Adaptation in the UAE: features of life in the new Eldorado

Adaptation in the United Arab Emirates

Comparing the United Arab Emirates with other regions of the world, one can notice that the process of adaptation here is significantly easier. The Emirates represent a progressive and rapidly developing society, open to new ideas and modern trends. While Islam retains its historical roots, its influence on everyday life is less strict, creating conditions for free cultural exchange. Religion still shapes the lifestyle in this unique place; however, newcomers bring various elements of their cultures into this atmosphere, enriching the local environment. These cultural differences can be compared to spices that add a special flavor and diversity to the life of the nation.

Buying real estate in the UAE

If you are planning to become a property owner in the UAE, this could mark the beginning of an exciting adventure, even if you have travel experience. We have highlighted ten key points that a new homeowner will encounter.

1. Weather conditions

For many people in the north, the winter season is a long-awaited time of year, while in the Emirates, winter is a treasure. Locals during this hot season sometimes prefer to spend time abroad, choosing the coolness of European countries or the Mediterranean Sea. To protect workers, a law was passed limiting working hours on construction sites during the hottest hours. For people from northern regions, it is hard to imagine how one can work outside when the thermometer rises to 50 degrees with high humidity. As a result, active leisure activities such as tennis, golf, safari, fishing, and picnics are often postponed until more favorable autumn weather.

However, there's no need to be upset if your trip to the Emirates coincides with the summer months: traffic won't be as heavy, and you won't have to deal with traffic jams. Moreover, during this time of year, Dubai hosts a summer shopping festival, where you can find huge discounts of up to 70% in stores, as well as special offers in restaurants, hotels, and spas.

2. Cultural Mosaic

The UAE is home to a vast number of people from various nationalities and cultures. Each of them contributes to the cultural society and traditions of the country. Here, you can find everything from Irish pubs and Italian restaurants to Lebanese bakeries and cultural centers for Iranian and Palestinian immigrants. One should not forget the diversity of Russian eateries that thrive against the backdrop of picturesque mosques and traditional Arab villas.

Typically, the conversation starts with questions about one's place of origin, then smoothly transitions to cultural aspects, and may end with mentions of mutual acquaintances. The locals are known for their hospitality and kindness towards foreigners, making the UAE one of the most welcoming countries in the world.

Official languages in the UAE

In the United Arab Emirates, Arabic is the primary official language used for all government documentation and official correspondence. However, for comfortable living and doing business in this country, it is quite sufficient to know English, as it is also recognized as a working language.

In the UAE, there is less emphasis on perfect English proficiency; what matters more is the ability to hold a conversation and achieve mutual understanding. It often happens that a person who speaks the language at a high level can be less understandable than someone who only knows basic phrases. Examples of such situations can be found among service industry workers, salespeople, and gardeners.

The role of religion in the life of the Emirates

The religious aspect plays a critically important role in the life of the Emirates. Islam is the foundational religion of this country, but at the same time, there is a high degree of tolerance towards followers of other faiths, despite the absence of synagogues. A significant number of Christians live in the UAE, and, for example, in Dubai, conditions have been created for their religious practice, where they can attend both Orthodox and Catholic services.

Islam influences most aspects of the local residents' lives; traditions may be observed by different people to varying degrees. Some Arabs may choose not to shake hands with women, explaining their actions as personal principles, while others may show more openness by spending time in cafes or bars.

Queues in government institutions

For many tourists, the practice of separating queues for men and women in government institutions may come as a novelty. This is done so that women can shield themselves from unwanted attention, which speeds up the service process, as there are generally significantly more men in the country.

It should also be noted that most locals strictly observe prayer times.

Work schedules in the United Arab Emirates

Until recently, private companies in the United Arab Emirates operated according to two main schedules: either following a European timetable from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, including one lunch break, or adhering to a more traditional Arab schedule, where the workday started at 9:00 AM and ended at 1:00 PM, with several hours off before employees returned to the office until 7:00 PM. Thursday had its own peculiarities: in most institutions, this day was considered a working day, but for some companies, it was a shortened day.

Unified work schedule

The situation changed in July 2006 when a decree from the ruler of the UAE was issued, introducing a unified schedule for all enterprises. Starting from September 1, 2006, all companies were required to switch to the European working model. This innovation also included the establishment of two days off — Friday and Saturday — which significantly simplified international cooperation and allowed employees to recover more effectively after the workweek, as one day off was clearly not enough.

The meaning of Thursday

Thursday has become a special day in the Emirates, when people celebrate the end of the work week. In the evening of this day, many gather with friends, go to parties, and engage in various entertainment activities. The streets are filled with cars, and the traffic doesn't quiet down until the early morning hours.

On Fridays, many prefer to turn off their mobile phones. This day is not as significant for Europeans as it is for Muslims, for whom it is sacred and a full day off, during which it is customary to refrain from discussing work-related matters.

Holidays in the UAE

When it comes to holidays, there are not many in the UAE, but one of the most significant is the holy month of Ramadan, the timing of which is determined by the lunar calendar. This can be a challenging period for Europeans:

• Restaurants and cafes start serving customers only after sunset.
• There are strict restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages.
• It is recommended to maintain a more modest style of clothing.
• It is prohibited to eat, drink, and smoke in public places and even in your own cars.

On such days, the number of road incidents also increases — the cause may be driver fatigue, as they have been strictly fasting all day. Europeans celebrate holidays like Christmas and New Year, and many often take a short vacation during this period if the opportunity arises and is approved by management.

Transport system

When it comes to the transportation system in the Emirates, it's worth considering acquiring your own car, as public transport here doesn't always provide the necessary comfort and convenience. However, the government is actively improving the transport infrastructure — in Dubai, for example, a metro system is being built, which will include separate "women's carriages." Taxis are relatively inexpensive here, and you usually don't have to wait long for one — they make up one in five cars on the roads.

Traditions of car tinting

A completely unique tradition is the tinting of car windows, which is allowed only for women of Arab descent, enabling them to conceal their faces. Those who adhere to these traditions emphasize the unique blend of local norms and cultural characteristics.

The conclusion of the article allows for a deeper understanding of the uniqueness and diversity of life in the United Arab Emirates. This country, where Eastern traditions are seamlessly intertwined with Western influences, offers great opportunities for its new residents. Adapting in the Emirates, despite its peculiarities, turns out to be not such a difficult task. Every new property owner encounters cultural diversity, a variety of languages, and, of course, the characteristics of local religion and customs, which highlight the uniqueness of this region.

Climate

One of the most striking features of life in the UAE is the climate. Since summer temperatures can reach extreme levels, locals find alternatives and seek shade; this opens up opportunities for shopping enthusiasts and cultural events, creating a unique atmosphere even in the height of the heat. The UAE offers its treasures to both its citizens and the international community, providing an unparalleled experience of interacting with various cultures, cuisines, and traditions.

Language

Language becomes yet another barrier to integration, but it can be easily overcome with English, which helps you make connections in this welcoming country. Therefore, you shouldn't be afraid of a country with a different language barrier –general understanding and goodwill of the populationThey are building bridges that connect people.

Respect for traditions

Respect for religious traditions and customs is the key to the comfortable coexistence of all nationalities on this earth. Understanding local norms and rules is not just a matter of following etiquette, but a demonstration of respect for the culture that has warmly embraced you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that life in the UAE offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. This country is not just a place on the map, but a whole world of adventures, encounters, and discoveries. So those who decide to start a new life in the Emirates will undoubtedly encounter many interesting features that will forever remain in their hearts and memories.

Considering these aspects, life in the United Arab Emirates can become one of the most unforgettable adventures one can imagine.