Dubai is one of the seven emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates. although the term is also used to describe the Emirates largest city, Dubai City.  Strangely for a country situated deep in the heart of oil country, the nation does not actually have significant oil reserves - it makes up only a very small percentage of the economy.

However, Dubai does have a style and sophistication all of its own and has developed at lightening fast pace over the last 20 years or so.  The country is well known for a number of innovative issues, and while human rights problems have been highlighted in years gone by, this area of society has improved.

Dubai has a very strong relationship with the likes of Great Britain, with whom the country had a protection agreement in the late 1880s.  This agreement was later withdrawn and the country set about building its own culture, economy and way of life.  Dubai is most definitely one of the major successes of the Middle East region, encompassing both traditional local customs and laws, while embracing a European way of life at the same time.

The visa situation in Dubai is a little complicated with countries such as the UK, France, Germany, etc all welcomed without tourist visas.  There are however many other countries such as Israel, where entry is either prohibited or near impossible. Permanent residency visa are also easier for European nationals to obtain, and while the process includes a medical, and vast quantities of paperwork, the majority will be successful.

It is paramount that Expats wanting to live in Dubai check their personal situation before travelling there as a tourist or possible foreign national. 

Contents: Culture in Dubai |  Employment in Dubai | Property in Dubai | Dubai Key Facts

Culture in Dubai

The country has a fairly small population in the region of 1.5 million, but a large array of different cultures.  The area itself dates back centuries and many of the old customs and beliefs are still present in society.  It is however one of the few Middle East countries which have been able to embrace parts of the Western culture into their own society.  

The population is predominately expats, from areas such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Philippines with only 3% of the population made up of so called Western expats.  The country also has a number of unofficial workers who live in the specific labour accommodation built over the years - many of these are not even countered in the population figures.

The Western media seem to concentrate on the rich side of Dubai, often ignoring the relative poverty which many have to endure. That is not say that inroads have not been made with regards to the less well off, but it is taking some time to have a real impact - the cost of living and property is not exactly assisting.

In general Dubai has an excellent reputation for modern services such as schools, hospitals together with an excellent transport network.  East and West in perfect harmony?

Employment in Dubai

Dubai has for some time been the trade route from West to East and still remains that way for many businesses. The country has attracted many Western based companies to set up offices for direct trade in the region, and the very favourable tax regime assists both employers and employees.

The country has created a very impressive service industry which is going from strength to strength, although the country has for some time being better known for its property sector.  The area is awash with new developments which seem to be springing up on a daily basis, and while many have predicted a crash in the construction sector, there are no signs at the moment.  

Dubai has a minimal unemployment rate and is among the safest countries you could visit in the world.  This has in turn has led to a large increase in the tourist market over recent years, and while not the cheapest area for a vacation, the service is immaculate, the sights are breath taking and everything seems to be within touching distance.

The expats market have taken advantage of the requirement for skilled professionals, and many are fast tracked into the country under employment sponsorship packages, used to bring in required labour at short notice.  Finance, legal, manufacturing, the service sector and property seem be the main areas of economic activity.

Property in Dubai

Dubai has some of the most expensive properties in the world and while prices have risen constantly for some time, there does not appear to be any sign of them slowing down.  The main reasons for the growth in property prices are immigration, economic growth and the lack of surrounding land to develop.

The ruling authorities introduced a foreign property ownership law in 2002, which repealed some of the historic bars on foreign ownership.  This has also been a major reason for the current strength in the market, and demand for new build.

While there are some concerns that too many developments are on going, and due to come on line around the same time, the increasing influx of foreign nationals continues thereby pushing prices higher and higher.  The rental sector has even seen rises in the region of 30% over the last 12 months!

The beautiful landscapes of this ancient land are now dominated by some of the largest buildings in the world, which seem to push back the realms of engineering further and further.

Conclusion

Even after the recent economic boom, Dubai is still going from strength to strength, attracting more and more immigrant workers, many of who are looking to obtain residency.  The mix of ethnic groups has created one of the Middle East’s largest multi-cultural societies and while old beliefs and practices are still observed, the authorities have been accommodating for many Western ways.

The potential for a foreign national gaining employment in the region is fairly high, as more and more western companies look to create a trade link with the area.  The favourable tax situation, not to mention the welcoming nature of the locals all adds to the mix, which is also having a positive impact on the tourist trade.

An old country with a young economy which is going from strength to strength, and offers a great resting place for those brave enough to take the plunge.

More facts about Dubai :-

Capital : Dubai City

Official Language : Arabic, although English is also wide spread

Government : Sheikh

Size : 4,114 km2

Population : 1.5 million

Currency : Dirham

International Dialling Code : +971

Economy : 38th largest in the world

Religion : Islam