What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in UAE. They wrote...
"Expats in the UAE often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The conservative dress code and social norms can be difficult to adhere to, and the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Arabic. Additionally, the hot climate and the lack of public transportation can be difficult to get used to. Furthermore, the cost of living in the UAE can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to make ends meet," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to UAE.
"If you live in Abu Dhabi you may find yourself living 45mins plus outside the city as the only cheap accomadtion in AD is out near the airport Al Raha is slowly after 2 years only now becoming easier place to live with it now being on a bus route, and new supermarket's opening, AlReef still has very little out by the compounds in the way of taxis and shops Meeting new friends who are likeminded," commented one expat who made the move to Dubai, UAE.
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SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in the UAE?
- How do I meet people in the UAE?
- What is life like in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of crime in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the UAE accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in the UAE like?
- Is the cost of living in the UAE high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in the UAE?
- What are healthcare services like in the UAE?
- Is the cost of living in the UAE high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in the UAE?
- What is the weather like in the UAE?
- Are there good restaurants in the UAE?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in the UAE?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in the UAE?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the UAE?
- What do I need to know when buying property in the UAE?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in the UAE?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in the UAE, newcomers to the UAE would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.

