woman perform at high levels from the different fields of art to government ministers to athletes and astronauts.

https://en.vogue.me/culture/inspirational-emirate-women/

In the below article, in English, the thirty most powerful women in the UAE will also give you an idea about the important and empowered role that women have been given in this country.

https://scoopempire.com/30-inspirational-emirates-women-you-should-know/

What geographical advantages does the UAE have?

The UAE is in one of the most strategic positions on the planet, which in turn is one of the main reasons why life in this part of the world can be so fascinating and fun. When you live in almost the middle of the connection point between Europe, Asia, and Africa you will have plenty of options to take vacations and travel and explore most of the planet with flights that are relatively very cheap when compared with the cost of exploring them from your country of origin in regions such as Latin America, Europe, Africa, or even Australia. You will have to get used to living a different lifestyle where you define which destination or country or continent you are going to choose to explore each year and perhaps that number of countries is greater than you imagine.

What is the economy of the UAE?

The UAE is at #29 in the world by volume of GDP, although its greatest wealth is still based on oil, the great impulse to diversify its economy in other industries such as tourism, finance, construction, and manufacturing currently allows creating ideal working conditions for any type of employment. More details in the economy framework of the UAE at The UAE’s economy – The Official Portal of the UAE Government https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/economy 

What are the most common myths about Dubai?

It is common to come across YouTube videos about the different clichés and urban myths that Dubai and the UAE are not exempt from. For example, it is not quite true that everyone drives Ferraris, Lamborghinis, or Bugattis in the streets of Dubai, or that everyone has a lion as a pet in their mansion, or that people have gold in everything they eat and wear.

It is also not true that you will become rich overnight in Dubai. Although there may be great opportunities to start a business, generate income, and have a better salary, you need a realistic but strong and ambitious vision to be able to achieve your goals.

On a more personal and private level, it is a common misconception that respectful displays of affection in public are illegal. You have the same right to walk holding hands with your partner or with family and friends as anywhere else in the world. Expressions of love under the limits of respect and individual freedoms of privacy are permitted.

Women and men both have the same opportunities in employment, education, and development of their life plans. Just as an example, in the UAE, more than half the cabinet of government employees is made up of women and there are many initiatives that promote gender equality and opportunities. More details in: 

https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/social-affairs/women

What are the downsides of living in Dubai?

For this guide to be optimally useful, it is necessary to mention aspects that might be considered as disadvantages or that can perhaps create a challenge at certain times. Just as in other parts of the world, there will always be cons that will make you deeply reflect on your final decision.

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of living in Dubai, specifically for some nationalities like Latin Americans, is the distance between the American continent and the Arab Gulf region where the UAE is located. This means travel between most countries in Latin America and Dubai have a minimum duration of almost 24 hours in the Dubai-Latin America direction. On the way back, the trip can be even longer considering the time change and the nine-hour difference. Unless you are traveling directly from Sao Paulo, this duration will be almost fifteen hours in total. This clearly impacts the time you must allow for your trips back home to visit your family and consist of almost two days of flights.

You should also be aware that another of the biggest difficulties for those who plan to live in the UAE for a long time is that you will not be granted a passport as a national regardless of how long you have lived and worked in the country. This option may be possible exclusively for residents with a long history of business and significant investments.

Be careful that the easy access this city has to financial resources does not end up becoming a double-edged sword that ends up negatively affecting your quality of life. Many people have had to leave the city leaving everything behind because of failing to manage their finances and ambitions responsibly versus the debts they carry with different banks. Make sure the great ease of access to banking and financial products in Dubai works to your advantage and empowers your life decisions. It depends a great deal on you and your level of management and financial habits.

If you suffer from a respiratory disease or infection it will also be difficult for you to adapt to life in the desert during the months when there are sandstorms. In the same way, if you have HIV you will not be able to work and have a residency status, you will only be eligible for tourist or visitor visas.

What are the advantages of living in Dubai?

If you are still not convinced of the reasons in favor of living in Dubai such as its economy, security, tranquility, ease of doing business, both basic and luxury options for entertainment, nightlife, gastronomic offerings, proximity to other exotic travel destinations, and meeting people from all over the world, perhaps the various opportunities it can offer you to start a new life from scratch with the latest recommendations in this guide below will be the persuading factor.

STEP 5- WORKING IN THE UAE AND LIVING AN EMIRATI LIFE

It is time to materialize your path and your professional and personal career in the Emirati life. One of the most important steps will be getting a job and establishing yourself professionally. Even when money should not be the focus of your life, in Dubai it is always easier to enjoy a great life when you have a good job and a good salary, and this can make a big difference in how long you decide to project your life in the UAE.

How do you get a job in Dubai or the UAE?

To get a job in the UAE, just like in any other city in the world, it is important to start with a network of contacts that can be developed in person or virtually. This network of contacts that you can start with an online search and job portals needs to be shielded from a strong resume and exploit as much as possible your previous work experiences, your knowledge, and your ability to learn and adapt to the needs of the UAE market.

What jobs are the most requested and sought after in Dubai?

As mentioned above, the UAE is a country that is in the middle of an aggressive process of diversifying its economy and therefore is in a wide pathway to reducing its economic dependence on oil resources, this implies a strong strategy to create new industries and sources of income and therefore a massive potential offer of different jobs in some industries that are emerging, and that can be seen in all sectors of the economy.

In cities like Dubai that are a successful global tourism destination it is quite easy to find jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry. This without dismissing again that there are multiple projects of infrastructure that are currently under construction and in plans to be built, these naturally require professional labor in all engineering, architecture, real estate project consultants, and sellers.

The economic diversification of the UAE is so strong that it would give for an exclusive guide. Later you will find more details on how to find that dream job, but it is also important that you know about the projection of the UAE Ministry of Economy. Perhaps this will allow you to find a project with which you can identify with your dreams and objectives a little in advance, which in turn will let you leverage your life plans and the great ambition of this country.

If you are an investor or entrepreneur, this country has open arms for you too.

More details to know here about the economic plans of the UAE here: https://www.moec.gov.ae/en/home 

What are the requirements to apply for jobs in Dubai?

There are no specific requirements to apply for jobs in the UAE. There are positions starting from intern if you do not have any work experience and get training and professional experience. Basic student jobs also exist, and it is possible to work while studying.

Although, it is more advisable to aim for jobs from your previous work experience and academic and professional knowledge, it is important to be open to different potential jobs and opportunities as a start.

