Everyone comes to realise that things take time in Dubai. So don't expect your first week to be very productive...
29 March 2017
| Last updated on 19 January 2020
One of the things you’ll learn very quickly is that things take time in Dubai. People here have a different sense of time and everything is slow-paced. Some of the simplest things like opening a bank account can become truly complicated.
There are many things to do once you move to a new country… Residency, insurance, bank account, phone, car and finding a place to live – just to name a few. However, there is little to be done here without an Emirates ID (which might take forever!), so might as well use your first week here as a way to get acquainted with your new lifestyle.
1. Get lost in the Dubai Mall
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You will want to enjoy the initial excitement about this huge, fancy mall that can keep you entertained for hours. After a few months, it’ll become a nuisance with all the walking and trying to find what you’re looking for.
2. Try every shisha flavour that exists
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Because we have them all! Don’t smoke shisha? Well, now you will and you’ll be a pro at it in no time. Peer pressure is a powerful thing.
3. Make shawarma a part of your daily diet

Yummy and generally cheap, what else can you ask for? And remember, no two shawarmas are the same.
SEE ALSO: 5 fears you have to get over when you move to Dubai
4. Marvel at how everything can be delivered
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You really don’t have to lift a finger. You might want to go out and explore and do things on your own – for now. Soon enough, this city will turn you lazy.
5. Take a thrill ride on Dubai metro

Only during regular hours though. Rush hour is to be avoided at all costs! Trust us – they’re two very different experiences.
6. Lay on the beach
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Unless it’s summer time. In that case, you might want to avoid outdoors at all times and go ski in Mall of Emirates.
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- dubai
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