Dubai is home to family-friendly locations in the world. If you are planning to live there with your family, you will find lots of safe and secure residential options.
Watching documentaries on Dubai, I have always been mesmerized by the great buildings. Moving to Dubai is a great story. You have lots of questions in your head before moving. Will I find my dream home, are there schools nearby, do I have to live on a budget and the list goes on.
I am here to answer all the common questions about living in Dubai. Let’s begin…
What are the Best Places to Live?
It’s challenging to find the right place to live if your job doesn’t supply accommodation. Rent can fluctuate depending on the season. It’s best to start your hunt at the beginning of summer. Demand and prices drop during this time. Western expats prefer staying in Marina, LJT, and JBR areas. Silicon Oasis, Emirates Hills, and Motor City are places perfect for families. Here are your best options:
- Dur Dubai
You can find accommodation starting from Dh550 up to Dh3, 000 per month for a single room. Studio apartments are available as well. The rent of furnished and unfurnished studio apartments will vary.
- The International City
If you want studio apartments, you can grab one at a cheaper price here. It’s far away from the metro lines which is why the rent is low. The rent varies from Dh3, 000 up to Dh4, 500. If you are looking for a room, you can book one between Dh500 to Dh2, 100 per month. Pretty cheap, right?
- Deira
Before you make up your mind, know that Deira is full of hustle-bustle. Don’t worry, you will still find an affordable place to live. Prices start at Dh450 Up to Dh3, 500 per month. If you want a furnished apartment with a great view, you will have to pay from Dh25, 000 up to Dh75, 000 for that.
- Karama
The rentals in Karama are similar to that of Deira because it’s in its vicinity. It’s close to cafes, grocery shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. These amenities make it an ideal place to live in. The rent of a single room starts from Dh600 to Dh4, 200.
Do You Have To Work Hard In Dubai?
People in Dubai are hard workers by nature. It’s a part of their culture. Their work week goes from Sunday to Thursday. Most expats are found spending 12 to 14 hours at the office.
Most people don’t mind working long hours. Expats have usually moved to Dubai to earn and save money. The vibrant party scene and travel to exotic destinations make up for all the hard work.
Are Drinks Allowed?
Ask expats and they will tell they drink more in Dubai than everywhere else they lived. The brunch scenes are always wild. Bars always have a drink-all-you can specials. You will find a variety of seafood, liquor, and champagnes.
Partying and drinking are not illegal in the city. However, they do have laws surrounding alcohol. You could get arrested for being drunk in public.
How is the Weather?
The temperature in Dubai can reach as high as 120 degrees between July and August. It’s best to stay indoors during the summer.
The weather gets pleasant from October through April. You would like to spend your weekends on the beaches. That’s what most people do.
What’s the Cost of Living?
It’s important to know that the cost of living in Dubai is expensive. Rent, grocery, and bills are way too much.
So, don’t be dazzled by a great salary. Make sure what you are being offered is enough to cover your essential bills for a decent living.
Do I Need to Learn Arabic?
It’s not a compulsion but it’s preferable. Everyone in the city speaks English. It is very rare that you will actually feel the need to speak Arabic.
There are a few words you will hear on a daily basis. It’s best you know what they mean. Yalla means hurry up and Insha Allah means If God wills. It’s good if you can practice some basic Arabic.
Do They Have Cable?
Yes, Dubai has cable TV. A handful of local channels are free. But you can also use vpn to watch Netflix and your favorite shows.
How is Traffic?
If you are coming from Europe, traffic will be a shocker for you. Dubai Metro has 2 lines only. So it doesn’t have access to most areas in the city. Taking a cab is faster than going on a bus. That’s why everyone has a car. There is so much traffic. If you can’t afford a car right away, then plan your commute in advance.
