Moving to Dubai [Questions]

[Jin Chacha]

Questions about living in the UAE

Hello,

I have seen a number of threads by people living outside Pakistan seeking opinions about moving back and am now in a similar situation. I am currently in the US, really like my work here, have lived in both small college towns and big cities and am pretty well adjusted to the lifestyle. However, something that has always bothered me is the distance from my parents and the fact that at some point I may regret spending this time living away from them.

Having said that I have spent ninety percent of my life in Pakistan (I am a Pakistani citizen), having only lived in the US for the last few years so I am also well aware of the pros and cons of moving back. I am looking into an opportunity to work in the UAE which seems like a good compromise. I will still be working with a US based entity, and will have the chance to move back to the US if required. Plus I will earn slightly more and will also be close enough to visit Pakistan every month. Since I am single and pretty satisfied with what I am earning now, the main attraction for me is the proximity to my parents.

However, I have never been to the UAE (other than passing through airports) and don’t know much about the life there. So I need some opinions from people who have visited and or lived in both the US and the UAE. Is moving to the UAE worth it or if I am moving out of the US I might as well just go back to Pakistan? Also any comments on the comparison of living costs and lifestyle between the US and UAE or any other pros and cons I should be aware of?

Thanks

 

[marlonbrowndo]

Don't go there. Terrible place to live, in my opinion. I don't mind visiting there but it's the last place I'd wanna live. So artificial and soulless. Only advantage is that it's close to Pakistan

 

[HinderTheJinder]

UAE is much better country to live in than US because it's closer to Pakistan and its not as desified as it used to be now you would see many foreigners around there working in business industry and the market has gone up and not to mention bautiful skyline in Dubai.I have many of my relatives in US who are looking to move to UAE.One thing is that you have to be a law abiding citizen and there might be some strict laws in place but it won't affect your normal lifestyle

 

[HinderTheJinder]

Don't go there? Terrible place to live imo. I like visiting there but it's the last place I'd wanna live. So artificial and soulless

Soulless? When did you visit there last time? Its much better than it was in early 2000s.Where do you live right now?

 

[marlonbrowndo]

Soulless? When did you visit there last time? Its much better than it was in early 2000s.Where do you live right now?

Last visited Dubai 2 years ago. Been living in Toronto for a year and love it

 

[HinderTheJinder]

Last visited Dubai 2 years ago. Been living in Toronto for a year and love it

LOL Toronto and Canada as a whole is way more boring than UAE.Wait till you visit places like Winnipeg,Banff,Calgary etc.Banff and Calgary are beautiful but god they are so boring and less said about Winnipeg the better

 

[PakLFC]

Most people I know living in Dubai seem to love the UAE as a whole. I have heard the situation between Saudi and Qatar now could really effect the UAE as well. As far as Canada is concerned if it was that bad so many people would not be immigrating there. Never been there but imagine it would just be like any other western country. If Canada is boring then so is the UK and USA.

 

[HinderTheJinder]

Most people I know living in Dubai seem to love the UAE as a whole. I have heard the situation between Saudi and Qatar now could really effect the UAE as well. As far as Canada is concerned if it was that bad so many people would not be immigrating there. Never been there but imagine it would just be like any other western country. If Canada is boring then so is the UK and USA.

Many people go there because it has no strict laws and the lifestyle is easy and to get the Canadian passport is mega easy.In Banff you wont find any human in miles and you would see more deers and mooses than people.Another reason why people go there is that its next to US and they could live there with Canadian passport with ease

 

[Jin Chacha]

Hmm thanks. Other than being close to my parents another issue is that since I am still a Pakistani citizen, frequent travel home is becoming more problematic. There is just too much uncertainty in visiting home with stricter visa policies etc.

To be honest I am a pretty boring person myself and have enjoyed living in small midwest towns more than bigger cities. And don't know if it matters but if I do end up going I will be in Abu Dhabi and not Dubai.

 

[Statsman]

Hmm thanks. Other than being close to my parents another issue is that since I am still a Pakistani citizen, frequent travel home is becoming more problematic. There is just too much uncertainty in visiting home with stricter visa policies etc.

To be honest I am a pretty boring person myself and have enjoyed living in small midwest towns more than bigger cities. And don't know if it matters but if I do end up going I will be in Abu Dhabi and not Dubai.

I have lived in Abu Dhabi for a year. It's certainly not as good as Dubai. A small city with limited options for entertainment and recreation, but if you consider yourself as boring, it should float your boat. UAE is close to Pak/ India and if the money is good visiting home should be a breeze. I used to travel to India every weekend - was tiring but worked for me.

Have you considered any impact on your professional career though? Experience in the USA is considered far better than that in UAE. Heck, many international recruiters prefer Indian experience over UAE. Of course, it depends on your area of work, but do give a thought to this as well.

 

[Slog]

Have you considered any impact on your professional career though? Experience in the USA is considered far better than that in UAE. Heck, many international recruiters prefer Indian experience over UAE. Of course, it depends on your area of work, but do give a thought to this as well.

Ive heard this as well

 

[Jin Chacha]

I have lived in Abu Dhabi for a year. It's certainly not as good as Dubai. A small city with limited options for entertainment and recreation, but if you consider yourself as boring, it should float your boat. UAE is close to Pak/ India and if the money is good visiting home should be a breeze. I used to travel to India every weekend - was tiring but worked for me.

Have you considered any impact on your professional career though? Experience in the USA is considered far better than that in UAE. Heck, many international recruiters prefer Indian experience over UAE. Of course, it depends on your area of work, but do give a thought to this as well.

Thanks for the reply. Having US experience would certainly be better but I will be working with a US based organization mostly with expats so I hope it won’t be too bad. In any case that is a sacrifice I am willing to make if I can be closer to home.

