Thanks really great video I’m South African and have lived in the UK about 15 years ago. It’s a long time but I can relate to the context of your video. Can you please suggest any resources to check for schooling in Dubai whilst not being in the country?looking to relocate with family should the right opportunity come along. Thanks for a really honest and punchy video!
Finally a real and honest video on living in dubai. I've been here for 8 years and take it for what it is but have noticed a lot of videos popping up on what to expect living in dubai and they're generally only showing a tiny positive side to it. This is 100% accurate, You've covered so much on the reality. The negatives aren't necessarily bad, you get used to a lot of it, but it can be very different to what people expect
The reason why they close at 12:00 on Fridays is so that people can pray. The reason for them possibly not closing the malls and food places is there could be foreigners working in those places. Its disrespectful for you to call it stupid.
I lived in Dubai for nearly four years from 2010 and absolutely loved it, it is an extremely safe country with loads to do. Dubai is all about making money, embracing the capitalist system and enjoying life's pleasures, if you don't like or respect this just don't move there. You can make a lot of money in Dubai but you can also very easily fall into the trap of spending a lot of money and end up leaving the country next to broke, I know a lot of people that this happened to as they spent all their money over a bar, flashy cars and a fancy apartment, do not fall into this trap, their is no need to. The three most expensive or key things financially you need to be careful and budget on are your accommodation, your car, and buying alcohol, partying and going to restaurants. Buying food in supermarkets and general services like dry-cleaning and food deliveries are actually very fairly priced compared to London in my experience. My best advice is to spend the most of your budget on a nice place to live that suits your needs with good facilities but don't go overboard, the same with a car don't go crazy, just get what you need, set a budget for everything that's comfortable for your self and leaves enough from your earning to enjoy yourself and to save. Go easy on the night life and the glamorous outings, after being in Dubai for a while you will get multiple invites to events and nights out every day from work colleagues and people you meet and it is very easy to get sucked in, do not do this (unless this is what your here for), budget, be comfortable and have fun. I earnt a lot of money as a salesman selling investment property in Dubai, but after my first year I only had a few thousand Dirham's in my pocket and was waiting for my next commission check, I was probably spending 20-50k Dirham a month on going out, it was crazy. Luckily my two senior bosses briefed me up on a few things and I reigned it in, I lived very comfortably and still had a lot of fun but budgeted, so when I left Dubai to come back home for family reasons I bought a home for cash and had plenty to start the next stage of my life with. Dubai is a great place to live and work, if your thinking of going just do it, when I first went all my family and friends was against it but after 6 months of being their all were shocked in a good way or jealous of the life I had, it was amongst the best years of my life, and the way my country is going at the moment I'm likely to move back in a few years. But whatever you do, especially if you earn good money, be careful about being pulled into the party life 24/7 and spending lots of money plastic and irrelevant stuff. Little tip on restaurants, that are good and well priced, look where the taxi drivers, workers go to eat, these restaurants may not be all the glitz's but the food is often amazing and very well priced. I could talk all day about Dubai, but my advice is to just go, and if you earn good money don't be an idiot and waist all your money.
I appreciate this comment! I’ve been going back and forth about going to Dubai but I guess everywhere is what you make it! Did you already have a job ready when you moved there or did you just go and look for a job whilst there?
@@funkychick4lyf I sourced a job remotely from my home country, I had seen an ad on a jobsite and applied, I got through a phone interview and was planning to visit Dubai for a few days in a couple of weeks for the face to face interview at my own expense, but I was very very very lucky as one of the senior managers was visiting his family back home in my country and he said he was impressed with my C.V and was willing to interview me at a local hotel near his family home, it was a 4 hour drive but far better than flying to Dubai. The interview went very well and we just clicked, he basically said I had the job on a handshake and said he would call me in a week after he had returned to Dubai and cleared everything with the Sales Director who had the final say whether I got the job strait away or if I had to fly out to meet the sales Director personally before getting the job officially. Luckily the Sales Director trusted the managers decision and he called me back and officially Offord me the job which I accepted immediately with a verbal handshake over the phone. He also made it clear and confirmed I had enough funds for at least 6 months living expenses to give me plenty of time to build my commissions and the best chance of success. As a sign of commitment, my manager said at the interview, that I would book my own return flight to Dubai (encase it did not work out I could leave at any time), and that the company would pick me up from the airport, and put me up an their expense in a hotel apartment near the office for my first month while I get trained and find my feet and of course handle all visa and admin details, healthcare etc. When I was there my Manager was like my local guide too and mentor, he helped me set up my mobile, showed me the sights and the company buildings, showed me around, and allowed me to shadow him for a few days to learn the sights and to show me the ropes and everything I needed to know, he really was one of the best salesman and managers I had ever worked with and I'm eternally grateful for putting me under his wing them first few months. I have been is Sales over 20 years including four years on cold line timeshare decks as a hard closer and 6 years door to door sales and I can tell you that Dubai has some of the best salesmen I have ever seen but they also have the worst, I was very lucky to get into a really good firm with good bosses who expected a lot from their staff but they rewarded you well and took care of you as long as you worked hard and smart, I was working 70-90 hour weeks and closed good business, I loved my job and was rewarded well for my work and was looked after. But make no mistake if I did not sell and close business they would of shown me the door, but it worked out and made each other a lot of money and my Manager and Director really looked after me when they did not have too. The first annual staff party I went to I arrived late as I was closing a deal, when I arrived the owner of the company said he had heard good things about me and could be trusted so he told me to drive him home in his Ferrari as he could not stay and had been drinking a lot, in the car he said he needed to get home and could not leave his car where it was and also he wanted to get to know me more, it was an experience and I was nervous has hell that I would crash the bosses car but he was an awesome guy and we had a good chat and a laugh, when we got to his home and parked the car he arranged a car to take me back and as he shook my hand he put a few thousand dirhams in my pocket and said just continue what your doing son and we will always look after you. Basically as long as my sales were coming in I was completely secure in my job and would be looked after, again don't get me wrong, all this meant was that rather than being fired within the first month of getting no deals I would probably have 2-3 month leeway max with complete and utter managerial support, but deals talk and losers walk, the sales board takes no prisoners and rules all. VERY IMPORTANT, my company NEVER took my passport off me (only to get a photocopy for my HR file and Visa), if a company asked to take your passport off you while you work in Dubai just stand up and walk out, trust me no matter what they have told you it is probably all bull crap and you will probably be working for far less than what they said and you cant go anywhere else or leave as they have your passport, this is where a lot of the horror stories come from. I hope this helps, I have not been in Dubai for about 8 years now, but if you want to go just go, worst case scenario you come back in a month or two and have had a good life learning experience, but if you do it right and it works out the rewards can be life changing, it was for me.
