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The Art of Living in Dubai: Daily Routines for Expats and Visitors
The Art of Living in Dubai: Daily Routines for Expats and Visitors is an essential guide for anyone looking to make the most of their time in this vibrant city. From understanding cultural norms to navigating daily routines, this article will provide you with the insights you need to thrive in Dubai.
Introduction to Dubai
Dubai is a city like no other. With its stunning architecture, world-class amenities, and unparalleled luxury, it’s a destination that attracts visitors and expats from all over the globe. But living in Dubai is not just about enjoying the city’s many attractions – it’s also about understanding and respecting the local culture and way of life.
Daily Routines in Dubai

As an expat or visitor in Dubai, it’s essential to establish a daily routine that works for you. This might include finding a favorite coffee shop or restaurant, joining a gym or sports club, or simply exploring the city and all it has to offer. Here are a few tips for making the most of your daily routine in Dubai:
- Start your day early: Dubai is a city that comes alive early, so try to start your day before the heat becomes too intense.
- Take a break during the hottest part of the day: Whether you’re working or exploring the city, be sure to take a break during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm) to avoid heat exhaustion.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
- Respect local customs: Remember to dress modestly and respect local customs, especially during Ramadan or when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
Cultural Norms in Dubai

Understanding and respecting cultural norms is essential for making the most of your time in Dubai. Here are a few tips for navigating cultural norms in the city:
- Dress modestly: Dubai is a conservative city, so be sure to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing.
- Use your right hand: In Dubai, the right hand is considered the ‘clean’ hand, so be sure to use it when eating, shaking hands, or giving or receiving something.
- Remove your shoes: In many Arabic homes and some mosques, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. Be sure to respect this custom and remove your shoes when required.
- Learn a few Arabic phrases: While many people in Dubai speak English, learning a few Arabic phrases (such as ‘marhaba’ for ‘hello’ and ‘shukraan’ for ‘thank you’) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
Tips for Expats and Visitors

Whether you’re an expat or visitor in Dubai, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your time in the city. Here are a few tips:
- Get a metro card: The Dubai metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, so be sure to get a metro card and use it to explore.
- Join a gym or sports club: Staying active is essential for both physical and mental health, so be sure to join a gym or sports club and stay active during your time in Dubai.
- Try new foods: Dubai is a city with a vibrant food scene, so be sure to try new foods and drinks during your time in the city.
- Explore the city: Dubai is a city with a rich history and culture, so be sure to explore the city and all it has to offer.
Conclusion

Living in Dubai as an expat or visitor can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it requires a certain level of understanding and respect for the local culture and way of life. By establishing a daily routine, respecting cultural norms, and making the most of your time in the city, you can thrive in Dubai and make the most of your time in this vibrant and exciting city.