Between sun, skyscrapers and luxury cars, the United Arab Emirates are a dream destination for many people.
In our article we will describe life in the United Arab Emirates and the gambling legislation.
The United Arab Emirates - General presentation
The United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is the most famous, is a federal state composed of seven emirates: Dubai, Ajman, Charjah, Ras el Khaïmah, Oumm al Qaïwaïn and Abu Dhabi.
While the overall population of the UAE (the other name for the United Arab Emirates) is nearly 10,000,000 people, 85% of them are expatriates.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two most popular destinations for expatriates and casino and poker players.
Culture in the United Arab Emirates
When we arrive in the Emirates, we are immediately immersed in another culture and the 5 daily calls to prayer remind us that we are in a Muslim culture
Unlike other countries governed by Islamic law, it is not mandatory for women to wear the veil, but women still do not have the same rights as men.
The culture of the country is full of respect, discretion and cleanliness.
Even if it is sometimes a little difficult to integrate with the locals, once the first step is taken, you will be cordially invited to share dinner or tea.
Climate in the UAE
Many people choose to visit the UAE because its climate makes it a sunny destination of choice.
From October to May, temperatures are mild and are around 30 degrees. However, in the summer months, the temperature can reach 50 degrees Celsius. It is therefore necessary to cover the head and drink very regularly.
Fortunately, all buildings and shopping centers are air-conditioned.
If you like sun and heat, Dubai is for you.
Accommodation
Thanks to the real estate sector which has been booming for years in the UAE, there is a lot of housing available in the UAE.
You can choose to live in apartments located in luxurious skyscrapers or, on the outskirts of the city, in villa complexes offering swimming pools and flower gardens.
Rents are more expensive than in most European countries, but expatriates in Dubai often get help from their employers to pay the rent.
If you want to move to Dubai, the most popular areas are: Umm Suqueim, Sheikh Zayed Road, Arabian Ranches, Barsha, Emirates Hills or Jumeirah
If you're looking to relocate to Abu Dhabi, the most popular neighborhoods are Bateen and Khalidiya
Roommates are not really legal in the UAE and it should be noted that it is still forbidden for unmarried couples to live together. Exceptions are made to accommodate foreigners but this is at the discretion of your landlord. It is therefore advisable to get married if you wish to share an apartment with a person of the opposite sex.
The average rent in the United Arab Emirates, according to a survey conducted by HSBC, is €1,404.28 per month.
In Dubai, the average city center rent in 2023 is €1,787.11 and it is €1,457.57 in Abu Dhabi.
Gambling and casino games in the United Arab Emirates
Although the UAE offers a dream setting and mild weather, the UAE is not a paradise for casino players from around the world.
In fact, the legislation on gambling is subject to Islamic law and casinos are therefore illegal.
It is not possible to play in a land-based casino in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
However, there is a tolerance for horse racing and therefore it is possible to bet on horse racing, which is a very popular sport in the Emirates.
However, there is a chance that casino law will change in the future with the opening of establishments like the Wynn Springs in Ras Al Khaimah which could become a destination where gambling is legal.
The decisions of UAE officials should be followed closely as gambling could become legal one of these days.
Social life
Dubai is known for its nightlife and its many night clubs.
Here is the list of the most famous nights clubs in the United Arab Emirates:
Business Bay | 1OAK | Smart Casual | $$$$ |
Business Bay | Club Blu Dubai | Smart Casual | $$$ |
Business Bay | Privilege | Smart Casual | $$$ |
Downtown | Armani Privé | Smart Casual | $$$$ |
DIFC | Olounge Dubai | Smart Casual | $$$ |
Meydan | White Dubai | Smart Casual | $$$$ |
Port-Rashid | Float Dubai | Smart Casual | $$$ |
The Palm | The Penthouse | Smart Casual | $$$ |
Marina – JBR | Lock, Stock & Barrel (LSB) |