Very well explained. Also please explain how to get a nationality of some Europian country while living in dubai through investment of course. The only drawback is that they don’t offer citizenship!
For those wondering...Friday is Sabbath for those who follow Islam. Same as Christians with Sabbath on Sunday. Thought this was common knowledge but if you stay in an Islamic nation, Fridays and the month of Ramadan are going to be a time for prayer. Expect businesses to slow down.
Lived in Dubai for just over 3 years. Left in 2017 because I was done with the caste system and absolute facade of it being a world city. I completely agree with what you saying here - the PR on dubai is luxury everything. But it was all too common to see posh hotels/apartments right next to a construction sites with the poorest of the poor working in the scorching heat. I don’t get how people are indifferent to it. I also felt that the service industry was bordering servitude. For anyone planning to live there, you’ll always be ranked based on your race and passport. I had some amazing times there so don’t want to end off on a bitter note! But it definitely had its expiry date for me.
Not all arabs are living their best lives, or at least not anymore. I'm an English teacher, and I always get rejected for being arab, not a native. Although, at my current workplace, i get praise for my proficiency and good techniques. Also, natives get paid higher than everyone and have plenty of benefits. So basically, your salary is decided based on your passport, not just in teaching, but in general.
When I lived there in 2020-2021 I looked up where to find black hair products on Instagram and within an hour I was in Deira picking up black hair products at a shop near the Gold Souk to wash and style my 4C natural hair. It was definitely much less selection but your staple brands were there - Shea moisture, African Pride, Creme of Nature etc. And yes I took the train. As a New Yorker I still cannot drive, therefore I do not have a license and the only times I wish I had a car was when I had to travel far distances - basically into Deira to find obscure or cheaper products. For alcohol you can hitch a ride from a friend and stock up in Arjan emirate, where the prices are the same as America.
Thank you for sharing this. People always rant and rave about how great it is but this is real life and in real life we know that everything is not a bed of roses
I’m a black American business owner in Dubai and I tend to see Brit’s working as teachers and nurses. Africans go high or low in their positions nothing really in between. You won’t see the high if you’re not in the community of high African and/or black wealth if you are not part of that circle.That’s like anywhere in the world. And btw , most Emirates and middle class perhaps you are witnessing saudis or Arabs visiting from other surrounding countries. The ones who are traveling are usually wealthy and there to enjoy and spend. As for Indians who make up a huge population tend to have servile work like the Malaysians and Philippines. They like Africans are either high or low in the work place with Very smaller percentage of middle class.
Totally agree with you , well said . Since you live in UAE we would like to let you know that we offer home furnishing setups fix and supply if ever ure interested please kindly feel free to reach out !!
Thank you for the insight! I am considering moving to dubai mainly for financial reasons, I live in Belgium and taxes are overwhelming almost 60% of all my earnings...
I worked there for 6 years and i left with very little savings. It is very expensive, far more expensive than Europe. Unless you get a very good job, don't go there. You will be at the mercy of your employer.
I agree with a lot of this and I’m a fellow Brit. Just a few things: Dubai was very much Dubai 7 years ago 😂 20 years was different. I moved there 2013. I’m not sure what you mean about cafe culture? If you go to Jumeriah etc. The locals hang out a lot in cafes. Also you do still need a license in Dubai to drink at home, the change was that you no longer need it to drink in bars. Abu Dhabi got rid of the license completely but Dubai you still need it to buy & consume alcohol in your home. WhatsApp is banned cause terrorists were using it to communicate using encryption.
Cafe culture is definitely a thing for the Arabs that live there, they go there to hang out and people watch. I liked going to home bakery (Dubai mall) for breakfast /coffee when I was on holiday and it was usually packed. But it will never be the same vibe as uk because we have an outside bit and the different weather….Anyways loved your video ❤
Yes you’re right! The Arabs like their coffee/ karak but it’s not the same as the U.K.! Home bakery is delicious- especially their cookies. Thanks for watching x
Been in Dubai 2 weeks, everything is true. Especially the exit on the streets, it's so easy to do mistakes it's crazy, we literally everyday spent 15-20 m on the road just because you take the wrong exit because Google maps is not clear etc it was crazy lol
Good day young lady happen to come across your page, have been blessed to connect with several people in Dubai, coming on business Real Estate Investing, definitely plan on living a better way of life, helping the country grown through investing and enjoying the journey! Love a luxury car, I don't watch Netflix, very prayerful, I like Starbucks, can do my own coffee and company, know you have to pay to play, like it or not, thanks for the heads up, know there is always a give in take, everything is perspective stay blessed keep up the amazing work and let's go! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
girl you need to visit diera for this seasoning, that’s what i do, i just go shopping for a day there and buy a month worth of ingredients and hair products
omggg in my experience there is a HUGE cafe culture in dubai! Have you been to Jumeirah, street full of specialty cafes, even the locals are always there
True. I live in Dubai. Even the apartment situation is tricky. Also, it's VERY expensive. I don't get a salary. Commission only. I am also fed up with all the hookers around. As far as the metro goes, I stood for 9 stops. Then you have to walk for ages to GET to the train. It's VERY clean. Going out for coffee is not something I can do anymore. I spent £35 the other day....on just nothing. METRO and two coffees (plain black coffee). Not a fancy one. I hate driving in Dubai ... the stupid design. Absolutely spot on. I cried once when I missed my exit. I'm a bit fed up with Dubai to be honest. I respect it, it's safe..etc... yes whatever the laws are that morning ...change all the time. Also...Dubai can be quite lonely. Don't believe Instagram. Great video.
