Experience in Dubai, United Arab Emirates by Mariette

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What is it like to live in Dubai? Would you recommend it? What is the city like

It's different than anywhere else I've been. Yes, I would recommend it. The city is like a bubble, I don't think you can reproduce it anywhere, even though it has many attributes other big cities have.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dubai?

I'm an online student and I don't participate in an active student life.

How much does it cost to live in Dubai?

This is tricky. On the one hand, Dubai likes the image of being expensive, exclusive. But Dubai has a large amount of people living and working here earning very little money, so if you are prepared to eat in the Indian neighborhoods or try some Pakistani or Filipino food you'll get by on not a lot of money. For example, a plate of food at my favourite Indian/ Pakistani place is AED20. You can buy a samosa for AED2. But you can also dine for 200 or 2000 dirhams.

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Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dubai? Is there any advice you can give?

No, if you are prepared to share. Universities seem to have their own ways, If you are an exchange student see what your uni offers.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Emirate food is terrible. No wait, it's just bad. After 3 years here I haven't tasted good Emirate food and I have tried IT. I recommend China Sea in Deira for Chinese food and Ravi in Satwa for Indian/Pakistani - absolutely fabulous.

What places would you recommend visiting in Dubai?

If you're bored of the malls take 90 minutes and go to the Antique Museum. It's not a museum and it doesn't actually sell antiques. It's just a shop where you'll find things you won't find else where. Go to the fish market & the spice souq. I go here regularly. I like cooking.

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Is it good to eat out in Dubai? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Apparently, but I like cooking. So I don't really know the places.

Is the nightlife good in Dubai? Where is good to go?

Apparently yes, if you are into the whole night life scene.

What advice would you give future students heading to Dubai?

Just come, you'll have an experience, not happy, not sad, but something you'll never forget. Live here and if you can cook, don't buy your stuff from Zoom, go to the fish souq and buy it there. Experience it. Live here as if you would be at home.