disadvantages of tourism in uae

12 Pros and Cons of Living in Dubai

Dubai is the capital city of the Emirates of Dubai and the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

It is known for luxury shopping, buzzing nightlife, and futuristic architecture. 

The city attracts thousands of ex-pats each year due to the many benefits of living in this metropolis.

This popular business hub is a wealthy state and is an international tourist destination for the rich and famous.

The question is: should you make the move to Dubai, or are there a few things you should consider before making the jump?

1. Dubai is tax-free

2. there is a thriving and diverse ex-pat community, 3. advanced transportation system, 4. international cuisine, 5. dubai has a strong economy, 7. vibrant social life, 8. english is widely spoken, 1. the heat, pros and cons of living in dubai – summary table, dubai safety overview, is there crime in dubai, what is the most popular tourist destination in dubai, which area in dubai should i avoid, what food should i try in dubai, is it safe to travel alone in dubaiis it safe to travel alone in dubai, the pros of living in dubai.

In this article, we will list eight advantages for ex-pats wanting to make the move to this ultra-modern city, and the exciting opportunities that await them.

Possibly one of the most alluring features of the city of Dubai and the Emirates as a whole, is that it is completely tax-free.

This island nation does not produce anything.

Most items are imported and imports are tax-free as well.

The country relies on its oil production to sustain itself and uses its tax-free policy to attract global companies and skilled labor to its shores, thereby diversifying its labor market. 

It is considered to be a tax haven as there is no income tax, inheritance tax, capital gains tax, or even estate tax.

This is what makes this a true tax haven for foreign investors and those choosing to call Dubai their home.

Keep in mind though, that although you may be able to move here, you will not be able to gain permanent residence.

But you will be able to renew your visa indefinitely, provided that you meet the requirements.

According to Globalmediainsight.com , as of 2021, the total ex-pat community in Dubai accounted for 8.84 million people.

These ex-pats are made up of both educated ex-pats as well as lower-income migrant workers. 

Dubai attracts ex-pats from various industries that come from all four corners of the globe.

It is estimated that the country attracts approximately 200,000 new expatriates each month.

Many of the ex-pats live in Al Bashara due to its proximity to major highways in the city. 

The country is home to over 192 nationalities, which means that you will more than likely find a few people from your home country living in a close-knit community in the Emirates.

Being an ex-pat has several benefits, such as broadening your social circles and contacts, learning new hard and soft skills, and becoming more cultured.

According to Iunera.com , the Dubai metro is considered world-class.

The city has one of the most modern as well as cost-effective public transportation systems in the world.

In addition, the public transit system is the third-largest automated rail system globally.

The rail runs for 74.6 km and is fully automated for the entire trip, stopping at 49 stations.

Nine of the 49 stations are underground. 

The rail system is fully integrated with all other forms of public transport as each railway stop has electric escalators, is connected to a bus system, has lifts, and bicycle stands. 

When it comes to topping the list of what is considered the best in the world, the Emirates spares no expense and invests millions, if not billions of dollars, in the infrastructure of its public transportation system.

The systems are clean, well organized, and efficient. 

Because these systems are so well-established and organized, there is very little, if any, need to own a vehicle. Making this a top destination to migrate to. 

The country is a melting pot of cultures with over 192 different nationalities calling Dubai home.

And, as can be expected, you will find a very large variety of international cuisine that will cater to every tastebud. 

Whether you would like to taste Turkish cuisine, Irish food, British pub food, French cuisine, or simply try a world-renowned Gordon Ramsay pizza, you will find a restaurant in this city that caters to that market.

You will find cuisine here from every country in the world.

This is why Dubai is known as the food capital of the Middle East. 

And, with world-famous chefs flocking to the Emirates, you know that you are in for a treat.

The food is fresh, amazing, and tantalizing. 

Finding work in Dubai is not a concern as the economy is the fifth-largest in the Emirates.

The country has a gross domestic product (GDP) of US$501 billion (AED 1.84 trillion). 

The government has formulated a strategy to secure the flow of income into the country through one of its main sources of foreign income, its tourism sector.

Dubai saw economic growth of 5.5% during the 2021 fiscal year and is expecting a projected growth of 4 – 4.5% in 2022.

Do not be fooled though, the job market is exceptionally competitive and you will want your resume to shine in order to stand out from the crowd, as recruiters typically spend six seconds or less perusing a resume due to the large influx of resumes.

Some of the most in-demand jobs in Dubai include:

• Accountants
• Recruitment and HR
• Social media specialist
• Jobs in the legal sector
• Admin assistants/data entry
• Hospitality

Dubai is known for its hot subtropical desert climate.

The city has sunny weather for nearly 345 days of the year.

There are two seasons in this city: summer and winter.

The winter is described as mild and warm. 

The summer in Dubai starts during the last week of April and runs through the first week of October.

This period is very humid, hot, and dry.

The coldest month in Dubai is in January when the average temperature is around 68°F (20°C).

The good news about Dubai is that the city has made provisions for tourists and residents during the hot summer months.

The ocean temperature is ideal for swimming year-round, though it may drop, becoming slightly cooler during the winter months, from January through March to 23 °C (73 °F).

There are a plethora of indoor activities in temperature-controlled environments that residents and tourists can enjoy during the sweltering summer months. 

Dubai is known for having some of the best nightclubs in the world.

In addition, some of the most famous musicians and DJs often play in Dubai.

