United Arab Emirates is located in the Middle East and comprises seven self-governed emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. The country shares a common border with Saudi Arabia and Oman. Situated on the Persian Gulf, UAE enjoys almost 700 kilometers of a pristine coastline and a lot of isles. The area of the country is 83,600 square kilometers, most of which is desert featuring some oases. The Federation has a population of slightly more than 8 million, with 80% of the population being foreigners.
Climate and Weather
Weather in UAE is warm and sunny. Rainfall is rare and it rains during winter. Sandstorms are common during summer.
In the winter, it has an average daytime temperature of 25°C, nearer the coast 15°C, in the desert or mountainous area 5°C. Nights are quite chilly. Humidity averages 60% near coastal areas.
Summers are very hot and humid. Temperatures easily go beyond 40°C, with humidity averaging 90%.
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UAE has a strong economy greatly relying on its petroleum. According to the 2012 UAE Economic Report, the country has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (at constant prices) of around $270 billion in 2011 and reached a growth of 4.2% compared to the previous year.
Dubai is a major trade center in the Middle East. With its duty free zones, the country attracts many international companies and investors.
Other well-developed sectors are petrochemicals, construction and tourism.
One of the greatest benefits for professionals working here is the tax-free salary.
Living in UAE
Language: Theofficial language is Arabic. English is widely spoken, so not knowing Arabic is not that big of a problem. However, some locals can be really demanding and you will get comments like “You work here, you should speak Arabic”.
Religion and local traditions: Life in UAE is strongly influenced by Islam and religious traditions are a key aspect of life in the Emirates. You may have to comply with a different etiquette, dress a bit more modestly and observe some limitations in your daily life. Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, is taken very seriously. During Ramadan, you may have to comply with reduced office hours, or you may experience closed restaurants and shops.
Buying a property: Have in mind that real estate laws and regulations may greatly vary in the different emirates. Generally, you may be eligible for a 3-year temporary residence permit in case you invest more than $270 000 in real estate. If you are really into buying your place, you’d better consult a local lawyer and check the rules at the local government authority to avoid scams.
Health care: Generally, emergency treatment in government hospitals is free of charge, but any further treatment can be real expensive. It is advisable to research local medical facilities prior to your arrival. Usually your employer will procure health insurance for you and assist you through the process.
Social Security: UAE does not have a social security system corresponding to the one you may be used to in your home country. There is no unemployment insurance or pension schemes for expats. And, keep in mind that unemployment will lead to termination of your residence permit.
Transportation and telecommunications: To obtain a driver’s license, you need to undergo training. If you are a citizen of Australia, Canada, USA or the U.K., you can automatically transfer your domestic license.
“Traffic is hell! Gladly there is the Metro which helps avoid the road traffic.” (Yordanka Hristova)
Traffic is bad during peak hours, but during lean hours, it is fine and you can easily go to where you want to. You can take a taxi to avoid having trouble with finding a parking space. You can also take a bus to navigate within the city and the Emirates. Bus stations are air-conditioned. However, metro is the best option to travel fast and save some money.
Another great perk you can enjoy here is free phone calls to land lines in the Emirates.
Social ethics: Whenit comes to social norms, there are so many restrictions here, especially in displaying public affection. It feels like you are being taught how to be pretentious.
“This place is very multicultural, so you are not just dealing with the culture of the UAE nationals, you have to brace yourself as well on understanding and learning the ways of almost all the nationalities of the world, because you will see them all here.” (Sarah Casaje)
Sexual relationships outside of marriage are illegal and irrespective. Furthermore, cohabiting, including in hotels, is also illegal.
Drinking and dancing are allowed only in the privacy in your own home or at licensed clubs.
Restaurants and nightlife: Dining out and partying can be quite expensive. Fast food meals range from $7.50 and up and most of them won’t make you full. If you want a good dish, you should be prepared to pay $16 and up. A glass of double whisky can cost you about $14 and a pitcher of beer can cost you about $30. Speaking of nightlife, mind that there is a curfew. Everything closes at 2-3 am and you will be asked to vacate the area. Some good news for ladies – there are regular ladies’ nights and they serve free ladies’ drinks.
Moving to Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the Federation and the largest emirate. The Abu Dhabi city is located on an island 250 meters off the shore. Featuring a splendid coastline, Abu Dhabi is connected to the mainland through two bridges. The garden city of Al Ain offers mesmerizing green environment for nature lovers.
