Moving to Dubai as a woman on my own - need advice

sorry Sally, this question made me laugh! Dubai is a muslim country and definitely more restricted than the west but it is not very strict with expats; respect the culture by dressing modestly (shoulders covered and legs covered to the knee, however many expats do not dress sccordinly!). Dubai is a wonderful place to visit or live, I lived there for two years and cannot give it enough compliments. I am now in Qatar, a lot more restricted, but you would never have to wear an abaya. Going out alone is fine, but explore during the day as opposed to night, I do not think you would be in touble, you just may get some unwanted attention at night, that is all! You can drive absolutely! It is only in Saudi, women cannot drive! Go to a coffee shop with a good book, visit Jumeirah walk in JBR and the Marina area, these are all nice expat locations! You have nothing to worry about! Join some social groups and business forums to make friends and you will be fine!

Hi Sally, as anonymous has stated above, Dubai is certainly not as strict as some of it's Middle Eastern neighbours and unlike a country like Saudi Arabia, you won't be required to wear an abaya and you are allowed to drive. I suggest having a look at our Lifestyle in Dubai and Culture Shock in Dubai pages for more information on what you can expect as a women living in Dubai. We've also interviewed a number of expats living in Dubai, so you can read what they have to say on our Expat Experiences in Dubai page. Good luck with your move, I'm sure it will be a wonderful and lifechanging experience!

Hello Catherine Did you live out in the Middel East?Where is the best place to live Dubai or Abu Dhabi and what how do you compare living out there and SA.aRE There lots of SA out there. Thanks Bernard

Hi Sally, I am a single woman living in Dubai. Really you are very free in terms of your lifestyle. Obviously the odd ball out there that requires some wisdom in dealing with. But you get this all over the world. It is much safer than in SA. You can walk around early hours of the morning and don't feel threatened at all. You will need to respect and get to learn the culture, but that comes with time. I enjoy the lifestyle here! Let me know if you need anything else. Clare

Hi Bernard, In regards to the two cities, I prefer Dubai, but others prefer Abu Dhabi. I do not drive and the public transport is far better in Dubai. But that is my opinion. Great lifestyle, alot of outdoor living except of course in the hottest months where temperatures go up to 55C. And there are thousands of SA folk out her!

I will be moving to Dubai soon as well. Would like to know if there is any taxes to pay and will the taxes be very steep?

i was about to respond but then read the response posted by anonymous. I couldnt agree more. Dubai is one of the safest (if not THE safest) cities on earth! the people are very friendly. it can get a bit hot during summer but thats all. enjoy your stay.