What you said is true lived all my life in England but happy in Dubai due to safety for family especially women everywhere there’s up and down with the cost of living in England becoming hard thank u for insight.
I agree with so many of these points. There’s some real obvious things that stand out when you first move but obv so many great parts to living here too
The highway thing is so accurate getting around in Dubai is a nightmare if you don’t have a car you don’t have a life coz public transport isn’t great it’s so unwalkable you can’t cross the street coz there are all these giant H’way that cut the city. If you miss your exit to attempt it again is crazy it really adds significant time on your trip
New subscriber. Thank you for your feedback on Dubai. It is not a state, country I wish to visit, but its is good to hear the rundown from a woman's perspective.
Glad you did this video, it gives anyone deciding to just travel or move there the opportunity to know what to expect and better prepare for.👊🏽 You be careful driving there.🤨 those 10 minutes can add back to your LIFE🫣 God Bless!!🙌🏽🙏🏽
7 years ago it wasnt desert but i miss the 90s. Abu dhabi was great back then. It was chill and cheap ❤ Yes spending a lot became like that within the last 7 years. More exapts more companies but we locals try to stick to what we know.
The race patterns in employment are simply the result of economic realities in the places of origins. White people won't move to Dubai to become housekeepers or security guards because they will get paid a lot more doing that work at home. While Indians, Africans and Filipinos can earn a lot more doing menial jobs in Dubai than doing them at home, if those jobs are even available at home that is. That doesn't however mean that you won't find Indians, African or Filipinos in high skilled jobs. It's just that some ethnic groups are completely absent in low skilled labor, particularly white people and Emiratis.
I’m American and I noticed this pattern in Washington DC when I visited. It may exist in other pockets in the US as well, but it’s a massive country and I’d never encountered it before. I don’t remember if they were mostly filled by recent immigrants or not, but it was startling to see and a little unsettling. The same was true for higher status jobs that you observed. All ethnicities filled high status jobs.
When I lived in Dubai I had a regular driver who had worked in Dubai for over 20 years (this was back in 2011), he visited his family back in India for one month every year, I was shocked but he said working in Dubai the way he did he could provide a very good life for his wife and four kids, but also two nieces and sister in law as his brother died in an accident, he said he does what he needs to do and is happy with a smile every day knowing his family don't have to worry like he did as a boy growing up. He was a phenomenal guy and very hard worker, lets just say I made sure he got a good bonus when he went back to see his family. I have nothing but the highest amount of respect for the workers in Dubai from places like India and alike. I also accidently left my wallet in a random taxi one night on a night out, by the time I realised walked back to where I was dropped off and the driver was already their looking for me at reception, he was so happy he found me and gave me back my wallet, I had a lot of cash in it and it was 100% all there, I was so grateful, I tried to give him 1k dirham as a thankyou but he point blank refused to accept it, Dubai's working class are awesome in my experience, look after them and they will look after you.
This is soo interesting. I’m thinking of making the same move as you as a teacher. I’ve heard lots about Dubai but most of this was news to me. Thanks for sharing!
Great video, totally nailed it. Parts of Deira and the area near Sharaf DG metro have lots of Afro Carribbean stuff. You'll definitely get your seasoning :) I live in Deira and love it - couldn't be more opposite from typical Instagram Dubai!
@@tobes_x 100% agree, when I worked in Dubai I had a lot of Nigerian clients and they often stayed in Deira and the old town, lots of good traditional central African restaurants and shops around their too.
Great insight! I have no plans to move there and I’m not intrigue to visit Dubai. Maybe one day. I love and respect other cultures and love traveling yet going to Dubai is not on my list yet. There were a couple of things that were surprising. Before traveling to any country I do my homework.
I was so similar before I came too! Dubai was never on my list of places to go to and now I live here. It’s crazy how things change. You’re right- it’s so important to look up where you are travelling before you go xx
@tobes - there are African shops in places such as international city phase 2, I know it’s not the best of areas but that’s where you probably see and find your ingredients and if you ask the African shop owners for a hair dresser you’ll get one. I was out there for two months and believe me everything you are saying is absolutely on point I had to go on my companies car for the time being. I am lucky enough not to have gotten a fine. Missing an exit remember missing it and going all the way to Damac Hills 2 😂
Enjoyed this. Thanks. I heard and read (though can’t 100% confirm) that reason WhatsApp calls, video calls etc dont work there is cos the State government/royal family own the main telecommunication company there so have to control this monopoly market from free foreign competition etc. Something like that.
@@user-dt2ik9dd3y I had a good friend who lived in Discovery Gardens Mediterranean area and she loved it back it 2011, was paying a third of the rent I was paying but it was a nice place he had after he decked out. This was back in 2011, has it gone down hill now then? as I understand they have new metro stations their now too so I thought it might of been more popular 2023, especially with metro users?.
Hi Tobi, glad I found your channel. I’m kind of freaking out because I might have a work opportunity in Dubai and will need to move by this August there. I’m a single mom to a 10 year old and we have FOUR pets. I’m so overwhelmed and totally terrified. Probably because of the unknown but this content is definitely giving me more clarity.
Hello Ivana, hope you are ok..I'm looking to make a move too. If you need help with the 10 year old and the pets. I would love to get that chance . Looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you
Hey Ivana! First of all- congratulations on the new opportunity! Have you started looking for a school for your child? A lot of school allow kids to join late so if I were you I would go to see as many schools in person as possible so that you can get a feel for it- trust your instinct. And 4 pets!? Loool girl no advice but good luck hahaha xxx I hope you love it here x
Very interesting and all told well. My interest would entice further should information be provided regarding meeting people, dating ect and finding out about current events taking place.
Disagree with some things here. Travel isn’t that bad the metro is cheap enough and you can order a taxi from the apps. Obviously the city isn’t going to be full off g wagons just like in London there is poor parts….. the seasonings are actually near Al seef which you can get and there is also African American hair salons so I’m not sure which part of the uae you were living in.
