Umm Al Quwain, the UAE
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Umm Al Quwain, UAE. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Umm Al Quwain?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Umm Al Quwain, they said:
"Expats moving to Umm Al Quwain should be aware that it is one of the smaller emirates, offering a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle compared to the bustling cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The cost of living is generally lower, with more affordable housing options available. The local culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, and expats are expected to respect these customs, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, especially in business settings. The climate is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the summer. The healthcare system in Umm Al Quwain is of a high standard, with both public and private facilities available. However, it is advisable for expats to have comprehensive health insurance. The UAE has strict laws and regulations, particularly regarding alcohol consumption, dress code, and public behavior. It is important for expats to familiarize themselves with these laws to avoid any legal issues. The education system in Umm Al Quwain offers a variety of options, including public, private, and international schools. The emirate is well-connected by road to the rest of the UAE, making it easy to travel to other cities for work or leisure. However, public transportation within Umm Al Quwain is limited, so having a car can be beneficial. Finally, while Umm Al Quwain offers a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle, it may not offer the same level of entertainment and leisure activities as the larger cities, so expats should be prepared for a quieter pace of life," wrote a member in Umm Al Quwain.
How do I find a place to live in Umm Al Quwain?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Umm Al Quwain?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Umm Al Quwain?
- What is the average cost of housing in Umm Al Quwain?
- How do I meet people in Umm Al Quwain?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Umm Al Quwain?
- What should I pack when moving to Umm Al Quwain?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Umm Al Quwain?
- Will I be able to find a job in Umm Al Quwain?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Umm Al Quwain?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Umm Al Quwain?
- What is the social scene like in Umm Al Quwain?
- What advice to expats in Umm Al Quwain have about housing?
- What are medical services in Umm Al Quwain like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Umm Al Quwain?
- Is the cost of living in Umm Al Quwain high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Umm Al Quwain?
- Why do people move to Umm Al Quwain?