I lived in Dubai for 3 years. The summer is brutal there. December through March is great. Great international vibe, lots of luxury for those who like posh malls and high end shopping, bad for those who like greenery and nature, great for those who want to be closer to many other destinations countries for travel. That said, if you are someone that would take humanity issues to heart, unfortunately the labor that comes from India to build the tallest buildings in the world are overworked, underpaid, and work and live under substandard conditions. Expat employees surrender their passports to their employers for safekeeping (at least that is how it was when I was there from 2005-2008). I don’t know if that has changed. There is no budget shopping there. Most people I knew that were from other countries waited until they visited their home countries to buy things in order not to overspend on shopping. It is a bling bling place to live, and the malls and restaurants are some the most glittery places to be on earth. It’s opulent, over the top, sparkling clean, futuristic, and indulgent. You’ll notice that when you get to the airport. Basically, if Las Vegas and Saudi Arabia had a baby, it would be Dubai.
I absolutely agree with you! very difficult, if not impossible to socialise with the locals as they keep to themselves and probably the only great thing aside from being able to skip European winter, then it would be the 0% income tax.
Lived in Dubai for a little bit... Noticed that the news don’t have bad news and is controlled. There was literally a big fire where I lived... no news came for it. So I don’t really believe that it’s super safe. The locals there are always right. No contest. My bestie got punched there, bruised but since she got hit by a local, she can’t complain... Also note that the local companies are kings. Many Pakistanis died building their tallest building but no justice for them. IMHO, Dubai is great, clean place and disciplined but if u get in trouble even if it’s not ur fault, good luck!
Thanks for sharing your experience! Do you live there now? I haven't been there but all my expat friends who live there seem to love it - Abu Dhabi as well. I wanted to get some of them on Zoom to interview for this video but it didn't come together in time for publishing today. Perhaps for another video! Regarding safety, I have heard some issues regarding construction and certain aspects of the immigrant workforce that sound like they need attention and reform, but I can't speak from personal experience on that.
@@TravelingwithKristin I don't live there now but this was my experience. It's still a good place and location but some rules are crazy (IMHO) plus everything is controlled. Great vacation spot, good location for travellers as well. The housing is not as expensive if u compare to SF or LA or NY. Locals rule. It's good to live there as long as y'know ur place...
It's not just locals but ppl of Caucasian descent that get preferential treatment there as well. Your passport rules too. If you're a western individual with the worst case of covid (USA for example) you'll still have little to no travel restrictions as compared to someone from say Pakistan. The discrimination and biases are a cultural staple there. Those drive most decisions in that part of the world, business or otherwise. Sadly it's quite the norm.
Thank you for making this video. Lived there for nearly a decade and the country brought me most happiness far more than my own country, United States. This was based on the types of people I met and mixed with, the most varied and interesting international crowd you could ever hope for. It's personal choice, for me this is it.
I taught nursing students at a Canadian university in Doha, Qatar, for four years. and enjoyed my having students whose parents were from all over the ME (but rarely Qatar) which opened my eyes so much to the people and culture of the ME. I visited Dubai 3X. Dubai has a great public transportation system and there are places where there are wide streets lined with coffee shops and restaurants (unlike Doha). If you are single in Dubai, you will have to seek out activities. Almost certainly, like Qatar, there will be a wide range of clubs and "night classes" (etc) where you can meet people. Dubai also is very close to Oman which is the most authentically traditional Arab country and most green on the peninsula and well worth visits for its ocean, mountains, and history.
Good video for never having lived in Dubai! I am from the US and lived in Dubai for 5 years and happy to be OUT. Some other positives are tax free income, cheap household labour ex: maids, nannies, cooks, drivers (controversial, but a big part of the glam lifestyle) and the travel opportunities to other countries. Major negatives are living under the Sharia Legal system, super expensive schooling fees for children (expats not eligible to attend public school) and the life threatening / aggressive traffic on a daily basis! Oh, and the weather 5 months a year! :-)
Hello please help me, I'm a remote worker interested to move to Dubai, but I changed mind due to the fact that all remote work essential services are banned in uae!! I NEED WhatsApp and zoom daily for 10+ hours a day. I need instagram and fb live chats too, which are banned. How is it possible to remote work in Dubai with such bans in place??
