Dubai Expat Guide – Everything You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re moving to Dubai or just thinking about it, you probably have a lot of questions. How much does everyday life really cost? What can you and your partner do without breaking the law? Which apps help you meet people safely? This guide pulls together the most useful answers from our latest articles so you can get started right away.

Cost of Living & Budgeting

Dubai’s price picture often feels confusing. Rent can be cheap compared to London, but utilities and school fees add up fast. For a solo traveler, a modest studio in Deira or Al Nahda can run around £800–£1,200 a month. A family looking at a three‑bedroom in Dubai Marina will need roughly £3,000–£4,500. Food is another big chunk: buying groceries locally saves money, while weekly meals at mid‑range restaurants cost about £10‑£15 per person.

Transportation is straightforward. The metro is cheap, but most expats rely on rideshare apps that cost about £5‑£10 for a city‑center trip. If you drive, remember you’ll need a UAE driving licence and to budget for fuel, which is cheaper than in many Western countries.

Legal Rules and Daily Life

Dubai is modern but its laws stay rooted in local customs. Unmarried couples can stay in most hotels, but you’ll need a valid passport and sometimes proof of employment. Public displays of affection (PDA) like kissing are fine in private venues, but keep it low‑key in public areas to avoid fines.

Things like chewing gum, smoking vape pens, or even swearing can attract penalties if done in the wrong place. For example, you can chew gum in malls, but it’s not allowed on public transport. Vapes are accepted in designated smoking zones – just keep them out of parks and schools.

Dating apps work, but some, like Grindr, face restrictions. Using a VPN is legal, but you should avoid any activity that could be seen as promoting illegal behavior. Apps like OK Fun have become popular for meeting locals; just check the app’s safety features before you start chatting.

When it comes to health, condoms are legal and widely available in pharmacies. Bring them in your hand luggage if you’re flying in, and you won’t face any customs issues.

Travel tips for expats also include practicalities like where to shop for groceries, which neighborhoods feel safest at night, and how to handle the occasional fine. Our article on "Dubai Crime Rate 2025" shows the city is generally safe, but keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places is still wise.

Overall, living in Dubai can be smooth if you respect local customs, budget smartly, and use the right apps for dating and daily tasks. Check out each of the linked articles for deeper dives into topics like "Can Unmarried Couples Share a Hotel Room?" or "Is Dubai Cheaper Than the USA?" – they’ll give you the numbers and the nuance you need to feel confident in your new home.