Lifestyle in Dubai
The Social Life and Lifestyle In Dubai City, by Dubai City Guide Summer 2008
What began as a gentle trickle of job seekers in the 1970s has now become 80% of the country’s population – expatriation. The Dubai City society is portrayed by over 150 nationalities from around the world. The strongest culinary and sporting influences in the ordinary society are from the Indian and Pakistani communities, while fashion and entertainment is heavily influenced by Western and European culture.
Dubai’s global flavour is mostly due to its extensive job opportunities, which attract nationals from USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, India, Sri Lanka, Phillippines and every other country you can possibly think of. The actual UAE national population is only 20% in the entire country, which somewhat explains why Dubai is quite different to what someone would expect from a predominantly Islamic nation.
The society in Dubai gains many benefits from the country’s tax-free economic system, but its not exactly all roses for the community. Recent increases in the cost of living have faced some with quite dire circumstances, especially because of higher rents and rising essential food costs. The social living standards are still high though and the majority can afford to live in luxury that they cannot have in their home countries. The education, health and transport systems are at their highest standards in Dubai.
The news and media industry’s involvement in Dubai’s society has two faces. The government-run media institutes are more careful and reserved with what they tell their audience, but most private media are liberal with their views. Cable and satellite television play a huge role in society, with many households subscribing to at least one entertainment package. Lush green public parks, gaming arcades, amusement parks, food courts, play areas, zoos and discovery centres are in abundance for family outings, because Dubai puts emphasis on family values.
Apart from the family-oriented social life, Dubai has a completely different side to it too – the nightlife. The city comes alive with clubs and parties all over town and hotels are the major contributor to this culture. Alcohol is prohibited in public, but not in licenced hotels and bars.
