Relocation to Dubai 2023-2024. Pros and cons of living in Dubai

Lack of opportunity to obtain citizenship

The next disadvantage is that you will never become “your own” in Dubai. First, you will never be granted citizenship. Secondly, the local citizens put themselves first. I was once even kicked out of an apartment sales office when some local came in.

These factors combine to make adaptation and full integration into local society extremely difficult, leaving you in a permanent status of “stranger” no matter how much time you have spent in Dubai.

Religion

Because of this also comes the downside of religion. I am not a very religious person, but I am fine with all types and manifestations of any religion as long as they don’t interfere with my life. Unfortunately, religion follows you at every turn, from prayers in malls to bans on eating outside in Ramadan.

Horrible laws

A significant disadvantage of living in Dubai is the complexity and strictness of the laws. Strict laws can lead to serious legal consequences even for relatively minor infractions. This creates an atmosphere of high tension and the need to be constantly on guard against breaking local laws and regulations.

In addition, the legislation in Dubai is subject to constant changes. These changes can be both systematic and sudden, which creates additional difficulties for foreign nationals who find it difficult to adapt to the new conditions in a short period of time. It often happens that people violate some new provision without even realizing it, which can lead to financial penalties or even criminal liability.

The vagueness and variability of legislation not only creates conditions for legal uncertainty, but can also be a source of stress and discomfort. This is especially noticeable when laws relate to everyday life, such as traffic regulations, alcohol laws, or social behavior. Consequently, this aspect of life in Dubai requires special attention and prior preparation in order to avoid unwanted consequences.

Climate

The biggest downside to living in Dubai for me is the climate, specifically the high temperatures in the summer. The heat can become so intolerable that simply being outside becomes a challenge, let alone physical activity or long walks. This creates a significant inconvenience to daily life, especially when you consider the already mentioned limitations in pedestrian infrastructure and public transportation.

For many people like you, this climate factor becomes so significant that they begin to consider moving to another city or even country for a period of time. This not only creates additional logistical and financial costs, but also significantly limits the possibilities for a stable, fulfilling life in Dubai. Accordingly, the need to look for a “winter” base to avoid the summer heat can become a significant irritant and call into question the feasibility of long-term residence in this city.

Scammers and corruption

One of the disadvantages of Dubai is that the Russians there are of a special kind: they are always trying to cheat each other. Of course, I am sure that there are some good people there, but we rarely encountered them. In America, during the two weeks that we were there, they only tried to help us, but they never tried to cheat us. There is also corruption in Dubai. If you think that the employees of the authorities are as selfless as in developed Western countries, it is definitely not about Dubai: here everything is built on money, and it is possible to bribe any employee, from a bank employee to a police officer, although it is forbidden by law.

Lack of freedom of speech

Lack of freedom of speech – for me this fact was very much discouraged. I wanted to blog openly, but many topics had to be kept quiet. If I talked about any obvious disadvantages in my videos, I was immediately written to by inadequate people who would go to the police to write a report on me. In Dubai there is such a rule: either good or nothing. All bad news about the city or country they brush off, just like they brush off bloggers for alleged slander. There are also many small minuses like water quality, food, lack of windows in kitchens, religion subject in school, lack of love for animals, for dogs.

Pros of living in Dubai

The first of the most significant pros of living in Dubai is undoubtedly the high level of security. This factor is especially acute when compared to the experience of living in other countries, including the United States. In Dubai you can feel calm and comfortable in almost any neighborhood and at any time of day, which creates a favorable atmosphere for life and recreation.

Strict laws and an effective law enforcement system make this city one of the safest in the world. A high level of social control and quality security services reduce the risks of crime such as theft, assault or even minor disturbances.

In addition, security in Dubai is not limited to crime rates; it is also evident in the well-organized civil defense and transport security measures, including airports and railway stations.

The second plus point is that Dubai is a real hub for people of different nationalities. It’s easy to find a job in it where you’re not likely to feel like an outsider or an extra. Because around you will be the same newcomers, with non-ideal English and lack of Arabic. Also, with official employment, you can easily get a local work visa, which will give you the right to live in the country for a long period of time.

At the moment, investing in Dubai’s economy is lucrative, whether it’s opening the cheapest cafe or investing in real estate. It is important that your product is better than others, and in Dubai it is more than real. Everything is in your hands.