Safety
The United Arab Emirates is one of the safest countries in the world. There is a very low crime rate in Dubai. Public places are monitored day and night.

Caution is advised in traditional markets and large crowds, as in any other place. Purses and handbags are best carried well locked and close to the body. Penalties in Dubai are harsh and this does not exclude tourists. Drinking alcohol in public or even drunkenness is punishable. Homosexuality is considered a criminal offense in Dubai.

Consuming food or smoking in public places during Ramadan is prohibited.

These are only a few examples - upon arrival, travelers receive a brochure with the rules of conduct in Dubai. The political situation in Dubai is stable. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the UAE is an active member of the anti-IS coalition. There is no acute terrorist threat at the moment. However, the IS has been threatening all anti-IS members with revenge for years.

Free time
Whether sporty with jet skis, adventurous with a jeep through the desert or fun for the whole family in one of the numerous water parks - it never gets boring in Dubai!

Even skiing is possible in the desert metropolis, namely in the Mall of the Emirates. The Burj Khalifa is not only the landmark of Dubai, but also attracts thousands of visitors every day. It is advisable to reserve tickets online in advance to avoid waiting times. The visit can then also be combined with an extensive shopping tour, as the largest shopping mall is located in the tower.

In addition to all the attractions in the city, nature lovers also get their money's worth. In the Hajar Mountains there are many hiking trails that lead past cliffs, sandbanks and oases. For families with children, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with wild animals in the wild is a great destination. Gazelles, leopards and oryx can be seen on a safari tour.

Cost of living
The average salary in Dubai in 2023 is AED 313,000 per year.
Accordingly, the cost of living is also relatively high for the Middle East. A 3-bedroom apartment costs around AED 10,000 in the city center and around AED 8,000 outside. Additional costs for electricity and garbage are about 800 AED per month. You definitely do not need heating in Dubai. For food you should expect 1200 - 2000 AED per month for one person, depending on whether you buy at the market or at the supermarket. Transportation is comparatively cheap with gasoline at about AED 3.20 per liter and AED 8.50 for a one-way metro ticket. Restaurant prices are similar to those in Central Europe, except for alcohol.

So single people can get by well on about AED 14,000 per month in a nice neighborhood. For families with children, expenses can rise to AED 20,000 per month.

Taxes
The same tax laws apply to foreigners in Dubai as to locals. This means that net is equal to gross, which makes a move to Dubai attractive for many expatriates. In principle, the UAE does not levy taxes. Exceptions are the value added tax of 5% and the so-called "Housing Fee", a kind of rent tax.

No taxes are levied on either private income or corporate income. Capital gains, dividends and proceeds from sales are also completely tax-free. Those who want to enjoy their retirement in Dubai can rejoice. Pension income is not taxed.

If you set up a business in one of the free zones, "tax protection" takes effect. This means that you have a guaranteed tax rate of 0% for 50 years.

Medical care
The UAE invests heavily in research and its healthcare system. Medical care is excellent and treatment in public hospitals is even free for locals. Resident foreigners must pay for their own medical expenses. Either directly on site as a self-payer or in the form of a private health insurance. Insurances start from AED 400.00 per month. Dubai has its own district just for health and research: "Healthcare City". With over 350 clinics and medical centers, you will receive excellent care.

If you are dependent on medication in your home country, find out if you are allowed to bring it into Dubai. Due to the strict anti-drug law, some medications may not be brought in at all. For all other medicines: Import only with prescription!

There are numerous pharmacies and opticians on site. These are partly cheaper than in most industrialized countries.

Housing
Housing costs are the largest monthly expense in Dubai. A 2-bedroom apartment is around AED 50,000 and a 3-bedroom apartment is around AED 60,000 rent per month. Downtown, you can expect to pay up to AED 40,000 more, depending on amenities. A security deposit of 5% of the rental price is required upon signing the lease. The rental price already includes the use of the numerous leisure facilities in the residential area such as pool, tennis courts or gym. What is not included, however, are the utilities. It is worth asking at the viewing if the costs for the air conditioning are already included.

Other utilities are electricity, water, the Housing Fee of 5% and the Sewerage Fee AED 0.5 fils per gallon for the sewage connection. For two people, the utilities are about AED 600 per month, in the city center they can be a bit higher. If the lease is renewed, a fee of about 1000 AED has to be paid, this is stated in the lease.

As a woman in Dubai
The rules of Islam apply to life in the UAE. The rights of women and children are partially restricted. However, if you follow some rules, you can emigrate to Dubai even as a woman alone.

In no case should you dress too freely. Bathing in a bikini is no problem. However, it is advisable to pack clothes to cover up for the beach. In the metro there are extra areas for women and children. There are also women's cabs, which are driven exclusively by women and men are allowed only if accompanied by a woman. In general, women and men are often treated differently. In Islam, it is considered a form of respect not to greet or pay attention to a woman.

Those who are not married are not allowed to live together with their partner in the same apartment, and the exchange of affection should be completely avoided in public. Under labor law, women and men are equal in the UAE. They are also entitled to start businesses, purchase real estate or obtain a loan.

Visa
When issuing visas, there is the possibility of free entry for citizens of more than 50 countries. When entering Dubai, only the visa fee is payable. It is not necessary to apply for the visa before departure. This regulation applies to all EU countries (60 days visa) and for example also to Russia, Canada, the USA and Australia (30 days visa). There are several ways to obtain a visa to enter the UAE:Transit visa (48-96 hours).

• Tourist visa
• Business visa
• Investor visa
• Work visa
• Visitor visa

Please note that a passport valid for at least 6 months is required for entry. In case of setting up a company in Dubai or purchasing a property, a temporary visa can be converted into a residence permit on the spot. You will then also receive your Emirates ID and the possibility to open a bank account.