When I first heard of our opportunity to move to Dubai, I fled to Google. I had a number of questions, from whether it was even legal for us to live there unmarried (as we were at the time), to the restrictions around working on a spousal visa. I had a number of pre-conceptions about Dubai, that I later found to be false. If you’re considering a move or just curious about what it’s really like, let’s clear up some of the most common myths about life in Dubai.
Myth 1: Dubai Is Just for the Ultra-Rich
It’s true that Dubai is home to incredible luxury, but that doesn’t mean everyone living here is splashing out on five-star hotels and designer shopping at one of the world's largest malls. Like any major city, Dubai has a range of living costs from studio apartments costing just 1900AED per month (£400/$500) to the compounds at Emirates Hills, setting you back 750,000AED per month (£160,000/$204,000). You can dine at reasonably priced restaurants, although I've learnt to check menus before I book - if they don't show a price, you probably can't afford it ;-). There are also plenty of free or low-cost activities, from beaches to cultural festivals and events.
Myth 2: There’s No Culture—It’s Just Malls and Skyscrapers
Yes, there are malls (lots of malls!) and yes there are skyscrapers, but the city also has a rich cultural scene, with art galleries, historical districts, traditional souks, and a growing creative community. Events like the Dubai Opera, Alserkal Avenue exhibitions, The Ripe Market and cultural festivals bring together a mix of traditions and modern creativity. Take a trip to the camel farms, or horse races to get a taste of UAE tradition. Another fun activity, is the desert BBQ with falconry and traditional dancing show, it has a great atmosphere and is great value for money.
Myth 3: Women Must Follow Strict Dress Codes
A common assumption that I held, even as I entered the country, is that women in Dubai must be fully covered at all times. While modesty is appreciated in certain public places, expat women are free to dress as they choose in most settings. Beachwear is acceptable at resorts, and everyday fashion is much the same as in other international cities. The key is being respectful in certain areas, such as religious sites and government buildings. It's worth noting here that the requirement for modesty is not only for women. Men must wear closed shoes and full length trousers to enter these areas.
Myth 4: It’s Too Hot to Go Outside
Summers in Dubai are undeniably hot, but life doesn’t grind to a halt. The city is designed for extreme temperatures, with shaded walkways, air-conditioned public transport, and plenty of indoor activities. I've even come across walking groups that take their walks into their local mall during the summer. During the cooler months, from November to May, outdoor life blossoms, with parks, beaches, desert trips, and alfresco dining. Small tip for surviving Dubai is to get out every day while you have the opportunity. Even if it's just a walk around your home or office building. You'll wish you'd made more of it when summer comes back around.
Myth 5: There’s No Work-Life Balance
Some people imagine Dubai as a place where expats work long hours with little downtime. While certain industries are demanding, many expats enjoy a great work-life balance, often depending on their current and future financial and life goals. Flexible working options, excellent leisure facilities across the city, and a strong community scene in many of the family orientated areas mean there’s plenty of time to relax and socialise. With 30 days per year of leave as a legal minimum and approximately 12 bank holidays, it's a matter of work hard, play hard here in Dubai.
Myth 6: You Can’t Drink Alcohol in Dubai
Alcohol laws in Dubai have evolved, and licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, and bars serve alcohol legally. In fact, brunches are a big thing here, many venues offering free-flow booze and a menu for a set price. But be aware that drinking and being intoxicated in public are not allowed (yes, you can be imprisoned and fined), so it's important to keep your head on straight and look after yourselves and each other! You can also get a licence to purchase alcohol at an off-licence to drink at home (or on a yacht).
Myth 7: It’s Difficult to Make Friends
With so many expats in Dubai, making friends is often easier than people expect. Much if what holds new expats back, is a mindset issue, whereby you've forgotten how to approach people in the way you might have done, as an disinhibited child. In fact, any expat you speak to has been that newcomer themselves, and will gladly welcome you. All it takes is a "hello" and you're off to a flying start!
Myth 8: Life in Dubai Is Temporary for Everyone
Many assume that expats only stay in Dubai for a short period before moving elsewhere. This might be the case for contract workers, or those who work globally on assignment, but although most people I've met here did initially have a time frame, many of them have long outstayed their initial expectation. My husband and I decided we would remain for 5 years, but already (2.5 years in) we're pushing it to 7, and will probably stay even longer in the end. Dubai has even launched a retirement visa, as so many were staying into their next phase of life.
Myths About Life in Dubai - Final Thoughts
Dubai is a city that surprises people once they experience it first-hand. While it offers plenty of luxury and modern conveniences, it also has a strong sense of community, cultural diversity, and opportunities for all lifestyles. And one of the greatest aspects of living in Dubai (except being smug about not having to spend winter in the rain and cold) are the wonderful people I've met and the friends I've made. If you’re considering a move, it’s worth looking beyond the myths and discovering what life in Dubai is really like.
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