Approximately 67% of the expatriate population (and 71% of the emirate's total population) is South Asian. About 25% of the population have Iranian origin. About 8% of the total population of Dubai is categorized as "Western".
While taking a closer look at the 2021 UAE population by nationality, there are people from more than 200 nationalities living and working in the country. Currently, the Indian population in UAE is the highest with 2.75 million, followed by Pakistanis with 1.27 million.
An estimated 15,000 Australians live and work in the UAE.
The UAE's favourable tax system is one of the biggest draws for foreign workers. There is no income tax, meaning you keep 100% of your monthly salary. Although your salary in the UAE may be tax-free, taxes are levied by the government. For example, a 10% tax is applied to food and alcohol at restaurants.
Australians. Australians in the United Arab Emirates consist of 16,000 expatriates, most of whom live in Dubai and the capital of Abu Dhabi. Australians have been attracted by the lifestyle Dubai offers, including the wealth of outdoor activities for their families.
The largest group of non-UAE nationals are South Asian 59.4% (includes Indians 38.2%, Bangladeshi 9.5%, Pakistani 9.4%, others 2.3%), Egyptian 10.2%, Filipino 6.1%, other 12.8%. Female citizens and non-citizens account for 28% percent of the UAE's population due to the high level of male foreign workers.
Approximately 11 percent of the population are citizens, of whom more than 85 percent are Sunni Muslims, according to media reports. The vast majority of the remainder are Shia Muslims, who are concentrated in the Emirates of Dubai and Sharjah.
Dubai Demographics
The population is also composed of just 15% native residents, with the remaining 85% being composed of expatriates. About 85% of the expatriate population – or 71% of the total population -- is Asian, primarily from India (accounting for 51%).
About 80% of the population of Dubai are foreigners. It is known as “The City of Gold” due to its growing economic structure, culture, and lifestyle. Therefore, it is no wonder that many Americans are moving to the United Arab Emirates to live in an ever-growing city of Dubai.
What is the official language in Dubai? Dubai's official language is Arabic but there are many variations prevalent in the city. Standard Arabic – the modernised, literary version – is the one you'll encounter in all legal, administrative and government texts, as well as books and newspapers.
Generally, the legal age for drinking alcohol is 18 in Abu Dhabi, but a Ministry of Tourism by-law prevents hotels from serving alcohol to those under the age of 21. In Dubai and all other emirates besides Sharjah, the drinking age is 21. Drinking alcohol in Sharjah is illegal.
Home to over 200 nationalities worldwide, Dubai perfectly blends its rich culture and heritage into every aspect of the city. Experience the Emirati culture with its unique mix of traditional Arab and Bedouin cultures that hold strong influences from Persian, South Asian, and African cultures.
Dragon City
Since the arrival of Sara's grandparents, Dubai has moved decisively from haven to hub for its thriving Chinese expat community.
What is the average salary in Dubai? According to Salary Explorer, the average salary in Dubai is 258,000 AED per year (70,256 USD as per exchange rates in 2023).
Do women have to wear a hijab in Dubai? As women tourists, it is not compulsory or required for women to wear hijab, burqa, or any traditional attire of Dubai. What can women wear in public in Dubai? Women tourists can wear anything they like in Dubai as long as it covers their shoulders and knees.
Is Christianity legal in UAE? Christians and other religions are allowed to have their places of worship in Dubai. However, they cannot convert a muslim into their religion, however, they can convert to Islam if they want.
You can witness Christmas traditions from across the world here. As Christmas is not a public holiday in Dubai, all western traditions are followed in Dubai. You will find giant Christmas trees and Santas on the streets and Christmas lights.
Dubai is home to more than 200 cent-millionaires and has been ranked among the world's top 20 cities. According to a study released by Henley & Partners, the emirate is home to 202 super-wealthy or centi-millionaires and has been ranked 18th among top cities.
Emiratis do not deny the rights of immigrants to live among them, but do not accept them as a majority. Since they are a minority, citizens try to self-isolate in certain areas away from the migrant zones.
Economy. Australia has a GDP per capita of $48,700 as of 2020, while in United Arab Emirates, the GDP per capita is $67,100 as of 2019.
Australia vs United Arab Emirates - Cost of Living Comparison. The average cost of living in Australia ($2104) is 40% more expensive than in the United Arab Emirates ($1498). Australia ranked 11th vs 28th for the United Arab Emirates in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.
Australian passport holders (regular)
Australians may obtain a free multiple-entry Visit Visa of 30 days' validity (with an additional 10-day grace period) on arrival at any UAE international land, air or sea port. This visa does not permit the holder to undertake paid or unpaid employment in the UAE.
Tourism is a major economic source of income in Dubai and part of the Dubai government's strategy to maintain the flow of foreign cash into the emirates.