Hi Simon,
If you post on the Dubai board perhaps we can answer any specific questions you may have.
Im glad you have been looking at the price of rentals, as they are very expensive !!
Yes, lots of people still head over, but those who may not have done their "homework" on the cost of living, tend to head back after a year or so...so do homework before you make the commitment.
Yes salaries are tax free, but that also depends how long you are here (ie heading back to your home country within a certain time frame, makes you liable for paying tax)
There are fees and charges on lots of things, so for some, it makes very little difference re the tax.
Please yell out if I can help you with any other questions.
Cheers