Now if you have a specific interest in an industry or profession that is more oriented towards a specialized qualification, it is best to use your university’s network of contacts, your previous work experiences and naturally your personal portfolio, the better you can position yourself and The more connections you make both digitally and in the real world, the more options you have to choose jobs with better pay and working conditions.

On which portals can you apply for jobs in the UAE? 

Undoubtedly the largest portal for job opportunities in Dubai as in the rest of the planet continues to be LinkedIn.com, however, there are also many portals for different types of jobs and even separated by industries. You can do a search on the web looking for your desired job plus the word jobs Dubai or jobs UAE.

An important note is that a very common and widespread practice is to approach human resources consultants or agencies to help you search for a job. Most offer a free service and possibly make it easier to leverage your resumé. It is recommended that you contact these professionals who can also be contacted through the different job portals on their websites or mobile applications.

Here are some of the most common job portals in the UAE:

https://www.gulftalent.com/mobile/uae/jobs

https://www.monstergulf.com/

https://www.manpowergroup.ae/

https://www.naukrigulf.com/jobs-in-uae

https://www.bayt.com/en/uae/jobs/

https://ae.indeed.com/m/jobs

There are possibilities for you to get a job even if you don’t have a perfect fluency in the English language, it is common as well to find job opportunities for international companies where their official language is different. Perhaps for these companies most of the clients or employees speak other languages and have the need to form a multilingual team. It will always be an advantage to your professional profile to be able to speak as many languages as possible. For students in general most of the jobs are very basic and some of the jobs do not require much of communications and interactions and the use of English, these are mostly unskilled jobs that anyone can apply for.

It is also common to reach out for concern and access the different groups on social networks such as Facebook or Instagram where you will find a vast number of recommendations and in general all kinds of comments, do not allow your spirits and motivation to be discouraged due to negative experiences of other people, but always keep an eye on the relationships you will be building in the future and specially on the dynamics between jobs demand and supply so that you are able to measure your opportunities much better.

What do employment contracts in Dubai include? 

It is essential that you know a little about your basic rights as an employee in the UAE, as in the rest of the world, it is important to be careful on how you are going through an job search process and that it is only you or a recognized HR agent involved. This to avoid having any type of risk to end up being victims of scams that normally operate from nearby countries or unfortunately end up in labor contracts with disadvantages.

You should read all the details of your future employment contract and ask questions about anything you are not clear or sure you understand.

First, you must understand that it is illegal for any company and employer to retain your passport, do not allow this to be required at any time during your contract arrangements. 

It is normal that if you are recruited from outside Dubai the company offers to pay for your flight from your country of origin to the UAE including potentially some accommodation options while you decide where you want to live, make sure you are clear if this will have to be paid in case of cancelation of your contract or if your trial period is unfinished.

Trial periods are also very common, in industries such as hospitality, restaurants, the hotel and tourism industry it is common to have to show up for a free job trial for a day where you will demonstrate your skills.

In the rest of the qualified jobs, it is common for your employer to agree on a trial period of between 3 to 6 months, in many cases in this trial period you should be able to resign or have your contract canceled without there being any commitment in legal terms or  any type of compensation unless specified otherwise on your contract.

How much is the minimum salary in Dubai?

There is not a minimum salary in Dubai, however it is important to recognize that your quality of life will depend on your salary naturally. As mentioned above, the salary to cover a basic cost of living for food and housing could be between a minimum of 4,000 to 5,000 dirhams. Make sure that during the negotiation discussions of your contract you can get the maximum amount of salary possible. In some jobs the monthly salary might not be so high when the company will be willing to pay for your food, transportation, and housing. Make sure you can calculate which options will be best for you in order to mitigate the cost of living without sacrificing your life quality.

It is very important that you analyze, compare and research in the market about the different salary ranges of the profession to which you aspire.

How is the work environment in Dubai and the UAE?

In a country where new ventures are always being developed and there is a boom in startups and new companies that want to be launched locally and conquer the global markets, it is also common to find that there is a high rate of employee turnover, constant changes in companies and there is a fast dynamic phasing in the work environment.

Although each company has its own culture and work environment, it is important to recognize that in this country there can always be a situation in your work environment that you have not been used to in your past work experiences is very common for companies to be acquired, closed, expanded, merged or to change their approach as an answer to the fast phase the city and country move to. For example, on January 1st 2022, the country shifted from a Friday/ Saturday weekend to a Saturday/ Sunday weekend to be aligned to international markets.

The weekend is usually Saturday and Sunday for most companies, although some companies also work on Saturdays and depending on whether they are more connected to the western hemisphere these may also be aligned with a totally different weekly routine. Make sure your contract has as many rest days as possible, which is recommended to be 2 and this can be negotiated for which day of the week to be allocated depending on the type of job and company you work for. 

Are there job guarantees for workers arriving in Dubai and the UAE? 

The UAE has a solid legislation on labor and employment issues, you can always get advice on labor issues by contacting the Ministry of Labor and inquiring about the events and progress in legislative matters directly from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.

https://www.mohre.gov.ae/en/home.aspx

What employment benefits do companies offer in the UAE? 

Working with some local and international companies has very good benefits that not only consists of a job without tax deductions or having to do extra payments to some type of labor insurance fees.

In hospitality companies it is very common to receive accommodation and food within the benefits package and even in large companies such as Emaar, which built almost a quarter of Dubai, you will have benefits of up to 50% in restaurants and hotels of the chain that owns these businesses. These discounts are also very common for employees of retail stores, shopping centers, banks, construction companies and many other companies that also consider the working conditions of their employees and their quality of life to be important.

Is it easy to find a job to live in Dubai and the UAE?

It is important to understand that each person can achieve a different result and that the process of job hunting in the UAE is always about moving fast, trying to explore what opportunities may open up for you, being flexible and professional as it may be that some of these potential job opportunities might surprise you positively as they may as well not be what you expected initially  and the possibly not the best type of job you can potentially get for a starter. For those who start an adventure of this dimension, it is always important to consider flexibility and project themselves to changes and improve their working conditions continuously. Not all beginnings are easy, and many stories have been hard to start and through sacrifices but the vast majority of these have turned into success stories of people who have found the right balance for their jobs and private life quality.

There are many cases of people who arrive in Dubai with a signed contract and a stable job, others go through different difficult jobs until they find the job of their dreams, others decide to start a business, others have had good job opportunities and job offers in a week after landing and others after in months, as similar as in any other place in the world with an open economy the ease of finding a job depends both on you and your knowledge but also on  your skills to connect and promote your own CV also a bit of luck might add to those basic rules on the job market demand.

