Cost of Living
The cost of living in the UAE is considered high, particularly in the major cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where housing, education, and general living expenses can be quite costly.
Weather
The UAE experiences a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters. Temperatures in the summer can exceed 40°C (104°F), with high humidity levels in coastal areas. Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). Rainfall is infrequent and irregular, occurring mainly in winter.
Educational System UAE
The educational system in the UAE is a reflection of the country's commitment to providing high-quality education to its residents. The system is divided into public and private sectors, with the Ministry of Education overseeing public schools and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) overseeing private schools in Dubai. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of six and eighteen. The grade levels are structured as follows: Kindergarten (4-5 years old), Primary (Grade 1-5), Middle (Grade 6-8), Secondary (Grade 9-12), and Higher Secondary (Grade 12). Children typically start school at the age of four or five and graduate at eighteen. The curriculum in public schools is standardized with a focus on the Arabic language, Islamic studies, and social studies, while private schools offer various curricula including British, American, Indian, and International Baccalaureate (IB). The UAE places a strong emphasis on education with a significant portion of the national budget allocated to this sector, resulting in high-quality facilities and resources. Many schools in the UAE are equipped with modern technology and emphasize English language proficiency alongside Arabic. For expatriate families, the UAE offers a wide range of international schools that cater to various educational systems and cultural backgrounds, ensuring a smooth transition for children from different parts of the world.
Healthcare in UAE
The healthcare system in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its high standard and advanced medical facilities. It consists of a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides low-cost or free services to UAE nationals, while expatriates are required to have health insurance to access these services. The private healthcare sector is robust and offers high-quality services, often preferred by expatriates and those seeking specialized treatments. The quality of healthcare in both public and private sectors is generally considered excellent, with state-of-the-art medical technology and highly trained medical professionals. The cost of private healthcare can be high, but it is offset by mandatory health insurance for expatriates. Expats and digital nomads can gain access to public healthcare by obtaining health insurance as per the regulations of the emirate they reside in. In Dubai, for example, the Health Insurance Law of 2014 mandates that all residents, including expatriates, must have a level of health insurance that meets or exceeds minimum benefits stipulated by the Dubai Health Authority.