The UAE
What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in UAE. They wrote...
"If you live in Abu Dhabi you may find yourself living 45mins plus outside the city as the only cheap accomadtion in AD is out near the airport Al Raha is slowly after 2 years only now becoming easier place to live with it now being on a bus route, and new supermarket's opening, AlReef still has very little out by the compounds in the way of taxis and shops Meeting new friends who are likeminded," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Dubai, UAE.
"Expats in the UAE often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The conservative dress code and social norms can be difficult to adhere to, and the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Arabic. Additionally, the hot climate and the lack of public transportation can be difficult to get used to. Furthermore, the cost of living in the UAE can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to make ends meet," commented one expat who made the move to UAE.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to the UAE?
- Where should I setup a bank account in the UAE?
- Will I be able to find a job in the UAE?
- What is life like in the UAE?
- What do expats in the UAE appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the UAE accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in the UAE like?
- What are healthcare services like in the UAE?
- What are medical services in the UAE like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the UAE?
- What are emergency services like in the UAE?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in the UAE?
- How are local medical facilities in the UAE?
- As a foreigner living in the UAE, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in the UAE, newcomers to the UAE would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.