And I know this is an extremely open ended question but can you give me a very rough idea of the living costs? Like how much an apartment in a good area costs and how much would a single male need for a comfortable lifestyle? I know this depends a lot on the lifestyle but I am just looking for a very rough idea.

 

[kingusama92]

LOL Toronto and Canada as a whole is way more boring than UAE.Wait till you visit places like Winnipeg,Banff,Calgary etc.Banff and Calgary are beautiful but god they are so boring and less said about Winnipeg the better

Toronto is miles better than any part of the UAE. Let's not be ridiculous.

Agree about Banff (Calgary). Gorgeous but only good if you're visiting.

And Winnipeg might be the worst place in all of Canada. Edmonton is a close second.

 

[HinderTheJinder]

Toronto is miles better than any part of the UAE. Let's not be ridiculous.

Agree about Banff (Calgary). Gorgeous but only good if you're visiting.

And Winnipeg might be the worst place in all of Canada. Edmonton is a close second.

When was the last time you went to UAE?

 

[Statsman]

Thanks for the reply. Having US experience would certainly be better but I will be working with a US based organization mostly with expats so I hope it won’t be too bad. In any case that is a sacrifice I am willing to make if I can be closer to home.

And I know this is an extremely open ended question but can you give me a very rough idea of the living costs? Like how much an apartment in a good area costs and how much would a single male need for a comfortable lifestyle? I know this depends a lot on the lifestyle but I am just looking for a very rough idea.

Rent - An apartment can cost you anywhere between 4000 AED to 8000 AED depending on your choice.

Food: about 30-50 AED per meal at a standard restaurant
Travel is expensive as public transport system is very poor, suggest you have your accommodation near your office

If you want a ball park figure - About 250 AED should be enough for daily expenses (food, travel, occasional entertainment) .You can check on sites like numbeo for more details on regular expense items.
Good luck

 

[Statsman]

Ive heard this as well

One of the key reasons why I don't want to move there. Otherwise, considering all factors (money, safety, proximity to home, food etc.), Dubai is really good.

 

[faraz39]

Not to derail the thread but I grew up in Alberta. It's much less densely populated than Toronto but that's a big advantage which leads to very high average salaries (twice that of TO), higher disposable income, proximity to mountains (we'd regularly do day trips in the summer), hospitals which are not crowded, less traffic, and more job opportunities. Sure, people in AB can't boast about living in a "big" city but their average lifestyle is far higher and better than the average in TO (materially speaking of course).

 

[faraz39]

I admire TO for its density and very large Muslim population but not for all the other problems which densification brings (very high property prices, very competitive job market, lower pay etc.).

 

[ExpressPacer]

I personally consider the UAE to be amazing for a great vacation but not-so-much as a place you would permanently want to live in. However, that being said, UAE is by no means a "bad" place to live. There are no electricity cuts, hardly any racism because of the diverse nationalities of Peoppe living there, great security and police, low crime rates, a lot of opportunities for recreation and you can try a different restaurant every day.

The apartments are nice and cozy and every single place is already air conditioned. All in all, I would seriously recommend you to move to the UAE, flights are cheap to Pakistan and you can visit every once in a while.

The UAE is slightly expensive however, shouldn't be too much of a problem considering you're going to have an increase in your salary anyway.

 

[Jin Chacha]

Rent - An apartment can cost you anywhere between 4000 AED to 8000 AED depending on your choice.

Food: about 30-50 AED per meal at a standard restaurant
Travel is expensive as public transport system is very poor, suggest you have your accommodation near your office

If you want a ball park figure - About 250 AED should be enough for daily expenses (food, travel, occasional entertainment) .You can check on sites like numbeo for more details on regular expense items.
Good luck

Thank you. That was very helpful.

I personally consider the UAE to be amazing for a great vacation but not-so-much as a place you would permanently want to live in. However, that being said, UAE is by no means a "bad" place to live. There are no electricity cuts, hardly any racism because of the diverse nationalities of Peoppe living there, great security and police, low crime rates, a lot of opportunities for recreation and you can try a different restaurant every day.

The apartments are nice and cozy and every single place is already air conditioned. All in all, I would seriously recommend you to move to the UAE, flights are cheap to Pakistan and you can visit every once in a while.

The UAE is slightly expensive however, shouldn't be too much of a problem considering you're going to have an increase in your salary anyway.

Thanks. It does seem slightly more expensive than I expected. The living costs seem comparable to the US towns I have lived in so I would do pretty well while I am single but won't be saving much once I have a family. But I am seriously considering giving it a shot as I only need to commit for two to three years.

 

[kingusama92]

When was the last time you went to UAE?

4-5 years ago.

Spent time in Dubai (supposedly the best part of that region).

Nice place but superficial. I'd rather spend time somewhere else and living there is out of the question. But each to their own and many swear by Dubai as a world-class place to live.

 

[PakLFC]

Many people go there because it has no strict laws and the lifestyle is easy and to get the Canadian passport is mega easy.In Banff you wont find any human in miles and you would see more deers and mooses than people.Another reason why people go there is that its next to US and they could live there with Canadian passport with ease

What? The Canadian passport is easy to attain living in the UAE?

 

[ahmedzee]

LOL Toronto and Canada as a whole is way more boring than UAE.Wait till you visit places like Winnipeg,Banff,Calgary etc.Banff and Calgary are beautiful but god they are so boring and less said about Winnipeg the better

Depends who is around you. Calgary is fun but yes, it is not toronto. Toronto is way more fun than any place in Canada. Personally I would prefer Canada over UAE (I lived there for 16 years).

 

[Mamoon]

The UAE is not an attractive option for someone settled in the West, but it is ideal for Pakistan-based folks. I personally find it a good enough place, but I don't see myself settling anywhere but Pakistan or the UK, depending on circumstances.

