Digital Nomad Life in Fujairah, the UAE
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Fujairah, UAE. Get tips from others living in Fujairah about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Fujairah and more.
Where should I live in Fujairah?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Fujairah, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could be an apartment, a villa, or a townhouse. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Fujairah to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Al Faseel, Al Gurf, and Fujairah Tower. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, availability of public transportation, and nearby amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you've identified a few potential neighborhoods, you can start your property search. There are several online real estate portals that list properties for rent or sale in Fujairah, such as Bayut, Property Finder, and Dubizzle. These websites allow you to filter listings by area, property type, price range, and other criteria. You can also hire a real estate agent to help you find a property. They can provide valuable local knowledge, arrange viewings, and negotiate with landlords or sellers on your behalf. Make sure to choose a reputable agent who is registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in the UAE. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing to inspect it in person. Check the condition of the property, ask about any additional fees or charges, and find out about the terms of the lease or sale agreement. Finally, once you've found a property you want to move into, you'll need to sign a contract and pay a deposit. In the UAE, it's common to pay rent in one or two lump sums rather than monthly. You'll also need to provide some documents, such as a copy of your passport and UAE residence visa, and possibly a letter from your employer confirming your salary. Remember, it's important to read the contract carefully and make sure you understand all the terms before signing. If you're not comfortable with the language of the contract, consider hiring a lawyer to review it," explained one expat living in Fujairah, the UAE.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Fujairah?
"Expats in Fujairah, often appreciate the warm hospitality and friendliness of the local people. They are known for their welcoming nature and willingness to help newcomers settle in. The rich Emirati culture, with its unique traditions, festivals, and cuisine, is also highly appreciated. Expats enjoy the peaceful lifestyle and slower pace of life in Fujairah compared to other bustling cities in the UAE. The respect for family values and the emphasis on community in the local culture is also something that many expats appreciate. The local culture's emphasis on cleanliness and orderliness is also highly valued. Lastly, the safety and security provided by the local government is something that expats in Fujairah deeply appreciate," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Fujairah.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Fujairah?
"Expats in Fujairah often find the language barrier to be a significant challenge, as Arabic is the official language and not everyone is fluent in English. The strict adherence to Islamic customs and traditions can also be difficult for expats to navigate, particularly in relation to dress codes and public behavior. The extreme heat during summer months can be hard to adjust to, especially for those from cooler climates. The slower pace of life and the concept of 'Arab time', where punctuality is not always prioritized, can be frustrating for those used to more time-conscious cultures. The bureaucracy and red tape involved in dealing with government departments can also be challenging. Lastly, the high cost of living and the lack of certain amenities that they might be used to in their home countries can also be a struggle for some expats," said one person in Fujairah.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Fujairah for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Fujairah for an extended period, you will need to secure a few important documents. Firstly, you will need a valid passport with at least six months' validity remaining. If you are not a citizen of one of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, you will also need a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay. If you are visiting for tourism, you will need a tourist visa. If you are planning to work, you will need an employment visa, which must be sponsored by your employer. For longer stays, you may need a residence visa. This is typically sponsored by an employer or a family member who is a resident of the UAE. In addition to these, you may also need an Emirates ID card, which is a legal requirement for all UAE residents. Please note that visa regulations can change, and it is always best to check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Fujairah.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Fujairah?
We asked people in Fujairah if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"When visiting Fujairah, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially in public places, covering your shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can even be considered illegal, so avoid hugging, kissing, or holding hands in public. Alcohol consumption is restricted in the UAE, and it's illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people, particularly women, as it's considered disrespectful to do so without consent. During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is considered disrespectful. Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving or receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and sex. Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE, so avoid any public displays or discussions that could be interpreted as promoting or supporting homosexuality. Finally, always show respect for the UAE's rulers and avoid any form of criticism or negative comments about them," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Fujairah.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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