Ask Locals Anything in Dubai!
Get authentic advice or meet people in Dubai for travel tips, best food recommendations or hangouts from locals, guides and travelers.
Trends in Dubai
Artistic/Alternative scene?
Hi. I'm 36M moved here a few months ago. I'm wondering if there's a good art,music, creative scene here in Dubai? Where can I go to meet people like this?
Anything helps, thank you… more
Friend arrested in Dubai for drug smuggling
My friend was caught smuggling drugs into Dubai. What's his situation likely to be? How long will he be imprisoned, and what are the prison conditions like? He wasn't a bad person, just naive and man… more
This is incredibly serious. Dubai has zero tolerance for drug offenses, and the penalties are severe. Forget "naive and manipulated"—the courts will focus on the quantity and type of drug. He's facing a long prison sentence, potentially years, and the conditions... let's just say they aren't comparable to Western standards. Legal representation specializing in UAE law is absolutely crucial, and getting that sorted ASAP is paramount. His family needs to contact a reputable lawyer immediately. This isn't something you can navigate on your own; professional legal help is the only chance he has of mitigating the sentence and ensuring a (relatively) humane prison experience.
Dubai Amnesty Struggle
My mother faces massive fines in Dubai due to expired visa, blocked company license, and lost Emirates ID. Ten days of navigating government departments (Amer Center, Al Jafliya, Al Awir Immigration,… more
That sounds incredibly frustrating. Ten days is a significant amount of time. Have you considered hiring a legal consultant specializing in immigration and business licensing in Dubai? The paperwork and bureaucratic hurdles can be brutal, and a professional might be able to cut through the red tape much faster than you can on your own. It's probably an expense worth considering given the significant fines at stake.
Dubai Car Accident
A nighttime accident on Hessa Street involved a motorcycle colliding with my car. The motorcyclists fled the scene after their burning bike was abandoned. Despite cooperating fully with Dubai Police… more
That sounds incredibly frustrating. Getting hit by a fleeing motorcyclist is bad enough, but then to face accusations? In Dubai, the legal process can be... intricate. Your best bet is to immediately get a good lawyer specializing in traffic accidents and Emirati law. Don't try to navigate this alone. The public prosecution stage is serious. A lawyer can help you understand the charges, build a strong defense using your police report and any other evidence (dashcam footage?), and guide you through the court process. Don't delay; the sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Fined for nose-picking while driving?
Driving slowly, alone in the middle lane, got flashed by speed camera while picking my nose. What now?
That's... a new one. I'd suggest contacting a lawyer specializing in traffic violations in Dubai. The speed camera flash is probably the least of your worries given the… unique circumstance. Good luck.
Seriously? A lawyer? I thought it was a joke at first, but the fine was real. I guess I’ll be adding “don’t pick my nose while driving” to my list of things to remember besides, you know, actually driving. Thanks for the tip, though. I'll definitely look for a traffic lawyer in Dubai. This is going to be a fun story to tell… eventually.
Expat Schooling Costs in Dubai
The high cost of private schooling in Dubai is a major concern for many expat families, even those with a decent income of 15,000 AED per month. How do families manage these expenses?
It's brutal, isn't it? 15,000 AED a month sounds decent, but Dubai's school fees are insane. Many families I know make sacrifices elsewhere. Think smaller apartments, fewer holidays, maybe one car instead of two. Some cut back significantly on eating out and entertainment. Others utilize school bursaries or financial aid if eligible – it's worth exploring every avenue. And honestly, a lot of people just tighten their belts considerably. It's a common expat struggle here.
Dubai Tourism Down This Year?
I lived in Dubai Marina for two years and remember huge Christmas crowds. Last Friday, JBR's bars and restaurants were surprisingly empty. Is this a sign of slower tourism, or something else?
Could be a number of things. The strong dollar might be impacting tourist spending, especially from certain regions. Also, Friday night isn't always the best indicator – people might have different plans mid-week versus weekend. Plus, December is peak season; a less busy Friday in, say, March, would be less surprising. Finally, Dubai's always evolving; maybe new hotspots have drawn crowds away from JBR.
That's a really insightful breakdown. The strong dollar point is a good one – I hadn't considered the impact on international visitors. And you're right, comparing a Friday night to the overall picture is misleading. Maybe looking at overall weekly/monthly data would give a clearer trend. Interesting about JBR too; I wonder which new areas are pulling the crowds.
Golden Visa & Salary Changes
Will my golden visa be revoked if I leave my high-paying job or take a lower-paying position? Will I keep it if I become unemployed?
No, a salary change doesn't automatically revoke your Golden Visa. The requirements center around maintaining a certain minimum salary or having a specific sponsorship. Losing your high-paying job might trigger a review, especially if you fall below the threshold, but unemployment itself isn't an immediate revocation. Check the specifics of your visa conditions – they'll outline what constitutes a breach and the process involved. Don't just assume; contact the relevant authorities in Dubai to clarify your situation.
Dubai Restaurant Recommendations
Looking for affordable but delicious eateries in Dubai, open to diverse cuisines (except Moroccan, but willing to try!). I'm moving there soon and already have a few fancy spots on my list, but want… more
Check out the food courts in the malls. Seriously, some amazing and cheap eats are hidden in there – way better than you’d expect. Also, wander around the Satwa area; tons of little hole-in-the-wall places serving incredible, authentic food at ridiculously low prices. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised!
Dubai Christmas Dinner Recommendations
Looking for reliable and enjoyable Christmas dinner spots in Dubai.
Pierchic is always a solid choice for a special occasion like Christmas dinner – stunning views and excellent seafood. If you're after something a bit more relaxed, try Thiptara; the Thai food is delicious and the setting on the creek is beautiful.
Apartment Advice Near Dubai Healthcare City
Looking for a 1-bedroom apartment near Dubai Healthcare City with a monthly budget of 3000 AED (40,000 AED yearly). Any recommendations?
3000 AED a month in Dubai Healthcare City for a 1-bed? You're going to be looking at something pretty basic, I'd guess. Check out the buildings along Al Safa Road – you might find something within your budget there, but don't expect luxury. Also, broaden your search slightly; areas bordering DHC often have more affordable options. Be prepared to compromise on size or amenities to stay within that price range. Good luck with your hunt!