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Everything You Need to Know Before Settling in the UAE
Begin your new life in the UAE with confidence. This essential guide shares insights on culture, lifestyle, and top cities to help expats settle in smoothly.
- International Property Alerts
- June 20, 2025
Our UAE country guide is here to help you understand what life is really like in the United Arab Emirates. Whether you’re thinking about moving, investing, retiring, or simply exploring a new lifestyle, this guide gives you a clear picture. We’ll talk about the climate, cost of living, daily life, and the kinds of homes you might find. You’ll also learn about local culture, how visas work, and what it takes to live or stay long-term in the UAE.
At International Property Alerts, we help people make smart decisions about living and investing abroad. We know it’s not easy to figure out if a new country is right for you. Think of this as your starting point, something to help you see if the UAE fits your goals, lifestyle, and future plans. So take a few minutes, read on, and start picturing what your life in the UAE could look like.
Country Code of the UAE
The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is a small country in the Middle East. It sits on the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula, next to the Persian Gulf. In other words, it’s a place where the desert meets the sea.
Countries Close to the UAE
The UAE shares borders with:
- Saudi Arabia to the south and west
- Oman to the east
- Qatar is nearby, just across the water
Also, across the Persian Gulf, you’ll find Iran. These nearby countries are easy to reach by plane or car, which makes travel in the region simple and fast.
Main Cities: Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The two biggest and most popular cities in the UAE are Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Dubai is known for its tall buildings, large shopping malls, and modern lifestyle.
- Abu Dhabi, the capital, is quieter but still full of amazing places to see and live in.
After that, it helps to know where you might live or invest if you’re planning to move. You can explore our services to see how we can support your journey. Therefore, knowing where the UAE is gives you a clear view of its location, neighbors, and top cities.
UAE Weather and Climate
The UAE weather and climate are hot, dry, and sunny for most of the year. It has two main seasons—summer and winter. In other words, you won’t see snow or cold rain here.
What to Expect Each Season
- Summer (May to September): Very hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F) or more. After that, the air can feel heavy because of high humidity.
- Winter (October to April): Much cooler and more comfortable. Daytime temperatures stay around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler.
So, if you’re not used to the heat, the summer months may feel extreme. Many people stay indoors during the day or use air-conditioned places to stay cool.
Weather Tips for Expats
For instance, here are a few tips to help you stay comfortable:
- Wear light and loose clothes made of cotton or linen.
- Drink lots of water to avoid getting too tired or dizzy.
- Use sunscreen and sunglasses, especially in summer.
- Carry a light jacket in winter evenings, especially in desert areas.
Above all, the UAE weather and climate are easy to enjoy if you dress right and take simple steps to stay safe.
Cost of Living in the UAE
The cost of living in the UAE depends on where you stay and how you live. Also, some cities cost more than others, but basic needs are mostly the same.
Average Monthly Expenses
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you might spend each month:
- Rent:
- A studio apartment: AED 2,000–4,000 in Sharjah
- Studio apartment: AED 3,000–6,000 in Abu Dhabi
- Studio apartment: AED 4,000–8,000 in Dubai
- Food:
- Groceries for one person: AED 800–1,200
- Eating out at a regular restaurant: AED 25–50 per meal
- Transport:
- Bus or metro pass: AED 150–300 per month
- Taxi fare starts around AED 12
- Internet:
- Home internet: AED 300–400 per month
In other words, your monthly costs will depend on your lifestyle. Sharing a flat or eating home-cooked meals can save you money.
City-to-City Comparison
Also, here’s how the main cities compare:
- Dubai: The most expensive. Rent, shopping, and restaurants cost more.
- Abu Dhabi: A little cheaper than Dubai, but still modern and busy.
- Sharjah: More affordable. Many people live here and travel to work in nearby cities.
Above all, the cost of living in the UAE can match your budget if you plan wisely. Some areas cost more, but there are always choices to fit your needs.
UAE Culture and Lifestyle
The UAE culture and lifestyle mix local traditions with modern life. People from many countries live here, which makes the UAE feel open and welcoming.
Local Customs and Daily Life
Most people in the UAE follow Islam, which is the main religion. So, you may hear a call to prayer five times a day. People are friendly, polite, and respect family and tradition.
In public, it’s good to dress modestly. For instance, wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is a sign of respect, especially in malls and government places. Also, daily life is active. Shopping, dining, and entertainment are big parts of UAE life. Most stores stay open late, and weekends are usually Friday and Saturday.
Work, Family, and Expat Life
Work hours often run from 8 AM to 5 PM, Sunday to Thursday. Friday is the day of prayer and rest, so most offices are closed. After that, many people spend weekends with family or friends.
Expats feel at home in the UAE. The country is safe, clean, and full of modern places to live and explore. You can even check out our properties to see homes that match your lifestyle. Above all, the UAE culture and lifestyle are built on respect, family, and enjoying life in a peaceful way.
UAE Visa Options
If you want to visit or live in the UAE, you need a visa. The UAE visa options depend on your reason for staying—tourism, work, or study.
Types of UAE Visas
Here are the main visas you can apply for:
- Tourist Visa
- Good for short visits or vacations.
- Usually valid for 30 to 90 days.
