Dubai is known for being the ultimate expat hotspot, with outsiders making up over 80% of the city’s population.
So, exactly why is Dubai so popular?
For many, the most enticing thing about Dubai is its lavish lifestyle. You’ll have a wide range of options, from snagging a luxurious apartment in some of the most impressive skyscrapers in the world to enjoying yacht parties, the city’s extravagant nightlife and so much more.
Technically, Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the country of the United Arab Emirates but, in terms of global reputation, it’s out on its own.
If you want to live in one of the world’s safest, lowest-tax and ultra-luxurious locations, you’ll love Dubai. Note, however, that the United Arab Emirates doesn’t usually hand out citizenship to foreigners. You can stay in Dubai all your life, but only as a resident.
If you’re okay with that and still want to plan your life and business in Dubai, call us today. We can curate a holistic offshore strategy that addresses all your concerns and takes you where you’re treated best.
What is the Best Time of the Year to Live in Dubai?
In general, travellers should expect dry weather. Still, while rainfall is unusual it’s not unheard of, with flash floods and sandstorms both quite common in Dubai. So, keep in mind how temperamental this climate can be.
Choosing to live in Dubai means choosing to live in the Arabian desert and living in the Arabian desert means extreme temperatures, especially in the summer months. In fact, you may not want to be in Dubai from May to September when temperatures soar and people can barely manage to scurry from air-conditioned cars to air-conditioned homes or offices.
In reality, many expats leave Dubai for their holidays during the summer months time and you may want to do the same.
Overall, though, for many expats in Dubai, the extreme heat and somewhat crazy weather are simply a trade-off for living an otherwise exceptional lifestyle.
The Best Neighbourhoods in Dubai
Neighbourhoods in Dubai are loosely defined – there are no street addresses, which can be a total nightmare when you need a parcel delivered. But other than this minor consideration, Dubai offers plenty of locations with excellent amenities.
Downtown is the place to be. With a variety of cafes, nightlife options and amenities, you’d never have to leave this happening spot if you lived in Dubai.
The Marina is another popular neighbourhood, not just to moor your yacht but also to live. Relax at the water’s edge and enjoy the numerous cafes or the perfect private beach club. The Marina’s one of the few areas where foreigners, Gulf nationals, and even some Emiratis, live, making it ideal for those seeking a diverse community.
The man-made Palm Jumeirah is probably the most luxurious and expensive area. You have likely seen the palm-leaf-shaped islands that make up the Palm Jumeirah, which has plenty of high-end real estate options.
Luxury Real Estate Options in Dubai
With an abundance of billionaires, Dubai boasts plenty of luxury real estate, providing lots of options to meet all needs and tastes.
To live the good life and get a taste of this luxury lifestyle, you have to check out the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall apartments or any other luxury apartment building in the city centre (of which there are too many to name here).
Le Reve has apartments and penthouses with sweeping views of the Marina and the Arabian Gulf that will take your breath away. If you want something smaller, La Residencia del Mar complex and the Emirates Crown both have plenty of good options in the Marina area.
Whether you want a luxurious penthouse or a beautiful beachside property, we can help you achieve that. Nomad Capitalist’s Real Estate Plan enables you to buy foreign property like a local. Apply to become a client and get the best real estate deals in a foreign country.
What is the Cost of Living in Dubai?
Dubai’s cost of living is comparable to London or New York: it’s one of the most expensive places to live in the world.
Living in a desert means everything has to be imported. This means cafes and restaurants are extremely expensive – think US$12 beers and US$5 cappuccinos. Basic groceries aren’t exactly cheap either.
Renting a luxury flat in a central area will easily cost over US$5,000 a month. However, properties are abundant and a decent rental apartment will cost less.
The Best Co-Working Spaces in Dubai
You’ve probably heard about Dubai’s ‘remote work’ visa program, which allows remote workers and self-employed individuals to travel to and stay in Dubai for up to a year.
Even if you might not be going to Dubai specifically to work, it is still great to know there are suitable working spaces should you ever need them. These include:
- myOffice Dubai Marina: This is a working space where they go above and beyond to accommodate you and all of your needs. The offices are spacious and well-equipped, and the views can’t be beaten.
- Bisdesk: How about a private office in the Dubai business area? Bisdesk brings together start-ups and long-established businesses and offers 24/7 office access.
Dubai has the fastest internet connection in the Gulf so you can connect and manage your business from anywhere in the city but broadband here costs so factor that into your plans.
How Accessible is Dubai?
The main airport serving the area is the Dubai International Airport (DXB), and it holds many accolades:
- The world’s busiest airport by international passenger traffic
- One of the busiest cargo airports in the world
- The busiest airport for Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft.
Needless to say, Dubai is highly connected to the world, making it an excellent base for those using our Trifecta Strategy. You can hop on a plane for a weekend trip to Europe or fly directly to New York, London, Sydney, Beijing and other major destinations.
In short, when it comes to air connectivity, Dubai has nailed it. At the same time, much of the local region depends on the road network which is excellent but will require you to have a car.
How Safe is Dubai?
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the region, second only to Abu Dhabi. According to The Economist’s 2021 Safe Cities Index, it ranks fairly high in most safety standards, including personal and overall safety.
It ranks slightly higher than cities like Beijing, with pickpocketing and muggings virtually unheard of in Dubai because of the city’s strict and tightly enforced laws. Overall, expats and tourists are unlikely to run into safety issues.
What are the Entertainment Options in Dubai?
Dubai , there’s no shortage of places where you can splash your cash.
From luxury shopping to indoor skiing, yachting and absolutely everything in between, if you have the cash, Dubai’s got the goods.
