Living in the UAE: 10 Things to Know Before You Move

Living in the UAE: 10 Things to Know Before You Move

 

The UAE is home to some of the world's most lavish locations and masterpieces, including the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and others. Except for five months in the summer, the UAE offers great weather. 

 

Many people and businesses are moving to the UAE because of its environmentally friendly characteristics and commercial centres. However, living here is not as simple as you may imagine. The country is unlike any other country but there are several things to keep in mind.

 

So what is it like relocating and living in the UAE? With these top 10 things to know, we can help you make the most of your relocation.

 

1. How do the various emirates vary?

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) consists of seven emirates that gained independence and formed the country in 1971 when the British troops quit guarding the region. If you're moving for employment, you're probably going to Abu Dhabi, which contains the UAE's capital, the majority of its people, and 87% of its territory, or Dubai, the country's magnificent economic centre.

 

Abu Dhabi is home to the country's leading site of worship, the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi City, as well as the UAE's largest economy. Meanwhile, Dubai's GDP is £83 billion, which, when combined with the emirate's spectacular skyline and man-made islands, helps to explain why Dubai International Airport is the world's third busiest.

 

2. Don't forget to look at the other emirates as well

 

While the metropolitan centres of Abu Dhabi and Dubai are endlessly entertaining, the other emirates have distinct charms and are worth exploring. 

 

Aside from Ajman, which is primarily an agricultural area, there's Fujairah, an emirate with beautiful scenery and mountains that also has the Al Badiyah Mosque, which was built over 650 years ago and is still in use. And, while foreigners are not permitted to acquire land or own the majority of any business, they are allowed to participate in a variety of activities such as water skiing, windsurfing, and diving.

 

3. What is the state of healthcare in the UAE?

 

It is advisable to enroll in a quality medical insurance plan to cover any ongoing or emergency health difficulties. If you're going to Dubai for work or find work there, it's important to discuss medical insurance with your new company, since they may be able to pay for it.

 

4. Follow the rules

 

UAE's low crime rate can be attributed to tough penalties and a zero-tolerance policy. Possession of poppy seeds is prohibited, as is photographing someone without their knowledge. Eating and drinking on all modes of public transportation are prohibited, and public swearing is punishable. All of them are considered offences that can result in jail time or a fine.

 

5. ​​There are areas only for women to enjoy women-only nights

 

Dubai has been named the finest destination for women in the Middle East. Not only is it a very safe city, but there are also other women-only amenities around the city, such as separate metro carriages and cabs just for ladies. Some beaches even have all-female days. This is not a UAE government law, but rather a choice for ladies who desire their place.

 

6. Safe

 

The UAE was the only country in the world with three cities ranked in the top ten safest in the world: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. Strict punishments, long jail terms, widely publicized convictions, and the deployment of undercover cops all contribute to Dubai's reputation as one of the safest cities in the world. You're likely to find a laptop with no one nearby for at least half an hour or an expensive vehicle parked outside a shop with the keys in the ignition.

 

7. Finding a home

 

Property prices in Dubai have risen and fallen, but rental rates remain quite expensive. Furthermore, you may be required to pay one year's rent in advance. This may be challenging for many people who are relocating to the emirate, and some employers assist with this. 

 

Find out whether they would also assist you in finding a place to live, as this may be difficult and time-consuming.

 

If at all feasible, stay in temporary housing in Dubai for as long as you can to get to know the various residential areas. This way, you can pick the best one for your needs and preferences.

 

8. Driving in UAE

 

UAE is a fast-rising metropolis that attracts tourists and expats from all over the world. It is contemporary, energetic, and crowded. 

 

When it comes to driving in Dubai, following traffic rules should be your top priority. You can't buy a car in Dubai until you obtain a local license, but you can rent one with your international license. 

 

If you wish to ride a motorbike in Dubai, you must have a license from your home country; if you want to go on off-road trips in the UAE, you must pass a desert driving course.

 

9. Public transportation in UAE

 

Getting around a contemporary city might be difficult for people who do not enjoy driving or do not feel comfortable doing so in a foreign nation. 

 

It takes some time to become familiar with the routes, forms of transportation, and local knowledge of using public transportation. However, once you've mastered it, navigating around the city will become part of the routine.

 

Dubai intends to become the world's smartest city in terms of public transportation. The city already has driverless Metro trains, Tesla taxi vehicles, and future self-driving buses. Travelling via public transportation in Dubai is thus an excellent alternative for individuals who wish to avoid the stress of driving. 

 

10. School and education system

 

UAE, like other nations, has both a public and private education system. The public education system is available to all residents; however, classes are mostly taught in Arabic with a second language as English. 

 

Also, all public schools will be gender separated. As a result, many expatriate families opt to send their children to international schools.

 

Final thoughts

 

The UAE will be a beautiful home for you and your family as long as you have an income that allows you to appreciate everything the Gulf nation has to offer.

 

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