Expat Lifestyle in Dubai – Your 2025 Guide
Moving to Dubai feels like stepping into a city that never stops. Skyscrapers, desert rides, and a mix of cultures make it exciting, but the everyday details can catch you off guard. This guide pulls together the most asked‑about topics – money, neighborhoods, safety, dress, and simple rules – so you can settle in without missing a beat.
Budget & Money Matters
First thing on any expat’s list is cash. A common question is, "How much should I bring for a week?" Our 7‑day budget article breaks the numbers down: about AED 2,500–3,000 for food, transport, and entry fees if you stay modest, and roughly AED 5,000–6,500 for a more comfortable week. Credit cards work in malls and hotels, but keep a handful of dirhams for markets, small cafes, and tips.
If you earn in dollars, remember the conversion rate (≈AED 3.67 per USD). While many places accept USD for large purchases, you’ll get a better rate swapping at banks or using ATMs. The "US Dollars in Dubai" guide details where you can’t use foreign cash and how to avoid extra fees.
Living Comfortably: Where to Stay & What to Expect
Choosing a neighborhood defines your daily life. Downtown gives you skyline views and easy metro access, Marina offers waterfront walks and nightlife, while Deira feels more budget‑friendly with a local vibe. Our "Where to Stay in Dubai 2025" comparison lists average nightly rates, commute times to business districts, and family‑friendly spots.
Unmarried couples worry about hotel policies. In 2025 you can share a room with your partner; hotels ask for IDs and sometimes a marriage certificate for certain room types, but most upscale venues are used to foreign guests. The same rules apply for two men sharing a bedroom – it’s fine as long as public decency is respected.
Airbnb is legal, but short‑term rentals need a registered permit. The "Is Airbnb Legal in Dubai?" article walks you through the safe way to book and what to watch for in the contract.
For everyday comfort, know the bathroom etiquette: Dubai uses both toilet paper and a bidet spray. Pack a small bottle of travel‑size liquid soap if you prefer a specific brand – most hotels provide basic supplies.
Safety is another top concern. Dubai ranks high on global safety indexes, but laws are strict. Public gestures like the middle finger can lead to fines, and PDA (hand‑holding, kissing) is allowed for married couples in low‑key settings. Unmarried couples can still share rooms but should keep affection subtle in public. The "Is Dubai Safe for Tourists" guide gives a quick neighborhood safety checklist.
Dress code matters too. Shorts are fine at beaches and malls, but avoid them in mosques or government buildings. Women can show cleavage in upscale venues but covering shoulders in religious sites is required. Our "Can You Wear Shorts in Dubai?" and "Cleavage in Dubai" posts give easy‑to‑remember rules.
Language isn’t a barrier – English is widely spoken in shops, hotels, and business offices. Signs are bilingual, and most service staff switch to English when they see a foreign accent. Still, learning a few Arabic phrases (like "shukran" for thank you) earns goodwill and makes everyday interactions smoother.
Finally, remember the little things that make life easier: vaping is restricted in public areas, alcohol is only legal in licensed venues, and you can’t bring certain meds like ibuprofen without declaring them. Check the specific guides on vaping bans, alcohol rules, and medication import to avoid surprises at the airport.
Living in Dubai as an expat is a blend of luxury, cultural respect, and practical planning. Use the linked articles as a checklist, keep an eye on local news, and you’ll enjoy the city’s fast‑paced life without hassle.