Is it possible to work in Dubai as undocumented or illegal?

The UAE is a relatively small country in terms of population, and this allows for a very organized society and the management of the majority of its population including the different migration and workforce flow. This also means that it has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world and this is directly related to the fact that most of the conditions in which a long-term residence visa is granted, which normally go up to 3 or 5 years, are directly linked to work visas under an employment contract. This is unless you prefer to stay under a freelance personal professional visa or under a family sponsored visa. It is concluded that it is highly unlikely that you will find a company willing to take the risk of employing an immigrant with an undefined legal status or without the work permit as it is also very easy for companies to make visa changes and work permit status modifications.

How to work as an independent or freelance in the UAE?

If you are a specialized professional and prefer to work as a consultant or freelancer in the UAE, there are also a variety of options to obtain a freelance visa and develop your economic activity under all legality, one of the many different economic zones can also offer a space to carry out your professional activity physically or digitally.

For more details about freelance visa, you can read below:

https://theworkcrowd.com/blog/getting-a-freelance-visa-in-the-uae-guide-to-becoming-your-own-boss

https://www.arabianbusiness.com/culture-society/468088-explained-the-uae-golden-green-freelance-visas

How to find a job even before arriving in Dubai?

It is possible to find jobs even before landing in the UAE, it is very common to come to this country with different interview options prearranged ahead of your trip. You can start connecting with your academic institution’s employment network that may have connections to companies and organizations in this country. But do not let yourself be limited to that. If you do not have any contacts or connections in this country, it is important to start with a patient search for employment and it will always be a good part of the process to develop connections that facilitate this. You can start from your country of origin and approach to companies directly from their website, companies that are related to jobs you are interested in applying for and try to directly contact people within those organizations on job boards mentioned earlier in this guide through linkedin.

It is also crucial to be up to date with the different events and activities that take place throughout the country, as these can guide you through the demand and supply of jobs that may also be temporary.

Where to live in Dubai while looking for a job?

During the job search stage and while attending job interviews it is very important that you live in a comfortable place while it favors your pocket. There are neighborhoods where you can be close to the Dubai metro and have easy access to the different areas of the city. That in turn should not represent a higher cost to your pocket while you find a good job. Neighborhoods close to metro stations such as Ibn Battuta, JLT-DMCC station, Mall of the Emirates and Business Bay station, towards the new line that connects with the Dubai expo you will also find new areas with newly built neighborhoods at a cost that could also favor you in the stations to the Furjan and its surroundings. After you get the job you want, you can evaluate moving to one of the other areas explained in this guide where your quality of life should be up to the standards and expectations you always dreamed of for a life in Dubai.

How to organize a plan to search for a job in Dubai in 1 month? 

For a one-month plan, the budget excluding flights, with cost of living explained earlier are: 

AED 2,500 for a room + AED 2,500 food + 500 taxis, metro, buses to interviews. Total: AED 5,500

It is not atypical to hear that some jobs available in the UAE can be found in less than a month, as mentioned above. Everything depends on your professional orientation and interest; if your search is more focused and closer to the industries and labor demands of this country, it will be easier for you to find a job. There is a generalized impression where it is considered that the best season to look for a job is between the end of summer in October and March, this due to the high flow of demand for hospitality services in the country (restaurants, hotels, etc.), most events, international fairs and events such as the expo took place at this time. But this does not mean that it is impossible to get a job during the summer months since the economy is always running in this country.

How to organize a plan to look for work in Dubai in 3 months?

For a 3-month plan, excluding the ticket to Dubai, the total budget: 15,000 AED

The normal average to get a job before the covid crisis was approximately 3 months, of course this is part of a handful of experiences from different people that was open to jobs for hospitality and restaurantes and it could range from jobs found after 1 or 2 months, it all depends on the flexibility you have, your aspirations and your willingness to accept at some point less skilled or professional jobs to start with if necessary.

What types of jobs can be found in Dubai?

In an open market economy like the UAE, it is possible to find any type of job starting with service jobs in hospitality, waiters, receptionists, restaurant hosts to all the way to positions in the areas related to nuclear energy development, renewable energies, scientists, and developers. It is possible to find many professions here, and it is very possible there is a company looking for your talents.

How do you negotiate contract, salary, and job position in Dubai and UAE? 

As in any other country, it is essential that you are always sure of the conditions and the different contractual aspects of any job that you manage to find in the UAE.

Always try before signing your employment contract to compare salaries with other possible offers, be sure to ask if the contract includes an annual flight to your country of origin, how many paid vacation days you will get, the duration of the visa, length of the trial period, days of sick leave, health benefits and flexibility of working space, some jobs can also give you benefits such as bonuses, gym memberships, discounts in restaurants, hotels, and other extra bonuses already mentioned such as residence and transportation included.

How do you get a job as a flight attendant in Dubai?

It is globally recognized that the UAE is the parent company of two of the best airlines in the world. This makes Dubai and Abu Dhabi the centers of operations for many connecting, origin, and destination flights generating a great opportunity for airline-related jobs, it is estimated that approximately more than 15,000 employees in careers as flight attendants are being hired by these airlines. The easiest way to apply for these jobs is simply to be attentive to the different calls and job offers that you can find on the official websites of the airlines or on their social network profiles.

Jobs at Etihad Airways

Home | Emirates Group Careers

What documents are required to get a job in Dubai?

You do not require any type of document to find a job in Dubai as a pre-requirement, however, in the hiring process, the necessary documentation to start a job depends on the nature of the job and, as in the rest of the countries of the world, they normally include certifications of work experience and academic career.

How to offer your products or services in Dubai? 

Currently there are many recent developments in terms of ease of doing business in the UAE, to obtain visas as a freelancer or attract overseas investors.

You can find more details in this study on the ease of starting a business in Dubai:

Haz clic para acceder a ARE.pdf

Here, you can also expand on other details of initiatives to attract investors:

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-09-05/uae-introduces-new-residency-guidelines-to-attract-foreigners

How do you get health and life insurance affiliation in Dubai? 

If you land as a visitor in Dubai, it is always recommended that you do so while covered by travel insurance. This is covered by most credit cards that offer insurance if you buy your flights with them. If you manage to start working with a company, make sure that your employment contract includes health insurance that covers your most important and basic needs. Keep in mind that health services in the UAE can be considered high cost, so if you have the option to choose beforehand and read the coverage clauses of your health insurance, make sure that you get covered for as many services as possible, including as many health centers as possible and hospitals throughout the country and that it covers medications and consultations for dental health.

