About Dubai |
Dubai really is quite the city, isn't it? Even though it's located in the United Arab Emirates, arguably one of the most conservative countries in the world, Dubai itself is quickly becoming the most modern city out there. A picture-perfect example of a futuristic utopia without all the sci-fi magic. Everything here is real, which makes the city even more fascinating! So it's no wonder why so many people, even the richest and the most famous, would want to travel here every now and again!
With around 9.89 million people in its population, Dubai is one of the most populated non-capital cities in the world. IT's all thanks to the fact that, through the years, it's become a central business and finance hub in the Middle East. As a result, a lot of people from all around the world have relocated here. Despite this, however, Arabic is still the dominant language here. English has become common, yes, but learning Arabic will make your stay here a lot easier nonetheless!
Seeing as Dubai is in the Middle East, you can expect the weather here to be, for the most part, hot. Though there are some months where the heat isn't as intense. The months of March to April and September to October are, perhaps, some of the mildest in terms of the climate. You'd want to go to Dubai during these times! It also helps that these are the months when the city sees the fewest tourists.
Before you head off to Dubai, you ought to know about its different neighborhoods first. Just like any other major city out there, this modern utopia is made up of various districts, each more fascinating than the next! Though they share lots of similarities—great hotspots, tons of attractions, several luxury homes on offer, etc.—it's worth noting the big and small differences too. Take Downtown Dubai, for example. It's an eclectic mix of high-class hotspots and hidden gems where you can have all sorts of fun. In contrast, Jumeirah Beach Residence is a more well-kept community by the sea. The tropical vibes here, combined with the city's urban appeal, are pretty cool!
You probably know by now the many must-see attractions and must-visit places here in Dubai. The city has become a treasure trove of tourist hotspots that social media almost couldn't keep up with anymore. The famous Burj Khalifa, for example, is the tallest building in the world. Imagine renting a luxury apartment with a view of it! The Dubai Mall, on the other hand, is among the best malls in Dubai and around the world. It has its own aquarium!
Atlantis, The Palm is also a must-see! It's one of the most amazing resorts in the world, one that even Hollywood celebrities would visit from time to time. And when you get overwhelmed by the city's hustle and bustle, you can always escape to the Dubai desert. It's a natural oasis that will stun you to no end!
Should it really surprise you that staying in Dubai is expensive? It's a city where the rich and famous go! Of course, it's going to cost you a lot to go here! It's possible your airfare to get here costs you a fortune already! With so many luxury homes, upscale shopping districts, and a major business hub, it's no wonder it'd cost an arm and a leg to spend time here. Just renting a long-term apartment can already cost you a lot, the common minimum price being AED3,000.00 a month! As for food, it'd cost you around AED304.99 for one-to-two weeks' worth of groceries. That's around $100.00!
Remember that Dubai is still in the UAE. No matter how global the city has become, the general norm here remains conservative and traditional. And the Arabs are not to be trifled with! Notwithstanding the many unfair stereotypes the rest of the world has thrown upon them, they really are serious about upholding the many traditions in their country.
This means that the customs here have practically remained the same for centuries. They include, among other things, not being too physical with the opposite sex. Social courtesy dictates, especially in business settings, keeping a close distance from those who are not your spouse here in the city. You also should show your feet; they regard it as the “dirtiest part of your body.”
With so many places to explore here, it's a good thing Dubai's public transport is extremely efficient! Where else will you find a metro system that doesn't have a driver? Or buses that arrive and depart on time? Not to mention a (excuse the pun!) boatload of ferries to help you cross any body of water to get to where you need to be! No matter where you're going, you'll definitely find a way to get there on time, probably even earlier than expected. And if it's your first time here, don't worry! You can really on transportation apps to help you out!
The UAE's healthcare was instituted as a universal law. This means that all residents in the country are given ample health coverage that's paid for by the government. Hence, if you're moving to Dubai, you virtually have nothing to worry about in terms of healthcare. Now, if you're just a tourist, however, you might want to get a private plan instead. Only then will you get access to the health services here, not the least of which is getting treated at some of the finest medical centers in Dubai!
As Dubai has become quite the global city, many of the world's best cuisines are all on offer here. The city has quite the collection of culinary hotspots, from Michelin-starred establishments to charming holes-in-the-walls the world has yet to know about. They all offer up a memorable taste for the lucky ones who get to eat there!
Though, as Dubai is a major city in the UAE, you ought to indulge in the most exotic dishes the country has to offer! Think kababs packed with succulent beef, nutritious hummus with just the right kick to it, and the enticingly flavored manakeesh! As for traditional desserts, baklava is a must! You won't get to taste—at least not as good and as authentic, anyways—food like this anywhere else!
Since the UAE is one of the central Muslim countries in the world, most of the public holidays in Dubai are related to Islam, The most well-known, which are also observed in other countries around the world., includes Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan), Mawlid al-Nabi (the Prophet Mohammad's birthday), and Muharram (the Islamic New Year). But don't worry! Some of the more popular Western holidays, such as Christmas Day and New Year's Eve, are as big a deal here as they are in other countries as well!
Going to Dubai is one thing. Just visiting the city as a tourist means you still get to go back home. But if you decide to move to Dubai, it’s another story! There’s a lot that you’ll need to do, ranging from setting up a local bank account to joining a local mobile network.
You need to be very careful and meticulous about how to go about it! One wrong move and you're done! Well, not done, per se, but your life here won't be as pleasant as you want it to be. To ensure that it does, however, you can rely on this relocation guide!
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