Life in Dubai: A European expat’s odyssey
Offering the perfect blend of the Arabian Gulf’s azure waters and the Arabian Desert’s shimmering sands, Dubai’s magnetic charisma attracts expatriates from across the globe seeking the best living experience. Among those drawn to its alluring shores are European expatriates. If you are a European looking to move to the city soon, here’s an overview of the life of a European expat in Dubai.
LIVING IN DUBAI AS A EUROPEAN EXPAT: MOVING TO DUBAI FROM EUROPE
Dubai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global powerhouse is remarkable. This city has undergone significant development in mere decades, transforming into a hub of commerce, innovation and luxury. Its skyline, graced by iconic structures like Burj Khalifa and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, is a testament to the emirate’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
Dubai has a lot to offer expatriates who are looking for better opportunities. As a result, people from around the world come to Dubai to live and work. If you are debating moving to Dubai from Europe, here’s some insight into the life of a European expat in Dubai.
A MELTING POT OF CULTURES
One of the most unique things about Dubai is its diversity. The city is a melting pot of cultures, as over 200 nationalities live and work harmoniously here. Talking about the life of a European expat in Dubai, you’ll easily fit in and make new friends.
Making friends in Dubai is super easy! You can use plenty of Facebook groups and apps to connect with people with interests similar to yours. You can find plenty of mosques, temples and churches in Dubai. It is a very religiously tolerant city.
SUNNY WEATHER
Perhaps the most exciting part of life as a European expat in Dubai is getting year-round sunshine. Summer lasts from April to October and September to March is when the temperatures dip. During the summer, temperatures can approach 50°C, accompanied by high humidity levels. During the winters, the weather is more pleasant, with temperatures dropping slightly to 20°C, with occasional rainfall in Dubai. You’ll enjoy living in Dubai as a European expat if you prefer these temperatures.
Even if you prefer cooler weather, here’s the bright side: Malls, restaurants, and public transport in the city are air-conditioned, so adjusting to the climate won’t be challenging.
CHOICE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
Dubai has diverse housing options, from luxurious villas and apartments to more modest residential properties. Regarding types of residential properties in Dubai, you can opt for an apartment, villa or townhouse.
You can rent a house or buy a property depending on your needs. Wonder if foreigners can buy a property in Dubai? Yes, European expats can buy properties in designated freehold areas in Dubai.
So, do you know where European expats live in Dubai? Dubai’s popular areas for British expats include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate and Jumeirah Islands.
Before you move, check out this guide for moving to Dubai from the UK to get a good idea of what to expect.
GREAT SAVINGS
The cost of living in Dubai is less than in popular European cities like London. Also, Dubai, for the most part, is tax-free, so European expats can save a considerable amount. The only form of tax that expats in Dubai pay is the Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5%.
Dubai’s rental prices are also quite affordable compared to European cities like London and Paris. Dubai’s popular areas for British expats, like Dubai Marina or Dubai Hills Estate, offer upscale properties at a reasonably affordable rate compared to most European countries.
THERE’S PLENTY OF TO DO
Dubai’s cosmopolitan lifestyle offers many opportunities for leisure and recreation. From world-class shopping destinations and vibrant nightlife to pristine beaches and outdoor adventures, there’s a long list of things to do in Dubai.
Dubai also has a fantastic nightlife that is comparable to many cities across the world. Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Palm Jumeirah have some of the best nightclubs in Dubai. You can also find great restaurants in Dubai serving cuisines from all over the world.
But it’s not just the upscale, attractive artificial wonders for which Dubai is famous. The historic souks in Dubai and age-old forts are excellent diversions for culture vultures who may miss out on Europe’s rich historical treasures.
EXCELLENT AMENITIES
Dubai is a great place to start a family. From nurseries to universities, the city has some great educational institutions monitored by the KHDA – The Knowledge and Human Development Authority.
For the little ones, there are some great nurseries in Dubai, such as Maple Bear and Kid’s Island. Those moving to Dubai from Europe with children can check out Dubai’s top British schools and top-rated IB schools in Dubai.
The city’s commitment to providing world-class healthcare services is reassuring for European expatriates. There is a robust network of private and public hospitals in Dubai, staffed by highly qualified medical professionals from around the globe.
FAQS ABOUT THE LIFE OF A EUROPEAN EXPAT IN DUBAI
WHAT RULES AND REGULATIONS EUROPEANS IN DUBAI NEED TO FOLLOW?
One of the most crucial aspects of thriving as a European expat in Dubai is embracing cultural sensitivity. To ensure residents’ safety, security and well-being, the government has specific rules for expats in Dubai that must be followed. One of the basic rules is the dress code in Dubai. Also, ensure you have a valid Dubai visa to stay legally in the emirate.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH?
Dubai’s dynamic business landscape offers many opportunities for professional growth and development. European expatriates can leverage the city’s diverse industries and global connections to enhance their skills and expand their professional networks. There are many popular UAE job sites to help you discover your career preferences.
CAN I LEAD A SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE IN DUBAI?
Dubai has taken significant strides towards promoting sustainability and eco-friendliness over recent years. Europeans in Dubai can embrace this ethos by exploring Dubai’s Green Future initiatives, such as EV charging stations, the use of renewable energy sources and the promotion of ecotourism.
HOW EASY IS SECURING ACCOMMODATION AS A EUROPEAN IN DUBAI?
Finding suitable accommodation is a top priority for expatriates moving to Dubai from Europe. Understanding the hidden costs of renting in Dubai and finding the perfect rental location in Dubai that aligns with one’s lifestyle and budget are crucial steps in the relocation process.
We hope this article gave you some insights into the life of a European expat in Dubai. If you’d like to receive more updates about life in the UAE, subscribe to MyBayut.
