Everything you need to know about living in Dubai

In just a few decades, Dubai has completely transformed from a quiet trading port to a global metropolis. For many expats and entrepreneurs, living in Dubai A dream come true. The combination of a safe living environment, high-quality amenities, and an attractive tax regime attracts thousands of new residents every year. And for good reason! But what is daily life really like behind the tall skyscrapers?

In this article, we'll give you a realistic picture of life in Dubai, including information about housing and costs, as well as the cultural aspects to consider. So read on!

Where will you live in Dubai?

The real estate market in DubaiDubai is dynamic and diverse. Choosing a location largely determines your living experience and your monthly expenses. Popular neighborhoods for expats include Dubai Marina and JBR. These areas are great for those who love city life, the beach, and a vibrant nightlife. You'll mainly find high-rise apartments here. Palm Jumeirah also remains popular. Here you can enjoy exclusive living in Dubai on the iconic Palm Island. Here you'll find luxury apartments and villas with private beaches.

Downtown Dubai is the heart of the city, surrounding the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Arabian Ranches and The Hills are also pleasant neighborhoods. These are quieter, greener communities with villas and are especially popular with families with children due to their proximity to international schools.

Rents and the RERA index

Rents in Dubai have risen in recent years. To protect tenants, the government established the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). There's an official rent index that determines how much a landlord can increase the rent upon renewal. If the current rent is 10% lower than the market average, no increase is permitted. If the rent is 11-20% lower, a maximum 5% increase is permitted. You can check this yourself via the official calculator van de Dubai Land Department.

What are the costs of living in Dubai?

A frequently asked question is how much does it cost to live in Dubai? The good thing is that there is no income tax, and the cost of living comparable to or higher than in major European cities. Water and electricity are supplied by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (GODThe costs can quickly mount up, especially during the hot summer months when the air conditioning runs 24/7. For an 85m² apartment, you'll pay an average of between AED 600 and AED 900 per month, depending on your usage.

Groceries and living expenses in Dubai

Supermarkets are available in all price ranges, from the affordable Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket to the more luxurious Spinneys and Waitrose. Imported Western brand-name products are slightly more expensive than in Europe. Local products and regional goods, on the other hand, are very affordable. Numbeo Grocery prices in Dubai are on average higher than in Amsterdam, but purchasing power is greater due to the absence of taxes.

Is living in Dubai really that safe?

Dubai consistently ranks among the safest cities in the world. Crime rates are extremely low, partly due to the strict legal system and effective policing. Dubai is very modern and internationally oriented, yet remains an Islamic emirate. Respect for local culture is important for those who choose to live in Dubai. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, bars, and clubs. For home consumption, you need a liquor license. Public drunkenness is a criminal offense.

In shopping malls and government buildings, both men and women are expected to dress respectfully. This means covering shoulders and knees. Swimwear is permitted on the beach. During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day (between sunrise and sunset) is strictly prohibited. However, the rules for non-Muslims have been relaxed in recent years, and many restaurants remain open.

The climate and the daily rhythm

One factor that will drastically affect your lifestyle in Dubai is the climate. In the Netherlands, we talk about rain, in Dubai about heat. The year can be roughly divided into two seasons: summer and winter.

From September through May, the weather in Dubai is phenomenal. With temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius, life revolves around the outdoors – on the beach, in the parks, and on the terraces. This is the time when Dubai truly comes alive with outdoor festivals, sporting events, and markets.

The summer months are intense in Dubai. Temperatures regularly rise above 45 degrees Celsius, with high humidity. Life moves indoors. Fortunately, the infrastructure is fully equipped for this. Everything, from bus shelters to parking garages, is refrigerated. Many buildings are connected to metro stations or shopping malls via walkways or tunnels, allowing you to avoid the heat. It's an adjustment, but most residents quickly adapt to this "indoor season" and often plan their European vacations during this period.

Social circles and networks

Many newcomers fear loneliness, but living in Dubai is often easier socially than in Northern Europe. Because almost 90% of the population consists of expats, everyone is open to new contacts. No one here has old school friends around, so people actively seek out connections.

There are plenty of social clubs, from running groups at the Palm to business networking events at the DIFC financial center. There are also specific associations for Dutch and Belgians, such as the NBC or Nederlandse Borrels (Dutch Drinks), where you can quickly meet like-minded people. It's a city where you can quickly build a professional and personal network by venturing out on your own.

Visa and residence permit

To live in Dubai, you need a valid residence permit (Residency Visa). The UAE has significantly modernized its visa regulations to attract talent and investors. For example, there's the Employment Visa, where your employer sponsors your stay. You can also opt for the Property Investor Visa when purchasing real estate above a certain value (e.g., AED 750,000 or AED 2 million for a Golden Visa).

The Golden Visa is also a solution for living in Dubai. It's a long-term visa of 10 years for investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, and scientists. This visa offers a lot of stability because it's not tied to a specific employer. By properly preparing yourself for the costs and regulations, your emigration to Dubai a success story!