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Working in Dubai
Dubai was and still is one of the fastest growing cities on earth. Dubai today is a tourism, trade and logistics hub and has earned itself the reputation of being the ‘gateway between the east and the west.’ Home to just over 2 million people from more than 200 nationalities, Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Living in Dubai has a lot to offer. It is safe, politically stable, centrally located, and has a good education system and healthcare facilities, modern infrastructure and much more.
Every year thousands of people travel to work and live in Dubai. It is a haven for Ex- Pats as it offers a generous tax free salary, free accommodation, medical insurance and of course it is a hub for people to go travelling in their many school holidays.
What can you expect living and working in Dubai?
Dubai is often referred to as the capital of the Middle East. It has seen huge growth and development in the last 30 years and compromises of over 80% ex pats. Living in Dubai is exciting, something new and different happens every week whether it’s a concert or sports event Dubai attracts the biggest and best in entertainment around the world. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, a new project is announced, whether it is the launch of a sports stadium, a mega commercial tower, a residential enclave or yet another shopping mall! Dubai is constantly on the move, striving for greater heights and more facilities and comfort for its residents and visitors.
Teaching in Dubai offers very competitive tax free salaries ranging from 8000 dirham up to 20,000 dirham a month depending on your qualifications and experience. These schools all offer state of the art furnished accommodation, annual air flights, health insurance and end of contract bonus (Usually one month salary for every year of service you may have worked.). Utilities may or may not be part of the package but utilities in the Middle East in general are very inexpensive.
money in the uae
Currency – Dirham. Click here for a currency converter.
How often do you get paid?
You get paid monthly.
How do I get a Bank Account?
Getting a bank account in Dubai is very easy. Most schools set up bank accounts for you which makes the process smooth and hassle free.
How do I save money?
Most Ex-Pats come to save money and travel. When saving money it is very easy to send money home to your bank account and you can also set up tax free saving plans in the UAE.
How much money will I need to come over to the UAE?
Your flights over to the UAE will already be covered so you do not need to worry about this expense. As with any job you will need to work for a month before you get paid. We would recommend to come with between $1000 and $2500.
How much can I save?
This depends on what you like to do with your disposable income but in general people save almost 60% – 70% of their monthly income. If you REALLY like shopping and socializing this may be a little less as all of the world’s best brands are located in Dubai!
getting around dubai
Dubai is quite large but very accessible. All the roads systems are world class and constantly being updated. Most teachers in Dubai either rent or buy cars. Both are inexpensive. Petrol is cheaper than water in the UAE so this would not be a big expense. Expect travelling times anywhere from 5 minutes to 40 minutes commute to work. There is also a metro line in Dubai and the Taxis are affordable in comparison to western countries.
women in the uae
Do single women travel to the UAE?
Yes they do. The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. As with any place you must respect the local traditions and culture, it is always safest to travel with groups of people.
Do women have to cover up?
When this question is asked most people think that you must wear head scarf and abayas, this is not the case. You can wear the same clothes to the mall as you would in the United States or Ireland.
What can I wear to school?
All teachers should dress professionally when coming to work. Jeans, shorts and flipflops are not permitted at work.
Socialising in the UAE
Is there alcohol in the UAE?
Yes alcohol is permitted in the UAE. This can be bought at off licenses or pubs and restaurants as long as you have an alcohol license. Most people socialise in the many bars and night clubs in the UAE.
Where can I socialise?
Most hotels have at least 2 bars in them and there are 100’s of hotels and bars to choose from in Dubai. One thing is for certain whether you want a quiet drink or want to party you will have no shortage of options here in Dubai.
What are ladies nights?
Ladies nights are exclusive nights for women that provide ladies with free entry and free drinks for the night. Sorry guys there is no such thing as a man’s night just yet!
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