Simple questions and answers for a lady moving to Dubai

Knowing when to cover-up

There are many times when people are looking to move overseas that the very simple questions are left unanswered. This thread offers an interesting look into some of the more basic questions that people would like answered but are very often afraid to ask. Hopefully as this thread progresses and grows we will see more and more questions asked and more and more questions answered, creating a very useful online database for those looking to move to Dubai.

The background to the thread

While this particular thread began in March 2008 it is still very active today and one which looks like growing into the future and beyond. The lady in question, back in March 2008, was already counting the days until she departed for Dubai and we can therefore assume she has left her homeland for her adventure in the Middle East.

Rather than cover each question in brief, we will cover the main questions in detail and also open debates regarding other information requested:-

Doctors

When moving to a foreign land, especially for ladies, it can be very difficult to find a sympathetic doctor for ladies issues. This is the first question which has been asked and one which many ladies would appreciate if they’re looking to move to Dubai in due course.

It is apparent from a very early stage that recommendations are perhaps the best way to go forward with regards to a new doctor when you have moved to Dubai. Forums such as the expat forum offer a perfect environment to ask questions and take advice from those who have been there and done it. This is the perfect example of how to use a forum although there are many lady doctors you can check out individually when you get there.

Contraceptive pill

This is an issue which is particularly sensitive for ladies in Dubai as cohabitation by unmarried couples is often frowned upon as is intimate activity between these parties. However, this is one of many Dubai laws and cultural issues that are often overlooked in relation to Western visitors. As a consequence, it appears as though the contraceptive pill is easily available in shops in the region and not too expensive.

One poster on the thread has suggested using the packaging from your old contraceptive pill to try and match it with the same or a similar medication in Dubai.

Beauticians

The very thorny subject of waxing is the basis of the beauticians question with a Brazilian wax specifically mentioned. Many people will be surprised to know that aside from the fact that Brazilian waxing is readily available in Dubai it seems as though Arab ladies typically remove all of their body hair at least once a month. These are the kind of details which very few people will be aware of!

The beach

Sunbathing on the beach and wearing appropriate attire is something which has attracted rumours and counter rumours amongst those looking to move to Dubai. It seems as though your traditional bikinis, as opposed to thongs and tiny bikinis, are more than acceptable but topless sunbathing is very much frowned upon. There is a suggestion that when away from the beach you should have something to cover your shoulders and the majority of your legs in line with the local culture.

For those looking at specific beaches where they can sunbathe and relax, there is a suggestion that some beaches are more welcoming and comfortable for Western visitors than others and it is just a matter of looking around.

Aussie Miracle hair products

As the lady in question is from Australia originally she has mentioned hair products by the name of “Aussie Miracle” and whether they are available in Dubai. So far there has been a little comment regarding its availability in the region although if required it can be imported in for her personal use.

Instant messaging systems

As the likes of MSN and Facebook continue to grow in popularity around the world a discussion regarding their use in Dubai has been opened up. Again, this is a particular area where there are rumours and counter rumours regarding censorship and Internet activity. In essence it appears as though the likes of MSN and Facebook are allowed, although there are rumours you may be monitored, but certain links and certain websites are banned.

As one poster suggested, you will soon get used to the front page announcements confirming which websites and which links have been banned by the Dubai authorities.

Aside from the above questions which were detailed in the original thread, there are signs of new discussions and new issues arising. One such issue is:-

Condoms

Again this is a very tricky situation for those living in Dubai because strictly speaking only married couples are allowed to indulge in sexual activity. However, it does appear that condoms are available in various retail outlets with limited or no censorship at all. Even though this is the case, this is not the green light to indulge in activities which may offend your neighbours!

The future of this thread

A number of people on the thread have seemingly found information listed at the moment of great interest when looking to move to Dubai. The more information and questions which can be asked and answered the better the thread will become and the more valuable to ladies looking to move to Dubai. It may also prove useful to gentlemen moving there with their companions or even on their own as it will give a general opinion and general outlook on certain aspects of Dubai society.

Conclusion

While sexual activity between unmarried couples in Dubai is officially frowned upon many people may be surprised at the availability of contraceptive pills and condoms in particular. Other issues including the subject of beachwear and beauticians are also discussed on the thread with a number of posters coming forward with their opinions and valuable information.

While there would seem to be an air of acceptability regarding various issues which many had assumed would be no-go areas, there may be some doctors and officials in the area who will be less than sympathetic towards unmarried couples who are asking about contraceptive pills and condoms for instance. Not everybody is as understanding to Western ways as some people might have you believe!

Tagged as: bikinis, condoms, contraception, Dubai, ladies