@@tobes_x you could look for the Indians or Pakistanis. When I was there last in 2014, I did get some hair extensions there and saw products that could be used for Afro hair. You have to look though as at that time, there were few of them, so you do have to look well.
Such great tips that I haven’t heard before! Thank you 🙏🏽 1. Just how DODGE the water quality is. That’s NB to know my goodness. 2. The need to pack spices (I too, NEED to season my food). 3. Businesses closing at 12:00 on a Friday-did not know that either. And I have a follow up question on this one please: what does the “standard” work week look like in Dubai? Like do majority of businesses work Mon-Fri? Because I’ve watched a recent TH-cam video stating that 6-day weeks are quite common in Abu Dhabi…me myself personally I don’t fux with 6 day work weeks ay 🙅🏽♀️ 4. “Driving in Dubai is an elite sport.” 😂 Same-same in South Africa 🥹 5. The changing laws, especially the one about being able to live with your partner - was wondering about that one! ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and I am moving to Dubai in 2 months this is super helpful. How do you or other people make friends outside of work?
It’s helpful that you have shared your experience. And of course you can only share your experience. I think the slavery in the construction industry was glossed over. One example of this is the mention of construction workers driving non glamorous cars. Instead they are bussed to compounds by companies that keep their passports. I imagine you’re watched by the Dubai government (or paid?) so you can’t say everything, and you can only describe what you’ve seen personally, I just think that’s pretty important.
How do I contact you Tobi? My family is relocating for job and school and would love to get some honest answers for some of our questions. Thanks very much from UK too.
I was telling a friend of mine the other time that the luxurious cars are actually in the shops 🤣🤣🤣🤣 waiting to be bought, definitely not in the roads 😂😂😂😂
Its too hot for cafe culture Europe is very cold in winter actually snows... its doesn't snow in the middle east and always indoors cos it is so hot ... I find Dubai so hot its too much...
Can you do a video on how you moved to Dubai or how to get a job in Dubai if you are from Europe?
th-cam.com/video/rsm7GebXXsY/w-d-xo.html I answer that in this video hun xxx
@@tobes_x it says the video is private
Hello, as A British Citizen..to work in Dubai can you still avail of the privileges in UK whilst working in UAE?
Thanks really great video I’m South African and have lived in the UK about 15 years ago. It’s a long time but I can relate to the context of your video. Can you please suggest any resources to check for schooling in Dubai whilst not being in the country?looking to relocate with family should the right opportunity come along.
Thanks for a really honest and punchy video!
Shhh! (Whispers) just enjoy the perfect service
I’ve been looking for someone tell an honest story about Dubai. You got a new subscriber.
Finally a real and honest video on living in dubai. I've been here for 8 years and take it for what it is but have noticed a lot of videos popping up on what to expect living in dubai and they're generally only showing a tiny positive side to it. This is 100% accurate, You've covered so much on the reality. The negatives aren't necessarily bad, you get used to a lot of it, but it can be very different to what people expect
The reason why they close at 12:00 on Fridays is so that people can pray. The reason for them possibly not closing the malls and food places is there could be foreigners working in those places. Its disrespectful for you to call it stupid.
I lived in Dubai for nearly four years from 2010 and absolutely loved it, it is an extremely safe country with loads to do.
Dubai is all about making money, embracing the capitalist system and enjoying life's pleasures, if you don't like or respect this just don't move there.
You can make a lot of money in Dubai but you can also very easily fall into the trap of spending a lot of money and end up leaving the country next to broke, I know a lot of people that this happened to as they spent all their money over a bar, flashy cars and a fancy apartment, do not fall into this trap, their is no need to.
The three most expensive or key things financially you need to be careful and budget on are your accommodation, your car, and buying alcohol, partying and going to restaurants.
Buying food in supermarkets and general services like dry-cleaning and food deliveries are actually very fairly priced compared to London in my experience.
My best advice is to spend the most of your budget on a nice place to live that suits your needs with good facilities but don't go overboard, the same with a car don't go crazy, just get what you need, set a budget for everything that's comfortable for your self and leaves enough from your earning to enjoy yourself and to save.
Go easy on the night life and the glamorous outings, after being in Dubai for a while you will get multiple invites to events and nights out every day from work colleagues and people you meet and it is very easy to get sucked in, do not do this (unless this is what your here for), budget, be comfortable and have fun.
I earnt a lot of money as a salesman selling investment property in Dubai, but after my first year I only had a few thousand Dirham's in my pocket and was waiting for my next commission check, I was probably spending 20-50k Dirham a month on going out, it was crazy.
Luckily my two senior bosses briefed me up on a few things and I reigned it in, I lived very comfortably and still had a lot of fun but budgeted, so when I left Dubai to come back home for family reasons I bought a home for cash and had plenty to start the next stage of my life with.
Dubai is a great place to live and work, if your thinking of going just do it, when I first went all my family and friends was against it but after 6 months of being their all were shocked in a good way or jealous of the life I had, it was amongst the best years of my life, and the way my country is going at the moment I'm likely to move back in a few years.
But whatever you do, especially if you earn good money, be careful about being pulled into the party life 24/7 and spending lots of money plastic and irrelevant stuff.
Little tip on restaurants, that are good and well priced, look where the taxi drivers, workers go to eat, these restaurants may not be all the glitz's but the food is often amazing and very well priced.
I could talk all day about Dubai, but my advice is to just go, and if you earn good money don't be an idiot and waist all your money.
I appreciate this comment! I’ve been going back and forth about going to Dubai but I guess everywhere is what you make it! Did you already have a job ready when you moved there or did you just go and look for a job whilst there?
@@funkychick4lyf I sourced a job remotely from my home country, I had seen an ad on a jobsite and applied, I got through a phone interview and was planning to visit Dubai for a few days in a couple of weeks for the face to face interview at my own expense, but I was very very very lucky as one of the senior managers was visiting his family back home in my country and he said he was impressed with my C.V and was willing to interview me at a local hotel near his family home, it was a 4 hour drive but far better than flying to Dubai.