- You can apply online or through travel agents.
- Work Visa
- Needed if you plan to work for a company in the UAE.
- Your employer will usually handle the process.
- It includes a medical test and ID card.
- Student Visa
- For people accepted by a school or university in the UAE.
- Valid for the time of your course.
- Schools help guide you through the steps.
What You Need
In other words, most visa applications need:
- A valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- A filled-out application form
- Proof of reason (job offer, school letter, or travel plan)
How to Immigrate to the UAE
Planning to live in the UAE long-term? Also, this part of our guide explains how to start your move and what you’ll need along the way. The steps may sound big, but we’ll keep it simple.
Basic Steps to Immigrate
To begin your move, here are the most important things you need to do:
- Find a job offer or school in the UAE
- Get a visa (usually arranged by your employer or school)
- Prepare your documents, such as passport, photos, and certificates
- Complete a health check (required for most long-term visas)
- Apply for a residence permit once you arrive
In other words, the process becomes easier when you have clear steps to follow. After that, you can settle into your new home and start your life in the UAE.
Should You Use an Agent?
You can move on your own, or you can get help from immigration agents.
- Going direct: This works if you’re comfortable with online forms and reading instructions.
- Using an agent: This may help if you feel unsure or want someone to handle the paperwork.
Buying or Renting Houses in the UAE
If you’re thinking about moving, this part of our UAE country guide will help you understand how to find a place to live. So, whether you’re buying or renting, there are many options for different budgets.
Where to Look for UAE Houses
Popular places to find UAE houses include:
- Dubai – Offers luxury flats and villas. Very modern but more expensive.
- Abu Dhabi – The capital city, great for families and professionals.
- Sharjah – More affordable and quieter, often chosen by expats working nearby.
Also, many online sites list homes and rentals. Some people also use real estate agents who know the area well.
Cost and Housing Types
Prices can change based on size, location, and view:
- Apartments: Start from AED 2,000 per month in Sharjah
- Villas: Can go up to AED 15,000 or more in Dubai
- Buying: Depends on the area, but foreign buyers often look for freehold zones
In other words, whether you rent or buy, there are choices that match every lifestyle.
Residency Requirements in the UAE
To stay long-term, you need the right visa. Also, this connects to the immigration steps we shared earlier in this UAE country guide.
Who Can Apply
You may get residency through:
- Work sponsorship (your employer applies for you)
- Family sponsorship (a spouse or parent already living in the UAE)
- Investor or golden visa (for people who buy property or invest money)
Also, the golden visa is great for those who want to stay long-term. It’s offered to investors, professionals, and some skilled workers.
For instance, if you buy property worth a set amount, you may apply for residency as a real estate investor. This is a good choice for people planning to live and invest in UAE houses.
Retiring in the UAE
If you’re planning to slow down and enjoy life, UAE retirement might be a good fit.
Is It Retirement-Friendly?
Yes. The UAE offers comfort, safety, and high-quality services. So, many expats choose to retire in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Above all, retirees enjoy:
- Warm weather all year
- Modern hospitals and healthcare
- Clean and peaceful communities
Facts About the UAE
This part of our UAE country guide is fun and easy to read. These quick facts show how unique and exciting the United Arab Emirates really is.
1. The UAE has the world’s tallest building.
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai stands over 828 meters tall. In other words, it’s taller than any other building on Earth!
2. Police in Dubai drive luxury cars.
For instance, you might see officers using Lamborghinis, Ferraris, or even Bugattis to patrol the city.
3. The UAE made the first Mars mission in the Arab world.
In 2021, the Hope Probe entered Mars orbit. That made the UAE a space leader in the region.
4. You can ski indoors in the desert.
Also, inside the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, there’s a full indoor ski slope with real snow.
5. Weekends are Friday and Saturday.
Above all, this is different from many other countries. People in the UAE enjoy time off while the rest of the world is still working.
We hope this UAE country guide gives you a clear view of what life in the United Arab Emirates looks like, from housing and visas to culture and daily living. Whether you’re planning to move, retire, or invest, we’re here to help you take the next step with confidence. If you have questions or need personal guidance, feel free to contact us anytime.
FAQs
How much does it cost to live in the UAE?
The cost depends on your city and lifestyle. For instance, Dubai is more expensive, while Sharjah is more affordable. In other words, your rent, food, and transport can range from AED 4,000 to AED 10,000 monthly.
Can I buy a house in the UAE as a foreigner?
Yes, you can buy UAE houses in certain areas called freehold zones. These places allow foreign buyers to own property. Also, our UAE country guide explains where to look and how it works.
Is the UAE a good place for retirement?
Above all, many people choose UAE retirement because it offers safety, good healthcare, and warm weather. You’ll need steady income or savings to apply for a retirement visa. It’s great for those who want comfort and peace.
What kind of visa do I need to work in the UAE?
You’ll need a work visa. After that, your employer usually takes care of the paperwork. So, once you get the job offer, the process moves quickly.
Is the UAE friendly to expats?
Yes! The UAE welcomes people from many countries. In addition, it’s easy to find communities, shops, and services that feel familiar. Our UAE country guide is full of helpful tips for expats.
About International Property Alerts
International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.
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