Living in the United Arab Emirates

Boasting futuristic cities, world-class infrastructure and tax-free salaries, the the United Arab Emirates attracts expats seeking vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyles. From Dubai’s soaring towers to Abu Dhabi’s lavish amenities, this guide covers everything you need to know about living in the the United Arab Emirates.

Why Move to the United Arab Emirates?

The UAE lures expats with:

• Lucrative tax-free salaries and stellar benefits packages, especially in sectors like oil & gas, aviation, tourism and technology.
• Ultra-modern metropolises like Dubai and Abu Dhabi with iconic skylines, luxury experiences and amenities rivaling top global cities.
• Exciting blend of traditional Islamic society and Western influences. Highlights include world dining, entertainment, nightlife and shopping.
• Lush residential compounds catering to expats. High quality private schools and healthcare facilities.
• Stable political system with low crime rates. Very safe for raising families.
• Hub for traveling around the Middle East, Africa and Asia. World-class airports and airlines.
• Abundance of sunshine and beautiful beaches to enjoy aquatics and water sports.

Living in the United Arab Emirates: Pros and Cons

While enticing, there are some potential difficulties:

Pros :

1. Lucrative tax-free salaries and benefits
2. Ultra-modern metropolises
3. Exciting blend of traditional and modern
4. Lush residential compounds
5. Safe and stable
6. Travel hub
7. Sunny weather and beautiful beaches

Cons :

1. Extreme heat and humidity
2. High cost of living
3. Majority expat population can feel transient
4. Legal system based on Islamic law
5. Bureaucracy and red tape
6. Gender inequality issues
7. Low taxes but limited benefits for residents
8. Materialistic, work-focused lifestyle

Life in the UAE offers great benefits but requires adapting to its unique culture, climate and work-centered mentality.

The Cost of Living in the United Arab Emirates

The UAE has among the highest costs of living globally:

• Housing – Modern high-rise apartments average 100,000–200,000 AED ($27,000–$55,000) annually depending on size and location.
• Food – Groceries from Carrefour or Waitrose around 2,000–3,000 AED ($550–$800) monthly for two. Dining at nice restaurants 150–300 AED ($40–$80) per meal.
• Transportation – Taxis like Uber cost 10–20 AED ($3–$5) per 5km. Gasoline 2.10 AED ($0.57) per liter. Car prices comparable to the US.
• Utilities – Around 2,000–3,000 AED ($550–$800) per month total for electricity, cooling, water and internet.
• Healthcare – Mandatory insurance usually covered. Premium policies available starting around 500 AED ($135) monthly.
• Education – International schools range from 20,000 to 200,000 AED ($5,400–$54,000) annually.
• Taxes – No personal income tax. 5% VAT. No capital gains or corporate taxes. Just municipal fees.

Quality of Life in the United Arab Emirates

The UAE offers superb quality of life by Middle East standards:

1. Healthcare – Cutting-edge hospitals and clinics offer excellent international standard care, especially in cities.
2. Infrastructure – Extensive modern highways, airports, utilities and city services on par with top global cities.
3. Safety & Security – Very low violent crime and terrorism rates. Tight police monitoring using advanced technology.
4. Economy – High GDP per capita fueled by oil exports, though economic diversification increasing. Youth unemployment around 15%.
5. Environment – Harsh, arid desert climate mitigated by ubiquitous AC. Water scarcity necessitates desalination.
6. Leisure & Culture – Myriad dining, shopping, clubs, pools, and activities satisfy most tastes. But limited nightlife and social restrictions.

A Beginner’s Guide to Emirati Culture

Key aspects of local culture:

• Islam is the official religion but most practice a modern, tolerant version. Some social freedoms exist compared to neighbors.
• Traditional architecture and heritage sites being preserved but ultramodern development dominates landscape.
• Cuisine reflects Gulf and Levantine influences – shawarma, hummus, biryani, kebabs, seafood. Alcohol available at hotels.
• Hospitality and generosity highly valued. Greetings elaborate and long. Elders and rulers deeply respected.
• Multicultural population dominated by South Asian expats but growing Emirati role. Racial and religious tolerance encouraged.
• Gender roles remain traditional. Locals wear traditional dress, but Western clothing common among expats.
• Leisure activities revolve around lavish hotels, pools, beaches, dining out, and family time. Gender mixing still limited.

Best Places to Live in the United Arab Emirates

Top spots for expats:

1. Dubai – Cosmopolitan hub with iconic skyline, luxe experiences, dining, nightlife, beaches and multiculturalism.
2. Abu Dhabi – Ultra-modern capital with cultural attractions, large expat population and lavish amenities.
3. Sharjah – Major cultural and education center where traditional Emirati lifestyle prevails. Dry emirate.
4. Al Ain – Lush desert oasis city near Oman border with hot springs, forts and great outdoor living.
5. Ajman – Smaller emirate popular with commuters working in Dubai. More affordable cost of living.

The UAE’s ultramodern cities allow expats to enjoy incredible infrastructure and facilities in exchange for adapting to its unique climate, pace and cultural norms.