 

[TalentSpotterPk]

Hello,

I have seen a number of threads by people living outside Pakistan seeking opinions about moving back and am now in a similar situation. I am currently in the US, really like my work here, have lived in both small college towns and big cities and am pretty well adjusted to the lifestyle. However, something that has always bothered me is the distance from my parents and the fact that at some point I may regret spending this time living away from them.

Having said that I have spent ninety percent of my life in Pakistan (I am a Pakistani citizen), having only lived in the US for the last few years so I am also well aware of the pros and cons of moving back. I am looking into an opportunity to work in the UAE which seems like a good compromise. I will still be working with a US based entity, and will have the chance to move back to the US if required. Plus I will earn slightly more and will also be close enough to visit Pakistan every month. Since I am single and pretty satisfied with what I am earning now, the main attraction for me is the proximity to my parents.

However, I have never been to the UAE (other than passing through airports) and don’t know much about the life there. So I need some opinions from people who have visited and or lived in both the US and the UAE. Is moving to the UAE worth it or if I am moving out of the US I might as well just go back to Pakistan? Also any comments on the comparison of living costs and lifestyle between the US and UAE or any other pros and cons I should be aware of?

Thanks

Go ahead. Best wishes & prayers.


Jis ne sirf nokri kerni ho, daftarr mein ex pats houn, mausum bardaasht ker sakta ho, amreeki company ho uss k liye baaqi cheezein matter naheen kerteen.

Since you are saying you are a bore person and this would be just a 2-3 years makeshift arrangement until Donald Trump leaves Presidency so boreeat choarh k entertainment Bhaabi k aanay k baad jee leejiye ga.


For now nothing like being close to parents.


Just ensure that this does not affect your chances of US Nationality down the line. Baaqi sub kheir hai.


Best wishes and prayers. Go Ahead.

 

[Jin Chacha]

Go ahead. Best wishes & prayers.


Jis ne sirf nokri kerni ho, daftarr mein ex pats houn, mausum bardaasht ker sakta ho, amreeki company ho uss k liye baaqi cheezein matter naheen kerteen.

Since you are saying you are a bore person and this would be just a 2-3 years makeshift arrangement until Donald Trump leaves Presidency so boreeat choarh k entertainment Bhaabi k aanay k baad jee leejiye ga.


For now nothing like being close to parents.


Just ensure that this does not affect your chances of US Nationality down the line. Baaqi sub kheir hai.


Best wishes and prayers. Go Ahead.

Haha. Thank you.

As much as I like the US, applying for citizenship and permanently settling there is not something I want to do. Not with my parents in Pakistan.

 

[proud_pakistani]

I was born and raised in Dubai and continue to live here having done a job for 5 years after graduation and now having a startup business. I will say if you like a high paced city lifestyle it is a good place to live. Yes it is superficial but you have to take into account it is a very young country. Most people argue there is no history here,nehow I think they are making history.

In terms of living, it is a tad expensive and is getting more expensive every year. 250 seems like a good figure as given by Statsman for daily living.

For me as a progressive muslim I feel I have the best of both worlds here - halal food is always available, mosques all around at the same time there are bars and clubs if you are into that. There are always plenty of events across the year to keep yourself entertained.

Culturally, there is a very good mix of all kinds of people from all over the world. You will ofcourse interact with people dependent on your work and where you stay.

In terms of crime, it is very minimal and you will very rarely see a crime happening for yourself. People live in harmony and care about feeding themselves and enjoying their lives. There are no electricity or water cuts. The other amazing thing about UAE is it is amazingly clean and u will not find any other country in the world as clean.

On the other side drawbacks are it is a little on the expensive side, especially when you shop for luxury items. It is extremely hot and during the summers forget to do any outdoor activities. You will be confined to the indoors. The winters are great though.

Lastly, geographically close to Pakistan which for you I guess is very important with your parents being in Pakistan.

 

[Jin Chacha]

I was born and raised in Dubai and continue to live here having done a job for 5 years after graduation and now having a startup business. I will say if you like a high paced city lifestyle it is a good place to live. Yes it is superficial but you have to take into account it is a very young country. Most people argue there is no history here,nehow I think they are making history.

In terms of living, it is a tad expensive and is getting more expensive every year. 250 seems like a good figure as given by Statsman for daily living.

For me as a progressive muslim I feel I have the best of both worlds here - halal food is always available, mosques all around at the same time there are bars and clubs if you are into that. There are always plenty of events across the year to keep yourself entertained.

Culturally, there is a very good mix of all kinds of people from all over the world. You will ofcourse interact with people dependent on your work and where you stay.

In terms of crime, it is very minimal and you will very rarely see a crime happening for yourself. People live in harmony and care about feeding themselves and enjoying their lives. There are no electricity or water cuts. The other amazing thing about UAE is it is amazingly clean and u will not find any other country in the world as clean.

On the other side drawbacks are it is a little on the expensive side, especially when you shop for luxury items. It is extremely hot and during the summers forget to do any outdoor activities. You will be confined to the indoors. The winters are great though.

Lastly, geographically close to Pakistan which for you I guess is very important with your parents being in Pakistan.

Thanks. That sounds good. I think the only thing I will miss about the US is the outdoors. I have really enjoyed living close to nature, hiking, cycling etc. But being from Karachi readjusting to urban life and hot weather won't be a problem.

Also do you have any information on Saadiyat island cultural district in Abu Dhabi? I might end up there but it is hard to tell from the internet if the area is well developed or still in initial stages of construction. . It does have a lot of big projects going on though.

 

[proud_pakistani]

Thanks. That sounds good. I think the only thing I will miss about the US is the outdoors. I have really enjoyed living close to nature, hiking, cycling etc. But being from Karachi readjusting to urban life and hot weather won't be a problem.