Social life in Dubai is not only diverse, it can be defined as exceptional as well.

It’s no wonder so many celebrities often go to Dubai to have fun.

The city is host to a plethora of international restaurants that offer some of the highest-rated cuisines in the world.

In addition, there are a variety of bars and clubs that ex-pats can join to meet new people and mingle. 

In the Emirates, Arab is the official language, but, due to the vibrant ex-pat community, English is also widely spoken in this country.

You will have no problem engaging with other ex-pats or even locals as everyone is fluent in the language. 

The Cons of Living in Dubai

Of course, no city is without its disadvantages.

Here are a few disadvantages to making the move to Dubai. 

While it may be an advantage to have more summer during the year than any other season, it can also get sweltering hot in the middle of summer, to the point where it is almost unbearable.

Dubai is in the Persian Gulf which means that the summer months can get scorching hot. 

Temperatures during the height of summer can easily exceed  43 °C (109 °F ), while the sea temperature rises to an average of 37 °C (99 °F).

The warmest months in Dubai are July and August.

This may be almost unbearable for some and being forced to stay indoors as a result of the heat can feel quite limiting and confined to many. 

If you are not a fan of high humidity, you may not be able to adequately adjust to this type of climate, which may make Dubai more of a nightmare than a sought-after destination. 

As ex-pats living in a foreign country, you may find that you are exceptionally frustrated by the level of bureaucracy in this country.

You need a permit for nearly everything from driving a vehicle, purchasing alcohol, and getting/holding a job. 

This can cause all sorts of headaches for ex-pats as there are permits for nearly anything and everything. 

And, while this may still currently be a major disadvantage, the city is working towards becoming a smart city  and doing away with bureaucratic structures by introducing a smartphone app that addresses public service needs.

The rent in Dubai can be pretty expensive in comparison to other metropolitan cities in the Emirates and around the world.

The average one-bedroom apartment, outside of the city center will cost you around AED 3,281.72 (USD 893.47).

 And that does not factor in other day-to-day expenses, which may mean that the cost of living in Dubai can accumulate rather quickly. 

In order to live a relatively comfortable life in Dubai, it is advised to earn an average salary of approximately $3,000 per month. 

Dubai roads can get pretty congested around peak hours.

According to Arabianbusiness.com , Dubai is ranked 265th globally for traffic congestion. 

The cost of congestion may be noticed through lost working hours and the effect on residents through the inconvenience it causes. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Crime is extremely low in Dubai due to its strict laws.

The city is one of the safest Middle Eastern cities in the Emirates.

Be sure to pay a visit to one of the malls in this city.

You will not be disappointed.

Deira, one of the oldest districts in Dubai, is very poor and may pose a risk of crime.

Try the old-school schwarma, the kebabs, and the Indian food.

Yes, it is perfectly safe.

The laws in Dubai ensure that the crime rate is exceptionally low in comparison to the rest of the world.

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13 Things Tourists Should Never Do in the UAE, Ever

When visiting any country, it’s highly recommended that everyone looks into the rules, regulations and cultural no-nos before buying plane tickets – this is no different in the UAE . The country has some legal and cultural rules that may be obvious and others that are not so much. What is important is to be well-informed, so follow our guide to the things tourists should never do in the UAE.

Drinking in public.

Although the UAE has various bars and clubs that serve alcohol, it is crucial that visitors know not to drink in public. In any venues where alcohol is not actively being sold, drinking is not allowed. This means no bringing beers to public beaches or having a bit of spirit when walking down the streets. There are several places where people can consume alcohol, those are the ones visitors should look for.

Taking Pictures Of People

Taking pictures of people without consent is seen as a crime in the UAE under the country’s cyber crime laws. This means that taking pictures of strangers without them openly allowing can lead to a fine of 500,000 AED and six months in prison. This especially applies to pictures that are posted on social media, as residents can file a case against the photographer. Taking such unsolicited photographs is aggravated when they are of women.

Eating Outside During Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan , the Muslim population of Dubai fasts from sunrise to sunset every day. As a sign of respect, most restaurants close doors or cover their windows during those hours. It’s strictly forbidden for anyone to eat, drink, chew gum and even smoke in public places during those hours as it is seen as extremely disrespectful and can get the eater in trouble. This rule does not apply to small children and pregnant women.

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Buying Fake Goods

No, Sex and The City 2 was not lying when they said tourists should not buy fake goods in the UAE. Those visiting the Gold and Spice Souk in Dubai may notice people asking them if they are interested in a Chanel bag or a Cartier watch. It is important to just ignore and keeping walking straight. As tempting as a cheap designer bag may sound, it’s not worth the amount of trouble one can get into if they are caught shopping at illegal outlets.

Spreading Rumors

This is a bit of an unexpected one, but spreading rumors in the UAE is actually illegal, especially when these are shared online. Spreading false gossip on social media is not only a form of cyber-bullying, but it can actually land people in jail for up to three years, as well as fine of up to 1 million dirhams. This applies to people who knowingly spread misleading or false information that can be damaging to the public interest.

Public Displays of Affection

Although the UAE may be an ideal honeymoon destination, it is crucial that people know that public displays of affection are strictly not permitted. Even kissing could land a couple in jail, so it’s best to avoid all PDA. This applies to everywhere in Dubai, even clubs and bars, so it’s important not to let the alcohol go to the head. Even hugs between friends from the opposite sex are frowned upon.

