Heading to Dubai Soon

leeelisha113 New member

Member since 27 September 2025

leeelisha113New member27 September 2025 13:27:58

Hey everyone in Dubai!

I’m a soon to be newbie in Dubai, and I’m currently in the middle of planning everything. This trip is a big deal for me I’m planning to set up a branch office in Dubai and stay long term.

To be honest, I’m really excited about this futuristic city I’ve heard so much about, but I’ll admit I’m also a little nervous since it’s all new to me. I really want to get a deep, real understanding of what life in Dubai is like not just the tourist stuff.

I’d especially appreciate your advice on a few things any tips would mean a lot:

Living: Which area is better for starting a new office? Also, which neighborhoods are good for balancing work convenience and quality of life? What are the vibes like in places like Downtown, Dubai Marina, JLT, or Business Bay? Who are they best for?

Transport: How’s the metro and tram coverage in Dubai? If you’re living there long-term, is having a car a must? How complicated is it to get a driver’s license like converting or taking the test?

Food: Besides fancy hotel restaurants, where do locals go for authentic eats? I’d love recommendations for everything from Arabic grills to affordable international spots!

I know the best way to settle into a new city is to meet friendly people. I’d genuinely love to connect, maybe even meet up for coffee sometime, and hear about your experiences living in Dubai.

Whether it’s the ups and downs of starting a business or just little everyday life hacks, I’m all ears and eager to learn.

So—I’m honestly looking for my people here! If you’re part of any WhatsApp groups, communities, or if you’re a Dubai pro yourself, please DM me or drop a comment below. Really looking forward to connecting!

Thanks so much for reading and for any help you can offer! 🙏

Wishing you all the best in Dubai!

Honey Jean Lopez New member

Member since 09 June 2023

Honey Jean LopezNew member29 September 2025 10:27:54

Hey, welcome in advance to Dubai! 🎉

You’re going to love it here 😊Ive been 8years already. it’s modern, super safe, and full of opportunities, but like anywhere, it helps to know the little everyday tips. Let me share a few quick thought. Downtown best if you want to be right in the heart of things (Burj Khalifa views, walkable to Dubai Mall). Great for professionals but a bit pricey😁. Business Bay next to Downtown, more affordable, good for people who want a central location. JLT(Jumeirah Lakes Towers), expat-heavy, lots of restaurants and cafés, good mix of community and work vibe. Dubai Marina trendy, young, very social, by the beach, great if you enjoy a lively lifestyle. 🚇 Transport metro and tram are clean, safe, and reliable, but they don’t cover every corner of the city. Most long-term residents end up getting a car, either you can hire or order a taxi. If your license is from certain countries (US, UK, EU, Australia, etc.), you can convert it directly otherwise, you’ll need to take the UAE driving test. For the food skip the hotels and try,

Bu Qtair (casual seafood spot by Jumeirah)

Man’oushe Street (affordable Lebanese pies & wraps, various branches)

still depends what u like..

Plus, there are endless hidden gems in Karama and Deira for authentic eats at good prices.

And yes , coffee meetups happen all the time here, so once you’re settled, it’ll be easy to connect.🤗

Welcome again, and wishing you all the best for your move and your new office setup! 🚀