Also do you have any information on Saadiyat island cultural district in Abu Dhabi? I might end up there but it is hard to tell from the internet if the area is well developed or still in initial stages of construction. . It does have a lot of big projects going on though.

I am actually doing a project in St. Regis Hotel in Sadiyat Island these days. It is very posh and high end. It is a little bit out of the city though. Main Abu Dhabi City is about 20 mins drive but Yas Island is close by which has a hypermarket for all your groceries. Sadiyat has one of the best beaches in UAE though which is something I really like. There are restaurants within Sadiyat as well and a Spinneys (supermarket). Roads are also developed and its a very quiet, serene area. You wont find any traffic here like the main city.

 

[Badsha]

Lived there as a kid in the late 90's early 2000's and visited later for a day. For me personally, it has become too commercialized and has lost its charm but maybe you're seeking that.

 

[Slog]

Lived there as a kid in the late 90's early 2000's and visited later for a day. For me personally, it has become too commercialized and has lost its charm but maybe you're seeking that.

lol at dubai losing its charm

it was a desert with a shack before that

 

[Mamoon]

I wholeheartedly agree with the "best of both worlds" statement, which is why I feel it is the ultimate place for any Pakistani who does not want to be far away from home. In terms of lifestyle (clothing, food, cars etc.), you can do everything in the UAE that you can in the West, and you will not feel homesick because you can find a Pakistani/desi in every nook and corner. The only major drawback is the weather.

However, I am not a fan of tall buildings and huge roads and a fast-paced, but casual lifestyle. I feel overawed. So any who feels uncomfortable in the North America and comfortable in Europe will not be content with life in the UAE, since it is based on the North American model. Nonetheless, I would opt to live in the UAE over North America any day. At least I can get back to Pakistan in 3 hours.

 

[ExpressPacer]

Haha. Thank you.

As much as I like the US, applying for citizenship and permanently settling there is not something I want to do. Not with my parents in Pakistan.

Travel the world but come back to your sweet home in Pakistan. Gotta respect that.

 

[ExpressPacer]

I've noticed a couple of posters have given a lot of emphasis to the UAE weather and while it certainly is terrible outdoors, I can guarantee that with modern technology, air conditioning and the fast-paced life, you will not feel a thing. Most of the UAE life is indoors - which is particularly why I feel the UAE is a bad place to play Test match cricket because the hear is unbearable.

 

[Jin Chacha]

I am actually doing a project in St. Regis Hotel in Sadiyat Island these days. It is very posh and high end. It is a little bit out of the city though. Main Abu Dhabi City is about 20 mins drive but Yas Island is close by which has a hypermarket for all your groceries. Sadiyat has one of the best beaches in UAE though which is something I really like. There are restaurants within Sadiyat as well and a Spinneys (supermarket). Roads are also developed and its a very quiet, serene area. You wont find any traffic here like the main city.

Thanks again for the info.

However, I am not a fan of tall buildings and huge roads and a fast-paced, but casual lifestyle. I feel overawed. So any who feels uncomfortable in the North America and comfortable in Europe will not be content with life in the UAE, since it is based on the North American model. Nonetheless, I would opt to live in the UAE over North America any day. At least I can get back to Pakistan in 3 hours.

I know exactly where you are coming from. I am not a fan of most big cities in the US especially on the West coast (San Francisco and Salt lake city being the exceptions). For me the sweet spot are small sub urban towns. They usually have all the facilities of the bigger cities but none of the fast paced lifestyle. For some time I lived in a small town of 75,000 people and it was the best time I spent in the US. I didn't even have a car. It was just me, my bicycle, narrow roads winding through the mountains and extremely friendly people. If I ever decide to settle in the US, it would be in some small town in the northwestern states like Wyoming, Montana, Utah or Colorado.

Travel the world but come back to your sweet home in Pakistan. Gotta respect that.

Haha, thank you. Though to be honest sometimes I wonder if I would have been this 'patriotic' had my family not been in Pakistan.

 

[ExpressPacer]

Thanks again for the info.



I know exactly where you are coming from. I am not a fan of most big cities in the US especially on the West coast (San Francisco and Salt lake city being the exceptions). For me the sweet spot are small sub urban towns. They usually have all the facilities of the bigger cities but none of the fast paced lifestyle. For some time I lived in a small town of 75,000 people and it was the best time I spent in the US. I didn't even have a car. It was just me, my bicycle, narrow roads winding through the mountains and extremely friendly people. If I ever decide to settle in the US, it would be in some small town in the northwestern states like Wyoming, Montana, Utah or Colorado.



Haha, thank you. Though to be honest sometimes I wonder if I would have been this 'patriotic' had my family not been in Pakistan.

I agree. Perhaps it is family that keeps me wanting to live in Pakistan. Nonetheless, the lifestyle is also one of the major factors. I lived in NYC, couldn't bring myself to adjust to the fast paced and arduous life. I lived in England for a couple of months during high school and I couldn't fit in. Very tough to live or settle somewhere abroad after having lived in Pakistan.

 

[Badsha]

lol at dubai losing its charm

it was a desert with a shack before that

Maybe be to you. I had a different experience. The place had it's own charm whereas now it's a concrete jungle with influx of foreigners.

 

[LongHorn]

Thank you. That was very helpful.



Thanks. It does seem slightly more expensive than I expected. The living costs seem comparable to the US towns I have lived in so I would do pretty well while I am single but won't be saving much once I have a family. But I am seriously considering giving it a shot as I only need to commit for two to three years.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are both costlier than the US, but you wont notice it much if you are single as school fees are outrageously high for int'l schools.