The interview went very well and we just clicked, he basically said I had the job on a handshake and said he would call me in a week after he had returned to Dubai and cleared everything with the Sales Director who had the final say whether I got the job strait away or if I had to fly out to meet the sales Director personally before getting the job officially. Luckily the Sales Director trusted the managers decision and he called me back and officially Offord me the job which I accepted immediately with a verbal handshake over the phone.
He also made it clear and confirmed I had enough funds for at least 6 months living expenses to give me plenty of time to build my commissions and the best chance of success.
As a sign of commitment, my manager said at the interview, that I would book my own return flight to Dubai (encase it did not work out I could leave at any time), and that the company would pick me up from the airport, and put me up an their expense in a hotel apartment near the office for my first month while I get trained and find my feet and of course handle all visa and admin details, healthcare etc.
When I was there my Manager was like my local guide too and mentor, he helped me set up my mobile, showed me the sights and the company buildings, showed me around, and allowed me to shadow him for a few days to learn the sights and to show me the ropes and everything I needed to know, he really was one of the best salesman and managers I had ever worked with and I'm eternally grateful for putting me under his wing them first few months.
I have been is Sales over 20 years including four years on cold line timeshare decks as a hard closer and 6 years door to door sales and I can tell you that Dubai has some of the best salesmen I have ever seen but they also have the worst, I was very lucky to get into a really good firm with good bosses who expected a lot from their staff but they rewarded you well and took care of you as long as you worked hard and smart, I was working 70-90 hour weeks and closed good business, I loved my job and was rewarded well for my work and was looked after.
But make no mistake if I did not sell and close business they would of shown me the door, but it worked out and made each other a lot of money and my Manager and Director really looked after me when they did not have too.
The first annual staff party I went to I arrived late as I was closing a deal, when I arrived the owner of the company said he had heard good things about me and could be trusted so he told me to drive him home in his Ferrari as he could not stay and had been drinking a lot, in the car he said he needed to get home and could not leave his car where it was and also he wanted to get to know me more, it was an experience and I was nervous has hell that I would crash the bosses car but he was an awesome guy and we had a good chat and a laugh, when we got to his home and parked the car he arranged a car to take me back and as he shook my hand he put a few thousand dirhams in my pocket and said just continue what your doing son and we will always look after you.
Basically as long as my sales were coming in I was completely secure in my job and would be looked after, again don't get me wrong, all this meant was that rather than being fired within the first month of getting no deals I would probably have 2-3 month leeway max with complete and utter managerial support, but deals talk and losers walk, the sales board takes no prisoners and rules all.
VERY IMPORTANT, my company NEVER took my passport off me (only to get a photocopy for my HR file and Visa), if a company asked to take your passport off you while you work in Dubai just stand up and walk out, trust me no matter what they have told you it is probably all bull crap and you will probably be working for far less than what they said and you cant go anywhere else or leave as they have your passport, this is where a lot of the horror stories come from.
I hope this helps, I have not been in Dubai for about 8 years now, but if you want to go just go, worst case scenario you come back in a month or two and have had a good life learning experience, but if you do it right and it works out the rewards can be life changing, it was for me.
Very well explained. Also please explain how to get a nationality of some Europian country while living in dubai through investment of course. The only drawback is that they don’t offer citizenship!
Thank yoy for the detailed comment. It's very insightful.
Thanks for this, very helpful
For those wondering...Friday is Sabbath for those who follow Islam. Same as Christians with Sabbath on Sunday.
Thought this was common knowledge but if you stay in an Islamic nation, Fridays and the month of Ramadan are going to be a time for prayer. Expect businesses to slow down.
Lived in Dubai for just over 3 years. Left in 2017 because I was done with the caste system and absolute facade of it being a world city. I completely agree with what you saying here - the PR on dubai is luxury everything. But it was all too common to see posh hotels/apartments right next to a construction sites with the poorest of the poor working in the scorching heat. I don’t get how people are indifferent to it. I also felt that the service industry was bordering servitude. For anyone planning to live there, you’ll always be ranked based on your race and passport. I had some amazing times there so don’t want to end off on a bitter note! But it definitely had its expiry date for me.
Where can you move to escape the caste system? Social hierarchy exist all over the planet.
@@tammybenaytv4631 you as well as everyone else should know and understand that it’s worse in certain countries
Only a Londoner could send this message with a reality check. Was skeptical before i hit the video ,glad i watched this .Thanks.
This video has been a plethora of help. Me and The Wife are considering countries to move to, and Dubai is one of them.
The 12 noon closure on Fridays is due to observants of Jumah prayer (equivalent to Sunday worship for Christians) which starts at 1p.
Not all arabs are living their best lives, or at least not anymore. I'm an English teacher, and I always get rejected for being arab, not a native. Although, at my current workplace, i get praise for my proficiency and good techniques. Also, natives get paid higher than everyone and have plenty of benefits.
So basically, your salary is decided based on your passport, not just in teaching, but in general.
dubai is in Arabia
Thank you ❤
Yes that confused me too?@@171_indranildutta6
When I lived there in 2020-2021 I looked up where to find black hair products on Instagram and within an hour I was in Deira picking up black hair products at a shop near the Gold Souk to wash and style my 4C natural hair. It was definitely much less selection but your staple brands were there - Shea moisture, African Pride, Creme of Nature etc. And yes I took the train. As a New Yorker I still cannot drive, therefore I do not have a license and the only times I wish I had a car was when I had to travel far distances - basically into Deira to find obscure or cheaper products. For alcohol you can hitch a ride from a friend and stock up in Arjan emirate, where the prices are the same as America.
