Lifestyle

Studying in Dubai is a truly unique experience. The cosmopolitan lifestyle of a modern international business hub blends effortlessly with the rich heritage and proud Islamic culture of the Arab world, to create a multi-cultural society that is now home to residents from almost 200 countries across the globe.

The second largest of the seven territories that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai is renowned worldwide for its innovation, ambition and global outlook. Already labelled ‘the desert’s most exciting city’ the emerging opportunities associated with Expo 2020 are set to make Dubai a premier study, work and lifestyle destination for many years to come.

As the gateway between Europe and Asia, the city retains a genuine Islamic culture, while successfully embracing the liberal values that characterise the western world. This uniquely multi-cultural society is now home to residents from almost 200 countries across the globe

Culture and Customs

Cultural practices in Dubai are directly aligned to the Muslim faith, which is the national religion of the UAE.  The attire, cuisine and lifestyle of the Emirati people all reflect the influences of the country’s Islamic heritage. Nevertheless, Dubai is open and welcoming to other cultures and faiths, and citizens of many nations seamlessly coexist in a trouble free environment.

There are large Christian, Hindi, Sikh, Buddhist and other religious communities practicing openly throughout the UAE. While alcohol and pork products are prohibited in Islam, they are available to non-Muslims in specific outlets across Dubai. The Islamic dress code is practiced by the Emirati population, but Dubai’s large expatriate community means that western-style clothing is commonplace

Weather

With a warm desert climate, the sun shines almost every day of the year in Dubai. Summers can be extremely hot and humid, and temperatures up to 48°C have been recorded in August. However, for the majority of the year the weather is pleasant, with a mean daily temperature of 20 – 25°C between November and April. Rainfall is rare, with only around three inches of precipitation a year, mainly in January and February.

Language

The official language of the UAE is Arabic, although the cultural mix of the expatriate community means that you will also hear English, Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam and Tagalog widely spoken.  English is commonplace as a second language and is often used alongside Arabic in official channels of communication. English is also used extensively in the corporate sector and service industries and while some knowledge of Arabic is always appreciated, it is not generally necessary in order to do business.

Dress Code

Local dress is common amongst Emiratis but there is no requirement for expats to follow suit. Some establishments request that guests dress conservatively – generally with shoulders and knees covered – out of respect for local customs. This is a good practice to follow when out in public generally. Bathing suits are acceptable on the beach but beyond that you should always dress with the local culture in mind.  

Shopping

Dubai is becoming known as one of the world’s greatest shopping destinations, with a vast range of chain and independent stores offering a diverse collection of consumer products. The city is home to the world’s largest shopping centre – the Dubai Mall – where you will find a host of international branded goods at high street prices. For a different shopping experience, a wide range of goods can be found in the marketplace-style souks or the bustling streets of Karama, where bargaining in commonplace. 

Dubai hosts two major shopping events each year – the Dubai Shopping Festival (January, February) and the Dubai Summer Surprises (June, July, August). Savings are offered by most stores and there are various competitions and activities throughout. 

Restaurants and Nightlife

The restaurants in Dubai are as diverse as the city’s cultural fabric. You can dine out on almost any budget and experience an eclectic range of food from across the globe. Outdoor dining is common in the cooler months, providing a pleasant atmosphere to catch up with friends.

Establishments serving alcohol require a special licence and for the most part this is restricted to bars and restaurants located in hotels and their associated complexes. Outside of these venues alcohol is not served, although as a permanent resident it is possible to acquire a permit to purchase liquor from licenced shops.

Hours of Business

Businesses are increasingly operating a straight shift, usually stating between 8 and 9am and finishing between 5 and 6pm. If you have to attend to any matters with a Government department or Embassy, you will need to visit them between 7.30am and 2.30pm. Government offices are closed for the weekend on Friday and Saturday and many private companies also observe this two-day weekend.

Most shopping malls are open between 10am and 10pm, sometimes later, and there are a number of supermarkets operating 24 hours a day.

Public Holidays

Many of the UAE’s public holidays are linked to Muslim festivals, which are determined by the lunar cycle. As the Islamic calendar is slightly different to the Gregorian calendar, with 354 or 355 days rather than 365 or 366, the dates of certain holidays change annually. The fixed public holidays are New Year’s Day (1st January) and UAE National Day (2nd December). All other holidays are confirmed by the sighting of the moon and are often announced just a day or two before the event.