Dreaming of a Life Abroad? Here’s What You Need to Know
The Cost of Living in Dubai: An Insider’s Perspective
Claudia Mortimer, a native of Haiti with an American passport, has been living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, since 2013. She’s sharing her expertise on what it takes to fund a life abroad, from navigating visas to affording rent.
Why Dubai?
Claudia moved to Dubai to pursue her Master’s degree in International Business at Hult International Business School. She was drawn to the city’s international atmosphere, reminiscent of her time living in Geneva, Switzerland.
Career Opportunities Abroad
Claudia landed her current role as operations manager for a tech and media company through a part-time position she secured during her studies. She emphasizes the importance of seeking out internships or part-time work to gain professional experience and build a network.
Managing Finances Abroad
Claudia’s monthly expenses total around 8,700 AED ($2,300), covering essentials like rent, utilities, groceries, and gas. She uses bank apps and budget-tracking tools like Mint to stay on top of her finances. To save money, she takes advantage of cost-saving apps like Entertainer, which offers buy-one-get-one-free deals with local merchants.
The Cost of Rent in Dubai
Rent is a significant expense in Dubai, with Claudia’s three-bedroom apartment costing 41,667 AED ($11,354) per year, excluding deposit, agent fees, and utilities. She shares the apartment with two roommates, making it more affordable.
Cultural Immersion in Dubai
Claudia loves Dubai’s international atmosphere, where she can meet people from diverse backgrounds. She advises newcomers to immerse themselves in local culture, which can be challenging due to the city’s expat-dominated population. She recommends learning Arabic and engaging with Emiratis, who are open to sharing their customs and traditions.
Overcoming Obstacles
Claudia faced challenges when moving abroad, including finding affordable flights, dealing with baggage limitations, and navigating currency exchange. She also encountered skepticism from family members about her decision to move to the Middle East. To overcome these obstacles, she emphasizes the importance of research, planning, and staying open-minded.
Visa Requirements and Costs
As a student, Claudia’s university handled her visa application, which was included in her student fees. After graduating, she had to navigate the visa process again, which can be stressful. Her company eventually sponsored her resident visa, covering the cost of around 3,000-4,000 AED ($815-$1,090).
Surprising Expenses in Dubai
The biggest surprise for Claudia was the high cost of rent in Dubai, particularly the unique payment structure, which involves paying two-to-four times per year instead of monthly. This can be challenging for expats to adjust to.
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