 

[HussainRx8]

If your priority is to be in close proximity to your parents, then you can't go wrong with Dubai. But be prepared to be treated like a second-class resident with your green passport. Also, it's not an intellectually stimulating place. There's no culture or art. But you'd find plenty of ostentatious and hideous high-rises.

 

[KingKhanWC]

I've visited many times, just recently but never lived there. UK is the best place to live in my opinion but UAE would be second for me. I love the cheap petrol, great restaurants, theme parks, shopping, beaches, low crime rate, sunshine.

The only thing I don't like is there is no historical buildings, greenery and it's not as organised as the UK. The culture is fine but nothing compared to the UK.

 

[Yossarian]

Not bad - as long as you don't mind being treated like a second class citizen by the local Arabs and officialdom. It starts the moment you land and queue up to go through immigration and customs. Although probably not as much of a shock if you've grown up in the sub-Continent as opposed to being born in and/or lived in the West from a very young age.

 

[faraz39]

I was raised in Canada but my wife's family has lived in UAE for over 30 years. I've visited the country several times now in the last 9 years of marriage and it can be a great place based on what your priorities in life are.

Competition is not as high for work, pay is decent, general security, etc. All of this stuff has been well covered in this thread.

The racism portion is very real. You will get stereotyped consistently from the airport to work to shopping malls. Much of it is subtle and sometimes it's very obvious. This might not bother you but it's good to be aware of it before making a decision.

For example: I landed in Dubai after doing hajj so my head was shaved and I was wearing a topi. As I arrived at the luggage belt, there were three other people -- a local woman and two local men also waiting for their luggage. As we are all standing there, the woman's luggage arrives first and it's quite obvious that it's too heavy for her to lift off the belt. The woman looks to her left and right and there is local man on either side of her but then she turns around uses her finger to call me over and points to her luggage (I must have been a good 20-25 feet from her).

I realized what was going on but I had just come back from hajj so I was in a mood of doing good deeds plus she was an older lady. I walked over and silently picked up her bag and placed it in her trolley. She said thanks and walked away.

 

[Slog]

Maybe be to you. I had a different experience. The place had it's own charm whereas now it's a concrete jungle with influx of foreigners.

Yes but there is really no point to Dubai apart from financial pursuit

 

[Jin Chacha]

Thanks for the replies everyone. I am pretty set on moving there as being close to my family is the first priority. I am planning a visit as I will be in Pakistan for Eid anyway.

 

[Slim]

Hey guys, i am planning to move to dubai in August and my office will be in Burj Daman ( Dubai International Financial Centre).

Have couple of questions,

I am planning to get a studio apartment in a nearby area to Burj Daman. Which area would the UAE residents recommend and what would be the rent for a studio apartment?

Can i save around 5k monthly as i am comfortable cooking my own food, do my own dishes and laundry?

Are the resident tower gyms any good or will i have to join a fitness first?

Can i get a bicycle because i love cycling, are there any cycling tracks?

Can i rely wholly on metro for my transport needs?

 

[Abdul]

Try looking for a privately owned gym if you can find one. They're generally maintained better and won't try ripping you off like the corporations do.

 

[Napa]

Can i save around 5k monthly as i am comfortable cooking my own food, do my own dishes and laundry?

USD, EUR, or GBP? I am pretty sure you don't mean PKR.

 

[Slim]

usd, eur, or gbp? I am pretty sure you don't mean pkr.

dhs.

 

[Slim]

Try looking for a privately owned gym if you can find one. They're generally maintained better and won't try ripping you off like the corporations do.

I have never lived there so i guess it will take me time to find one. I will check the free residential gyms in my first try though.

 

[Napa]

dhs.

If you are single, I would think saving 5,000 dhs per month is possible.

 

[midaz]

Hey guys, i am planning to move to dubai in August and my office will be in Burj Daman ( Dubai International Financial Centre).

Have couple of questions,

I am planning to get a studio apartment in a nearby area to Burj Daman. Which area would the UAE residents recommend and what would be the rent for a studio apartment?

Can i save around 5k monthly as i am comfortable cooking my own food, do my own dishes and laundry?

Are the resident tower gyms any good or will i have to join a fitness first?

Can i get a bicycle because i love cycling, are there any cycling tracks?

Can i rely wholly on metro for my transport needs?

Savings will depend on your life style but should be easy for a single person. Most of the towers will have their own small Gyms/swimming pools. FF gyms are all well equipped and have excellent PTs available if you need one. Fore residence, you can check the DIFC, Business Bay, Down Town however they'll be pricey. The major advantage if you live and work in DIFC is that you can do everything just walking: work, gym, small supermarkets, banks, services, plus you are next to the metro . In winter is easy walking distance to Dubai mall as well. You could also take a look at JLT/JBR about 15-20 minutes commute to DIFC.

 

[Little Master]

Hey guys, i am planning to move to dubai in August and my office will be in Burj Daman ( Dubai International Financial Centre).

Have couple of questions,

I am planning to get a studio apartment in a nearby area to Burj Daman. Which area would the UAE residents recommend and what would be the rent for a studio apartment?

Can i save around 5k monthly as i am comfortable cooking my own food, do my own dishes and laundry?

Are the resident tower gyms any good or will i have to join a fitness first?

Can i get a bicycle because i love cycling, are there any cycling tracks?

Can i rely wholly on metro for my transport needs?

Saving 5k per month depends on how much you earn. Getting a studio near DIFC area would at min be 6k to 7k AED per month. If you do not cook yourself and eat out then food costs would be around 2k to 3k. Utilities (electricity + chiller + internet) would be around 1k per month.

You can commute through metro / taxis if your work and residence falls on metro line. Burj Daman building is a bit of a walk from main shaikh zayed road, so unless you get an apartment within DIFC it would not be possible to make that walk specially in summer months.\

As for gyms I have always preferred gyms that are within the building I live in as it is more convenient for me.

