With a futuristic skyline, great beaches, low taxes, and a flourishing education sector, the UAE is becoming an increasingly popular destination for teachers worldwide. Many educators choose to move to Dubai in July, embarking on an exciting new career opportunity and adventure in this thriving city. However, relocating to a new country can be overwhelming. Common concerns include navigating new laws, adapting to a different culture, and understanding new processes. With the right preparation and information about key aspects of the city and its culture, you’ll quickly feel at home in the UAE. This guide is designed to equip you with all the essential knowledge and tips to settle into your new life in the Emirates comfortably and confidently.
Getting Settled in Your First Week
Housing
Finding a comfortable and convenient place to live should be at the top of your priority list. Key considerations should include proximity to your school, transportation options, and community amenities. Popular areas for expats in the city include Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), and Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT). For a suburban feel, consider Mirdif for affordable family-friendly villas or Arabian Ranches for more luxurious options. Business Bay offers plush accommodations near the city center but tends to be more expensive. You can use Property Finder and Bayut to find housing options and expect payment terms like four cheques, one cheque, or monthly payments.
Transportation
Dubai offers efficient, well-connected, affordable public transport options, including taxis and ride-hailing apps. The Dubai Metro, with stations near many neighborhoods, services the city’s most populated areas. Buses and taxis are also readily available. The Nol card, a smart card for various Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) transport modes, allows you to pay with a single tap for the Metro, buses, trams, and marine transport. Nol cards can be purchased at ticket offices, vending machines, and authorized sales agents. For those who prefer driving, obtaining a driver’s license is straightforward through available driving schools and packages. Afterwards, you can rent or purchase a pre-owned or new vehicle, with flexible payment options to accommodate different budgets.
Staying Connected
Mobile Plans
Navigating mobile plans in the UAE can be quite different from other parts of the world. For instance, WhatsApp calls are restricted, and telecom providers often require yearly contracts. Upon arrival, the last thing you want is to deal with the heat and hassle of setting up a mobile plan. Fortunately, Dubai offers convenient options to connect you when you land. You can easily find a Virgin Mobile UAE store at any airport in the UAE, making it easy to connect immediately. Unlike other providers, Virgin Mobile allows you to sign up for a yearly plan using your passport. Once you obtain your Emirates ID, you can seamlessly switch to a resident yearly plan.
What’s great about Virgin Mobile is that you can get a 50% discount on your annual plan, flexible monthly adjustments, and immediate connectivity upon arrival—making it an excellent choice for teachers moving to Dubai. By choosing Virgin Mobile UAE, you ensure a smooth transition and stay connected with loved ones from day one.
Entertainment and Leisure
Areas to Explore
Dubai offers a diverse range of entertainment options catering to every taste. For a relaxing day by the sea, explore the beach clubs at JBR Beach. If you prefer nightlife, head to West Palm Beach for its vibrant dive bars or downtown for high-end venues. The DIFC area offers trendy nightlife options as well. For a day of shopping and indoor attractions, visit the Dubai Mall, the home of the Dubai Aquarium, and the Ice Rink. If cultural experiences interest you, explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and visit Dubai Museum to explore the city’s heritage. Beyond Dubai, Abu Dhabi offers attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. You can also enjoy outdoor activities in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), such as hiking in the mountains or visiting historical sites. An underrated emirate, Fujairah, boasts beautiful beaches and historical forts, perfect for a day trip from Dubai.
Teacher Deals
The UAE welcomes teachers and businesses nationwide and provides great discounts to educators. From F&B to workout classes to beach clubs – keep an eye out for the discounts available. They constantly announce new ones, so make sure your alerts are on!
Eating Well
Deliveries
Dubai is rapidly becoming one of the world’s leading gastronomy hubs, offering a culinary scene that caters to every palate. Food delivery apps like Talabat, Careem, and Deliveroo make it incredibly easy to enjoy a wide range of cuisines delivered right to your doorstep, any time of the day. You can also practically get anything delivered to your door in Dubai – whether it’s your weekly groceries or something as small as a bag of ice. Call your local grocery store, and they’ll ensure you’re always stocked up with your goodies and necessities.
Tips for a Smooth Transition to Life in Dubai
Weather
Stay hydrated and schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.
Cultural Sensitivity
Dubai is a multicultural city, but respecting local customs and traditions is important. Dress modestly in public places and be mindful of local laws and regulations.
Community
Connect with fellow expats through expat groups and communities, especially for teachers and other educators, on Facebook, Reddit, and Meetup to make new friends and get advice. Participate in community events and social gatherings to build a support network.
