Dubai’s sun-drenched beaches, scenery, sand dunes and spotless shopping malls attract millions of tourists from all over the world every year. Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were in the news recently, as many celebrities moved there during the lockdown. But before you consider packing up and moving to Dubai, we want to equip you with the information you need about this oasis in the desert.

Visas

There is a variety of visas available when you are travelling to Dubai, and it depends on your reason for travelling to the country:

Visa for tourists: South Africans who want to travel to Dubai as tourists and stay for 90 days will need this visa.

Visitor’s visa: This visa is for tourists who want to spend more than 14 days in Dubai for family visits as well as long business trips. For this, a sponsorship is needed from any UAE resident or business or hotel that is licensed within the UAE. This visa is valid for 60 days and can be renewed for a total stay of up to 90 days.

Visas for multiple visits: Visas for multiple entries are available for business visitors who have an association with multinationals or other reliable local businesses that often receive visitors. This visa is valid for six months and is not renewable.

No nagging tax man 

It sounds too good to be true, but your salary in the UAE is tax free – as is food, drink and other consumables. Although you may save on tax, the cost of living in Dubai may come as a surprise. According to an article by MoveHub, the cost of living in Dubai is about 100% higher than the national average in the UAE. The price of renting a property has escalated during the past year – especially in popular suburbs. The average cost of renting is currently about £ 478 128 (R125 944). The high import cost of groceries and other products will also hurt your wallet.

Safety

Feeling safe is a priority for anyone moving to a new country. You can be content knowing that Dubai is the safest place in the Middle East for both tourists and residents. The UAE is the only country in the world with three cities, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, that are listed under the ten safest cities in the world. The low crime rate is a result of their strict laws and jail time. Don’t be surprised if you see an expensive car parked outside a shop with the keys still in the ignition – this is the norm.

Education

Dubai’s education system is one of the best in the world. It is home to hundreds of international schools with many extracurricular activities and bilingual opportunities.

Healthcare

According to an article by Relocate Global, Dubai’s public and private healthcare systems are some of the best in the world and they offer high quality care in well-equipped facilities.

Everyone gets their place in the sun

Dubai’s weather is perfect for any swallow. The climate is generally favourable throughout the year and temperatures seldom dip under 20 degrees Celsius – every sun lover’s dream!

A way of life

Although many of us may think that Dubai is restrictive towards various cultures, values, laws and ways of life, it is just as diverse as other countries across the world. That being said, men and women are expected to behave according to certain standards in public; one generally needs to be covered from your shoulders to your knees because it is perceived as a sign of respect. You should also avoid rude gestures, swearing and fighting – it can land you in big trouble. The use of alcohol is restricted to restaurants, hotels or bars and clubs that are owned by hotels.

Language

Although Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is the language most spoken in Dubai.

Transport

Have you ever wondered why residents of Dubai drive the latest models of the fastest and most exotic cars in the world? It is because of the subsidised fuel prices as well as relatively lower car and maintenance costs. Although driving is the easiest way of traveling in Dubai, the government has worked at improving the public transport system during the past decade – and is still continuing to expand and improve the public transport network.

Attractions

When travelling to Dubai, there is a variety of tourist attractions and activities to consider. Tucked between the skyscrapers lies Dubai’s rich history and culture. Travel to the souks in Dubai Creek, the original heart of the city, and negotiate over silver treasures from Oman or spend a day on the beach and enjoy the wonderful view of the well-known Burj Al Arab. Make sure to see the 150 m high Dubai Frame – and don’t forget to visit the largest shopping centre in the world, the Dubai Mall.

The magic and glam of Dubai is always a huge attraction for many tourists.

Dubai is a feast for the eyes!