How is life in Dubai for foreigners?

Dubai is a very tolerant emirate – tolerant of others’ beliefs and ways of life. It is also one of the most moderate in terms of applying the rules of Islam to everyone’s everyday life. Expats can buy alcohol in Dubai and also they are allowed to eat and drink during the daylight hours of Ramadan.

What’s it like to work in Dubai?

Working in Dubai can be lucrative for many, with high wages and low taxes, it is a mecca for anyone wanting to earn big bucks. That being said however, it is still important to bear in mind that Dubai is an Arab city, situated within a Muslim country.

How is the work culture in Dubai?

The working hours and conditions are very adaptive and blending to the religion of the Emirates. The usual work hours are 8 hours long from 9-5 and the workweek is from Sunday to Thursday, so that the Muslims can offer their Friday prayers without any concern.

How do you address someone in Dubai?

You should address someone by their appropriate title. For instance, you would greet a man as sheikh (chief) and a woman as sheikha. Also, Sayed is Mr., and Sayeda is Mrs. You should in turn expect to be addressed by your title, such as Mr. or Mrs., followed by your first name.

What is it like to work in Dubai as an expat?

Most expats who work in Dubai are able to live at a level of comfort and afford luxury goods that they may not be able to enjoy in their home countries. If you have worked for more than two years in Dubai, a lump sum 15\% of your yearly salary is payable to you on departure (often known as end-of-service benefit).

What to do if you’re unhappy with your job in Dubai?

If you’re unhappy in your work and want to change job, or if your contract has a fixed term and you want to continue living and working in Dubai after its conclusion, you need to find a new employer willing to take over sponsorship.

Can I work in Dubai as a self-employed person?

The programme allows you to travel to Dubai and stay there for up to a year working as a self-employed or for your employer abroad. You can rent a house in Dubai, have access to Dubai schools if you have children, utilities, and basically live like a local. You are officially allowed to work. However, you are not allowed to get a job in Dubai.

How can I get a job in Dubai?

As mentioned above, you have to have an employment visa to work in Dubai, you also have to be sponsored by your employer. When you have a firm job offer, your employer becomes your sponsor and sorts out your employment visa. The sponsorship approach in Dubai is effectively a means of controlling immigration.