I've only been in Dubai for a few days as a tourist and I'd definitely go back as a tourist, but I'm not sure I'd want to spend a year there as a digital nomad. I don't even qualify with my monthly income. $5,000 seems a bit steep, but UAE is a very rich country. I can't tell if they're just trying to keep the low earners out because they're of no value to them or if you genuinely couldn't live there for less. I do get the sense that if you're not rich then they're not interested. I can live very comfortably in cities like Seoul for less than $3500 in a studio apartment in a great area at Air B&B prices, and way less if co-living. As others have said, you really have to be careful what you say and do there. If you haven't heard stories of people getting in trouble in Dubai and you're thinking of going, do yourself a favour and do a bit of googling. The BBC have a good article "Ten things you can't do in Dubai". If you're planning on going there with a partner and you're not married then forget about it. It's literally illegal to share accommodation with someone you're not related or married to. You can usually rely on people turning a blind eye if you're a foreign tourist in a hotel but if you're there for a year then you'll not get away with it. It's also crazy warm in the summer. Their bus shelters are enclosed and air conditioned! I was there in July, it was over 40C every day and it wasn't pleasant. The beaches were deserted and everyone was in the malls. It was simply too warm to be outside. Peak tourist season is the Northern Hemisphere Winter, so about Oct - Mar. That's when you'll find the most things to do, but also when everything is the most expensive. I guess if it has a good digital nomad culture then you can meet likeminded people and have a good time. But I'm not convinced. I don't particularly want to live in a country where you can get arrested for dancing in public or sharing a charity post on Facebook.
Hi Thomas! Thanks for sharing your insights! I think the $5k per month figure relates to the expat cost of living, which apparently ranges from $2500-8500 per month (I haven't been there yet, but from my research online). I have seen some interesting news headlines about tourists and expats in Dubai in the past. I'll need to go and check it out. I'm also interviewing a friend from Brazil who lives there for my podcast and I'll see what she says! Temps are also very high so I can see how people would need to stay inside for most of the summer. Despite the pros and cons, expats seem to love the lifestyle there. I'm interested in learning more about it and seeing for myself! I also came across this video by Andrew at Nomad Capitalist that was really interesting on why Dubai is so rich. He also says it's "by no means perfect," which of course nowhere is. Thanks again for sharing your perspective and experience! ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-eKg97WyO7O4.html
I lived and worked in Dubai (financial centre) for almost 10 years up until mid 2016. It was the best time of my life particularly professionally where I was highy recognized for my CRM and BD expertise. Nowhere in other countries where I also lived and worked, did I receive the same opportunities. The UAE has a wide horizon and they look into the future and act upon much earlier than any other culture. Sometimes I wish I would have stayed. The cost of living is expensive, but in comparison, the salaries are much higher, therefore living and working there is very affordable. I could elaborate hours on end how best to enjoy this country I sincerely love with all my heart.
Do you know anyone who has gotten the Dubai remote working visa? I try to find people who have gone through the process, but it’s very difficult to find updated information. I’m curious to see how smooth the process is and what people think of the program.
I love the mountains and the cold too much to go to Dubai. Plus, I value freedom of speech and press. I'll settle for Slovenia, the Baltic states (even if flat) & Bulgaria for my first few digital nomad trips post-COVID. Would be interested in hearing about the Digital Nomad life in the nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway), even if they might be quite expensive. Thanks for all the valuable info!
Hi Germain, I have a few videos on Norway coming soon! In the meantime, you might like this interview at a digital nomad Coworking and Coliving space there: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-RnxeR_wX24U.html
@@TravelingwithKristin Can't wait to watch those! I spent a few days in the Lofoten and to this day, it's the single place in the world where I've felt the most alive, happy. Thank you for sharing that specific interview!
