10 Things Most People Don’t Know About Dubai (Until They Move Here)
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At GenZone, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals and businesses relocate to Dubai — and one thing we hear all the time is:
“Wow… I wish I knew this before I moved!”
Whether it’s the year-round sunshine, tax benefits, or the luxurious-yet-affordable lifestyle, Dubai surprises people in the best way possible. But there’s also a lot that doesn’t get talked about — the small everyday things that make life here smoother, easier, and often cheaper than back home.
So in this article, we’re breaking down 10 things we wish we knew before moving to Dubai — straight from our personal experience, and the hundreds of clients we’ve helped make the move.
Let’s jump in!
1. Dubai Is Really Hot — But That’s Not a Bad Thing
Yes, everyone knows Dubai is hot — but nothing quite prepares you for it.
Coming from places like Canada, the UK, or Northern Europe, we’re used to the occasional heat wave. But in Dubai? Expect 40–50°C summers from June to September. It’s a dry desert heat, and it hits differently.
That said, Dubai is built for this weather. Every building, vehicle, and public space is air-conditioned. Life continues comfortably indoors — and come October to April, the weather is absolutely perfect. Think clear blue skies, 28°C days, beach-friendly weekends, and rooftop dinners with no jacket required.
And one of the most underrated perks? Weather consistency. No gloomy Mondays. No random snowstorms in April. Just sun, sun, and more sun.
2. Living in Dubai Can Be Cheaper Than Back Home
One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is that Dubai is only for the ultra-wealthy. And while there’s certainly no shortage of luxury, you don’t need to be rich to live well here.
In fact, depending on where you’re coming from, you might spend less in Dubai than in your current city.
Here’s why:
0% income tax on personal earnings
Competitive rent prices compared to major cities like Toronto, London, or New York
Affordable dining and delivery services
Cheaper fuel, transportation, and utilities
Access to high-quality services at lower prices
We’ve had clients move from cities like San Francisco and Sydney and cut their monthly expenses by 25–40%, all while increasing their quality of life.
Now, is Dubai cheaper than a rural town in Eastern Europe? No. But if you’re coming from a major city, Dubai is very competitively priced — and the tax savings alone make a huge difference.
3. You Don’t Need to Speak Arabic to Live Here Comfortably
This surprises a lot of people: you don’t need to speak a single word of Arabic to live, work, and thrive in Dubai.
Dubai is an international city — over 85% of the population are expats from all around the world. English is the default language in offices, banks, restaurants, delivery apps, and even most government services.
So if you’ve been worrying about learning Arabic before you move here — don’t. While it’s always respectful to learn a few basic greetings, you’ll have no problem getting around with just English.
4. The Food Scene Here Is World-Class
We’re not exaggerating when we say this: Dubai has some of the best food in the world.
Because the population is so diverse, you’ll find cuisine from literally every continent — and not just basic versions, but authentic, high-quality dishes.
From affordable Pakistani BBQ joints and Lebanese street food to Michelin-starred sushi and beachfront Italian fine dining — you’ll eat well, every day.
But here’s what really stands out: you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it.
You can grab a delicious shawarma for 10 AED ($3 USD), or enjoy a steak dinner with a Burj Khalifa view for 250 AED ($68 USD). Compared to major Western cities, dining out in Dubai is often cheaper — and the quality is next-level.
5. Dubai Is Built for Convenience
If you’re used to waiting days for online orders or sitting in traffic to run errands, you’re going to love this:
Dubai is the most convenient city we’ve ever lived in.
Need groceries? 20-minute delivery.
Forgot a tool during a home repair? Delivered in 30 minutes.
Ran out of phone credit? Recharged instantly via app.
Need a COVID test? They’ll come to your home.
Between Noon, Careem, Deliveroo, and countless other delivery apps, you barely need to leave the house if you don’t want to. You can run a business, shop, book services, and even set up your company — all from your phone.
And the best part? It’s affordable. You’re not paying $20 delivery fees like in North America. It’s usually 5–10 AED — or even free.
6. There’s No Tipping Culture — And That’s a Relief
Coming from the US or Canada, tipping is expected. 15–20% at restaurants. 10–15% for takeout. A few dollars here, a few there — it adds up fast.
In Dubai? Tipping is entirely optional.
You can absolutely tip — and many people do, especially when service is great. But there’s no expectation, no guilt, and no judgment if you don’t.
Better yet? When you do tip, people truly appreciate it, because it’s seen as a gesture of gratitude — not a requirement. It’s a small thing, but it adds to the feeling that Dubai is refreshingly fair and respectful when it comes to service culture.
7. You Can Actually Invest the Money You Save From Taxes
Here’s a game-changing realization we’ve had — and one we wish more people understood:
It’s not just about saving taxes. It’s about investing your money instead of giving it away.
Let’s say you earn $200,000 a year. In Canada, the UK, or Australia, that could mean $60,000–$100,000 goes to the government.
In Dubai? You keep it all.
Now imagine you invest that money every year — into real estate, stocks, crypto, or your own business. Over 10–20 years, that compounds into millions.
So the real power of Dubai’s tax system isn’t just the savings — it’s what you’re able to do with the money you keep. And that’s where long-term wealth gets built.
8. The Quality of Life Is Way Higher Than Expected
We knew Dubai had good infrastructure. But we didn’t expect it to be this good.
Air-conditioned metro stations and bus stops
One of the safest cities in the world
Spotless streets and clean beaches
24/7 security in most buildings
High-speed internet almost everywhere
Whether you live in a high-rise in Downtown, a villa in Arabian Ranches, or a cozy studio in Jumeirah Village Circle — the standard of living is high, across the board.
9. You Can Choose Your Lifestyle — Minimalist or Luxury
One of the best parts about living in Dubai is that you can build the life you want.
Love luxury? You’ll feel right at home with beach clubs, rooftop lounges, fine dining, and premium gyms.
Prefer a quiet life? There are plenty of affordable residential areas, family-friendly parks, and co-working cafés to choose from.
Want a mix of both? That’s the Dubai way.
Whether you’re here to hustle or relax — or do both — you get to choose your pace and your price point.
10. The Expat Community Is Massive (and Super Welcoming)
You’re never alone in Dubai. In fact, more than 85% of the population are expats.
That means:
You’ll find people from your home country
You’ll meet entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals from all over the world
You’ll have access to English-speaking services, networking events, and international schools
You’ll never feel like “the outsider”
Dubai is one of the most multicultural and expat-friendly cities on the planet. Whether you’re new here or just visiting, people are generally welcoming, helpful, and ready to connect.
So, Should You Move to Dubai?
If you’re looking for:
✅ Financial freedom with no income tax
✅ A safe, high-quality lifestyle
✅ Global networking and business opportunities
✅ A sunny climate year-round
Then the answer is yes.
But don’t just take our word for it. Moving to Dubai is a big step, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Need Help Moving to Dubai?
At GenZone, we specialize in making your Dubai relocation simple, legal, and stress-free. Whether it’s securing a visa, setting up a business, or finding your perfect home, we’ve got you covered.
Book a free consultation with us today to explore your options and take the first step toward your new life in Dubai.