Cursing In Public

Dropping the F-Bomb alongside other swearwords in public is not allowed. Offensive language, profanity and insults are not only frowned upon, but can actually get tourists in a lot more trouble than they would imagine. This includes any sort of road rage and offensive gestures like the middle finger. Flipping out someone can actually get people arrested, so better to keep it cool and try to not be offensive.

Taking Photos Of Car Accidents, Government Buildings, Military Installations and Etc

When taking pictures in the UAE, it’s best to focus the camera on touristic attractions and beautiful sights , as some pictures are actually illegal. This includes photographs of car accidents, government buildings, embassies, military installations and even airplanes. This of course is only aggravated if the photos are posted on social media. With so many stunning things to photograph, there’s no need to get in trouble for photographing sights that are not allowed, so visitors should be mindful of where they point their cameras.

Being Disorderly In Public

Being drunk and disorderly is a crime in several countries, and the UAE is no different. However, one does not need to be drunk to be seen as disorderly. Playing loud music and dancing in public is seen as a no-no in the country. This especially applies to prayer tomes, when music in public places is normally turned off. So tourists should keep their speakers low and leave their dancing for one of the several amazing clubs there are around.

Bringing Prescription Medicines Without Paperwork

Bringing prescription medicine into the country strictly requires the right paperwork, proving such medicine has been prescribed to its holder. It’s important that the prescription is translated to English in order for airport officials to understand it. Tourists can get in a lot of trouble for bringing certain meds into the country, so it’s recommended to check with the UAE embassy in their respective country in order to find out what is allowed and what isn’t. It’s also good to mind quantity, as prescribed medicines are only allowed to be brought in for personal use.

Doing Drugs

This should be an obvious one, but it can’t be stressed enough: do not do drugs in the UAE. The country has a zero tolerance policy in regards to any type of drugs. People have previously been jailed for failing tests for drugs they consumed outside of the country. It’s crucial that tourists do not indulge themselves in any drug use while in the country, as the consequences involve imprisonment and deportation. This also applies to prescription drugs.

Disrespecting Religion and Culture

It should be no surprise that when visiting any country in the world, tourists should be respectful of the destination’s religion and culture. However, people still get themselves in tricky situations for running their mouths off while in the UAE. Any disrespect towards Emirati culture, Islam and the country’s rulers can land tourists in jail. Cultural and religious respect should apply to all others too, seeing that the UAE’s population is made up of over 80% expats, it’s crucial to respect everyone.

Wearing Disrespectful Clothing

The UAE is way more lenient with clothing than most people think and although dressing rules can vary from Emirate to Emirate, most allow visitors to dress in Westernized clothes. However, it’s important to always dress respectfully when visiting the country, this means travelers should be mindful of where they are going before getting dressed. Bikinis and shorts are totally allowed at the beach, even public ones – but when visiting a mosque, tourists should be dressed according to religious rules. It’s also advised to dress more modestly when visiting malls.

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Tourism Impacts on Dubai: Positive & Negative Essay

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Introduction

Dubai is the second largest and the most populous emirates of the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.). Other emirates that make up the U.A.E. are Abu Dhabi, the capital, Ajman, Ras Al-Khaimah, Sharjah, Fujairah and Umm- Al Qaiwain. The United Arab Emirates is located in the Arabian Gulf, southwest Asia. Dubai is located on the banks of the Dubai Creek, covering a total area of approximately 4,200 km2. Currently, the population of Dubai stands at 1.37 million people. Oil, international trade, and tourism are the main economic stays of Dubai contributing approximately 7% of the GDP of the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai has an arid, subtropical climate with occasional rainfall during falls and winter, with sunny and clear blue skies the most part of the year. Temperature ranges from a low of 10 degrees centigrade to a high of 41 degrees centigrade.

The government of Dubai led by the current ruler His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum is committed to turn Dubai in to a tourist hub. There is a much political support in this effort. This has been demonstrated by development of infrastructure like roads network, modern harbor and airports, which has been facilitating the realization of this goal. More commercial and residential houses have been built to accommodate more tourists.

Accessibility of Dubai is easy with direct flights from major cities in Asia, Africa and Europe. Currently, Dubai international airport is ranked among the world top 10 airports with a handling capacity of 16 million passengers per year. With addition of the third terminal, the airport is set to handle 70 million passengers per year.

Tourism in an area or a country has many impacts, both negative and positive on people lives, environment and economy. In Dubai, tourism have its fair share of negative and positive impacts; it is important however to look at various tourist attractions which are found in Dubai, for easy understanding of the resulting impacts.

One of the major tourist attractions in Dubai is the Dubai shopping Festival which is held one per year for a whole month. The festival was started in 1996 and has since been attracting people from allover the world. During the festival, people enjoy reduced shopping prices and prizes, great sporting events and fantastic fireworks. Dubai Summer Surprise is yet another event held between June and August that attract many tourists from across the globe. During the events, tourists enjoy cultural surprises, a taste of local cuisines and food festival held at the shopping malls.

As a center for international fair and major technological events, Dubai World Trade Centre has become another major tourist attraction. The centre hosts the annual Gulf Information Technology Exhibition and other major events that attracts tourist from all over the world. Dubai Air Show is another spectacular show held after every two years. During the show, major carrier and airplane makers exhibit their latest products in the event that attracts major players from across the globe. The Middle East Motor show is also another annual event showcasing the latest technology and future designs of vehicles from all over the world. Dubai Museum, built in 1799, heritage village, diving village are other important spots within Dubai that attract a lot of tourists.