The economy relies mostly on income from petroleum. The oil sector generated almost 60% of the GDP in the year of 2011. And, sectors such as real estate, construction and tourism have increased their importance.
As a capital of UAE, Abu Dhabi is home to the President of the UAE – Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed and some federal government offices and financial institutions.
As always, rental prices vary depending on the locality. Average 1-bedroom apartment rental comes at $28 000 – $30 000 per year. And, renting a 2-bedroom apartment may cost you around $44 000 – $46 000 a year on average.
If you are looking to buy an apartment, keep in mind that prices start at around $1000 per sq. feet. Reef Downtown and Saadiyat Beach Residences offer more affordable real estate, contrary to Raha Beach/ Al Bandar and Marina Square where sale price per sq. ft. is $1400 on average.
Moving to Dubai
Along with being a worldwide renowned tourist destination, the city has established itself as an international trade hub. Dubai has won its reputation as a hot spot for international companies thanks to its duty free zones like the Jafza. With the introduction of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in 2004, Dubai has developed as a hub for industries such as IT and finance.
Dubai Marina
At over 828 meters (2,716.5 feet) and more than 160 stories, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the whole world. The building features Armani Hotel Dubai, some corporate offices and residences too.
Dubai rentals vary greatly depending on the neighborhood. While prices for 1-bedroom start at $12 000 – $15 000 on average per year in Deira, International City and Discovery Gardens, prices for 1-bedroom apartments in Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence and Palm Jumeirah start at $30 000 – $35 000 on average a year.
When it comes to buying a property, a square feet in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah costs $2700 – $3000 on average. Jumeirah Village and Discovery Gardens have cheaper properties – some $750 per square feet.
“My favorite things about living in Dubai are all year summertime, good carrier opportunities and lifestyle, and tax free salary.” (Alex Wish)
Moving to UAE – Entry Requirements
If you want to live and work in UAE, you will need to apply for a visa. As rules in the different emirates vary, you need to check the particular regulations in the local authority body.
Generally, you will need a work permit and residence visa. Your employer should apply for the visa for you and start the procedure. If granted, they are valid for up to two years. To get a residence visa for your family, you will need to have a rental agreement and you prove that you will make enough money to sponsor your family.
You should go to the nearest UAE embassy to acquaint yourself with the regulations.
You should also be aware of the customs procedures. UAE has strict rules regarding what you may bring with you and tough punishments in case of non-compliance, including imprisonment. If you regularly take a certain type of medicine, you should have a permit from the UAE Ministry of Health prior to your arrival.
Burj Al Arab
After your arrival, you will have to register with the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA). It is mandatory for expats in UAE to have to have an Emirates ID card. The Emirates ID Card contains an electronic chip that stores essential information about the cardholder – name, date of birth, nationality, marital status, photo, fingerprint data, electronic signature etc.
What is it like to live in a worldwide tourist destination?
“You can have a 5-star weekend without too much effort.” (Eliza Volff)
Burj Al Arab
Staying at the 7-star Burj Al Arab in Dubai is what we can truly call a luxurious experience. Guests can arrange a Rolls-Royce or a helicopter to take them to Dubai’s most supreme hotel. One of the greatest perks guests enjoy is the private butler service 24 hours a day. Upon check-in, all guests are offered a golden-coated IPad, specially created for the hotel. Burj Al Arab guests experience a private beach and extraordinary leisure activities.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
From the world’s fastest roller coaster, to the cutting-edge racing simulators, you can have some memorable adventures at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. With more than 20 various rides and attractions, there is something for everybody here. The iconic red roof is inspired by the profile of the Ferrari GT body and it spans over 200,000 square meters, having the largest Ferrari logo which has ever been created. The indoor area accessible to the public is large enough to fit seven football fields.
The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is one of the world’s most visited shopping and entertainment centers. Over 75 million visitors enjoyed some time here in the year 2013. There are 1,200 retail outlets and more than 200 food and beverage venues. The Dubai Mall also offers exquisite entertaining things to do – Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and Dubai Ice Rink are some of the hot spots. The Dubai Fountain shoots water jets as high as a 50-story building. It stretches over 900 feet (275 meters) in the Burj Khalifa Lake. The Dubai Fountain performs a spectacular show to the accompaniment of different songs, including Andrea Bocelli’s Con te partiro (Time to Say Goodbye) and Whitney Houston’s I will Always Love You.
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The economy relies mostly on income from petroleum. The oil sector generated almost 60% of the GDP in the year of 2011. And, sectors such as real estate, construction and tourism have increased their importance.
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