Popular Areas for British Expats in Dubai to Rent Apartments
Based on trends observed overtime, the most popular places to live in Dubai for British expats for those who prefer flats, include Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Residence.
Dubai offers tax-free living for everyone. Whether you are employed in any organisation or running your own business in this city, you will not pay any taxes on your income. The tax-free salaries in Dubai make it one of the best places to build one's future.
As one of the older areas of Dubai, Mirdif has an established, community feel. Although there are some palatial mansions, the majority of villas are medium-sized and typically grouped into family-friendly compounds. Local Emiratis live in Mirdif.
As of June 2022, Dubai is home to 67,900 millionaires. 35% of whom live in Jumeirah First, Al Barsha, and Jumeirah. “Jumeirah is defined by its upmarket, suburban atmosphere. As well as its proximity to both the sea and Downtown.” “Al Barsha is perfect for rich families because of the number of schools.
Moving to Dubai from New Zealand based on employment is a two-step process: the first one is completed by the employer who obtains authorization for bringing the immigrant to Dubai; the second one is completed by the immigrant who must file the application with the UAE Embassy in New Zealand.
According to Salary Explorer, the average salary in Dubai is 258,000 AED per year (70,256 USD as per exchange rates in 2023). This figure can help you get an overview of Dubai's economy and its standard of living.
Deira is the oldest district in Dubai. More authentic than the ultra modern districts of the city, this district is also one of the poorest. It is populated mainly by workers who come from abroad (Nepal, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, China).
Avoiding Bad Neighborhoods
Avoid Sonapur, where many international workers live. Deira and Bur Dubai are also rather seedy, so you should avoid these areas. If you're female and traveling alone, you should avoid these areas, given the lax laws against rape and strict rules against prostitution.
Palm Jumeirah is one of the most prestigious addresses in the world. Many people believe that it is one of the most beautiful communities in Dubai, where you can find stunning grand family homes on a palm tree-shaped island. More amazingly, every villa in Palm Jumeirah has its own private beach. Yes, this is awesome!
Al Barsha. Al Barsha is one of the most popular destinations for expats moving to Dubai. Because of its close proximity to 2 of the major roads, Al Barsha is easily commutable for workers in Media City, Internet City and Emaar Business Park.
With a tax-free wage and a multicultural lifestyle, Dubai has become a very popular relocation point – for both young people and families. The job market is on the rise, and there are some great career opportunities out there for both junior and senior roles.
Swearing and making rude gestures (including online) are considered obscene acts and offenders can be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and there have been several arrests for kissing in public.
Tourists are permitted to drink in licensed restaurants, hotels and bars attached to licensed hotels. It is unacceptable and punishable to drink in public places—even beaches. Dubai is incredibly strict about public drunkenness and has zero tolerance for drinking and driving.
New Zealand Citizens
Visas are valid for entry to the UAE up to 30 days from the date of issue. Passengers must have a valid onward flight booking outside of the UAE and a valid hotel booking for the duration of the stay in the country.
The average after-tax salary is enough to cover living expenses for 1.7 months in Auckland compared to 2.3 months in Dubai. Auckland ranked 1st best city to live in New Zealand vs Dubai ranked 1st in the United Arab Emirates, while ranked 97th and 130th among best cities to live in the world.
Among the 200 different nationalities that have made the UAE their temporary home are a 6000-strong contingent of Kiwis, the majority of whom live in the country's most-populous emirate, Dubai.
As per the 2023 UAE laws in effect, one can obtain Dubai (UAE) residence through employment, purchase of real estate or business visa/ freelance visa. Once you obtain UAE residence, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of living in the UAE, including being allowed to open a bank account in Dubai.
Summary of cost of living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,772.5$ (13,856.1AED) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,080.7$ (3,969.4AED) without rent. Dubai is 34.0% less expensive than New York (without rent).
“If you look at migration worldwide, what's at the heart of attracting people? It's opportunity, and Dubai has long been a well-established business hub, but it's more than that,” explains Khan. “Dubai offers lifestyle choices. You have the freedom to practise religion or not to practise religion.