Languages:

Arabic (official). English is also spoken, along with Hindi, Farsi, Tagalog, Malayalam, Russian, Tamil and others

Cost of Living:

The UAE is a federation of seven independent emirates, each with its own ruler. Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices. The UAE is a very modern and developed country.

            As such, renting an apartment in the UAE can be very expensive—you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 per month. Negotiating cost is acceptable in the markets (souks) but not in shops or supermarkets—therefore, food tends to be very cheap.  Public transportation is also very cheap as well.

            For more information visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/dubai/tools/
just_landed_guide/money/cost_of_living

Visa and Work Permit:

For a longer stay (more than 60 days), a traveler must obtain a visa before arrival in the UAE. In addition, an AIDS test is required for work or residence permits; testing must be performed after arrival. A U.S. AIDS test is not accepted.

            To work in the UAE you have to have a labor card. You can apply for it, if you have a residency permit. To become a resident in the UAE you have to have a sponsor – someone who will legally vouch for you.  For more information visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/dubai/topics/visas_permits 

Job searching in a foreign country:

The Emirates imports much of its workforce; therefore, it is relatively easy to find a job—especially in the westernized city of Dubai.  Telecommunication, banking, food service, and real estate are some very popular areas for foreigners to get a job in.  

            As in most countries, the major employment agencies have websites where CVs may be submitted either speculatively or for particular vacancies. Some links to finding jobs in Dubai can be found here: http://www.jobsindubai.com, and http://www.jobs-me.com/.

            For more general information on the work environment, salary, and general job searching in the Emirates visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/dubai/topics/jobs

Cultural Differences in the workplace:

The United Arab Emirates are generally recognized as the most cosmopolitan and "Westernized" of the Middle East countries. In fact, less than 50% of the population of the UAE are Arabs. However, 95% of the populations are Muslims and Islam is the official religion.

      There is a national urge to negotiate in the UAE – don’t forget Arabs enjoy bargaining to the full!

Respect your elders—be sure to use appropriate titles. Don’t smile at strangers—they may think that you are interested in them.  On the same note, it is safer for women to not respond to the flirting of a guy.

            Punctuality at work is very important.  Attendance is strictly enforced as well—many times being late or not coming to work will result in a salary change.

            For more information on culture in the Emirates visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/dubai/topics/culture

Money and Banking:

The currency is Emirati dirhams. You may only open a bank account once you have residency so check the facilities available with your existing account to see if they will meet your needs in the meantime. Alternatively, you may consider opening an offshore account.  Personal income is not subject to taxation in the United Arab Emirates (however, note that the citizens of some countries - most notably the US - are liable to taxation on their worldwide income). Most Emirates charge a municipal tax on the annual rental for residential properties. Entertainment (including hotels and restaurants) is also taxed.  For more information on managing money in the Emirates visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/dubai/topics/money

Safety and Security-   

For more information please refer to this site:
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1050.html