Thank you for sharing this. People always rant and rave about how great it is but this is real life and in real life we know that everything is not a bed of roses
I’m a black American business owner in Dubai and I tend to see Brit’s working as teachers and nurses. Africans go high or low in their positions nothing really in between. You won’t see the high if you’re not in the community of high African and/or black wealth if you are not part of that circle.That’s like anywhere in the world. And btw , most Emirates and middle class perhaps you are witnessing saudis or Arabs visiting from other surrounding countries. The ones who are traveling are usually wealthy and there to enjoy and spend. As for Indians who make up a huge population tend to have servile work like the Malaysians and Philippines. They like Africans are either high or low in the work place with Very smaller percentage of middle class.
Totally agree with you , well said . Since you live in UAE we would like to let you know that we offer home furnishing setups fix and supply if ever ure interested please kindly feel free to reach out !!
Thank you for the insight! I am considering moving to dubai mainly for financial reasons, I live in Belgium and taxes are overwhelming almost 60% of all my earnings...
Rahh I never knew that! That’s crazy.. good look with the decision making.
Please don't try
@@longatsos why so
I worked there for 6 years and i left with very little savings. It is very expensive, far more expensive than Europe. Unless you get a very good job, don't go there. You will be at the mercy of your employer.
@@longatsos ok thanks for the info
I agree with a lot of this and I’m a fellow Brit. Just a few things:
Dubai was very much Dubai 7 years ago 😂 20 years was different. I moved there 2013.
I’m not sure what you mean about cafe culture? If you go to Jumeriah etc. The locals hang out a lot in cafes.
Also you do still need a license in Dubai to drink at home, the change was that you no longer need it to drink in bars. Abu Dhabi got rid of the license completely but Dubai you still need it to buy & consume alcohol in your home.
WhatsApp is banned cause terrorists were using it to communicate using encryption.
Ohhh. I was wondering why WhatsApp was banned. I'm a brit that lives in Abu Dhabi
@JS 101 Consult well, WhatsApp calling is banned
@@user-dt2ik9dd3yim going to conclude that the use of whatsapp is one of those things that is partially restricted but no one cares about 😅 accurate?
correct me if im wrong but im pretty sure she said 70 years and not 7?!?
*takes note* this is actually really insightful! Thank you ☺️
You’re welcome huns xx
That was spot-on!
Having lived here long enough, i can attest to this as very insightful for many.. 👌🏾
Cafe culture is definitely a thing for the Arabs that live there, they go there to hang out and people watch. I liked going to home bakery (Dubai mall) for breakfast /coffee when I was on holiday and it was usually packed. But it will never be the same vibe as uk because we have an outside bit and the different weather….Anyways loved your video ❤
Yes you’re right! The Arabs like their coffee/ karak but it’s not the same as the U.K.! Home bakery is delicious- especially their cookies. Thanks for watching x
Been in Dubai 2 weeks, everything is true. Especially the exit on the streets, it's so easy to do mistakes it's crazy, we literally everyday spent 15-20 m on the road just because you take the wrong exit because Google maps is not clear etc it was crazy lol
First world problems....lol
I like your take vs most other takes on the dark side of Dubai i have watched. Its more balanced and realistic and less doom and gloom.
I’ve been thinking about moving to the UAE for a while now. This video is so informative. Thank you.
hi, so did you move? if so, how's it going
love your transparency Queen! Great Info
This was so much great info! Thank you. No one other video has gone over these details ❤
First , thank you for being honest and second, i love your makeup 🥺 so cleannnnn🥺💕
awww girl thank you xxx
Good day young lady happen to come across your page, have been blessed to connect with several people in Dubai, coming on business Real Estate Investing, definitely plan on living a better way of life, helping the country grown through investing and enjoying the journey! Love a luxury car, I don't watch Netflix, very prayerful, I like Starbucks, can do my own coffee and company, know you have to pay to play, like it or not, thanks for the heads up, know there is always a give in take, everything is perspective stay blessed keep up the amazing work and let's go! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
This is the most honest riview that we should know 👌
Omg, I’ve been taking NOTES from this video! Thank you soo much!
girl you need to visit diera for this seasoning, that’s what i do, i just go shopping for a day there and buy a month worth of ingredients and hair products
Yeah this has become a recurrent message! Diera is such a trek though :( but gotta do what you gotta do xx
@@tobes_x if deira is a trek then you are not in Dubai...
Being in Dubai is very similar to nigeria w the whole maid driver and chef situation we even have wash men and dry cleaners at the house
Honesty is wonderful. Thanks Tobi
omggg in my experience there is a HUGE cafe culture in dubai! Have you been to Jumeirah, street full of specialty cafes, even the locals are always there
I also saw lots of pretty looking cafes when I was vacationing there
I visited a friend once in Dubai, in 2018. Stayed for two weeks. Not my cuppa tea. 😎
True. I live in Dubai. Even the apartment situation is tricky. Also, it's VERY expensive. I don't get a salary. Commission only. I am also fed up with all the hookers around. As far as the metro goes, I stood for 9 stops. Then you have to walk for ages to GET to the train. It's VERY clean. Going out for coffee is not something I can do anymore. I spent £35 the other day....on just nothing. METRO and two coffees (plain black coffee). Not a fancy one. I hate driving in Dubai ... the stupid design. Absolutely spot on. I cried once when I missed my exit. I'm a bit fed up with Dubai to be honest. I respect it, it's safe..etc... yes whatever the laws are that morning ...change all the time. Also...Dubai can be quite lonely. Don't believe Instagram. Great video.
Wealth of knowledge! Thank you!!
This is the best video about things to be aware about while moving to Dubai. Thank you for such a detailed video.
What you said is true lived all my life in England but happy in Dubai due to safety for family especially women everywhere there’s up and down with the cost of living in England becoming hard thank u for insight.
Great video, valuable information. I have been offered a Physical Éducation position and I needed videos like this. Awesome accent
I agree with so many of these points. There’s some real obvious things that stand out when you first move but obv so many great parts to living here too
Awww I’m glad I’m not the only one!
Really good info! Thank you
Great video, but one thing to know, in Canada and the USA you have separate outlets to. It alcohol. It is not found in your local supermarkets
Well put together video.. thanks Tobi!