Desert safari and adventures using camels and/or off road trucks is another attraction that brings in tourist from allover the world. To add to the thrill, tourist participates in diving and snookering, motor cross, skydiving and mountaineering. The palm Island is an ongoing project on the coast of Dubai, which will see development of residential, commercial and retails buildings aimed at uplifting Dubai as a premier tourist destination.

Over the past few years, the economy of Dubai has been growing at a steady rate, fueled in part by tourist dollars. This is one positive impact of tourism development in Dubai. Given the linkages between different sectors of economy, the remarkable economic growth of Dubai has also contributed to the growth of tourism. Of all the other emirates in U.A.E, Dubai has received the lion share of promotion as a tourist destination. Most festivals, exhibitions, conferences and trade shows are held in Dubai. Sport tourism has also had a good share in the tourism market with the Dubai International Arabian horse Championship, Dubai world cup, Dubai Tennis Championships and Dubai International Jazz festival.

When in Dubai, tourist contributes to the economy through shopping in the numerous malls that cater for all customers needs. The recent opening of Mall of Emirates has redefined how shopping is done; with over 250 shops, ski centre and cinemas halls. It is important to note here that Dubai is a free port city where goods business is done tax free. The government and the people of Dubai benefit indirectly from the service industry which includes hotels, transportation etc.

Tourist facilities like resorts and hotels are other sources of revenues offering comfort and hospitality. Burj Al Arab all suite hotel stands at 321 feet’s and is recognized as one of the best hotel in the world. The hotel is a major attraction to high end business men visiting Dubai. The government of Dubai has major stakes in most of the real estate, hotels and tourist resorts which act as a source of government revenues.

Tourism is a one source of foreign currency for Dubai, stimulating and accelerating growth of the emirates. Increased foreign currency reserve in the Dubai economy has contributed to stabilizing of United Arab Emirates economy.

25 years ago, Dubai was a desert with just a few sheep, horses and camels. Today, Dubai is a world trade centre thanks to the oil reserves, tourism and trade. Dubai has some of the best network of roads and airports. With the growth of tourism, there have increased employment opportunities for local people and foreigners from allover the world. Hotels, taxis, nightclubs, airport services, real estate management are some of the sector that have been opened up largely by the tourism industries and are providing stable employments to many people.

Construction of infrastructures cost the government of Dubai a lot of money. Money is sourced from other sectors of economy like oil to construct roads and airports Return from such investment may take long to recover and get real benefit.

With all the attractions and the valuable economics contribution that tourist has on Dubai, the fast and uncontrolled growth has numerous negative effects. With the rapid growth comes environmental degradation and loss of cultural and traditional identity. Tourist put a lot of stress on the ecosystem.

With increased number of people visiting Dubai, traffic on the road has increased. The number of people on the streets of Dubai searching for leisure and entertainment on a daily basis is rising at a steady rate. The opening up of Dubai to real estate developers and buyers has also led to increase in the number of people visiting Dubai. Main highways in Dubai are now more congested than before leading to loss of work hours on the road.

With increase in number of tourist visiting Dubai, the demand for local commodities has risen leading to increase in prices of basic commodities. This has lead to increase in the cost of living for the local people. As the demand for building material increases with increased construction of more tourist facilities, the price for the cost of building materials increases. The Local people spending power is limited as they are now competing with foreign investors. Most of the indigenous inhabitant of Dubai have been forced by circumstances to migrate to other places as the cost of land nears tourist dominated area like Dubai coast, have risen and the land market is now dominated by foreigners leading to erosion of economic opportunities for the local people.

Another negative impact of tourism development in Dubai is pollution and distraction to the wildlife. The construction of the Palm Island on the coast of Dubai has negative effects to the marine life. During the construction heavy equipment are used in dredging the sand and blasting of rocks. This has resulted to death of many important sea animals like whales, dolphins and sharks, with a huge number migrating to less disturbed areas. The extensive block paving to create along the coast has destroyed natural habitats for turtles which relies on the shoreline for nesting.

Increased sporting activities like anchoring, sport fishing, scuba diving, yachting and snookering in the sea have resulted in the destruction of the coral reef, mangroves, hinterland forest and lagoons. These activities have many negative effects to the ecosystem like pollution and death of important sea organism.

Noise, littering, sewage release, solid waste, oil and chemicals and noxious gas emissions are some of the pollutions associated with tourism in Dubai. Increased rise in tourist mobility by air, road and rail has direct effect on air and noise pollution. Air transportation accounts for over 50 percent of total air pollution. The continued increase in the number of international tourist visiting Dubai is not making the situation any better. Carbon dioxide emission from tourist transport facilities like tour van, buses and off-road vehicles contribute to local air pollution. This pollution contributes significantly to global warming and photochemical pollution. Noise from cars, off road tourist vehicles, airplanes, and buses are a source of human stress and wildlife distress leading to alteration of natural patterns like mating and feeding.

Waste disposal is a serious problem in Dubai especially in areas with high concentration of tourist. Littering has lead to degradation of physical appearance of scenic beauty and shoreline. Extinction of marine wildlife has been attributed largely due to waste disposal in water bodies. Tourist visiting Dubai generates a lot of waste which they don’t have the capacity to carry along or dispose off properly. In such cases, the waste is left behind in those sites where tourist visit leading to environmental degradation.