 

[Little Master]

Savings will depend on your life style but should be easy for a single person. Most of the towers will have their own small Gyms/swimming pools. FF gyms are all well equipped and have excellent PTs available if you need one. Fore residence, you can check the DIFC, Business Bay, Down Town however they'll be pricey. The major advantage if you live and work in DIFC is that you can do everything just walking: work, gym, small supermarkets, banks, services, plus you are next to the metro . In winter is easy walking distance to Dubai mall as well. You could also take a look at JLT/JBR about 15-20 minutes commute to DIFC.

JLT / JBR will be far from his work. With the same price he can get a studio in Business Bay.

 

[Slim]

Savings will depend on your life style but should be easy for a single person. Most of the towers will have their own small Gyms/swimming pools. FF gyms are all well equipped and have excellent PTs available if you need one. Fore residence, you can check the DIFC, Business Bay, Down Town however they'll be pricey. The major advantage if you live and work in DIFC is that you can do everything just walking: work, gym, small supermarkets, banks, services, plus you are next to the metro . In winter is easy walking distance to Dubai mall as well. You could also take a look at JLT/JBR about 15-20 minutes commute to DIFC.

Could you tell me how much does a FF gym cost on monthly basis with and without trainer?

Exactly, i am looking for an apartment under 1 to 1.5 lakh PKR, the areas you have mentioned would have rents exceeding 2 lakh rupees. How is Al Satwa as an area?

Saving 5k per month depends on how much you earn. Getting a studio near DIFC area would at min be 6k to 7k AED per month. If you do not cook yourself and eat out then food costs would be around 2k to 3k. Utilities (electricity + chiller + internet) would be around 1k per month.

You can commute through metro / taxis if your work and residence falls on metro line. Burj Daman building is a bit of a walk from main shaikh zayed road, so unless you get an apartment within DIFC it would not be possible to make that walk specially in summer months.\

As for gyms I have always preferred gyms that are within the building I live in as it is more convenient for me.

11K per month if i add up the numbers, whereas salary is going to be around 12 to 13k. Haha. Very close numbers.

Which areas do you suggest if i want to get an apartment for 3 to 4k? And do you suggest buying a used car ( on lease)? I am looking at one hyundai sonata 2015 model that costs around 30,000 DHS but i am not sure how much the insurance is going to be and if hyundai has good resale value in Dubai?

 

[KingKhanWC]

I found the memberships expensive compared to the UK but I did enjoy training at Golds Gym.

Care Insurance is cheaper than the UK. 3/4 x the amount in the UK.

Property rent is expensive in any decent area. 3/4 x the amount for the same size property in a nice area in the UK.

Clothes and general supermarket shopping is more costly too.

Restaurants are a fair price for whatever standard you use.

 

[shaz619]

It's just another artificial paradise built on arabs using Pakistani's and Indians as their slaves, yes the same arabs which are worshipped by British Pakistani's and potentially Pakistani natives to. I would avoid it personally but each to their own. No surprises there buddy with the high costs, what do you expect when no one pays tax over there ? they don't need people to pay tax when they pay expats 1 pence per day if they are lucky.

 

[KingKhanWC]

It's just another artificial paradise built on arabs using Pakistani's and Indians as their slaves, yes the same arabs which are worshipped by British Pakistani's and potentially Pakistani natives to. I would avoid it personally but each to their own. No surprises there buddy with the high costs, what do you expect when no one pays tax over there ? they don't need people to pay tax when they pay expats 1 pence per day if they are lucky.

If you have money to spend it's a great place to live. The service you receive is amazing with great shops, restaurants, beaches and sunshine. The wages for proffesionals is higher than the UK. You can live a great lifestyle enjoying tax free luxury. Pakistani and Indians have a choice to enter the country, nobody forces them.

 

[DeadBall]

If you have money to spend it's a great place to live. The service you receive is amazing with great shops, restaurants, beaches and sunshine. The wages for proffesionals is higher than the UK. You can live a great lifestyle enjoying tax free luxury. Pakistani and Indians have a choice to enter the country, nobody forces them.

Agree with most (if you have money) apart from the sunshine bit . More like sunburn. Also they have taxes now.

 

[shaz619]

If you have money to spend it's a great place to live. The service you receive is amazing with great shops, restaurants, beaches and sunshine. The wages for proffesionals is higher than the UK. You can live a great lifestyle enjoying tax free luxury. Pakistani and Indians have a choice to enter the country, nobody forces them.

That's my personal opinion but each to their own, I'd be very happy even in Liverpool with my lottery winnings compared to that place. And true, more money there but it's not everything and I rather benefit the UK economy then a bunch of arabs who are among the biggest mongs in the world

 

[shaz619]

Imagine being given everything in the UK system from when you were a little kid throughout all the hardships (nothing is ever perfect I agree) but eventually you stick at it and go on to gain experiences, qualifications and skills which are then used to benefit another country? Sorry but I would never be that guy even for a million dollars.

 

[KingKhanWC]

That's my personal opinion but each to their own, I'd be very happy even in Liverpool with my lottery winnings compared to that place. And true, more money there but it's not everything and I rather benefit the UK economy then a bunch of arabs who are among the biggest mongs in the world

I dont have issues with any race or ethnicity, most Arabs are good people. They have what they have and are using it for themselves. Once I was stuck on the dessert near the road even in a Range Rover. In over an hour 4 cars stopped themselves to help me, all Arabs not Pakistani's or English. I go there on holiday regularly now not to live and enjoy the luxuries the place has to offer. People generally do whats best for them. If you can earn 3X the amount of wages and be able to have brunch on a nice yacht, drive a sports car, go for walks on nice beaches, see the best entertainers in the world on the weekend, can't blame anyone for moving there.