Thank you! Glad you liked it :)
The highway thing is so accurate getting around in Dubai is a nightmare if you don’t have a car you don’t have a life coz public transport isn’t great it’s so unwalkable you can’t cross the street coz there are all these giant H’way that cut the city. If you miss your exit to attempt it again is crazy it really adds significant time on your trip
Thank you for sharing your experience and genuine opinions 👏👏
My pleasure x
New subscriber. Thank you for your feedback on Dubai.
It is not a state, country I wish to visit, but its is good to hear the rundown from a woman's perspective.
Glad you did this video, it gives anyone deciding to just travel or move there the opportunity to know what to expect and better prepare for.👊🏽 You be careful driving there.🤨 those 10 minutes can add back to your LIFE🫣 God Bless!!🙌🏽🙏🏽
I have been thinking about this comment all week! Girl it's so true- better to drive extra 10 minutes than land in the hospital x
7 years ago it wasnt desert but i miss the 90s. Abu dhabi was great back then. It was chill and cheap ❤
Yes spending a lot became like that within the last 7 years. More exapts more companies but we locals try to stick to what we know.
Thanks so much for sharing, and stay fabulous.
the realest things ever , thank you
Thank you so much for the info !!
I love your videos
Very informative video. Sounds like the water and weather is the main downside.
The race patterns in employment are simply the result of economic realities in the places of origins. White people won't move to Dubai to become housekeepers or security guards because they will get paid a lot more doing that work at home. While Indians, Africans and Filipinos can earn a lot more doing menial jobs in Dubai than doing them at home, if those jobs are even available at home that is. That doesn't however mean that you won't find Indians, African or Filipinos in high skilled jobs. It's just that some ethnic groups are completely absent in low skilled labor, particularly white people and Emiratis.
Yeah this is absolutely right
I’m American and I noticed this pattern in Washington DC when I visited. It may exist in other pockets in the US as well, but it’s a massive country and I’d never encountered it before. I don’t remember if they were mostly filled by recent immigrants or not, but it was startling to see and a little unsettling.
The same was true for higher status jobs that you observed. All ethnicities filled high status jobs.
When I lived in Dubai I had a regular driver who had worked in Dubai for over 20 years (this was back in 2011), he visited his family back in India for one month every year, I was shocked but he said working in Dubai the way he did he could provide a very good life for his wife and four kids, but also two nieces and sister in law as his brother died in an accident, he said he does what he needs to do and is happy with a smile every day knowing his family don't have to worry like he did as a boy growing up.
He was a phenomenal guy and very hard worker, lets just say I made sure he got a good bonus when he went back to see his family.
I have nothing but the highest amount of respect for the workers in Dubai from places like India and alike.
I also accidently left my wallet in a random taxi one night on a night out, by the time I realised walked back to where I was dropped off and the driver was already their looking for me at reception, he was so happy he found me and gave me back my wallet, I had a lot of cash in it and it was 100% all there, I was so grateful, I tried to give him 1k dirham as a thankyou but he point blank refused to accept it, Dubai's working class are awesome in my experience, look after them and they will look after you.
You are correct. It’s easier to traffick people from desperate circumstances, where they won’t see the red flags (Often because they are uneducated)
Thank you for sharing. This video is very helpful.
Very informative video thank you for the great information
I'm from Ethiopia and its like that. Some people have everything and other dont
Moving to dubai next week. Interesting video. Thanks!
Thank you! I hope your travels go well!xx
How is it going? I will be out there next week
I’ll be there soon. I’ll come back to this comment
So helpful ♡ Thank you for the amazing video.
This is soo interesting. I’m thinking of making the same move as you as a teacher. I’ve heard lots about Dubai but most of this was news to me. Thanks for sharing!
I hope you come to the best decision for you xx
Great video, totally nailed it.
Parts of Deira and the area near Sharaf DG metro have lots of Afro Carribbean stuff. You'll definitely get your seasoning :)
I live in Deira and love it - couldn't be more opposite from typical Instagram Dubai!
Ahhh I haven’t met anyone who lives in Diera- yeah it’s defo more culturally rich whereas Dubai is more lavish I think
@@tobes_x 100% agree, when I worked in Dubai I had a lot of Nigerian clients and they often stayed in Deira and the old town, lots of good traditional central African restaurants and shops around their too.
A quick heads up, you don't wanna use or suggest the VPN either ;)
Great insight! I have no plans to move there and I’m not intrigue to visit Dubai. Maybe one day. I love and respect other cultures and love traveling yet going to Dubai is not on my list yet. There were a couple of things that were surprising. Before traveling to any country I do my homework.
I was so similar before I came too! Dubai was never on my list of places to go to and now I live here. It’s crazy how things change. You’re right- it’s so important to look up where you are travelling before you go xx
Succinct and insightful! Thank you very much for this video. I didn't feel like a second was wasted watching it from start to finish. 💯
Thankssss xx glad you found it helpful
I’ll be there this week. Thanks for the information
@tobes - there are African shops in places such as international city phase 2, I know it’s not the best of areas but that’s where you probably see and find your ingredients and if you ask the African shop owners for a hair dresser you’ll get one.
I was out there for two months and believe me everything you are saying is absolutely on point I had to go on my companies car for the time being. I am lucky enough not to have gotten a fine.
Missing an exit remember missing it and going all the way to Damac Hills 2 😂
Thank you Tobi, for this info. I will be going to Dubai soon and this has been very informative. I hope your enjoying your life there.x
Thank you for your insight very helpful!
Enjoyed this. Thanks. I heard and read (though can’t 100% confirm) that reason WhatsApp calls, video calls etc dont work there is cos the State government/royal family own the main telecommunication company there so have to control this monopoly market from free foreign competition etc. Something like that.
I lived there in 2009 in Discovery Gardens near the Ibn Bututa Mall. It was half complete then, and sadly, the city hasn't made much progress.
Yeah I’ve heard from quite a few people that areas will start to get developed then they’ll run out of money and stop :( sad times
@@user-dt2ik9dd3y I had a good friend who lived in Discovery Gardens Mediterranean area and she loved it back it 2011, was paying a third of the rent I was paying but it was a nice place he had after he decked out.
