Dubai

Quality of life in Dubai

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

About Dubai

Dubai, a city in the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife. As a global city and business hub of the Middle East, Dubai is known for its skyscrapers, including the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.The city offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation, making it a fascinating destination for tourists and expatriates alike. Dubai's economy is driven by tourism, real estate, and financial services, with a growing emphasis on technology and sustainability.
Climate
Very Good
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Healthcare
Fair
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Traffic
Very High
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Affordability
Reasonable
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Crime
Very Low
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Pollution
Moderate
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History and Culture

Dubai's history dates back to the early 18th century when it was a small fishing village. It began to grow rapidly in the 20th century, especially after the discovery of oil in the 1960s, which transformed it into a major port city and commercial center.

The city has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its Bedouin roots and Islamic traditions. Dubai hosts numerous cultural festivals and events, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Dubai International Film Festival, which attract visitors from around the world.

Dubai is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, and the Jumeirah Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the city. The city's diverse population has contributed to a vibrant cultural scene, with influences from South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Things to do in Dubai

Visitors to Dubai can explore a wide range of attractions, from the towering Burj Khalifa to the sprawling Dubai Mall, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago, is another must-see destination, featuring luxury hotels and resorts.

For those interested in culture, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood offers a glimpse into Dubai's past with its traditional wind-tower architecture and museums. The Dubai Opera hosts a variety of performances, from classical music to contemporary theater.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as desert safaris, dune bashing, and camel riding. The city's beaches, like Jumeirah Beach, provide opportunities for relaxation and water sports. Additionally, Dubai's culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional Emirati dishes to international cuisine.

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United Arab Emirates

Quality of Life Rankings

Dubai ranks 1st on the Quality of Life rankings in United Arab Emirates.
The Quality of Life Rankings for United Arab Emirates reflect how livable a city in United Arab Emirates is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extremely high temperatures during the summer months and warm, mild winters. The city receives minimal annual precipitation, averaging around 4 inches (100 mm), with February being the wettest month, averaging about 1 inch (25 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures rise significantly from an average high of 82°F (28°C) in March to 100°F (38°C) in May. Rainfall is scarce, with occasional showers in March, averaging less than 0.4 inches (10 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The hottest months, with average highs soaring from 104°F (40°C) in June to 106°F (41°C) in July and August. Rainfall is virtually nonexistent during the summer, with humidity levels increasing, especially in August.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 102°F (39°C) in September to 86°F (30°C) in November. Rainfall remains minimal, with November seeing a slight increase, averaging around 0.4 inches (10 mm).
  • Winter (December to February)The mildest period, with average highs ranging from 75°F (24°C) in December to 77°F (25°C) in February. Rainfall is more frequent compared to other seasons, with February being the wettest month, averaging about 1 inch (25 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Heatwaves during the summer months with temperatures exceeding 110°F (43°C).
  • Occasional sandstorms, particularly in the spring.
  • Rare thunderstorms during the winter months, especially in February.

Dubai's Political Climate

Monarchical

Dubai, a city within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is known for its unique political climate that is deeply intertwined with the federal structure of the UAE. The city operates under a monarchical system, with the Al Maktoum family holding significant influence over its governance. As part of the UAE, Dubai's political landscape is characterized by a blend of traditional governance and modern administrative practices.

Historically, Dubai has been a hub for trade and commerce, which has shaped its political and economic policies. The city's leadership has focused on creating a business-friendly environment, attracting foreign investment, and fostering innovation. This has led to the implementation of progressive policies, particularly in areas such as technology, infrastructure, and sustainability. Dubai's leadership has been proactive in promoting initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aiming to make the city a global center for clean energy and green economy.

The political climate in Dubai significantly influences its economic and social policies. The city's leadership prioritizes economic diversification, reducing reliance on oil revenues, and enhancing sectors like tourism, finance, and real estate. Socially, Dubai is known for its cosmopolitan environment, with a large expatriate population contributing to its cultural diversity. However, political participation is limited, with no direct elections for the city's leadership, reflecting the broader political structure of the UAE.

Recent trends in Dubai's political landscape include a focus on digital transformation and smart city initiatives. The city has been at the forefront of adopting new technologies to improve governance and public services. Additionally, Dubai has been active in hosting international events, such as Expo 2020, which has further solidified its position as a global city.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter TurnoutN/A (No direct elections)
  • City GovernanceMonarchical governance under the Al Maktoum family
  • CompositionN/A (No elected city council)
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on digital transformation and sustainability initiatives
  • EngagementLimited civic activism due to the monarchical system
  • Political ScorecardHigh marks for economic governance and innovation
  • Legislative PrioritiesEconomic diversification Sustainability and clean energy Digital transformation and smart city development
  • Public OpinionGenerally supportive of economic growth and modernization policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al MaktoumVice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, known for his visionary leadership and modernization efforts.
  • Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al MaktoumCrown Prince of Dubai, involved in various initiatives to promote youth empowerment and innovation.
  • Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al MaktoumChairman of Emirates Airline and Group, influential in Dubai's aviation and tourism sectors.