Moving abroad can be both overwhelming and exciting. However, it was a life-changing decision for Lucy Martin to relocate from a quiet village near Canterbury, England, to the busy city of Dubai. However, Lucy is a British freelance writer and a secondary school teacher. Moreover, Lucy opened up about her experiences, challenges, and advice for fellow expatriates considering life in the Emirates in the UAE expat interview.
UAE Expat Interview: From Rural England to Dubai’s Cosmopolitan Lifestyle
Lucy and her husband moved to Dubai with only one suitcase each. Initially, they planned a two-year stay for her husband’s job. However, their time in Dubai has since become “a rolling two years” with no fixed date. Like many expats in the UAE, the couple relocated as financial migrants.
She shared that adjusting to life was not easy in Dubai. Moreover, she recalls, “I missed my family, the rain, and the countryside”. Still, she appreciates the city’s charm. Moreover, she accepts that it doesn’t quite feel like home. She said, “I think I am naturally monogamous.” Thus, she highlights the emotional side of expats’ lives.
Social Life and Making Friends
It might be daunting to build a community abroad. However, Lucy was lucky to know a couple before moving, which helped her settle in. Plus, she formed friendships through her work and her husband’s circle over time. Hence, she connects with expats from the UK, Australia, Ireland, and across Europe.
She warns newcomers against getting caught in the expat bubble of malls and hotels. Moreover, she requested newcomers to explore the local experiences, like strolling by the Dubai Creek and enjoying authentic curries in Satwa.
What She Loves About Dubai
Image credit – Expatsblog
As per Lucy, the reliable sunshine and holiday-like weekends are among the biggest perks of the expat’s life in the UAE. Moreover, she enjoys the combination of modern luxury and traditional culture, like beach mornings in Umm Suqein and desert drives at sunset.
On the other hand, the cost of living in Dubai is a mixed bag. It is true that no income tax allows you to ensure for higher disposable income. However, Lucy shared that imported goods and alcohol are expensive. Moreover, she explains, “It is about the same as London”. However, dining at the unlicensed restaurant can be budget-friendly.
Challenges of Expat Life
The distance from her loved ones is the biggest struggle that Lucy faced. Moreover, she said, “Many dear friends have had babies since I have been out here, and it is very sad not to be there with them.” Bureaucracy also tops her list of frustrations. Moreover, she noted that the official paperwork often needs multiple visits to the typing office.
Tips for Future UAE Expats
Lucy shared the following suggestions for the newcomers:
- Get all official documents attested before arriving.
- Install Skype or a VPN before moving.
- Apply for an alcohol licence if needed.
- Avoid driving immediately; use taxis until familiar with the roads.
- Keep your winter clothes for trips back home.
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