Hello Kristen, I've been watching your videos to travel the whole world. Yeah, Dubai is the wonder city of the world. (Lowest Taxes & Lowest/almost no Crime). Welcome to Dubai anytime... Best luck for you all
@@TravelingwithKristin For my best luck, yes I live in Dubai. It's awesome and wonderful... I'm American from California, originally Jordanian, I've been to 40 countries around the world and when I landed in Dubai almost 6 years ago I was like "WoW" this is the city where I can have the luxury of living and make money 💰. I also been traveling to rest of the world for business and pleasure... I believe everyone should give it a try
I understand when one spends time between two or max three countries, you will get some sort of home feeling, attachment and responsibility for each of those places, and even for communities. I even think it is a must for an average person, particularly in US . But, I think, that there are type of people who like to be guests, with no attachment, sort of in the air all the time. That is just nature of some, and there is nothing wrong with it. So choose this lifestile only if you cut up for it, it is not for everyone. Otherwise you can grow even angrier than you are.
All VoIP services are banned in Dubai which is a very big reason why it’s not a good place for digital nomads :/ You can’t make calls even on Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, etc. Also there is no freedom there (which is a good think to know) and extremely strict rules. You need to be very careful what you do there because a small mistake and you might end up in jail. You might get arrested for being drunk in public, displaying public affection, having sex without being married, buying alcohol without a license, etc. Another thing is you’re allowed to only drink alcohol in specific bars/clubs/restaurants. Supermarkets don’t sell alcohol. Not even wine and beer. There are special liquor store but you need to have an alcohol license to buy alcohol in there.
@@TravelingwithKristinYes, I've applied now. 😊 But the difficult part with the application is with the health insurance. It doesn't seem that easy to obtain the insurance with UAE coverage before you get the Visa. Anyway, I've sent the other relevant documents and the health insurance quotes and I'm waiting for a reply.
Dubai is very hot for 6 months of the year. All buildings are well air-conditioned which was a necessity for me. It is very new and sort of reminded me of living in a big airport. However, it seems to have nice apartment complexes with abundant green spaces. Personally, I would choose somewhere in Europe for the climate, culture, and landscape, but for young digital nomads seeking business opportunities Dubai may well be a great place. It is terrrific being in a country with some many nationalities. It is quite possible you will rarely meet Emiratis as they all have a lot of money. However, by chance or in business dealings you may meet some. Most of all, at least a year there will give westerners in particular a wonderfully eye-opening experience to the ME and Arab Culture and likely make you a better world citizen, as I believe it did me.
How can Dubai be 40-50 percent lower than NYC but only 14 percent lower than Miami? New York City is much more expensive than Miami. Is that New York City or New York State?
Hello please help me, I'm a remote worker interested to move to Dubai, but I changed mind due to the fact that all remote work essential services are banned in uae!! I NEED WhatsApp and zoom daily for 10+ hours a day. I need instagram and fb live chats too, which are banned. How is it possible to remote work in Dubai with such bans in place??
INSTALL VPN software on a router, before you depart your zero internet restrictions country; and import it with your hand baggage; such as "Express VPN" (no payment has been given for this recommendation)! Then point to the server in your base country for your banking and tax return operations! German privacy arrangements are in their constitution!
Hello! I did put the official website in the description I believe but here is the link www.visitdubai.com/en/sc7/travel-planning/travel-tools/work-remotely-in-dubai
Having difficulties applying for this visa. They are asking for health insurance from provider inside Dubai. But Dubai Insurance companies are offering only for other visas. Which health insurance did you get for this travel?
what is it like today? this video was made two years ago.. what is the situation like now? please make an update video! I am interested to know if they is a good place for me..
@@Zelielz1 I’m getting a bit old for an English teaching job there and actually don’t have a Masters. But I’m fine working and visiting there working with my own online private clients.
I am saving this video. Congratulations Kristin in a few words or a few minutes So you just save me . Just 4 day of my life going to at business conference a lot hours and here in this video so you did tell me a lot.!! Congratulations !! So I am saving it this video, because I need it for the future.
Thank you to reply me the other day I got your message.! How are you today Kristin and thank you for your support. So guess I finished renovation in my new office. so that way I can have professional zoom video call with your business travel Kristin. Great 👍 so I did change my office to a new room my home where. Also I would like you invite you Kristin to my LinkedIn.
@@TravelingwithKristin there is... Sorry... 13 countries including Pakistan, Afghanistan and Kenyan nationals are not being issued visas... You can check it online...
