×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Pros and Cons of Living in UAE | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Pros and Cons of Living in the UAE

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 16, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in the UAE include its modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare system, low crime rate, and tax-free income. Additionally, the UAE is a culturally diverse country with a variety of activities and attractions to explore. On the other hand, the cons of living in the UAE include the hot and humid climate, the high cost of living, and the lack of political freedom. Additionally, the UAE has strict laws and regulations that may be difficult to adjust to for some people.

What are the pros and cons of living in the UAE?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in the UAE responded:

"Expats and digital nomads in the UAE often appreciate the country's modern infrastructure, excellent public transportation, and low cost of living. They also enjoy the diverse culture, warm climate, and the fact that English is widely spoken. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the country's strict laws and regulations, lack of personal freedoms, and high cost of certain goods and services to be a bit of a challenge," said one member in UAE.

"Its a nice metropolitan city to live in, with over 200 nationalities & what i dislike is that after your work permit/retirement you have to leave this country which you call your second home," remarked one expat in Dubai.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

What do expats in the UAE appreciate most about the local culture?

"Sun, Sea, Camping in the desert at the weekends, BBQ's with friends, eating out, free ladies night in the hotel's, the perfect weather and climate from Nov through to May," said one person in Dubai.

"Expats in the UAE appreciate the hospitality of the local culture, which is evident in the warm welcome they receive from the locals. They also appreciate the cultural diversity of the country, which is reflected in the variety of cuisines, languages, and religions that are present in the UAE. Additionally, expats enjoy the vibrant nightlife and the many leisure activities available in the country, such as shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Finally, expats appreciate the safety and security of the UAE, which is a major factor in why many choose to live and work in the country," remarked one expat in UAE.

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do expats find most challenging?

"If you live in Abu Dhabi you may find yourself living 45mins plus outside the city as the only cheap accomadtion in AD is out near the airport Al Raha is slowly after 2 years only now becoming easier place to live with it now being on a bus route, and new supermarket's opening, AlReef still has very little out by the compounds in the way of taxis and shops Meeting new friends who are likeminded," explained one expat living in Dubai.

"Expats in the UAE often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The conservative dress code and social norms can be difficult to adhere to, and the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Arabic. Additionally, the hot climate and the lack of public transportation can be difficult to get used to. Furthermore, the cost of living in the UAE can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to make ends meet," said one expat in UAE.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote

Contribute to UAE Network Contribute
Help others in UAE by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in UAE.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides