AmericaninDXB

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 26 November 2018 - 10:20

I can tell you my experience and a few random tips. I moved from America to the UAE in 2015, for a job. I came here alone, not knowing anyone, but the company I worked for did provide housing close to work (no roommates). My parents and close friends were worried about me moving to "the middle east" and tried convincing me to stay in America, but I wanted to try it. When I got here, I was in culture and environment shock. Though, I do not enjoy living in this country, it is totally safe, you just have to be smart. For example, don't get drunk and do stupid things on the streets, because the consequences will be more than in the UK. Don't say negative things about the UAE nor post inappropriate photos on social media, because "big brother" monitors everything here. Dating: you can freely interact with the opposite gender all you want, just mind your surroundings. For example, pda (beyond holding hands and a simple peck), is not allowed. I've been to a couple small bars/dance clubs and if my partner and I got "too close", a bouncer would tell us it's not allowed - I just laugh it off and back up. Date all you want! Clothing: since Dubai is full of tourists, people dress whatever way they want, and even though some places like the mall says to wear "appropriate clothing", it's not very enforced. I've seen many many girls wearing shirts and shorts that show more than they cover, and it's okay. I have been to many public places though, and will get dirty looks from some women wearing abayas, because I'm wearing shorts (fingertip length), a t-shirt, and flip flops - again, I just laugh it off because it is really funny to me. If you do visit a government place, then you will have to cover your shoulders and knees, or you won't be let in (I just wrap a random scarf around my waist most of the time). Weather: the sun shines most days. In the winter months (November-February) it can rain some (everything floods because this country was not built for rain, so there is no drainage) and gets "chilly" some days and nights. May-August are pretty rough, hot and humid. I stay in doors as much as possible during those months because my skin and the sun are not friends, and I hate sweating within 1 minute of being outside. Ramadan: you cannot publicly consume drinks nor food while the sun is up. Many restaurants are open for delivery or dine in if the windows are covered. Its odd, but it is what it is. Water: can't drink tap water, but can use it to cook pasta and brush your teeth. Just buy bottled water to drink. Tap water contains chlorine, so you can smell it when you shower and this causes hair to break easier. My hair is not noticeably thinner or anything, but it does fall out more in this country. Transportation: take appropriately marked taxis, nothing unmarked or "fancy" looking. Taxi's are all new cars and very obvious. Ignore anyone else who offers transportation (fancy cars or white lexus). Another random thing: I am a very average looking blonde, fair skinned, American (nothing noticeably special), and I had to adjust to specific nationalities staring at me, as if they have never seen a women before. It's gross, but I just ignore it. Thankfully, those nationalities probably can't speak English, so I've never heard any inappropriate comments before. Living areas: Marina and JBR are popular and busy areas to live. JLT is just across the main road, but much calmer. City Walk, anything around Dubai Mall, and on the Palm will cost you, but are probably nice. Hope that helped some!

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AmericaninDXB

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 26 November 2018 - 09:00

There are quite a few places. I was also skeptical about taking our pets out in Dubai until I came across this article: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/citytimes/up-town/taking-your-dog-for-a-walk

Thank you for the information, the article is very helpful. Hope these are still relevant now!

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