How can you set up your own company in Dubai?

The business creation environment in Dubai and the UAE is so varied and flexible that you can find everything from organizations dedicated to supporting start-ups as well as organizations that help promote business through fairs and major international events. There are also special economic zones called free zones where you will even have special and easier legislation to make your business quicker. If you embark on the adventure of having your own business in Dubai, this requires a lot of effort and dedication, but it will also surely become a great enterprising adventure.

Here you will find the complete guide and the best guidance from the Dubai government on how to form businesses and companies:

Open your business in Dubai | Business in Dubai (visitdubai.com)

What are the requirements to obtain a work permit in Dubai?

In this guide we have mentioned how easy it is to find a job and changing your visa status from a visitor to a work visa in Dubai, and one of the main reasons is because if a company is interested in your professional profile, it will be enough for them to process a work visa application and in an average of even one week or less you could have your work permit and be able to start working in the UAE. Of course, later you must complete the entire process of presenting your documents to complete your visa processing. 

Your experience and professional career should be supported as required. When you have already managed to locate yourself professionally and have shown the ability to assume a job position, it is normal that for some professions, as in the rest of the world, it will be much easier to move across different jobs. Be confident and always maintain a positive attitude that allows you to see all possible opportunities realistically and safely.

Is it easy to change from a tourist visa to a work visa in the UAE? 

It is only necessary to have a new employment contract and proceed with the recommendation of your employer to make the change of status, which normally consists of leaving the country for a couple of hours and returning on the same day. Many companies and business areas also provide a free zone that allows their employees to make visa changes without having to leave the country.

It is very important that whenever you make a change of visa, whether from tourist to employee or between different companies, you are sure that the process of canceling and transferring your visa is done correctly and completely.

It is very common to find cases in which the processes were not done correctly, and this can create unfortunate obstacles to making visa changes and even to entering and leaving the country for future opportunities.

How much does it cost to live in Dubai in summer months vs winter months?

Previously, when talking about the cost of living, it was highlighted that the period of the year in which you arrive in Dubai will be one of the main considerations for the rest of the development of your plan. The cost of living in the UAE varies in both seasons and the reason is very simple and easy to explain. Summer, when temperatures are very high, usually between July and September, is also the school vacation season, and this allows people to go on trips and escape the arid summer climate and this, in turn, generates a relief in the demand on housing rents and services in the city. This is why you can negotiate a much cheaper apartment or room rental price in summer, therefore it is natural that you find in winter with the change in temperature an increase in prices during winter as there is the opposite effect, as temperatures drop in Europe and Asia, a big portion of tourists move to the region to enjoy warmer temperatures and this creates an increase in the demand for tourism services hotels and residential spaces which generates an increase on the cost of these services.

STEP 6- ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE IN DUBAI AND THE UAE

After getting your first job and establishing your residency in the UAE it’s time for you to get to know the main components for you to organize and project your mid-term and long-term life project in the UAE.

What is the population of the UAE?

According to the Federal Center for Statistics and Competitiveness, the total population of the UAE, including both nationals and overseas residents, was 9,282,410 in 2020, compared with 9,503,738 in 2019.

There are over 200 nationalities living and working in the UAE with most of the population being from overseas. It is estimated that the number of Emirati citizens is approximately 10% of the total population, this means that the UAE is one of the countries with the highest rates of immigrants in the world.

The largest expat community is from India followed by Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, and Filipinos and other Asian countries, followed by Europeans and various African countries.

What are the neighborhoods of Dubai?

There is no better guide to get a quick idea and to present an overview for all the neighborhoods and areas of Dubai than the one offered by the government in its local guide of Dubai areas in the following link:

https://www.visitdubai.com/en/explore-dubai/dubai-neighbourhoods

Dubai’s neighborhoods are full of history, modernity, luxury, fun, safety, and lots of adventure waiting for you.

How can you move around in Dubai using public transport?

You don’t have to always be commuting in the luxurious Tesla cars that serve as taxis with some mobile transport applications. The Dubai metro, and the city’s public transport system in general, are safe, clean, cheap and access most of the significant locations in the city. The network is powered by the metro, tram, buses, and taxis and allow you to reach any corner of the city. To obtain a metro card you only need to go to a metro or tram station and buy your ticket and top up the amount necessary to ride and use public transport with cash or your credit card.

In Abu Dhabi and the rest of the Emirates, the main transport systems are buses or taxis.

How can you get a driving license in the UAE?

Each one of the Emirates has its own driving rules, although these vary very little. It is recommended that you do your own research on the different driving schools in Dubai or in the city where you want to apply, as they should be able to advise you in case you are eligible because of your nationality and passport to get a validity extended to the UAE or a discount of the time of hours for your driving classes.

If you are a first-time driver, they will also be able to offer you all the tools to get your first driver’s license. A couple of recommended schools are the Emirates Driving School and the Galadari and Belhasa Driving Center.

How can you buy and sell a car in Dubai?

The automotive market offer in the UAE is extremely varied and open for new and used cars. It is common to visit a car dealer or showroom for new cars, as well as find the possibility to compare online, there are platforms that also allow you to buy, sell or compare your preferred options. It is important that you also investigate with your bank if there are offers or discounts with car loans, since these could also generate a cost benefit if you manage to do so through an attractive marketing campaign. It is common for banks to offer 0% interest in car loans during Ramadan months.

The choice of models, brands and car types is so extensive and varied and among the main recommendations that are made are to get a car with the specifications of the GCC region. There are several benefits in toll collection and parking for those who own electric cars as well as a wide variety of companies that can take care of your car maintenance and cleaning.

There are multiple online companies that will allow you to buy and sell your car when needed like

Sellanycar and Dubizzle

How much does it cost to tank a car in Dubai?

There is a stereotype that the price of gasoline is cheaper than the price of water in the Arab countries and in this region. It is almost like that, at least still in the UAE. There is not much of a gasoline price difference between the different companies that offer this product, here you can really enjoy having a car with a low budget. Having a car in good condition where you should only worry about your tank cost, should represent a cost range for a full tank between 50 dirhams to 200 dirhams, depending on the type of car.

How much does a car wash service cost in the UAE?

It would not be strange if a part of your budget also goes to keep your car clean and to spending part of the cost of your transport in the car washes that are in most petrol stations in the Emirates.

There are also options to clean your car in shopping center parking lots where it can cost between 20 to 30 dirhams while in an auto car wash where they can also do a little internal cleaning it can cost from 35 dirhams.

