Living Guide in Dubai: Costs, Job Opportunities, and Daily Life

Lifestyle and Dynamics in Dubai

Dubai is a city that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional cultures. The city stands out with a dynamic population structure formed by a luxurious lifestyle and high-income professionals. The population of Dubai is expected to reach approximately 4 million people by 2025, and the vast majority consists of foreigners.

Most of the residents in Dubai are expats, with over 200 different nationalities residing in the city. This cosmopolitan structure provides a lifestyle that is open to different cultures, while the people of Dubai are generally tolerant, business-focused, and have a modern approach to social life.

The key dynamics of living in Dubai are:

• Tax-free income: There is no income tax for workers in Dubai, which provides a significant advantage for those working in high-paying professions.

• Luxury and comfortable living: Dubai is known for its world-famous hotels, skyscrapers, and shopping malls.

• Climate: The majority of the year in Dubai is hot. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 50°C, so air-conditioned indoor spaces and indoor activities are common.

• Strict laws and regulations: The legal system in Dubai is quite strict. It is important to pay attention to the list of things that should not be done in Dubai to avoid legal issues.

Dubai continues to be one of the most popular cities in the world due to the opportunities it offers for both business and social life.

Popular Areas to Live in Dubai

Dubai is a city that has a wide range of housing options catering to different lifestyles and budgets. One of the most important considerations for those who want to live in Dubai is which area of the city they prefer to live in. There are options available for every budget, from luxury residences to affordable public housing. Here are the most popular areas in terms of living conditions in Dubai and their features:

📍 Downtown Dubai – The Center of Luxury Living

Downtown Dubai, where the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are located, is one of the most prestigious areas of the city. This area is home to luxury apartments, 5-star hotels, and some of the best restaurants in the city. If you want to be close to the city center and maintain a high standard of living, this is the place for you!

Who is it suitable for?
✅ Those who love luxury living
✅ Business professionals who want to live in the city center
✅ Those wanting to be close to entertainment, shopping, and nightlife

📍 Dubai Marina – The Favorite of Expats

Dubai Marina is one of the most popular and modern areas of the city and is the most preferred location among foreign workers (expats). It features skyscrapers, a beachfront, restaurants, and promenades. It is particularly known for its luxury apartments with sea views.

Who is it suitable for?
✅ Expats and young professionals
✅ Those who want a life with a sea view
✅ Those who enjoy social activities and sports

📍 Jumeirah – The Most Ideal Area for Families

Jumeirah is generally an area where families live. The availability of villas, houses with large gardens, and proximity to international schools is a significant advantage here. Being close to the beaches, its tranquility, and nature make it one of the most ideal areas for families with children.

Who is it suitable for?
✅ Families and individuals with children
✅ Those who want a quiet and peaceful life
✅ Those who want to live near the beach

📍 Business Bay – The Business Center

Business Bay is one of Dubai's financial and business hubs. It is located near the city center and is filled with modern apartments, offices, and hotels. If you are looking for job opportunities in Dubai and want to live close to the city's economic center, this is a good option.

Who is it suitable for?
✅ Business people and entrepreneurs
✅ Professionals who want to live close to their offices
✅ Those wanting easy access to the city center

📍 Deira and Al Nahda – More Budget-Friendly Alternatives

If you are looking for more affordable housing in Dubai, the Deira and Al Nahda areas may be preferred. These areas stand out as they offer lower costs compared to the city center, yet still provide good amenities. Especially with many Middle Eastern and Asian communities living in these areas, they may be attractive for those wanting to get to know traditional Arab culture more closely.

Who is it suitable for?
✅ Individuals and families on a budget
✅ Those who want a more local experience
✅ Those who prefer affordable shopping and dining options

Cost of Living in Dubai

The cost of living in Dubai varies depending on your lifestyle and the area you choose. While costs can be quite high for those wanting a luxurious lifestyle, it is also possible to live with a more reasonable budget.

• Rent: In areas like Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina, rents for 1-bedroom apartments range from 10,000 to 18,000 AED, while in areas like Deira or Al Nahda, they can be between 4,000 to 7,000 AED.

• Food: Average monthly grocery shopping costs between 1,500 to 3,000 AED, while eating out can be expensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 80-150 AED, and a fast food menu is about 30-40 AED.

• Transportation: A metro ticket costs 4-8 AED, a monthly public transport card is 300 AED, and gasoline is 3.5 AED per liter.

• Bills: You can expect to pay between 800-1,500 AED for electricity and water, and 400-700 AED for internet and phone services.