Construction of airports, roads, accommodation facilities, restaurants, water supplies and other recreational facilities in Dubai have leads to soil erosion. Currently, over 50% of Dubai labor force is engaged in real estate development to cater for residential and accommodation need of visitors. This has resulted to increase in sand mining which put undue pressure on the land.

Various influences from tourism can bring about change or loss of values and cultural identity especially when local cultures and festival are re-structured to conform to the expectations of tourists. In Dubai, the demands for entertainment and arts have lead to commodification of important cultures leading to loss of a community values and identity.

Due to integration of different people with diverse ethnic, religion, prosperity level, lifestyles and values instances of culture clash are common in Dubai. The level of adjustment by both the visitors and the locals in Dubai is usually resulting to cultural clash. Integration of people at different level of earning is also another source of cultural clash in Dubai. Those who works in tourist hotels tend to compare themselves with the visitors resulting to cultural clash.

The level of crime in Dubai has been very low and manageable requiring just a few unarmed police on the street just to maintain law and order. With increased number of tourist and business men visiting Dubai, security concern has increased. The government is now under obligation to provide security to the big number of people visiting Dubai on a daily basis. This has led to increased pressure on the security force.

Cases of prostitution were unheard of in Dubai and the other six emirates some few years ago. The situation is changing slowly for worse and the number of commercial sex worker targeting tourist is on the rise. Packaged sex tour is growing at a rapid rate and if the situation is not checked, prostitution is likely to bring society decay in Dubai.

Tourism in Dubai is one of the fastest growing sectors of economy. With fast growth come both positive and negative impacts on the economy, people’s lives and the environment. To ensure continued maximum benefits from tourist, authority in Dubai must develop sustainable management strategy that will reduce the negative impacts and increase the positive impacts. This includes the use of ecological resources in development of tourism and at the same time maintaining crucial environmental process that helps to conserve biodiversity. There is also need to respect and conserve the social and cultural authenticity and the heritage of the local communities and ensuring long-term practical economic process that provides income to all parties.

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IvyPanda. (2021, October 25). Tourism Impacts on Dubai: Positive & Negative. https://ivypanda.com/essays/tourism-impacts-on-dubai-positive-amp-negative/

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IvyPanda . 2021. "Tourism Impacts on Dubai: Positive & Negative." October 25, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/tourism-impacts-on-dubai-positive-amp-negative/.

1. IvyPanda . "Tourism Impacts on Dubai: Positive & Negative." October 25, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/tourism-impacts-on-dubai-positive-amp-negative/.

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Dubai Pros and Cons: Is Visiting Dubai A Bad Idea

• 24 June، 2020
• Emmanuel Obarhua

Learn about Dubai Pros and Cons. Is visiting Dubai a bad idea? Can one live, work and invest safely in Dubai?

Table of Contents

Dubai Pros and Cons

First used in the book Utopia (1516) by Sir Thomas More and given this use, the word utopia has court the meaning, a place or state of things in which everything is perfect. Is there on the Earth a place in which everything is perfect or ideal. The question is especially important given the fad about visiting Dubai . Everyone seems to be visiting the city, so that significantly more expatriates occupy it than Emiratis. For example, Daniel Sobrado says, “living in UAE is like being in a holidays place the full year with a very generous pay.”

Is Dubai the world’s utopia? Is it being overrated? Why do people talk about it as though it’s perfect? Are there no cons of it? These questions have informed this article. Let’s see whether visiting Dubai is a great idea or a bad one. In other words, lets see some advantages and disadvantages of Dubai.

Advantages of Dubai

Let’s start with the positives on our Dubai pros and cons discussion. Whether your consideration is attractions, sightseeing, cuisines, shopping (luxury or cheap), activities, security or all the foregoing considerations, it can’t be said it’s a bad idea to visit Dubai, as the city is the locus of some of the best of them.

These advantages or pros of Dubai are some of the things Dubai’s renowned for; in other words, why it’s so popular today.

Things To Do in Dubai – Travel & Tourism Destinations

Dubai never tires to wow nor slacks in dazzling, in that it is strident about its goal. It is in this spirit that the glitzy city has welcomed the tallest and really fascinating building ( Burj Khalifa ), the largest LED-illuminated façade , one of the biggest shopping malls in the world ( Dubai Mall ), the most luxurious hotel in the world ( Burj Al Arab Hotel ), the tallest hotels, the largest suspended aquarium ( Dubai Aquarium & UnderWater Zoo ), the tallest performing and biggest choreographed fountain ( Dubai Fountain ) and a host of others.

Sightseeing

Given Dubai’s magnificent attractions, it follows that sightseeing in it would be a thrilling thing to do. Dubai’s not only charming; it’s alluring. Whether in the city or in the beach, sightseeing in Dubai is always a wonderful experience. A very good place for sightseeing in the city is Downtown Dubai, the hub of Dubai’s glitz — Burj Al Arab Hotel’s part of Jumeirah Beach, among other places in Dubai, is also good.

Apart from Dubai’s rich gastronomical culture, Dubai boasts exotic cuisines from European through Asian. Its Global Village and its project entitled “The World” are symbols that the city itself is the world . This is no less true when we consider that only a handful of Emiratis occupy Dubai. The rest are foreigners.

