13 Things to Know Before You Moving to Dubai

The most important tip for anyone moving to Dubai is to let go of any preconceived notions. You’ll be ready to experience the adventure that Dubai has to offer if you let go of your expectations about it. Dubai is unlike any other city on the planet; it is alive with energy, life, and surprises around every corner.

TIP #1: Be ready for the hustle

Residents of Dubai are extremely busy. People in Dubai lead hectic lives, and the term “hustle” is frequently used to describe their way of life. Everyone has a to-do list for work, errands to run, and stress levels to manage. It is impossible to escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai, so prepare for a hectic and sometimes stressful lifestyle. Residents lead a fast-paced existence.

TIP #2: Weekends are Friday and Saturday

Weekends do not exist in the UAE on Saturdays or Sundays. The UAE works from Sunday to Sunday, with weekends on Friday and Saturday. This is due to the fact that Friday is a holy day in Islam, and people should not work on Fridays. It takes some getting used to, but newcomers will soon accept TGIT – Thank you God it’s Thursday.

TIP #3: Living here is expensive

It is not always obvious that living costs in Dubai are high. Rent, groceries, and bills can quickly add up to large sums. A high salary may only cover the necessities. Many visitors to Dubai believe that they will soon be driving a Lamborghini and drinking champagne every day.

TIP #4: Respect the rules of your country

If you want to avoid trouble, it is important that you abide by all laws in the country and city. Although they may seem odd, like public displays of affection being banned, these rules are an integral part of Dubai life and can result in your deportation or arrest. Keep to the right side by not being drunk in public, never buying fake goods, and never taking photos of strangers.

TIP #5: Friendships will be made with people from all parts of the globe

People moving to Dubai will find friends from all parts of the world, with more than 80 percent being ex-pats. It is one of the best parts of Dubai’s life. It is important to be open-minded when you visit Dubai and not prejudiced other cultures or nationalities. Racism is strongly discouraged in this country. Many people you meet in other countries are friends. Respect others.

TIP #6: Every Tuesday night is Ladies’ Night

For females who love to party, this is a great opportunity. Nearly every bar and club will host a ladies’ night on Tuesdays. This offers huge discounts on food and drinks, and free drinks. To ensure that the party continues every day, some places offer ladies’ nights on different days of the week.

TIP #7: Practice some Arabic

You won’t need to learn Arabic if you are moving to Dubai from anywhere else in the world. The city is a multicultural place. You won’t need to learn Arabic unless you live in Dubai. But most people who live in Dubai know some basic phrases. There are some words expats will use daily that are important. When a friend calls out “y’alla”, it is asking for everyone to hurry up. If someone shouts “inshallah”, it is hoping for the best possible outcome.

TIP #8: Dubai is constantly under construction

Dubai is always developing new attractions and huge skyscrapers. Everywhere you look, there will be massive cranes constructing the biggest thing in the world. This can be frustrating and make it difficult to get to the streets you use every day.

TIP #9: People back at home won’t fully grasp Dubai

No matter how many times you explain Dubai, your friends and family in other countries won’t be able to fully understand what it is like living here. Many Dubai residents are often asked questions like “Do you ride a camel from work?” and “Are you a millionaire?” It is hard to explain life to someone who has not lived in Dubai.

TIP #10: Get ready for the heat

People moving to Dubai will probably have heard about how hot it is. You won’t be able to appreciate how hot Dubai is until you actually move there. It can feel like you are in an oven when summer temperatures reach the high 40Cs (115F). There are ways to deal with heat. Every building in the city has air conditioning, even bus stops. Although the walk to the office from the car can be strenuous, a refreshing blast of air is always available.

TIP #11: Brunch is a must-have for every weekend

Dubaians love brunch. It will surprise new arrivals to discover how many brunches you can attend. Sometimes, even moving from one to the next on Fridays. This meal is important, regardless of whether you are with colleagues, friends, or family. You’ll find yourself brunching more often that you can imagine if you prepare your stomach, liver, and wallet.

TIP #12: Traffic is high

People who have come from places with excellent public transportation will be taken aback by this. Because Dubai Metro only has two lines, it cannot reach the majority of the city. Traveling by bus can take up to three times as long as taking a taxi. Almost everyone owns a car, and there is a lot of traffic. Avoiding rush hour will be easier, as a 20-minute commute could take more than an hour.

TIP #13: There won’t be a dull day

Dubai is a city where life is never dull. Every day will bring new adventures, whether you’re rushing around the city getting things done, meeting people from all over the world, or trying not to break any rules. This city is full of amusing and bizarre stories.