It is recommended that the minimum monthly income for comfortable living in Dubai is between 10,000-15,000 AED. Those aiming for a luxurious lifestyle may need a budget of 25,000 AED or more.

Working Life and Job Opportunities in Dubai

Dubai is an attractive city for international workers due to its high salaries and being among countries without income tax. Job opportunities in Dubai are particularly abundant in the finance, construction, tourism, health, IT, and real estate sectors.

Those wishing to establish a business in Dubai must obtain a work visa, which is usually managed by employers. While salaries vary by sector and experience, average monthly salaries are as follows:

• IT and technology specialists: 15,000 – 40,000 AED

• Engineers and finance specialists: 12,000 – 35,000 AED

• Workers in tourism and service sectors: 4,000 – 12,000 AED

• Teachers and healthcare workers: 8,000 – 25,000 AED

For job searching in Dubai, career platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Bayt can be actively used. Moreover, it is beneficial to gather information about Dubai's business culture and working hours before job interviews.

Education and Family Life in Dubai

Dubai is an attractive city for families due to its private schools providing international-standard education, safe environment, and family-friendly living areas. Families wishing to live in Dubai may prefer schools with international curriculums for their children.

Since government schools in Dubai generally provide education in Arabic, expat families prefer private schools. Schools offering British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), and French curricula are quite common. Annual school fees range from 20,000 – 100,000 AED.

For families, areas like Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, Arabian Ranches, and Mirdif stand out with spacious living areas and quality educational institutions. Furthermore, parks, playgrounds, amusement centers, and child-friendly activities are quite common in Dubai.

Social Life and Entertainment in Dubai

Dubai is rich in social life with luxury restaurants, world-class shopping malls, beaches, and entertainment venues. It is possible to find activities suitable for every budget and taste in the city.

• Shopping: Giant malls like Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Ibn Battuta Mall bring together global brands and entertainment areas. Shopping prices in Dubai vary depending on the brand and the shopping location.

• Beaches and Outdoor Areas: JBR Beach, Kite Beach, and La Mer are popular for those looking to enjoy the sun and sea.

• Nightlife: Although the nightlife in Dubai is quite vibrant, the consumption of alcohol is only permitted in licensed venues.

• Cultural Events: Dubai Opera, museums, desert safaris, and global festivals reflect the cultural diversity of the city.

Social life in Dubai is a balanced blend of modern and traditional lifestyles. While entertainment options are extensive, it is important to pay attention to certain social rules.

Transportation and Traffic in Dubai

Dubai offers comfortable travel opportunities for both residents and visitors with its advanced and diverse transportation options. You can easily travel around the city with alternatives like metro, tram, bus, taxi, and marine transport.

Metro

The Dubai Metro consists of the Red and Green Lines that cover the main areas of the city and Dubai International Airport (DXB). The metro, which is the world's largest driverless train system, is fully air-conditioned and affordable. You can use a Nol Card or purchase a single-use ticket to ride the metro.

Operating Hours:

• Monday-Thursday: 05:00 – 00:00

• Friday: 05:00 – 01:00

• Saturday: 05:00 – 00:00

• Sunday: 08:00 – 00:00

Tram

The Dubai Tram connects especially the areas of Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Al Sufouh. It works in conjunction with the metro and the Palm Jumeirah Monorail to facilitate transportation.

Operating Hours:

• Daily: 06:30 – 01:00

Bus

Dubai's bus network provides service to almost every part of the city. Buses serving more than 193 routes are modern and air-conditioned.

• Operating Hours: Generally between 04:00 – 01:00, but may vary by route.

Taxi

Taxis in Dubai operate 24/7 and are reliable. In addition to standard taxis, there is also a pink "Ladies Taxi" service available for women and children.

Pricing:

• Flagfall Fee: 12 AED

• Per Kilometer: 2 – 3 AED

Marine Transport

Traditional boats called Abras are used primarily for short crossings over Dubai Creek. Additionally, modern ferries and water taxis operate in areas like Dubai Marina and Dubai Canal.

• Abras Fee: 1 AED

• Ferry Fares: range from 15 – 75 AED.

Nol Card

To use public transportation in Dubai, you must obtain a Nol Card. This card is valid on metros, trams, buses, and some marine transport vehicles.

Card Types:

• Red Ticket: Suitable for tourists, can be used for single or multiple rides.

• Silver Card: Ideal for longer-term use and is valid for 5 years.

• Gold Card: Offers the option to travel in gold-class cabins.

Note: Prices and operating hours are valid as of 2025, and it is recommended to visit the official website of the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for up-to-date information.