Thanks for making good information vodie I am here in Dubai over 25 years I have own business but I want to travel to Estonia can you please advise to visit vesia Thanks
You can check out my Estonia Cost-of-Living Guide ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-2EJWKqFfHzc.html, Estonia Digital Nomad Visa ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-z0hUBpzk4Ds.html & Estonia e-Residency Cost, Benefits, and Pros and Cons ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-gNGlmSKqqFg.html 😊 Best of luck!
Hi Nijil, no word yet on that yet but I think if the program is successful, it makes sense that they would allow people to apply for an extension. I will ask them!
It's quite normal and relaxed, John! Everything is open with masks and social distancing recommended. People are able to go out and about to exercise, etc. Where are you now?
@@TravelingwithKristin I'm in Nashville, I might go to Colombia very soon. I'm undecided, getting a covid test tomorrow; then if I am negative, which I should be, getting a flight out of here. Maybe Colombia, maybe somewhere else.. not sure yet. You are just in Miami by yourself? No friends, boyfriends, etc? haha
Dubai is cool. I was wondering. I was hearing that dubai is under the Sharia law. Would my girlfriend be able to live with me if I stayed there in dubai or would that likely get me thrown in jail.
@@TravelingwithKristin that is true in dubai and in the vast majority of middle eastern countries like iraq, Saudi Arabia with the sharia law. Now maybe a couple could live together and you can play dont ask dont tell. Idk
my fiance is an ofw in dubai, from what i understand its highly restrictive there when it comes to personal freedom, I looked into visiting her there but found it is not possible or legal because we are not married yet, also the have been reports as recent as last year that a vacationing couple was jailed for PDA, it was a simple kiss on the beach.
That simple kiss could soon turn into open sex in the hands of freedom and nudity will become norm.. So better to control at an early stage by not encouraging such things
@@TravelingwithKristin because it is a Muslim country people must research their laws regarding lots of things considered normal in other countries. My fiance is philippino and even though she is not muslim she must adhere to their requirements to stay covered in public and many other religious rules. Im obly simply stating a heads up to possible tourists going there to do their diligence so they are not victim to unpleasant suprises. Fron pictures my fiance has sent me it looks amazing but i will probably never go
$5000! Seems extremely steep! DUBAI should use their brains and re-workout the monthly income!! Not many people earn that much, especially in this current COVID-19 situation!
I think the reason the monthly income requirement is more than other countries is because the cost of living is higher in Dubai, despite there not being an individual income tax in UAE. When calculating requirements for work/study permits or travel visas, authorities want to make sure that tourists, students, and workers can comfortably support themselves while visiting.
@@TravelingwithKristin It’s definitely worth visiting. If you need some advice on where to eat and do Shisha, then please let me know. I know where to go 😎
British judges have decided that every tie to the territory of the United Kingdom, and every bank and brokerage or currency exchange accounts must be shut; and if every condition is met, and the UK HMRC notice to exit on a permanent basis is accepted; then UK tax residency is extinguished! / / \ \ However, my intention is to work as a British citizen in the UK city of Derry for 31 days, and use my retirement tax benefits! / / \ \ The residue of time is more than six months working in Turkey, (and on a path to citizenship,) with a work permit for my own Turkish (Bursa) resident company, use their dividend participation exemption; and combine this with an Egypt resident company, based in Nuweiba Free Economic Zone (25% foreigners quota, and 10% corporate tax), near to SSH Airport! Tax treaties can net off my own tax issues, then with a Turkish passport in hand the higher tax issues can receive attention to mitigate their significant impact! / / \ \ Key point of this strategy is to keep every day maintenance costs to a minimum, and maximize cross country border and overseas profits! / / \ \ Keep up the great work!
Nope! I would not recommend Duabi AT ALL - culturally this city is part of a repressive regime, it is currently at war in Yemen and not treating people from othercountries with respect, majority of the Dubai local residents are arabs with low level of education and racisem is an acceptable fact. Look at how they treat Indiant and Pakistanis I would look at Europe or Canda - no tax means you wont have any governmental support such as good health care or proper transportation and needless to say you have no access to fair trial if needed - STAY AWAY