 

[shaz619]

I dont have issues with any race or ethnicity, most Arabs are good people. They have what they have and are using it for themselves. Once I was stuck on the dessert near the road even in a Range Rover. In over an hour 4 cars stopped themselves to help me, all Arabs not Pakistani's or English. I go there on holiday regularly now not to live and enjoy the luxuries the place has to offer. People generally do whats best for them. If you can earn 3X the amount of wages and be able to have brunch on a nice yacht, drive a sports car, go for walks on nice beaches, see the best entertainers in the world on the weekend, can't blame anyone for moving there.

It's really good they helped a very hard working and well off British Citizen in his super car during the time of need. But I am sure that majority of people do not share the same view as you unless they are arab boot lickers. There are plenty of ways to make 3X as much wages and in a more halal way beyond scamming dopey arabs who will throw dolla at anyone with a foreign passport and there are plenty of other places to enjoy that same luxury lifestyle with the peace of mind that some Pakistani didn't die at the expense of my pleasure. But like I said, each to their own that's my opinion and if other people want to enjoy Dubai then so be it.

 

[DeadBall]

I dont have issues with any race or ethnicity, most Arabs are good people. They have what they have and are using it for themselves. Once I was stuck on the dessert near the road even in a Range Rover. In over an hour 4 cars stopped themselves to help me, all Arabs not Pakistani's or English. I go there on holiday regularly now not to live and enjoy the luxuries the place has to offer. People generally do whats best for them. If you can earn 3X the amount of wages and be able to have brunch on a nice yacht, drive a sports car, go for walks on nice beaches, see the best entertainers in the world on the weekend, can't blame anyone for moving there.

Lol at most Arabs are good people just because they helped tow your SUV. Wonder how many would have stopped if you were standing in the summer heat dressed in workers clothes trying to get a lift from point A to point B.

Also you are right, it's a great place to vacation but yu will immediately change your opinion if you have to live there, especially as a foreigner, without your British passport.

 

[KingKhanWC]

It's really good they helped a very hard working and well off British Citizen in his super car during the time of need. But I am sure that majority of people do not share the same view as you unless they are arab boot lickers. There are plenty of ways to make 3X as much wages and in a more halal way beyond scamming dopey arabs who will throw dolla at anyone with a foreign passport and there are plenty of other places to enjoy that same luxury lifestyle with the peace of mind that some Pakistani didn't die at the expense of my pleasure. But like I said, each to their own that's my opinion and if other people want to enjoy Dubai then so be it.

lol. What do you think the response will be be if you told a Pakistani labourer in Dubai to go back because you care about him not dying and being used as a slave? He will tell you to give him the same monthly wage so he can feed his family in Pakistan or go and find some other cause which helps you sleep at night. Slaves = forced to work for nothing. Immigrant labourers = Poor people who choose to work in tough conditions.


Sure plenty of other places to enjoy but the worlds richest people dont all go to Dubai because it's like everywhere else because it's not in many ways.

 

[shaz619]

lol. What do you think the response will be be if you told a Pakistani labourer in Dubai to go back because you care about him not dying and being used as a slave? He will tell you to give him the same monthly wage so he can feed his family in Pakistan or go and find some other cause which helps you sleep at night. Slaves = forced to work for nothing. Immigrant labourers = Poor people who choose to work in tough conditions.


Sure plenty of other places to enjoy but the worlds richest people dont all go to Dubai because it's like everywhere else because it's not in many ways.

Yeah I bet all of that makes you sleep better at night lad good for you bud

 

[KingKhanWC]

Lol at most Arabs are good people just because they helped tow your SUV. Wonder how many would have stopped if you were standing in the summer heat dressed in workers clothes trying to get a lift from point A to point B.

Also you are right, it's a great place to vacation but yu will immediately change your opinion if you have to live there, especially as a foreigner, without your British passport.

Well im not in that position and if I was I'd accept my reality and do what I need to earn some corn.

I was giving one example, I've been to Oman and Saudi too. In Oman the people are some of the most friendly people in the world. Sure some Arabs are arrogant but i've never had such an experience with any Arab. They have always been respectful, polite and good to talk to. Even in places such as Egypt, the people are great.

What experiences have you had makes you not like Arabs?

 

[KingKhanWC]

Yeah I bet all of that makes you sleep better at night lad good for you bud

I dont stay up worrying about other peoples issues unless it's Jurgen Klopp

 

[DeadBall]

What experiences have you had makes you not like Arabs?

I am half Arab and my mother is from Dubai. I was born and brought up there and am more Arab than most Arabs as she had a Bedouin lineage and was brought up in that culture. Most of them don't consider many mixed Emaratis as locals (me being one of them). You can go to all the Gulf countries as a British expat but trust me, I know what I'm talking about.

Also you are mixing up Africans with people from the Gulf, Egyptians aren't Arabs.

 

[KingKhanWC]

I am half Arab and my mother is from Dubai. I was born and brought up there. You can go to all the Gulf countries as a British expat but trust me, I know what I'm talking about.

When I travelled to Arab nations, they didn't see me as a British expat, they saw me as a Pakistani living in the UK and it didn't bother me at all. There is good and bad in every race or culture. Try coming to England and not being able to speak English and see if you are treated well by the host members. Does that mean English are arrogant, no they are liberal chilled people in general.

 

[shaz619]

I dont stay up worrying about other peoples issues unless it's Jurgen Klopp

Fair enough then mate, you're forgiven for worshipping the Arabs who'd treat you like the stuff in the toilet were it not for your passport and wealth

 

[DeadBall]

When I travelled to Arab nations, they didn't see me as a British expat, they saw me as a Pakistani living in the UK and it didn't bother me at all. There is good and bad in every race or culture. Try coming to England and not being able to speak English and see if you are treated well by the host members. Does that mean English are arrogant, no they are liberal chilled people in general.

