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Why Dubai is one of the best cities for expats

Dubai consistently ranks as one of the best cities to live in, offering exceptional safety and quality of living, world-class infrastructure, matchless social and economic services, and unrivalled lifestyle opportunities.

Setting new standards in contemporary living

Dubai is an ultra-modern, fast-growing city that has attracted millions of foreign nationals from over 200 countries. As one of the world’s most diverse, multicultural destinations, it is known for its harmony and tolerance, blending traditional values and hospitality with prominent modern influences.

Its stable economy attracts top innovators, entrepreneurs and professionals across numerous sectors and industries. Focused on building a knowledge-based economy, Dubai boasts renowned educational institutions and cutting-edge research facilities. 

As a leading family-friendly destination, Dubai is filled with outdoor and indoor attractions, with a packed year-round calendar. From sandy beaches to majestic mountain ranges, Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional eateries, iconic souks to modern malls, it is the perfect blend of old and new. 

Quality of life

Dubai stands out as one of the world’s most preferred destinations for individuals as well as families seeking an elevated lifestyle with the best amenities. Dive deeper to find out more below.

Personal safety and security

Dubai is ranked among the top five safest cities in the world, while the UAE itself was voted the second safest country globally. Notably, the city prioritises the personal safety of residents and visitors, with accessible spaces and activities for people of determination. It's also known for maintaining law and order, with approachable and proactive security and police services.

Gender equality 

Like the rest of the country, which ranks among the top 10 countries for gender balance, Dubai places an emphasis on the importance of equal opportunities, fostering a cohesive and collaborative environment for working and living. 

Tax-free benefits

A key pull factor for expats is the city’s low-tax regime – including zero personal income tax, one of the world’s lowest corporate tax rates and only a 5% VAT on most goods and services.

Beyond tax advantages, the professional setting is attractive and advantageous for those looking to start afresh in a new place or take their career to new heights.

Everyday conveniences

The comfort of residents and visitors is a key priority here. Air conditioning is available at every location – from homes and offices, to public transport (including depots and stations) and shops, as well as fast WiFi and mobile connectivity in most spaces. Travellers can avail of city check-in services and choose from a wide range of hospitality options. Dubai also has numerous service-oriented businesses covering everything from fuel delivery to any location, to housekeepers and cleaning services or personal care and salon treatments.

Cleanliness

Strict hygiene and sanitation standards are hallmarks of Dubai’s urban landscape, consistently ranking as one of the cleanest cities worldwide. Several waste management and street cleaning programmes have been implemented to ensure well-maintained roads, utilities, transport and public areas.

Hassle-free access 

Dubai offers convenience for residents and travellers through a network of apps and online platforms, ensuring easy access to daily essentials, government services and other assistance, thereby maximising accessibility and comfort. 

Arts and culture

The city’s flourishing art scene has witnessed a recent renaissance, showcasing a variety of styles from traditional and modern artists. It is home to a number of museums and art galleries as well as dedicated spaces for the performing arts, design, architecture and more. 

High-end lifestyle

Luxury living is synonymous with Dubai, enabling residents to pursue their ideal standard of life. The city is famous for the remarkable variety of its shopping, dining and accommodation offerings.

World-class education

Regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to ensure growth and quality, education in Dubai primarily constitutes private institutions that cater to all ages and multicultural groups. Dubai has more than 263 early learning centres for newborns to six-year-olds, while older students can choose from diverse international curricula and extra-curricular activities when considering school enrolment.

The city hosts several top-ranked universities and colleges, with specialised courses in every stream. Many universities also afford students the opportunity for scholarships and transfer or exchange programmes abroad.

Cutting-edge healthcare and wellness focus

With its wide-ranging departments, state-of-the-art infrastructure and equipment, highly qualified medical professionals from around the world and progressive treatment options, Dubai has one of the region's best healthcare offerings. Every neighbourhood has a network of clinics and pharmacies, and most have easy access to premium hospitals, ensuring that patient care remains a priority at all times.

Dubai's professionals receive mandatory health insurance as part of their employment packages, which usually provides coverage for dependents too. There is also a communal focus on healthy living, thanks to the city's serene wellness spots, healthy restaurants, and calendar of free fitness events and health screenings.

Attractive cost of living

Dubai remains an extremely attractive option for employees and residents and their families because it is much more affordable than many similar cities around the world. Its booming real estate market also offers a wide variety of housing options that cater to every income group. 

Transport infrastructure

Dubai’s cutting-edge transport infrastructure further enhances its appeal, with easy access to public transport, including via metro rail, buses and taxis, as well as ride-sharing options. Dubai is also the only UAE city with a suburban metro rail, with stations seamlessly connecting many of its leading attractions and popular sites, ensuring ease and efficiency of navigation.

Future vision

With a key focus on sustainability and enhancing living, the city has implemented ambitious plans like the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, Dubai 10X Strategy and the D33 Economic Agenda to become one of the top three global economies in the coming decade. More than 200 projects and initiatives have been launched to ensure residents’ wellbeing and happiness, building a society that takes pride in its cohesive, multicultural identity. 

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