How much are parking and tolls in the UAE? 

On Friday, the Muslim day of prayer, the cost of parking is free as well as on official local government holidays. On the other days of the week, depending on where you use the parking service, you will pay from 10 dirhams per hour, although many shopping centers and tourism areas of the city include free parking hours when you make a purchase or eat or drink in one of the restaurants and stores.

Tolls are common especially on the faster highways where you will have to pay from 5 dirhams each time you transit through them.

What is the maximum speed you can drive a car in the UAE? 

You need to become familiar with and very aware of all the different street indicators and traffic signs on the streets and highways that will announce at all times what the driving speed limit is. In residential neighborhoods, it is common to see signs saying 20 to 40 kilometers per hour as the maximum speed. On highways that connect the entire country, such as the most famous Sheikh Zayed Road, you can travel up to 140 kilometers per hour in some sections.

How much are traffic fines in Dubai?

The ticketing system in Dubai is solid and quite technological. Most tickets are processed through cameras that catch red-handed speeding. These speeding fines can range from 600 to 3,000 dirhams. It is important that when you get your driver’s license you learn to clearly identify and read the warnings on motorways and streets about what to avoid doing. Some fines, for example, for blocking access to the tram track, can cost you up to 30,000 dirhams.

Five Most Common Traffic Violations Seen in Dubai among Car Renters | Speedy Drive

How can you register in a gym in Dubai?

Most residential towers and buildings have their own private leisure, training, and relaxation centers. These might include a gym, park, swimming pool, and wet area. This is very common in most neighborhoods in Dubai, but if it is not the case in the tower where you will be living you can also access many options for gyms and training centers, including Warehouse, Gymnation, and Fitness First.

How can you become a permanent resident in the UAE?

It is not possible to be a permanent resident in the UAE, but you can try to obtain the golden visa which will allow you to reside for ten years via an investment, or you can also choose to apply as an entrepreneur in some of the business visa programs that exist. There is also a five-year visa option that is mainly geared towards exceptional talent for artists or entrepreneurs.

Also, keep in mind that obtaining residency in the UAE requires a health check process, therefore it is important that if you plan to stay longer and work as a resident, you should consult the list of recommendations for people with health conditions. For example, some respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis and STDs can be an obstacle to achieving long term resident status.

How can you get a golden visa from the UAE government?

The UAE golden visas have been recently created as a program to attract talent and investors to the city; people with a background in science, arts, human development, and many other fields have the option to apply for this but also those who created a high economic impact with the creation of business and industrial activities. For the requirements and details of how to obtain this ten-year visa, you can visit the link below of the UAE government entity in charge of this process: Golden visa – Long-term residence visas in the UAE – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

What is the financial system of the UAE like? 

The financial system in the UAE is perhaps one of the most robust and developed on the planet, which makes it one of the easiest and most comfortable to manage in the world. Banks have managed to aggressively implement digital solutions that will allow you to access financial products and services in just a few clicks. It is very easy to be impressed with the ease with which money circulates in the city in the form of loans and the use of credit cards and personal loans. It is also partly thanks to the fact that the financial system allows access to an amount of money well above the average of the rest of the world’s countries. This clearly also depends on your credit history and monthly income so it’s never too late to start exploring banking opportunities.

What important recommendations are there for your economic well-being in Dubai?

There are a couple of extra essential recommendations that you need in this section of the guide.

It is important to understand that in many countries the financial system is totally opposite and more closed and makes it difficult to access banking products and services. So always keep in mind that this change of scenery does not become a negative experience for you. Be very careful to not turn into a financially unconscious individual and make sure that your financial decision will not harm your pocket in the long term. Do not borrow more money than your debt capacity and try your best not to live above the real possibilities that your ability to generate money or your salary allows you. 

This is important because surely you have seen the videos of abandoned luxury cars in city parking lots. In most cases, the common reason is an exorbitant and uncontrolled lifestyle of someone who perhaps did not manage to land the possibilities and opportunities and underestimated the capacity for indebtedness that they had. For many it is an unfortunate lesson that may not be easy to recover from and that can close the doors on you in the UAE. Make sure that any credit card, loan, mortgage, or debt product is not going to generate a risky imbalance in your monthly economic stability.

On the second most important recommendation, it is extremely convenient to understand that there is no such thing as quick and easy money in Dubai. This will prevent you from falling for scams, dishonest proposals, and theft. Although this city is characterized by being safe in all aspects there are, as in any other place in the world, unscrupulous people who try, mostly from outside the country, to extract as much wealth as possible through unwary people who live and work in the UAE. Please, before making any decision to invest, transfer your money, send your remittances, do business, or interact with the financial system, make sure you are one hundred percent informed and documented about all the conditions of legality and security of everything that is related to the business transactions that you are about to close. Best is not to believe that text message that you received which is trying to scam you as the winner of a lottery ticket that you have never bet or that you received an exclusive investment opportunity that will make you a millionaire easily.

How can you open a bank account in Dubai?

There are options both for those who are not residents of the country and for those who are just starting out in this country. Likewise, there are always interesting marketing campaigns for those who have been here for years and are looking for the option of changing banks and getting a bonus for making a simple account change. salary. Of course, just like in the bank of your country of origin, always make sure to read the fine print and all the conditions and declarations before signing the documents when you open your first bank account in the UAE and accept any loan application forms, mortgages, credit cards or any other product of your interest.

How can you apply for a credit card in Dubai?

It will not take you long to start your new job when your employer will recommend that you open a bank account and acquire a credit card in a specific bank, this perhaps for ease in salary payments but it could also have implications for business benefits both for the business owner as well as for the employee. In any case, if you have the option of freely choosing where to open your bank account and which credit card you want to obtain, that is where you only need to do your detailed research of products of interest and apply normally through digital platforms. website, apps that banks have for you. The options are quite extensive in the UAE and easy to compare and you should be especially inclined to choose the credit card that offers you the most free benefits according to your lifestyle: from accumulating free miles for travel, discounts on booking from hotels, restaurants, access to airport Vip lounges to access to exclusive services and 2×1 in movie cinemas.

Here, again, the key is to take the time to read, inform yourself, and choose with a fresh conscious mindset.

How do you apply for a bank loan in Dubai?