Whether you’re seeking luxury or cheap shopping , Dubai remains one of the surest place for these. Malls like Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall and and a host of others offer luxury and regular shopping. Those such as Dragon Mart, Garderobe, Deira Shopping Center and the souks offer cheap shopping.

Even though there were no Dragon Mart, Garderobe, Deira Shopping Center and souks, Dubai still offers appreciably cheap shopping through its Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). During this time, discount on merchandise can get up to 95%. Property, cars, gold and other wonderful prizes are raffled. DSF is not merely a shopping festival. It’s a time of elevated celebration. Please see this post for detail.

Dubai gives you a lot of choice activities to participate in. Whether you want things to do in the city, on beach or in the desert, whether you want something Islamic or Western, Dubai doesn’t disappoint. The camping at the desert organized by tour operators are usually exuberant. They usually serve barbecue, feature belly dances, drumming in the moon, and a host of other things. In the city, there is no counting of the immersing, thrilling and/or invigorating activities. The beaches are no different. Please see things to do and kindly follow us for updates on things to do in Dubai.

In discussing Dubai pros and cons, security can’t be left out. Dubai’s security is not an underdog to it’s European counterparts, nor can it be eclipsed by them. In fact, only in Dubai would you see police officers driving supercars like the Bugatti Veyron, the Ferrari and the Bentley. It was reported recently that just a tourist’s mention of the police made an offender fall to death . Many visitors and residents of Dubai who know the security status of the West have said they think Dubai’s safer. As regards terrorism, there’s no evident fear of it and Dubai has introduced several initiatives to curb and keep any form of violence at bay. Please, see: Is It Safe to Travel to Dubai?

Further, Dubai has really strict laws ( learn more ) to ensure peace and stability, among other things, and it has been acknowledged by expatriate residents to have marked-out peace. Here’s what Daniel Sobrado says about the UAE which houses Dubai in this light: “In UAE you can leave your wallet or laptop unattended in the table and go to the toilet, nothing happens, there is virtually no crime, in 9 years I didn’t have a minor issue, or knew anyone that had one, I had plenty of issues and scares in other countries.”

Oussama Amrani says, “I personally forgot my smartphone in the bus and guess what, I got it sent back to me by Pakistani taxi driver. He only charged me for his taxi fee.”

Is Dubai Ideal? – Disadvantages of Dubai

We now turn to the negatives on our Dubai pros and cons discussion. Does the foregoing discussion mean Dubai’s ideal? Certainly not. Dubai has disadvantages or flaws but not such as would make visiting it a bad idea. Given that it’s in an imperfect world and that it is imperfect humans that people it, it is not an ideal place. The offender earlier referred to, who fell to death, was actually a fraudster. Although, Dubai has strict laws against financial crimes.

Expensiveness

The city is quite expensive; it was once the second most expensive city in the world after Geneva. While it has waned in this connection, it remains one of the most expensive cities in the world. So, if you’re on a budget, it is a bad idea to visit Dubai. Because, you probably would not enjoy why Dubai’s sung, although there are free exciting things to do in Dubai .

Ezgi Ulku praised Dubai that in it “good money is paid to employees but Dubai knows how [to] take it back from people very well – through monthly utility bills, fees paid for subscriptions, traffic penalties, etc that might be faced. Accommodation and daily life needs (supermarkets, clothes, etc) are not much reasonable, either.”

Only Shallow Friendships

In the light of friendship in Dubai, Ezgi Ulku says the following: “Dubai is not the best place to create good friendships if you are not very lucky, probably because people go on temporary basis just to make money and some turn into robots who are racing with other robots at their workplaces…”

Tour Operators

If you’re taking a tour operator, they definitely would determine your experience. Hence, you don’t only have to see that you choose a good enough tour operator (see some of Dubai’s reliable tour operators ), but also that they deliver reliably.

Some expatriates say there’s too much sand in Dubai and say this is niggling; others think that can’t be a reason to avoid Dubai like a plague.

Citizenship?

Further, some say that UAE will not grant citizenship no matter how long one spends in it and they think this is unacceptable.

Dubai’s Laws

Flouting Dubai’s laws is an important consideration. If this happens, one is endangered to serve some jail term. Please see this post to get guided.

Summer Heat

Visiting Dubai in summer is rather undesirable, reason being the parching Summer sun. This doesn’t mean Dubai’s weather sucks. See what Daniel Sobrado says in this connection, “I prefer 10 times a 45 degrees day here (Dubai) than a rainy and windy day in Europe, but that is just my preference.”

If you can’t handle Dubai’s Summer heat, kindly see this post .

Closely related to the foregoing point is Dubai’s lack of natural greenery. If you love nature, you sadly can’t enjoy it in the city of Dubai.

Conclusion on Dubai Pros and Cons

The foregoing are Dubai’s pros and cons. I believe it’s informative. But no assertion is made that the merits and demerits discussed here are all. In this way, you should kindly comment contributing to this post or submit a post on what you think about visiting Dubai to us. Let’s have a crystal clear picture of the ups and downs of visiting Dubai. We invite people to share their experiences in Dubai with us here .

References :

• GlobalMediaInsight.com

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Should I Visit the UAE? Pros and Cons of Travel to the United Arab Emirates

• Post last modified: May 13, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: May 26, 2022
• Post category: Middle East

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Are you thinking of planning to visit the UAE ? Wondering if this area is your type of trip? Well, we're here to share all of the pros and cons of visiting the UAE so that you can decide.

