Useful Apps for Expats Living in Dubai

Expats in Dubai are all too familiar with the complications and stresses that come with basic every day processes; like setting up your bank account, or trying to find a taxi, or paying your utilities bills.

Perhaps we've been spoilt in our native countries, but here in Dubai, we still have to queue to do simple tasks such as paying fines, renewing IDs, settling your bills. Combined with endlessly long queues and token numbers, it's no wonder the expatriate community in Dubai can get a little fed-up.

But what if we told you there are apps that can take care of all of that, for you, from your smartphone in the palm of your hand? Imagine! Don't worry, we're not fibbing. 

The Dubai & UAE government and departments actually have a host of different apps that allow residents and expats to use their services online and through their smartphones. 

We've picked the best ones that we think every UAE expat should have installed! If you have any more suggestions or a favourite of yours, let us know in the comments below!

SEE ALSO: 12 must-follow Dubai Instagram accounts

1. MDubai Individuals

This is the ultimate, one-stop app for anyone living here in Dubai, and will serve most of your needs. The app is designed to allow users to easily access all relevant government services, which includes; paying your phone or DEWA bills, traffic fines or Salik tariff, track your travel on the metro, and so much more... You can even track your Empost shipments! 

2. Dubai Police

Commonly associated with only paying your fines, the Dubai Police app actually has so much more to offer. The app promises you the fastest and easiest way to complete all your transactions; on top of availing traffic services, the app allows you to report traffic accidents, certificate requestions, report and prevent a crime as well as an SOS button with emergency call-back services that determines your location for immediate assistance. 

3. UAE YellowPages

This is particularly useful as you can gain access to business addresses, phone number, fax numbers, websites and email addresses! Has the ability to save in favourites, or directly to your contacts. 

4. Emirates Identity Authority

As per the app's description, the Emirates ID app was developed to allow UAE nationals, GCC citizens and expatriate residents to avail the key Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) services, which include apply to renew your ID card, applying to replace your ID card as well as tracking your application. Definitely handy!

5. Google Maps

It goes without saying, this app is always useful when you are out and about in Dubai. Simply because of the ever changing structure of the Emirate's roads as the place develops. It's more up to date than your car's GPS! 

6. RTA Smart Taxi app

Any expat should have this installed on their smartphone while living in Dubai; just incase you find yourself stuck somewhere and no taxis are going by. It's a great app to use when you want to save time waiting too. You can book and track your Dubai taxi with peace of mind and ease, and app users are provided with the details of the dispatched taxi!

7. RTA Dubai app

As well as the smart taxi app, RTA have their own dedicated app that includes a list of services designed to support roads and public transport users in the Emirate. You can report to RTA directly from your smartphone, the app will provide you with the information of the nearest service center, metro or bus station near to you, it helps with mParking, taxi booking, fare calculations for NOL card users as well as other general public transport services. Definitely a great app to help you when you're out and about. 

You can find all of the above apps on the Apple's App Store on your iOS device, and Google Play stores. All are free!