How did they know that. Were you advertising it to everyone you met?

I have lived in England for 2 years during my studies, It was one of the worst experiences of my life in terms of racism and passive aggressiveness in an European country (and I have lived in quite a few) ever, however doesn't change the fact that you don't know much about the "Arab nations" as you so put it as you have only traveled there as a tourist and with a British passport. The real world is somewhat different.

 

[KingKhanWC]

How did they know that. Were you advertising it to everyone you met?

I have lived in England for 2 years during my studies, It was one of the worst experiences of my life in terms of racism and passive aggressiveness in an European country (and I have lived in quite a few) ever, however doesn't change the fact that you don't know much about the "Arab nations" as you so put it as you have only traveled there as a tourist and with a British passport. The real world is somewhat different.

No they ask because I speak English and tell me I'm Pakistani really but as I said it's not a problem, I'm proud to be of my Pakistani heritage, so call me Pakistani no problem.

England is actually a very welcoming country over all. Sure there us racism, which has grown over recent years mainly due to the negative propaganda in the right wing media but there are probably more mixed marriages between white and people of colour than anywhere else in Europe. Coloured people have reached the highest places in all areas of society including government. Which city or area where you staying while studying? And as a British person I feel sad to read you had a terrible experience here.

I never claimed to be an expert on Arab nations or an expert on the good and bad of Arab people, I was merely giving my personal experiences of travelling the Arab world. Im glad to say all my interactions with Arabs have been great. Mo Salah is Arab, he is more humble and respectful than any other well known footballer on the planet in my opinion. Our Prophet(pbuh) was an Arab. If all you want to keep telling me is I know nothing without explaining your reasoning, there is nothing more to discuss.

 

[Suleiman]

Re: cycling

If you are an outdoorsy person, forget about doing anything outdoors over there unless you plan to go out at night or at the end of the year when it's slightly cooler. You will feel like you are pedaling in an oven otherwise.

Thankfully there is plenty of indoor stuff to do in Dubai, they have an indoor snow place, plenty of gyms, etc. You'll enjoy all that.

 

[Suleiman]

Lol at most Arabs are good people just because they helped tow your SUV. Wonder how many would have stopped if you were standing in the summer heat dressed in workers clothes trying to get a lift from point A to point B.

Also you are right, it's a great place to vacation but yu will immediately change your opinion if you have to live there, especially as a foreigner, without your British passport.

Agree with your opinion on arabs in arab countries. Those brought up in the West or away from their homes are more genuine human beings, but 90% of the ones you interact with in the gulf are egotistical and full of themselves, if you are not from the gulf, doesn't matter if arab or not, you are immediately looked down upon.

If you clash with an arab and the law is involved, pretty much every time the arab will come out on top even if he is the wrong, why? Because "connections", or as they say in Qatar, wasta

 

[proud_pakistani]

Firstly ur query whether u can save AED 5k a month. Depends on the salary but if you are working in DIFC I am guessing you are earning well enough to save that amount. I would tho say you may be better off saving if you moved slightly towards Bur Dubai, Satwa, Barsha or Jumeirah Lake Towers. Rents are much lower there but ur commute will be increased.

As for gyms buildings in DIFC generally maintain their gyms better than those in the areas I have mentioned. If you are looking for a really good gym and cheap there are plenty of warehouse gyms in Al Quoz area.

Cycling u will only realistically have tracks in Downtown or in Jumeirah Lake Towers and 6 months out of the year its unbearable to go outside let alone cycle.

Metro is great but won't be able to get you every where. Bus system is not that great. Car in my opinion is a must and its not all that expensive either. You will easily get a car loan. You can get an economical car like a Toyota Yaris in 70k with 20% down-payment. Your approx monthly installment will be 1k on a 5 year loan. Of course there are other options also in the second hand market. Hope this helps.

 

[LongHorn]

You can try one of the older towers in Shaikh Zayed road for cheaper studios. depending on the location you may be able to even walk to DIFC in the cooler months.

Housing market is not doing good, and you should be able to pick up good deals, and try to insist on more cheques (at least 4 or 6) for a years payments.

You can rely on the Metro as a single, but it would be a combination of Metro and taxi/bus, as the Metro does not go to many places.

Cycling is a possibility but not feasible in the DIFC/Downtown area; there are tracks in Qudra and other areas

 

[LongHorn]

As for a car, buying second hand isn't exactly recommended IMO for a newcomer. If you are not sure if you will stay for more than a year or 2, it may be a better idea to rent from Thrifty or one of the cheaper companies.

If you are planning to stay for a few years, buy a new Japanese car (Big 3).

Buying 2nd hand is better if you have stayed for some time and know the market and what type of problems cars would have

 

[Little Master]

As for a car, buying second hand isn't exactly recommended IMO for a newcomer. If you are not sure if you will stay for more than a year or 2, it may be a better idea to rent from Thrifty or one of the cheaper companies.

If you are planning to stay for a few years, buy a new Japanese car (Big 3).

Buying 2nd hand is better if you have stayed for some time and know the market and what type of problems cars would have

Buying a second hand car is the best option. You can get a used toyota corolla or honda civic for around 30k to 40k and you can use that without any worry or outrageous maintenance costs for 3 to 4 years easily.

If OP is looking for cheaper places to live i.e. with rent of around 2k to 3k per month he will have to move to either Silicon Oasis / International City etc. and while living there you definitely need a car. Getting a drivers license is an expensive endeavor though.

 

[LongHorn]

Corolla or Civic has pretty high resale value, and so something used 30-40k will be quite old or high mileage.

And also having to cough up that much amount initially instead of financing a new car with a 20% downpayment of maybe 12-14000 for a Nissan Sentra/Tiida