We learned a lot while traveling to Abu Dhabi last year, and we found that it is definitely a very particular place. For some, traveling to the UAE is an absolute dream, and for some others, it really isn't worth the hype.

So let's jump right in and look at all of the things to keep in mind for when you visit the UAE.

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Visit the UAE: Pros

Let's start with all of the things that we loved about visiting the UAE!

The Architecture is Next Level

One of the things that really wowed us in the UAE was the different structures they had. From incredibly tall skyscrapers, to stunning palaces, it's undeniable that they really did a great job in the UAE when it comes to the architecture.

The architecture in Abu Dhabi  is unbelievable.

It's Super Instagrammable

Want to up your Instagram game ? Well, the UAE has you covered. From gorgeous buildings to cute cafes, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are an Instagrammer's dream. So pack those beautiful dresses and get ready to take some stunning photos, because the UAE is the place to do it.

Want some amazing photos? You can hire a professional photographer in Dubai! Here are a few that we've found:

It's Full of Unique Experiences

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are two cities that will truly blow your mind when it comes to epic activities. Want to skydive over a manmade island chain? How about sliding from the top of a skyscraper? Well, then you'll love to visit the UAE.

We haven't personally been to Dubai, but we do know that they are home to some really neat activities, and ones that you won't find anywhere else.

The UAE is a bucket list paradise, and is sure to blow your mind. So if you want some unique experiences and epic activities, then let's get you started!

Even the aquariums are something to add to your bucket list.

Here are some epic activities that you can find in Dubai

Here are some awesome things you can do in Abu Dhabi

The Service is Incredible

Get ready to be treated like royalty, because that's one thing that the Middle East truly excels at.

Whether you're in a fancy hotel, or eating at a nice restaurant, the hospitality is one that is hardly matched elsewhere in the world.

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Arabic people expect to be treated like royalty, so this is the standard for anyone that is traveling to the UAE . While we felt it to be a bit much, this is definitely something that will make travelers live a luxurious and stress-free vacation.

The amenities and service are impeccable in the Abu Dhabi hotels.

Here are some of the top-notch hotels to check out:

Luxury Hotels in Abu Dhabi:

• Emirates Palace: An incredibly luxurious hotel that looks like a palace
• Ritz-Carlton: The most highly sought after hotel, with stunning views of the mosque
• Shangri La:   Stunning hotel with beach access, and romantic boat rides

Luxury Hotels in Dubai:

Shangri La: the hotel with one of the best views in all of Dubai, facing the Burj Khalifa

The Atlantis:  this hotel is definitely not our typical recommendation, but it's great for families, and those that want to experience a glamorous stay

Palace Downtown:  a 5-star hotel facing the Burj Khalifa

The Dubai EDITION:  has a beautiful pool facing the heart of Dubai, a fitness center, and free private parking

  W Dubai - Mina Seyahi:  an adults-only luxury resort located on Jumeriah Beach

Address Sky View: the most epic infinity pool facing the Burj Khalifa

Other Luxury Hotels:

• Telal Resort: Tucked away in the desert of Al Ain, this resort has a spa, pool, and a ton of on-site activities.

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It's Very International

Want Lebanese food? Italian? How about American? Well, the United Arab Emirates is a huge melting pot, meaning you can experience a huge variety of cultures and cuisines.

There is something for everyone when it comes to restaurants and fashion in the UAE , and you will easily meet people from many different countries.

This makes for a fun and unique destination, where everyone can come together and find a mix of people to connect with.

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There is a Variety of Landscapes

While many people just assume that the UAE is all desert, there really is so much more! You can enjoy beaches, salt lakes, and even mangroves. We were shocked when we went to visit the UAE to learn that there is so much more than just sand and hotels.

The UAE  has more than just deserts.

It's Very Clean

Everything in the UAE is new. It's shiny, clean, and inviting. So if you want to stay prim and proper, then you'll love traveling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The UAE is flashy and luxurious, inviting you to feel fancy and indulgent wherever you go.

Many places throughout the UAE will make you feel super luxurious.

It's Well-Connected and Affordable to Get to

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are both home to some of the most famous airlines, and are very easily reachable. They connect well with Europe , Africa , and Asia , and also have direct flights from the Americas. We've found flights from Europe to the UAE for as low as $50!

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can put from "your city or country" to "UAE". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport in the area to fly to or from. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates to go!

Search for a flight to the UAE:

Visit the UAE: Cons

While there were some things we truly loved about visiting the UAE, we can't deny the fact that some things about it we did not like at all. Here are a few cons about travel to the United Arab Emirates .

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

It is Super Expensive

Well, it's no secret that the UAE is super expensive. This particularly goes for the large cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai . Accommodation is very pricey, and so are restaurants, bars, and shops.

Luckily taxis are the one thing that aren't too expensive, although with the layout of the city, they truly do add up. (Keep reading and you'll understand why). 

If you plan to visit the UAE, make sure you save up quite a bit, especially if you wan't to experience any type of nightlife.

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Alcohol is Hard to Come By

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Muslim countries, and that includes the UAE. It is extremely expensive for hotels and restaurants to get liquor licenses because of this. So there isn't a way to have drinks freely or cheaply for that matter.

If you want to have a night out you can certainly find it in fancy hotels. However, you won't be able to "bar hop" or pick up a bottle of wine in the supermarket (it isn't allowed to be sold). So if your idea of a vacation is chilling on the beach with some beers, then we don't recommend to visit the UAE on this trip (unless you've got some serious money to blow).