With the same ease that you can obtain a bank account or a credit card, it will also be possible for you to apply for a bank loan, both for free investment and for automobiles. Among the many options and offers from financial entities, be sure to choose the one that offers you the lowest interest rate and the lowest cost of processing documentation. You can also have more benefits if the same bank where you have your salary checking account is the same with which you develop your credit records, this will help you later to have a financial solidity to access more products and larger amounts. But this does not mean that you should not make the decision to change banks or open new opportunities in others if the benefits you can access are greater. As a major recommendation is to make use of your correct calculations to make the best decision, banks advise you not to have a debt that covers in monthly installment to pay more than half of your monthly salary, but this amount may not be reasonable, the best options depending on your salary and cost of living.

How do you apply for a mortgage to purchase a home in Dubai?

Similar to the previous processes to apply for a home purchase loan in the UAE you must first have a certain healthy credit records history and a clean and active financial history, banks can lend from approximately 7 times the total of your annual salary as part of the value for your property, taking into account that in most residential real estate projects you must have at least 20% of the value of the property and the bank could potentially guarantee 80% from 5 to 25 years, remember that the property and business regulations are always in constant dynamism so it is important that you do your complete and up-to-date research before taking this step.

How do you choose which bank or banking product is best in Dubai?

As mentioned above, the sophistication of this industry in the UAE is so high that exclusive platforms have been developed to compare the great offer of financial products in this country and region. Some of these will allow you to choose a couple of products or banks so that you can make the necessary comparisons before deciding on a credit card or a bank account.

These platforms are constantly updated, but even so, it is always recommended that you visit the official websites of the banks so that you can also make your own comparison directly.

These platforms include Yallacompare, SoulWallet, Souqalmal, and Compare4Benefit among many others.

What are the most important banks in the UAE?

The list of bank offerings in the country is extensive and can be found on the above comparison websites, but you can easily spot the biggest and best here:

• First Abu Dhabi Bank

• Emirates NBD

• ADCB

• DIB.

Which Dubai and UAE projects require special talents? 

The specialized talents of Dubai are part of one of the greatest possible opportunities for anyone in the world, as mentioned before about the golden visa, there are specific professions related to the field of research and development, data management, data scientist, digital innovation, science and technology, health, environment, agriculture, art, and many other sectors of the economic diversification program that the government is launching precisely to make all these projects a reality.

Have a space for reflection to understand the culture of ambitious projection and success that the government of this country has traced and if you identify with any of these projects it means that your potential is even greater to be successful in these lands. Most of the projects are open to applicants from anywhere in the world and you can detail them in the future plans guide below:

Future – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

How can you send money from your savings to your home country from the UAE? 

There is a wide variety of options in the financial system of the UAE, which also provide many ways to send remittances to your country of origin. There are also many other private companies, both local and multinational, that offer their money transfer services on international remittances, both directly to bank accounts and to people to cash out.

Some of those private companies are:

• PayIt

• Western Union

• Rostamani.

How can you bring your family to live in the UAE? 

If your main objective of building a better life in the UAE is to make it so that your family can also enjoy these benefits and wellbeing, you have the option of bringing your family and sponsoring their visa depending on the type of job position and the salary you receive. It is possible that during your hiring process you can make this request so that the company can also manage the visa of your husband or wife and children, depending on your case.

As mentioned before, freelance visas are also enabled for you to sponsor and bring your parents if you need a visa.

How can you invest in real estate and real estate in Dubai and the UAE?

Dubai is a perfect destination for real estate and construction industry investors. Investment in property is facilitated both for the resident as well as for the investor who does not reside in the country, there are dozens of property consultants, construction companies for residential and commercial projects, investment experts who can guide you to the best option for You, if you want to delve deeply into the different opportunities offered by one of the cities where the construction and real estate business is super dynamic it is recommended to approach an expert on the local market as the real estate business can be so wide and varied and the offer can become overwhelming. In that case, it is best to also contact experts in real estate and contact http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en 

What price ranges does real estate have in the UAE? 

Projects can be found all over the country that can start from Dh300,000 for both new and used property in less popular emirates like Ajman, or be as low as Dh450,000 in Emirates like Dubai. The options in the real estate market can be extended to cover any kind of luxury property you can imagine. You may be interested in many more details about real estate and property investment in the UAE and you can make a request for advice at http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en .

How can you invest in businesses in Dubai?

The business environment in the UAE is also so broad and so open to the world that the government has been in charge of putting it in an easy and fast way to understand and integrate, for this reason it is advisable to review the initiatives to Start Your Business in Dubai | Business in Dubai (visitdubai.com)

There are so many options to  start a business in all of the UAE that an extensive exclusive guide is needed to understand all these opportunities, for this we recommend you take your time and start to learn a little about the best options in all the Emirates United Arabs here Business – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

How can you stay updated with local news from Dubai and the world? 

You will probably already have your favorite options to stay informed and updated about what is happening in your home country. Also add the below options to your list to keep up to date with events and what’s happening in Dubai and throughout the UAE.

• Lovin Dubai

• Gulf Mail

• Gulf News

• Khaleej Times.

Facebook groups of citizens of your country of origin who are residents of the UAE can also be very helpful.

How can you get a sim card, a phone number, and keep in touch by phone?

It is very likely that when you land in Dubai, you will find stands of the different mobile phone operators that exist in the country at the airport exit, and they will offer you a sim card for visitors with some short internet data and minutes for calls.

These can be useful for the start of your vacation or short trip, however, if you are looking to stay for longer you will first need to process your residence and resident identification documents to obtain a phone number and be able to access a long-term package service that normally includes international calls, local minutes, and internet browsing. Several local and international operators can offer you different products according to your needs.

STEP 7- THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI AND HOW TO ENJOY LIFE IN THE UAE

Life in Dubai is full of privileges, luxuries, and opportunities to enjoy around every corner. Always be aware that you should be able to enjoy it and make the most of your stay, having a balance between your professional and personal life, saving some money, and enjoying this new life that you have forged.

Which sector and areas of Dubai and which Emirate or region in the UAE is it best to live in?

Dubai can give the impression of being a city in which it is difficult to get a good convenient location to live without having to compromise most of your savings or monthly income, with the easily visible luxurious options around the corner, it could frustrate your aspiration to move from the start. The good news is that this city as mentioned previously, has several options and here you should be able to locate different alternatives from areas and neighborhoods where you should be able to find any type of demographic mixed all together while there are also some neighborhoods where some nationalities are specifically most of the population. It will be up to you to choose between the lifestyle of a neighborhood that can give you the feeling of living in a very chaotic, lively, and vibrant city as well as giving you the feeling of living in the middle of the desert with only the sound of crickets, wind, and sand at night.

