Dubai is not only the financial and investment center of the Middle East, but also one of the best places in the world to live, work and relax. However, there are many stereotypes surrounding this megacity that scare away potential investors, emigrants and tourists.
Let’s break down the main myths about religion, security, education and medicine in Dubai and find out what really awaits foreigners in this city of the future.
Myth 1: “Dubai is too religious and conservative a city”
Reality: Dubai is the most open and tolerant city in the Middle East
The UAE is indeed an Islamic country, but Dubai is an international metropolis with more than 200 nationalities. There are secular laws in force here, and people of different cultures live and work together.
What’s important to know:
- There is no strict dress code – in shopping centers, restaurants and tourist spots you can wear normal European clothes.
- Christian and Hindu temples work – the UAE supports religious freedom.
- The official weekends – Saturday and Sunday – are an adaptation to the Western business model.
- Alcohol is legal – it can be bought in licensed stores and consumed in bars, restaurants and at home.
- Conclusion: Dubai respects tradition but remains a modern, cosmopolitan and comfortable city for Europeans to live in.
Myth 2: “Dubai is a dangerous city, especially for women.”
Reality: Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world
According to Numbeo, Dubai is among the top 5 safest cities in the world (crime index – 13.5/100, while, for example, in Paris – 53.5/100).
What’s important to know:
- Security cameras and strict laws – crime is virtually non-existent thanks to a strong security system.
- Women feel comfortable – it is possible to move freely alone, use cabs and work in business without restrictions.
- There are no pickpockets or street criminals – a lost phone or wallet is very likely to be returned to you.
- Summary: Unlike many European capitals where crime rates have risen, Dubai remains one of the safest cities to live and do business.
Myth 3: “Education in Dubai is inaccessible or only in Arabic”
Reality: Dubai is home to prestigious international schools and universities
What’s important to know:
- International schools on British, American, French and Finnish programs – the level of education meets the standards of Cambridge, IB, A-Level, SAT.
- Higher education – world-class universities:
University of Birmingham Dubai, Hult International Business School, Middlesex University Dubai
- It is possible to study in English – more than 90% of schools and universities conduct programs in English.
- Conclusion: Children of emigrants receive a European education without having to leave the country.
Myth 4: “Medicine in Dubai is only for the rich and is inaccessible to people 50+”
Reality: Dubai has one of the best healthcare systems in the world
The UAE is among the top 20 countries with the best healthcare according to the Bloomberg Healthcare Efficiency Index.
What’s important to know:
- All Dubai residents receive health insurance – by law, employers are required to provide coverage even for retirees and employees 50+.
World-class clinics:
- Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is one of the best cardiac centers in the world.
- American Hospital Dubai – with doctors from the United States, Canada and Europe.
- King’s College Hospital London Dubai is the British standard of medicine.
- Medical tourism – people come to the UAE for plastic surgery, orthopedic treatment and dentistry.
Conclusion: Access to the best doctors and medical technology is possible for all ages, and the insurance system reduces the cost of care.
Conclusion: why Dubai is a comfortable city to live and invest in?
- Dubai is not a closed conservative city with restrictions.
- Dubai is a modern, safe, cosmopolitan city with a high standard of living, affordable education and medicine.
Ready to invest in Dubai or relocate? Contact the experts at DubaiKV to find out more!
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