Though you’re not able to drink alcohol outside and any form of public inebriation is heavily frowned upon – to the point of arrest – there are plenty of licensed bars and clubs available where foreign, non-Muslim tourists and expats can enjoy a beer or glass of wine.
Where are the Best Places to Eat and Drink in Dubai?
Simply put, the food scene in Dubai is insane. Since it is so multicultural, there is no end of cuisine to taste – here are a few of the top choices:
- Pierchic Restaurant: With sweeping views of the Arabic Gulf and a Mediterranean seafood menu, this restaurant will please even the most sophisticated tastes.
- Ruya Restaurant: Have you ever tried an Anatolian restaurant? Drawing inspiration from the past, Ruya serves food that’s perfect for sharing while you unwind at the Marina.
- Indego by Vineet: Michelin stars are always a great indicator of quality and Indego by Vineet is no different, where you can sample some of the most delicious Indian food you may ever encounter.
- Nobu: Offering traditional Japanese fare with a South American twist, Nobu is another crowd-pleaser in Dubai. Located at the Atlantis on The Palm, it offers a unique experience.
- Ronda Locatelli: This restaurant is run by Giorgio Lucatelli, a chef who earned his first Michelin star back in 1999. For over two decades, he’s delighted the world with amazing Italian flavours and now he does exactly that at the Ronda Locatelli within the Atlantis (The Palm) resort in Dubai.
What is There to Do and See in Dubai?
There is so much to see and do in Dubai that there’s little point trying to fit it all into a single list.
The following is just a quick sample of the things you can get up to in Dubai:
- The Burj Khalifa: the obligatory visit to Burj Khalifa’s 148th floor. You’ll feel as though you’re in the very clouds up there and, when you get down, check out the Dubai Fountain, a true rival to the dancing fountains of Las Vegas.
- Yachting: you can rent a luxury 44-foot yacht in Dubai starting at around US$300 per hour. Or perhaps you’d like to buy your own to use when you’re in Dubai and then moor it at the exclusive Dubai Marina? Everything is possible in this Emirate.
- Sand dune adventures: Dubai is surrounded by desert, so there are quite a few options for dune adventures, with the city’s skyline in the background. Rent a buggy, slash through the sand in an SUV or opt for a sunset camel ride.
- Luxury shopping: every single major international brand you can think of probably has a store in Dubai, and no wonder. Giant malls populate the entire city where shopping is one of the most popular pastimes in Dubai, especially during the scorching summer.
- Ski Dubai: one of the largest indoor ski resorts, Ski Dubai is perfect for a change of scenery. From hot and humid to nice and cool, it’s a great way to pass your free time.
How Open is the Culture to Outsiders?
There’s no need to learn Arabic to thrive in Dubai. English is the most widely spoken language, so although Arabic is the official language, you can easily get by without it. With more than 80% of Dubai’s population hailing from foreign parts, you can safely relax in the knowledge the city is very open to outsiders.
If you’re planning to move there with your family, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of international schools in Dubai. School fees vary and each school may follow its own educational standards. For example, some may be US-centric while others follow the British education system.
Living in Dubai, UAE: Expat Guide: FAQs
Is Dubai safe?
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the region, second only to Abu Dhabi. According to The Economist’s 2021 Safe Cities Index it’s safer than, or on a par with, Rome and Beijing.
Is Dubai expat-friendly?
Over 80% of Dubai’s population is expat. The country welcomes foreigners, especially if you’re a seven or eight-figure investor or entrepreneur.
Are foreigners subject to Islamic laws in Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates has adapted its laws to be more open to foreigners. In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, foreigners are not required to follow strict cultural and religious laws. However, privacy laws are strict, and fines can be imposed for publishing private information, behaving badly in public or using foul language. Respect and good behaviour are king in a location which, overall, offers a very safe and welcoming atmosphere for expats and tourists.
Is the UAE tax-free for companies?
The corporate tax rate for businesses in the UAE is now a standard 9% for taxable income exceeding AED375,000 (approximately US$100,000). However, a UAE free-zone company can still enjoy a zero tax rate by fulfilling specific conditions.
What is a good expat salary in Dubai?
The salary you consider good in Dubai ultimately depends on the lifestyle you want. A comfortable monthly salary range in Dubai is around AED 19,000 – AED 40,000 (approximately US$5,000-10,800).
Do I need to live in the UAE to start a business there?
Previously, the UAE required 51% of a company’s shareholders to reside within the country. However, this is no longer the case and you can now set up an LLC there with 100% of the shareholders living abroad. You must have a registered office in the UAE.
Can I get a residence by investing in Dubai?
Yes, the UAE offers a golden visa or residence by investment options. You can acquire a five-year visa by investing at least AED 2 million, setting up an innovative business or being a person of outstanding specialised talents. However, do note that the UAE rarely, if ever, grants citizenship.
Is Living in Dubai Worth It?
Overall, Dubai is an excellent option for those seeking a luxurious nomad base.
Dubai’s residence visa is easily obtainable, starting a business is actively encouraged and opening a bank account is usually straightforward.
It is worth noting, however, that things are changing in the UAE. Dubai now levies a 9% corporate tax, so your business there will most likely not be tax-free. Also, contrary to what many previously thought, not all free zone companies are exempt.
While Dubai might fit within a holistic offshore strategy that we here at Nomad Capitalist would approve of, alternative options are worth considering.
That strategy doesn’t have to involve just one place. If you want to legally reduce your taxes by going offshore, our holistic plan is designed to meet your specific personal goals and there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
At Nomad Capitalist, we have a worldwide network of lawyers, estate agents, accountants and tax and company formation specialists. All that expertise and real-world experience come together when we create holistic, bespoke action plans for our clients. Become a client and discover how we can help you achieve your goals.
