Cons of living in Dubai

What are the disadvantages of living in Dubai?

1. Extreme temperatures

One of the biggest challenges of living in Dubai is the climate. Summers in this region are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, and the high humidity makes it almost impossible to be outside. Most of life takes place in air-conditioned buildings, which limits the possibility of spending time outdoors. For people accustomed to a moderate climate, this can be difficult to accept.

2. Higher cost of living

Although Dubai does not levy income tax, daily expenses are quite high. The cost of renting apartments, private healthcare or educating children in international schools can be a heavy burden on the budget. In addition, the prices of imported food, services and entertainment are much higher than in many European countries. People who do not receive a well-paid job or housing benefits from their employer may find it difficult to maintain a high standard of living.

3. Restrictive law

Dubai operates under a Sharia-based legal system, which means that some behaviors accepted in other countries can lead to serious legal consequences here. Public displays of affection, criticizing the government on social media, and even behaving inappropriately in public places can result in severe penalties, including heavy fines, deportation, and even imprisonment. It is also worth remembering that there is a total ban on the possession of certain substances in Dubai, and violations of this law are severely punished.

4. Difficulty in obtaining citizenship

No matter how long you live and work in Dubai, it is virtually impossible to obtain citizenship. Foreigners can only obtain a residence visa, which is usually tied to their employment. If you lose your job, you have to find a new employer or leave the country. For people who want to build a stable future and settle down permanently, this can be a significant disadvantage.

5. Lack of democracy and freedom of speech

Despite its futuristic image and global character, Dubai is not a democratic country. The media is strictly controlled by the authorities, and open criticism of the government can lead to serious consequences, including arrest and deportation. Freedom of speech is much more limited than in Western countries, which can be challenging for people accustomed to freely expressing their opinions.

6. Poor air quality

Although Dubai is associated with modernity and luxury, the city's air quality leaves much to be desired. High temperatures and sandstorms regularly worsen the atmospheric conditions, and heavy traffic and exhaust emissions further contribute to air pollution. People suffering from respiratory problems may feel the negative effects of being in this environment, especially during periods of increased smog.

What should you know before moving to Dubai?

Lifestyle: Dubai is a city full of contrasts - on the one hand, it offers luxury and glamour, on the other hand, not every resident can afford it. Although many expats come here in search of better wages, it is worth remembering that the level of wages varies depending on the industry and the origin of the employees. While highly qualified specialists enjoy a comfortable life, a large group of workers and service employees receive low wages and live in less comfortable conditions on the outskirts of the city. The gap between the rich and the poor is visible at every turn, which may come as a surprise to people who associate Dubai exclusively with luxury.

Religion and culture: Despite its international atmosphere, Dubai is still a city with strong Islamic traditions. Expats enjoy a high degree of freedom, but they must also respect local customs and laws. Inappropriate clothing in public places, drinking alcohol outside of permitted zones or inappropriate behavior such as insulting residents or expressing emotions in public places can lead to negative legal or social consequences.

Seasonality: Dubai becomes almost deserted in summer, as the extreme temperatures of over 45 degrees Celsius make outdoor life unbearable. Many expats choose to travel to their home countries or to cooler regions during this time to avoid the harsh weather conditions. The streets, which are usually bustling with life, become deserted during the summer season, and many restaurants and tourist attractions operate on a limited basis. Such seasonality means that daily life can become monotonous for those staying in the city, limiting opportunities for outdoor leisure activities.

Living in Dubai - what to avoid

Ignorance of local laws

Before moving to Dubai, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with local laws, as some of them may differ significantly from those in Western countries. Even unintentional violations of the law can have serious consequences, such as heavy fines, deportation, and in extreme cases even imprisonment. Particular care should be taken with regard to morality, narcotics and traffic laws, which are strictly enforced.

Inappropriate dress

Although Dubai is more liberal than other cities in the Gulf region, there are still certain dress codes. In public places, it is advisable to wear modest and conservative clothing, especially in shopping malls, offices or when visiting mosques. Women should avoid wearing clothes that are too short or tight, and men should not go shirtless outside of beaches and swimming pools. Although the rules are less strict in tourist areas, respecting local customs avoids unpleasant situations and shows respect for the local culture.

Careless statements on social media

Freedom of speech is much more restricted in Dubai than in many Western countries, so it is worth being careful about what you post online. Criticizing the government, religion or local institutions can lead to serious legal consequences, including heavy fines, arrest or even deportation. Even negative comments about companies or services can be considered defamation, so it is best to be cautious before expressing an opinion online and to avoid controversial topics.

Getting into debt

Dubai is a city full of luxury and expensive attractions that can tempt you to overspend. Easy access to credit cards and the opportunity to live to a high standard mean that some residents fall into a spiral of debt. However, it is important to remember that in Dubai, failure to pay financial obligations is taken very seriously and can lead to legal consequences, including travel restrictions and even arrest. Managing your budget wisely and avoiding impulsive purchases is the key to a stable life in this city.

If you want to know the prohibitions in Dubai, read the article: What are the prohibitions in Dubai?

Questions and answers

1. What makes living in Dubai not for everyone?

Not everyone will find themselves at home in Dubai due to the extremely high temperatures, expensive living and strict Sharia-based laws. Expats cannot obtain citizenship, which means that their stay is strictly dependent on their job and the validity of their visa, which can lead to uncertainty in the long term. In addition, restrictions on freedom of speech and significant cultural differences can be difficult for people accustomed to a more liberal lifestyle.

2. What do the people of Dubai dislike?

The high cost of living is often criticized, especially when it comes to renting a flat, healthcare and education. In addition, some people are dissatisfied with the strict laws, the lack of freedom of speech and the fact that it is impossible to obtain citizenship.