Residency and Visa Processes in Dubai

For those wishing to live long-term in Dubai, various residency permits such as work, investment, retirement, and student visas are available. The requirements to live in Dubai vary depending on the type of visa applied for.

Work Visa

Those wishing to work in Dubai must obtain a work visa. This visa is usually provided by the employer and is valid for the duration of the employment contract. Individuals who obtain a work visa can also get residency permits.

Investor and Entrepreneur Visas

Individuals who set up a company or make substantial investments in Dubai can obtain residency visas valid for 5 to 10 years. An investor visa is a significant advantage for those looking to establish a business in Dubai. Our company establishment services in Dubai can guide you through this process as Ortaç Global.

Retirement Visa

Individuals aged 55 and over can obtain a retirement visa if they own property worth at least 1 million AED or have a certain level of income.

Student Visa

Those wishing to pursue university education in Dubai can obtain a student visa with the sponsorship of the university they enroll in. This visa is valid for the duration of the study period.

Applications for residency permits in Dubai are made through the Dubai Immigration and Visa Office. When documents are submitted completely, the visa application process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to complete.

Rental Prices and Housing Market in Dubai

Dubai, with its developed infrastructure, luxury residences, and various budget-friendly housing options, is an attractive living area for expats. Those wishing to live in Dubai should carefully assess rental prices and conditions in the housing market.

Rental Prices in Dubai (2025)

Rental prices vary depending on the area you are in and the type of housing. Here are the average rental prices for some popular areas for the year 2025:

📌 Note: 1 AED ≈ 8.50 TL (Current exchange rates may vary).

Things to Know When Renting a House

• Rent Payment System: Rents in Dubai are typically paid annually in advance or in installments of 2-4.

• Deposit and Commission: During rental agreements, a deposit of 1-2 months and a real estate agent's commission may be required.

• Areas for Families: Areas like Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, and Arabian Ranches stand out with spacious living areas and quality educational institutions.

• Rental Villa Options: For those seeking luxury and spacious living areas, regions like Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills, and Al Barari are ideal.

Healthcare System and Insurance in Dubai

Dubai has one of the most developed healthcare systems in the Middle East, with modern hospitals and high-standard health services. For those wishing to live in Dubai, private health insurance is mandatory, and residency permits cannot be obtained without this insurance.

Healthcare Services in Dubai

Dubai has both public and private hospitals. The private health sector is quite developed, and the best doctors typically provide services in private hospitals.

• Public Hospitals: Public hospitals managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) offer affordable healthcare services for residents of Dubai.

• Private Hospitals: Private hospitals like American Hospital, Mediclinic, and Saudi German Hospital offer quicker and more comprehensive health services, but fees are generally higher.

Health Insurance and Costs

• Private health insurance is mandatory in Dubai, and employers are required to provide health insurance to their employees.

• Insurance packages can range from basic health services to comprehensive VIP services.

• A basic private health insurance package costs an average of 3,000 – 5,000 AED annually, while comprehensive insurance plans can go up to 10,000 AED.

Security and Legal System in Dubai

Dubai stands out as one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and strict legal regulations. The police force is strong, there are widespread surveillance camera systems throughout the city, and public safety is a top priority. The legal system consists of a combination of Islamic laws and modern regulations, and includes some strict rules. Inappropriate behaviors in public places, insults, or insults on social media can lead to punishments. Knowing the laws and adhering to the rules in Dubai is essential for a smooth life.

Things Not to Do in Dubai

Some behaviors in Dubai may incur penalties due to being contrary to laws and social norms. Here are things to be aware of:

• Hugging or kissing in public is prohibited.

• Alcohol consumption is only allowed in licensed venues and private spaces.

• The use and possession of drugs can result in severe penalties.

• Insulting, offending, or fighting can lead to serious penalties.

• Do not make posts on social media that criticize or denigrate others.

• Taking and sharing photos without permission is prohibited.

• Ignoring traffic rules can result in heavy fines and license revocation.

For those wishing to live in Dubai, adhering to these rules is important for both safety and leading a smooth life.

How much money is spent in Dubai?

The cost of living in Dubai varies depending on lifestyle. A budget of 10,000-15,000 AED is required for a moderate lifestyle, while a luxury lifestyle requires at least 25,000 AED.

Is the sea in Dubai artificial?

No, the coast of Dubai is a natural sea, but many artificial island projects such as Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands have been created.

What kind of place is Dubai?

Dubai is a dynamic metropolis characterized by its modern city structure, luxury lifestyle, tax advantages, and international business opportunities.