This was back in 2011, has it gone down hill now then? as I understand they have new metro stations their now too so I thought it might of been more popular 2023, especially with metro users?.
Thank you for all the information. Please do a video on your experience on teaching there.
Loved this, so informative 👏🏾
Thank you lovely xx
Hi Tobi, glad I found your channel. I’m kind of freaking out because I might have a work opportunity in Dubai and will need to move by this August there. I’m a single mom to a 10 year old and we have FOUR pets. I’m so overwhelmed and totally terrified. Probably because of the unknown but this content is definitely giving me more clarity.
Hello Ivana, hope you are ok..I'm looking to make a move too. If you need help with the 10 year old and the pets. I would love to get that chance . Looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you
Hey Ivana! First of all- congratulations on the new opportunity! Have you started looking for a school for your child? A lot of school allow kids to join late so if I were you I would go to see as many schools in person as possible so that you can get a feel for it- trust your instinct. And 4 pets!? Loool girl no advice but good luck hahaha xxx I hope you love it here x
❤❤ me too
You can do it!!! Sending positive vibes
Are you sure you want to move in August? It is going to be HOT!
Thank you for this video. It's helpful. All the best to you.
I love the the tips thank you ❤ I’m not going to move there , but I have plans to visit soon!!
Absolutely agree with all of your points!!
Thank you!
Very interesting and all told well. My interest would entice further should information be provided regarding meeting people, dating ect and finding out about current events taking place.
About the cost if living according to Google rent us 40 percent cheaper in dubai compared to London and groceries are 15 percent cheaper
Very helpful ❤️❤️❤️
Disagree with some things here. Travel isn’t that bad the metro is cheap enough and you can order a taxi from the apps. Obviously the city isn’t going to be full off g wagons just like in London there is poor parts….. the seasonings are actually near Al seef which you can get and there is also African American hair salons so I’m not sure which part of the uae you were living in.
There's a whole area in the deira that is just afro carribean shops.
Yeah a couple people have said this. I think I didn’t see any because when I went it was a Sunday :( but I’m going to go back. Thanks love x
Basically keep up with the laws
They actually have hair extensions and everything cheap in Deira.
Really?! You know what, I went a few weeks back and didn’t see anything. But I went on a Sunday so it might have been that. Thanks girl x
@@tobes_x you could look for the Indians or Pakistanis. When I was there last in 2014, I did get some hair extensions there and saw products that could be used for Afro hair. You have to look though as at that time, there were few of them, so you do have to look well.
True! I was going same actually. There lots in Deira- Baniyas to be precise.
Yes particularly Sabkha n Naif lots of African n Carribbean shops
But packing your local stuff is also ideal
Yes please advice on getting my puppy out to Dubai-thats the only thing standing in my way right now
Should be fine- look into it. I know loads of people who have bought out their dog :)
Great video thank you for sharing!
You're welcome!
Such great tips that I haven’t heard before! Thank you 🙏🏽
1. Just how DODGE the water quality is. That’s NB to know my goodness.
2. The need to pack spices (I too, NEED to season my food).
3. Businesses closing at 12:00 on a Friday-did not know that either. And I have a follow up question on this one please: what does the “standard” work week look like in Dubai? Like do majority of businesses work Mon-Fri? Because I’ve watched a recent TH-cam video stating that 6-day weeks are quite common in Abu Dhabi…me myself personally I don’t fux with 6 day work weeks ay 🙅🏽♀️
4. “Driving in Dubai is an elite sport.” 😂 Same-same in South Africa 🥹
5. The changing laws, especially the one about being able to live with your partner - was wondering about that one!
❤❤❤
Grow up!🙄
Very informative thank you ❤
Hi, thank you for the video, I see the apartment rental prices are quite expensive, how do I find decent affordable apartments
Hie , We can assist you with home setups and leads to finding affordable apartments. Please reach out if interested!
This video is really insightful 👍🏿
I’m that you liked it x
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and I am moving to Dubai in 2 months this is super helpful. How do you or other people make friends outside of work?
Fitness groups, online groups, bumble bff x
Hi, On point 17 you mentioned that you send money back to your UK bank account. Do you pay tax on this?
If i want to find a room for rent for a couple months. Is there a site or place where one can find that?
Moved to Dubai recently and this video had me 🤣🤣. Too relatable! If you find some Dunns River seasoning pleeeeease let me know!!! Lol
Looool mate, Dunns River, Grace- I will take anythinggg!
Hi, when you send money back home, do you pay taxes at home over that money or how do you handle it?
What a BEAUTIFUL SKIN! FIRM, SILKY, SHINY and CHOCOLATY.
Could you make a video on how did you manage to have such a perfect face? 😍👌
Fetishising much?
Hey thanks for the information. I aspire to be a English instructor in Dubai. Please share info about teaching in Dubai. Love from INDIAN🇮🇳
I was confused when the i e cream shop would not my US five dollar bill because it was wrinkled.
Thank you! This was great insight. Moving from Canada.
Good luck with the move!!
@@tobes_x Thank you. I'll there in a few weeks. Will need some advice on making new friends lol
It’s helpful that you have shared your experience. And of course you can only share your experience.
I think the slavery in the construction industry was glossed over.
One example of this is the mention of construction workers driving non glamorous cars. Instead they are bussed to compounds by companies that keep their passports.
I imagine you’re watched by the Dubai government (or paid?) so you can’t say everything, and you can only describe what you’ve seen personally, I just think that’s pretty important.
Yh if ur not from a western country can't speak english and uneducated they are enslaved
Hi Tobi, thanks very much for this.
How do I contact you Tobi?
My family is relocating for job and school and would love to get some honest answers for some of our questions. Thanks very much from UK too.
I was telling a friend of mine the other time that the luxurious cars are actually in the shops 🤣🤣🤣🤣 waiting to be bought, definitely not in the roads 😂😂😂😂
Its too hot for cafe culture Europe is very cold in winter actually snows... its doesn't snow in the middle east and always indoors cos it is so hot ... I find Dubai so hot its too much...