Expatriates Guide: Your Quick Start to Life in Dubai

Moving to Dubai feels like stepping onto a movie set – glitter, skyscrapers and a whole new set of rules. You’ll wonder what you can say, where you can go, and how to make friends without stepping on cultural toes. Below you’ll find straight‑forward answers that save you time and avoid awkward moments.

Everyday Life Hacks for New Expats

First thing: English works everywhere. Signs, menus and most service staff speak it, so you won’t be lost in translation. Still, knowing a few Arabic phrases – “Marhaba” (hello) and “Shukran” (thanks) – earns instant respect.

Rent is usually paid monthly via post‑dated cheques, and you’ll need an Ejari registration to make it legal. Expect a security deposit of one month’s rent, plus agency fees that can be 5 % of the annual rent. Budget for utilities – water and electricity are metered and can jump higher in summer.

Customs can be strict. You cannot bring certain medicines, over‑the‑counter drugs or more than 200 cigarettes without declaring them. If you’re a smoker, keep your pack under the limit to avoid fines at the airport.

Dating, Relationships and Social Rules

Dating in Dubai is a mix of modern apps and traditional expectations. Tinder and Bumble work, but the government monitors apps for illegal content, so use them wisely and avoid sharing explicit photos.

Public displays of affection are limited. A quick kiss is usually fine in private venues, but prolonged PDA can draw attention and possibly a fine. If you’re staying in a hotel, most properties allow unmarried couples, but be ready to show ID and possibly pay a small extra fee.

Dress codes matter. Tattoos can be shown in private, but covering them in public areas like malls or religious sites is a good idea. Likewise, avoid wearing overly revealing clothing in public spaces.

When you’re ready to meet someone in person, pick a well‑known venue – a hotel lounge, a mall restaurant or a beach club. These places are accustomed to mixed‑gender gatherings and have staff who can help if something goes wrong.

Finally, remember that the UAE respects privacy but also expects discretion. Keep conversations respectful, especially about politics or religion, and you’ll blend in without trouble.

Dubai offers a high‑tech, luxurious lifestyle, but the key to thriving as an expatriate is simple: respect the rules, learn the little cultural cues, and enjoy the city’s endless opportunities.