tdm newsletter: august Dubai special

Did you know Dubai has a Marks & Spencer? While the pristine beaches and mojitos on the Palm Jumeirah are great, we thought you’d want to know what it’s REALLY like living in Dubai.

We’ve been helping people find jobs in the property and residential real estate market across the UK for years, and now we’re excited to have expanded into one of the most dynamic markets in the world – Dubai.

If you’re a Brit thinking about making the move to Dubai, you’ve probably seen plenty of blogs showing off the city’s glitz and glamour. But did you know you can find all the comforts of home, like Cadbury’s chocolate and Walker’s ready salted crisps? And you have heard about the benefits and perks companies here offer? Sometimes it’s the little things that make all the difference, and we’re here to share what life is like beyond the skyscrapers.

You might expect Dubai to feel worlds away from the UK, but you’d be surprised at just how familiar it can be. Yes, Dubai holds tight to its Arabic roots, but it’s also a city that’s racing into the future. As long as you’re open-minded and respectful of a few simple customs, you’ll find living here more enjoyable than you might think.

In Dubai, English is the language of business and daily life. Almost everyone you meet, from taxi drivers to shopkeepers, speaks it fluently, making it easy to settle in. With expats making up 91% of the population (240,000 of them Brits!), Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and lifestyles. The city’s global vibe is reflected in its food scene, where you can taste dishes from all over the world. Fancy some Iranian Sangak or craving a taste of home? Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen has you covered and you won’t have to go far to find a classic British roast dinner. If you’re a foodie, Dubai’s annual food festival is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s a celebration of everything from high-end dining to hidden street food gems!

Dubai is known for its shopping malls, and you’ll find it all here, from stores like Cartier and Dior to H&M and Zara. But don’t just stick to the malls, some of Dubai’s most interesting shops are tucked away, like City Walk, where boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment spots are set against vibrant street art. For a unique experience, head to the Gold Souk in Deira, where you can haggle for gold, silver, and diamonds. Just around the corner, the Perfume Souk offers custom fragrances, and the Spice Souk is filled with exotic spices and dried fruits.

While the food festivals and shopping are amazing, there’s a lot more to discover about working in Dubai. The city offers opportunities across nearly every sector, with competitive salaries and plenty of room for career growth. On average, salaries in Dubai are around AED 13.530.90 (about ￡2,784) per month, which is roughly 20% higher than the average UK salary taxes. Plus, personal salaries are tax-free, a nice bonus! But, there are a few are things to get used to. For starters, the weekend in Dubai is Friday and Saturday. Friday is the holy day in Islam, so while work takes a break, everything else stays open. If tax-free salaries weren’t enough, companies in Dubai also offer a range of perks, from retirement benefits and medical care to performance based incentives, housing allowances, and more.

Cultural awareness is key for a smooth expat experience in Dubai, and knowing what’s acceptable, especially in public, is important. There’s a dress code you’ll need to stick to, and public displays of affection, taking pictures without permission, and swearing are all big no-no’s. Familiarise yourself with the local rules before you go, a little awareness can make a huge difference.

One thing for certain is, life in Dubai will never be boring. Whether hustling around the city trying to get things done, staying out of the 43 degree sunshine, or basking in it depending on your love for the heat, each day is exciting. Ready to jump into all the excitement Dubai has to offer? Head over to our website to find out more or get in touch with our Dubai experts Tom, Simon, & Olivia.