Student Life in the Dubai: Embracing Culture and Lifestyle

Thinking of studying in Dubai? But feeling a little overwhelmed. One of the best ways to prepare for a foreign country is to get a real feel for the culture and lifestyle you’ll be immersed in. So, how is student life in Dubai? Is it all about its world-famous tourist attractions, its deep-rooted Emirati culture, or just campus life? The answer is all of the above.

And, to know more about Dubai's culture and lifestyle this page is the best place. Let’s dive in and explore what student life in Dubai is really like for international students.

Dubai a Melting Pot of the World

Dubai, at its heart, is a city with deep roots in Emirati and Bedouin culture. It was once a small fishing and pearl-diving village. These traditions of hospitality, strong family ties, and respect for elders are still very much a part of the city's identity. You can see this in the traditional souks, historic neighbourhoods like Al Fahidi, and the practice of serving dates and Arabic coffee to guests.

Today, Dubai is a world-renowned cosmopolitan city, a vibrant melting pot of cultures. Its rapid economic growth has attracted people from all over the world. The city's population is an astounding mix, with non-Emiratis making up over 88% of the total population. The largest group of expatriates are from India, making up around 38% of the total population. This global diversity is what makes Dubai so unique; it's a place where you can experience dozens of cultures, cuisines, and languages all in one city.

Campus Life in Dubai

The university campus lifestyle in Dubai is a mix of both modern amenities and vibrant student life. So, like most universities, they do not have traditional dorms but partner with dedicated student accommodation providers located near the academic hubs like Dubai International Academic City. These accommodations are designed for students, offering a community feel with shared spaces, gyms, and shuttle services to and from campus.

The campuses themselves are state-of-the-art. Think futuristic libraries with vast digital and physical resources, modern labs for engineering and science, and design studios equipped with the latest technology. This infrastructure is purpose-built to facilitate learning and give students a competitive edge.

Adventures of Dubai

Dubai is known for its exciting tourist stuff, and student life in Dubai will give an opportunity to enjoy the country’s culture and lifestyle while on their academic stint. So, what can you do?

For those who love a thrill, you can go dune bashing and sandboarding on a desert safari or even try indoor skiing at Ski Dubai in the middle of the desert! If you’re looking to relax, the city's pristine public beaches like Kite Beach are perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports. Dubai's iconic landmarks are also a huge draw. A walk through the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood offers a glimpse into the city's past, while a visit to the Burj Khalifa gives you a breathtaking view of its futuristic skyline. And don't forget the Dubai Fountain, a world-class choreographed water show that's completely free to watch. The best part? Many of these attractions offer student discounts, making them a lot more accessible.

Living & Budgeting

For an Indian student, managing the cost of living in Dubai can feel like a balancing act. Especially, studying in Dubai which is known as an expensive city, courtesy to its import heavy economy which makes everything pricey. But, the idea is to be smart and stick to home made food, rely more on local goods from small shops rather than big supermarkets. Also, when it comes to getting around Dubai, sticking to Dubai’s public transport system, especially the metro and buses, is a lifesaver. Plus, with a student Nol Card, you get a 50% discount on fares, making it an incredibly cheap way to explore the entire city. 

Quality of Life in Dubai

Dubai is widely considered one of the best places for foreigners to live and work in the world. In Dubai, student life in Dubai offers a great standard of living in addition to the low crime rate and secure surroundings.

The cost of living is relatively low in comparison to other well-known cities, and income tax is not applicable. Dividends, interest on savings accounts, personal income, and business earnings are all tax-free.

Dubai delivers the highest standard of living and ranks fourth in terms of consumer spending power. Dubai is a posh city with many options for dining, shopping, and entertainment with large streets and well-planned neighbourhoods.

Safety & Well-being

For Indian students, one of the biggest concerns when going abroad is safety and security. Dubai not only excels in this area but is a global benchmark for it. As per the Times of India, Dubai specifically earned a spot in the top 5 safest cities on various global indices.

This remarkable safety record is no accident. The city has extremely low crime rates, particularly for violent crime. The government's strict legal framework, efficient police force, and widespread use of advanced surveillance technology ensure that a secure environment is maintained at all times. This means students can feel safe walking alone at night, using public transport, and exploring the city's many attractions without constant worry.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Dubai is a great place to work and gain experience and network with people to build a thriving career. Indian students when studying in Dubai can get access to work permits and start working part-time, starting from cafes, restaurants, and retail to industries for internships. University campuses also put out multiple work opportunities that provide a good learning experience for students. To get this permit, you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your university and a confirmed job offer from an employer in the UAE. Your employer will then apply for the permit on your behalf.

Tips for Adapting to Student Life in Dubai

Here are a few tips for international students to adapt to student life in Dubai:

• Embrace Cultural Diversity: Engage with people from diverse backgrounds to enrich your knowledge about other cultures and to form a global network.
• Show Respect for Local Customs: Familiarise yourself with the cultural norms of Dubai and dress modestly in public places.
• Use Public Transport: The metro and bus services are an inexpensive and convenient way to move around the city.
• Balance Studies with Leisure: Maintain a good balance between studies and play, with Dubai's beaches and desert safaris offering a lot of recreation options.
• Seek University Support Services: Grab academic advising, career counselling, and health services to help you in your transition.

Dubai offers an extraordinary blend of traditional and modern lifestyles; the day-to-day life of Emiratis is deep-rooted in culture, history and a vision for the future, and Indians find it a very comforting place to build a life for themselves that is well-paid, secure and close to home. Taking the cue from Indian professionals living in Dubai, Indian students can also take the same path that is a combination of learning, hard work, discipline and a good & comforting life.

To study in Dubai, speak to an AECC expert today!