In this chapter you will discover based on your life interests where you could live in Dubai but also how you could manage to enjoy both the luxuries of the city as well as avoid spending most of your salary on paying your rent and uncontrollably outings.

It is also important to note that depending on your objectives you can also choose to live in the rest of the Emirates including Abu Dhabi which is very family-oriented and offers a calm lifestyle, and Sharjah and Ajman which offer proximity to Dubai with a much lower cost of living and certain differences in lifestyle rules.

What recommendations should be considered in Dubai for your health?

It is very usual that the environmental conditions and the environment in the city for some periods of the year produce certain particles in the air and water. From the outset it is important to know that in a year it is possible to count the very limited number of times that rain can be seen. It is also important to note that in some months, especially when the seasons change and there are very high humidity levels, these can generate high sensitivity in breathing in people who have conditions related to respiratory diseases. As well as the days in which the winds drag large amounts of sand particles can be considered days in which it is not recommended for respiratory sensitive and allergic people to go outdoors.

A common factor that is also ironic is that the region, having a large majority of sunny and hot days, can generate the indirect habit in the population of taking care and avoiding to receiving lots of sun exposition, by becoming a frequent habit during the hottest months it can result in deficiency or lack of vitamin D levels. This ultimately explains the large number of recommendations made by health authorities to consume vitamin supplements that allow a balance of these vital nutrients. It is normal that you need to integrate vitamin D and C supplements into your weekly meal routine.

What are the best beaches in Dubai and the UAE?

It is natural to think of Dubai and the UAE only as a destination for relaxation and rest when this coastal country offers white sand beaches and crystal-clear water all alongside its seashore border.

Once again, the options range from luxury places to beaches with free admission and options from beach clubs and bars to BBQ spots and family gatherings, as well as sports, yoga, and meditation facilities.

In Dubai there are many popular beach spots among the most popular beaches can be mentioned:

More active beaches for tourists include JBR, The Walk, Kite Beach, and many of the different options at hotels on Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island.

The most popular beaches for people residing in Dubai who might want to avoid the tourist crowds are Secret Beach, Al-Sufouh Beach, Al Nahda in Sharjah, and other Emirates like Umm Al-Quwain, Sharjah, Khor Fakkan, and Fujairah.

Likewise, Abu Dhabi offers a large number of options on both natural and artificial islands with a wide portfolio of hotels that can be found both in the main island city of Abu Dhabi and in any of the many neighboring islands, including Yas Island, Al Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, which are the largest, but surely the offer of different beaches in Abu Dhabi will be so many that it is not easy to find enough time to discover most of them.

What are the best recommended destinations in Dubai?

As mentioned at the beginning of the guide, this is not exactly a guide to tourist attractions that goes into detail about which destinations and options to visit that you should add to your visit to Dubai or the entire UAE, perhaps because the offer of Tourism of this country in so strong and developed that it requires a special and dedicated guide approach. If your interest is exclusively touristic, you can express your interest at http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en.

You can get a tourism agency to take care of the planning and offering a vacation or visit program that fits your specific needs. The options in this country vary so much, from exclusive tour packages to feeling the 50-degree heat in the desert. , as well as just to get to know the works of engineering and modern architecture, going through exclusively 5 and 7-star hotels plans with restaurants with Michelin stars and luxury hotels, such as options in world-renowned restaurants. There are also Islamic and Arab culture tours. quite common as well as for the multiple different options of academic and educational opportunities and business development that the city can offer.

Maybe you just want to visit Dubai to parachute onto the world’s largest and most populous man-made island, Palm Jumeirah, or come on your honeymoon and celebrate a birthday with a big yacht party in the Arabian Gulf, all these options and countless more are possible in Dubai and throughout the UAE.

If your expectations in Dubai are very specific, the most important thing is to be well advised and make sure that you are not going to miss any of your opportunities or motivations to visit the UAE.

Although this guide does not want to focus on talking about destinations, it is impossible to deny that there are places in Dubai and in all the Emirates that are totally essential to visit if you make a stop for a short or long period at any time, but of course, this depends on your availability of time and budget. In the following list you can get a small idea of which places are more than essential to visit in the UAE.

What places are essential to visit and know in Dubai?

The below list presents some recommendations of places that you should at least try to include in your agenda when you visit Dubai.

Expo 2020 if you visit between October 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022 Expo 2020 Dubai | Home | Connecting Minds, Creating the Future | Expo 2020 Dubai

• Burj Khalifa

• Dubai Mall

• Dubai Opera

• Dubai desert

• Burj Khalifa fountain show

• Burj Al-Arab

• Dubai Frame

• The gold market

• The spice market

• The old quarter of Al Fahidi

• JBR

• Palm Jumeirah

• The Island of Bluewaters

• Dubai Eye

• Museum of the Future

• Palm Jumeirah Atlantis Hotel

• Marina Towers

• Marina Walk

• La Mer

• Dubai metro

• Dubai beaches, taking into account the previous chapter.

• Mall of the Emirates (Ski Dubai)

• Bus tour around the city

• DIFC

• Explore the city by metro and tram.

What is essential to know in Abu Dhabi?

• Ferrari world

• Sheikh Zayed Mosque

• Louvre Museum

• Corniche

• Yas island

• Etihad Towers

• Royal Palace

• Surrounding islands

• The swamps

In the rest of the Emirates, you can find desert landscapes, mountains to climb and beautiful beaches as well as more indigenous towns and Bedouin villages. For all these options our recommendation again is to get in touch by making your inquiry at http://www.laguiadedubai. com 

How can you enjoy a weekend in Dubai? 

When you live in Dubai, it is also very easy to let the comfort of a life that moves in a wide variety of alternatives so that you do not have to stress and worry too much. Dubai life will allow you to find many services through applications on a click distance. Take care that this lifestyle does not greatly impact you and try to always make some space for exercising and aiming for a healthy and active life.

Do not allow that comfort to always keep you locked up in your apartment or accommodation, there are government and initiatives that are funded by the crown prince that seek to keep the city and the entire country always active, playing sports, taking advantage of beaches spots, outdoor spaces in the cooler months and above all enjoying the different offers of options in the city, a weekend in Dubai can easily include walks on the beach, swimming in the sea, playing sports in the many free outdoor gyms (surely in your residential tower or office there may be one free) go to the movies, eat in a restaurant, relax with shisha (hookah) as well as go to a spa, party in a club or celebrate a social event. Explore and enjoy so many options of gastronomy and culture that are across all through the city.

