What It’s Really Like Living in Dubai as an Expat 2025

Dubai is one of the most popular cities in the world for expats. With its modern lifestyle, high salaries, and sunny weather, many people from all over the world come here to live and work. But what is it really like to be an expat in Dubai? Let’s take a closer look at a typical day in the life of a foreign worker living in this exciting city.

Early Morning: A Fresh Start in the Desert City

For most expats, the day begins early. Many people live in high-rise apartments or shared villas. Most residential areas are clean, safe, and well-maintained. A typical morning starts around 6:00 or 7:00 AM, especially during the summer when the temperature rises quickly.

Breakfast might be a quick cup of Arabic coffee with dates or a healthy smoothie before heading out. While many expats own cars, a large number use taxis, ride-sharing apps, or the clean and air-conditioned Dubai Metro to commute to work.

Dubai’s public transportation is efficient, and the roads are smooth and well-planned, making the daily commute manageable—even in a bustling city.

Work Life: Fast-Paced and Professional

Most expats work in offices, retail, construction, or the hospitality industry. Dubai is home to thousands of multinational companies and startups. Workdays usually begin between 8:00 and 9:00 AM and end around 5:00 or 6:00 PM. However, in retail, hospitality, or tourism jobs, shift work is common, and hours may vary.

The working week runs from Monday to Friday (changed from the old Sunday–Thursday schedule), aligning more with global business timings. Business culture in Dubai is formal, but respectful. People dress smartly and meetings often begin with polite greetings and small talk.

Expats enjoy tax-free salaries, which is one of the top reasons many choose to live in Dubai. However, the cost of living—especially rent and schooling—can be high. Careful budgeting is essential.

Lunch Break: Food from Around the World

During lunch, expats have plenty of choices. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects this diversity. You can find everything from Indian biryani to Lebanese shawarma, Filipino fast food, Italian pasta, and Japanese sushi. Some offices have in-house cafeterias, while others are located near food courts and malls.

Popular lunch spots include Dubai Mall, JLT, Business Bay, and Dubai Marina. Most people keep lunch short—between 30 minutes to an hour—before heading back to work.

Afternoon: Productivity with a View

Work in the afternoon continues with emails, meetings, or hands-on tasks, depending on the job. Many office buildings offer stunning views of the city’s skyline or the Arabian Gulf, adding a special touch to the workday.

Dubai’s expats often work with colleagues from different countries. English is the main language used in most workplaces, making communication easy for foreigners. Teamwork, technology, and time management are highly valued.

Evening: Life After Work

After work, the city truly comes alive. Expats enjoy a wide range of activities, from shopping in giant malls to walking along beachside promenades like JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence). Fitness is a big part of expat life too—gyms, yoga studios, and sports clubs are found in every neighborhood.

Dinner options are endless. Some prefer casual dining, while others may enjoy rooftop restaurants or traditional Middle Eastern meals in a desert camp. For those who prefer home cooking, supermarkets like Carrefour, Spinneys, and Lulu Hypermarket carry international products to help recreate tastes from home.

Many also take time in the evening to connect with family and friends back home. With time zone differences, evenings in Dubai often align well with morning or afternoon elsewhere in the world.

Weekend Fun: Desert Adventures and Cultural Delights

Although not part of the weekday routine, weekends in Dubai are worth mentioning. Most expats look forward to Friday and Saturday for rest and recreation. Activities include beach outings, brunches, desert safaris, or exploring cultural spots like Al Fahidi Historical District or the Dubai Frame.

For spiritual needs, Dubai has churches, temples, and mosques that welcome various faiths, reflecting the city’s multicultural makeup.

Challenges Expats Face

While Dubai offers a high quality of life, there are also challenges. The summer heat can be intense, often reaching over 45°C (113°F), and cultural differences require respect and understanding. Expats must follow local laws and customs, such as dressing modestly in certain areas and avoiding public displays of affection.

Another challenge is homesickness. Living far from family, especially during holidays, can be tough. Many find support in expat communities or through online groups.

Final Thoughts: A Unique Experience

Living as an expat in Dubai is a unique experience filled with opportunities and new adventures. Whether working in a high-rise office or enjoying shawarma by the beach, expats in Dubai lead a life that blends hard work with luxury, culture, and excitement.

For many, Dubai is not just a job posting—it becomes a second home.

Read More:- Shobha Realty Launches Its Most Luxurious Project Yet—Full Details Inside 2025