What exclusive places and hidden gems does Dubai have?

A city that offers so much variety also includes places that you would never think of in your head: cafeterias where they make fresh and cheap juices, the culture of drinking karak tea for 1 dirham and eating shawarma for 5 dirhams are some of those places that only those who have spent a lot of time in the desert and they appreciate a bit the quiet place without so much noise from the luxuries and superstructures. Going to a secret beach at sunset and watching the sun go down while everyone is sitting relaxed is an experience that can also serve to balance you with the rest of the options you are going to enjoy doing in Dubai.

In Sharjah for example there is a museum dedicated to the history of the Islamic civilization which can be quite fascinating and several permanent art exhibitions, this also happens in Dubai with several options of galleries and museums available, a whole neighborhood in Al Quoz with several cinema projects, cafes and galleries is one of those good alternatives. The cultural and artistic offer in Dubai and throughout the country is also very varied and often ignored, so when you live in Dubai try to enjoy it and make the most of it.

In the official government guide you will find many opportunities to enjoy Dubai

https://www.visitdubai.com/en/things-to-do

What recommendations are there to save on the cost of living in Dubai and enjoy the UAE?

Surely not many people would be surprised to hear about how expensive it can be to live in Dubai or visit Dubai, but it may sound even more surprising how many options and opportunities there are to live cheaply in Dubai and save money while getting to know and enjoy the city and the rest of the country; many will possibly be even more surprised to learn that in Dubai it is also possible not only to haggle, look for discounts, but also that this city has a certain degree of obsession with always offering promotions, discounts, sales, open markets, outlets, second-hand sales and especially thousands of promotions in restaurants, shopping centers, hotels and services of all kinds.

You can find full details on this subject in the official guide to shopping in Dubai https://www.visitdubai.com/es/things-to-do/shopping 

Following on this guide we show you perhaps the most fundamental and necessary part for you to learn how to make better use of your living budget and visit the UAE. After all, if your standard of living improves in this country it is also an opportunity for you to save money for your future.

How can you save money on the cost of rent or lease in Dubai? 

The most common solution that all people use in Dubai without any nationality discrimination is mainly focused on one word, sharing.

Sharing a room, sharing an apartment, and sharing expenses will always be the most common situation you find among expats who are looking to save most of their salary or income. And the options in Dubai are all over the city; all you must do is search for bed space + the name of the neighborhood where you want to live, or search for a room for rent in one of the different options of service directories in the city, Dubizzle, Facebook groups, or WhatsApp groups. Sharing with your partner will always be one of the best options to save money as well.

How can you save money on meals and restaurants in Dubai?

There are many options to save money on food and not only from cooking at home doing groceries shopping, many of the different supermarket options that exist but also for those who enjoy going out to eat in restaurants and bars in the city, there are several options being the most common use the entertainer app that always offers 2 for 1 discounts in more than 1,000 restaurants.

Likewise, the most surprising concept is that of ladies’ night, where women obtain many benefits from free drinks and food in a large variety bars and restaurants in the city, but for this it is important to make an updated consultation when planning to use them, since these discounts of ladies’ night changes every week covering different establishments throughout the city. With a quick Google search for ladies night tonight, women can have a wide variety of options, but it is important to always call and confirm availability of space and validity of offers and make your booking for the night.

How can you save on purchases in Dubai malls?

The vast majority of offers that can be obtained in Dubai are through the different loyalty programs, benefit membership programs of the different businesses or companies and the bank credit cards. Stores like carrefour, lulus, and most shopping centers and business conglomerates offer their own cards that allow you to save, accumulate points and then redeem these. Like those offered by banks where a certain percentage of money is rewarded as cashback.

What recommendations are there to experience the luxuries of Dubai?

The easiest part to write about Dubai and in which it is not necessary to make an exhaustive guide is the part of the luxuries and eccentricities offered by the city and the whole country in general, although it is one of the best positioned cities in the world. and with the best reputation of being the capital of luxury and rumors about gold cars and Lamborghinis on every street, and although, as it has been clarified before, not all the myths about millionaires in Dubai are true, this city offers the best alternatives and in some way the greatest ease of access to the world’s best material and banal luxuries: from gold-plated hamburgers, gold-market streets, high-end cars covered in gold, 5-star restaurants, even 7-star hotels and a wide range of entertainment, gastronomy and leisure for any type of exclusivity and demand. Even in the metro it is possible to find a cabin for those who want to upgrade and travel more comfortably. 

Whether in the middle of the desert, under the sea, or on one of the many artificial islands recently created, in the tallest building in the world or the largest wheel or the largest shopping center on the planet, be one hundred percent sure that any of the luxury experiences you choose will be unforgettable. If you want to know exact details about where to spend your extra cash and money quickly and doing it full of luxury and eccentricity in Dubai, just take a short tour around the city.

FINAL NOTES

We know that reading these almost 70 pages on living and working in Dubai is the initial sign of your interest in exploring life in the UAE. We always recommend expanding on this with more research and interactions with people who already live and work in this great country. We recommend going to social media networks and expatriate groups that can also offer you some of that necessary support and initial contact.

We hope this guide has helped you to have a broader understanding of the essential aspects for starting your process of living and working in Dubai and the UAE. Although the conditions of this country that is transforming so quickly can vary abruptly, the questions and the recommendations of most of the answers mentioned in this guide will continue to be the primary route for those who want to come to experience and enjoy life in Dubai.

It is very likely that in the future we will have more guides on more specific topics including dedicated guides about real estate investments or recommendations to experience luxury or for you to establish your company in the UAE. In any case, do not forget that you can also address your questions and concerns, or express your particular interest in acquiring a personalized service in the form at http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en 

We wish you success in your plan for the UAE and see you in Dubai very soon!

ANNEXES

In the links below you can find more references and resources to learn about different aspects of life in Dubai and the UAE. Keep in mind also the recommendation made at the beginning of this guide since at the time the following contents were written, these were based on the regulations and the different conditions that were in force at that time, it is possible that many elements of that content below as well as recommendations are no longer valid or valid partially and it is possible that these have had a totally opposite change.

It is recommended that when reading or listening to these contents you always keep in mind that you need to confirm whether the information is still valid or relevant at http://www.laguiadedubai.com/en or with your contacts who already reside in the UAE.

Home – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id

https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/jobs

https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visiting-and-exploring-the-uae

Moving to the UAE – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

Visit Dubai – Official Tourism Board in Dubai

Top Things to Do in Dubai | Visit Dubai

Food & Drink | Visit Dubai