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It Isn't Pedestrian Friendly

One of our favorite parts of traveling through Europe is that you can just wander the small streets and soak up the vibes of the cities and even small towns. Well, we can't speak for Dubai, but this certainly isn't the case in Abu Dhabi .

When we first looked at the map of Abu Dhabi , we saw just a few large streets, and thought "wow everything looks so close!". We couldn't be more wrong.

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It's nearly impossible to walk from one place to another, forcing you to constantly get taxis from one place to another. In our opinion, this takes away from the overall experience, as you have to just choose your spots, and have a pretty rigid itinerary. There isn't much room for exploring on your own, or enjoying the little things here. We suggest renting a car to make the most of your stay.

Here is a site we typically use to book our rentals:

It Gets Unbearably Hot

The heat of the UAE is both a pro and con. We visited in February, and had unbelievably perfect weather. Warm weather and sunny days were incredible, and the cool nights really made it very pleasant to be outside.

However, travel later on in the spring, summer, or early fall and this certainly won't be the case. The sun is so strong, and temperatures are so hot in the summer that people can't even go outside. The malls blast the AC, and the difference between the indoors and outdoors in unbearable.

If you do plan to travel to the United Arab Emirates, then make sure to go in the winter, so you can actually enjoy the sunny weather that this area offers.

The  UAE  is a lot of desert, so temperatures get extremely hot. We suggest going in winter.

Women Are Not Treated Equally

When it comes to traveling in the Middle East , women can never feel as comfortable or free as men feel. 

There is still a serious amount on inequality when it comes to women. When you are in the streets, you won't be affected quite as much, but if you are visiting somewhere religious, then that's a whole other story that we will get into further in the article.

The dress code for the Grand Mosque is extremely strict for women.

They Are Extremely Strict (In General)

If you like freedom, then the UAE is definitely not the place for you. Everywhere you go they are super strict. Enter a mosque and it's a whole other level of strictness. There are security guards every 5 steps telling you where you can walk, where you can take a photo, how you can pose, and so on. 

For women especially, it is HELL. If the wind blows your skirt every so slightly and your ankle shows, you will have security guards running and screaming like you are a convict.

Often there are many people in authority that don't even understand the reasoning behind rules. So you'll have someone blatantly telling you "no you can't do this", and "no you can't do that", with zero reasoning or explanation behind the rule. There is no negotiation, no flexibility, just a plain NO.

While drones used to be allowed, they no longer are in the UAE , and will get confiscated at the airport.

There Are Intense Covid Restrictions

We're all about being safe and hygienic, but if you travel to the United Arab Emirates, you might feel just outright inconvenienced and victimized all the time.

Although they are changing, when we went in February 2022 we had to be vaccinated, have a PCR test, and then also get tested upon arrival. They texted us every day, and after 6 days you had to get retested again. Not only that, but they forced you to get an additional PCR  before leaving the country! This was not only annoying, but super expensive, as you have to pay about $100 USD for each test you take.

We were forced to wear masks in empty open air parks, and constantly be showing our negative results to go  literally anywhere.  We can't deny that this definitely took away from our experience while visiting the UAE.

2024 Update:  Covid restrictions are no longer an issue in the UAE, and all of these inconveniences have been taken away.

10 Things to Check to Make Sure Your Covid Travels Go Smoothly

Travel is back! After a year and a half of the world in shambles, countries are starting to open their borders again, and things are finally starting to look like they are back to normal. But there are still things to keep in mind for Covid travel in 2022.Not everyone

It Lacks History and Culture

If you're into history and culture, then the UAE isn't particularly going to be a place that you can get that fulfilled. 

The UAE is a very young country, and while it's very international, sometimes it feels. a bit too international. You hardly ever meet someone who is truly from the UAE, as everyone just moved there later in life. Because of this, sometimes it feels that you can never really immerse yourself in the culture, because it's just a mutt of a country.

Being that it's only a few decades old, everything is modern, and there isn't much historically to learn or appreciate. If you're looking to learn and explore culture, then you might be better off going to other areas of the Middle East like Jordan or Egypt.

Even the castles in the UAE are very modern.

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The UAE is neither a place we love, nor a place that we hate. We simply think that travel to the United Arab Emirates is better suited for some over others.

Nature lovers and those that want to budget travel may consider skipping the UAE as their next travel destination. While the travelers that love luxury and modern architecture will thrive in this wildly fancy country.

Thinking of planning to visit the UAE and don't want to spend a fortune? Luckily for you, we do have plenty of ways to save you on your trip! We can help you book cheap flights and organize a customized itinerary with our travel planning packages .  So now you can spend less and explore more.

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5 Pros And Cons Of Visiting Dubai

I know a lot of people who have no interest whatsoever in visiting Dubai but then some who absolutely love it. I have been there on several occasions: as a stopover, for a week-long holiday and once to go to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (which was amazing).

There are some things I love about the UAE city  but some things I don’t like so much. W henever I think of a negative thing about Dubai, there always seems to be a positive to counter it. Here are my five pros and cons of visiting Dubai.

Dubai is a ‘bit fake’

I hear people saying this a lot and yes, it is a bit fake. Dubai is a very modern city which has rapidly expanded over the past 50 years following the discovery of oil.

The UAE Emirate is essentially a desert which has been developed on – in epic proportions – with an ever-expanding skyline of towering skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa , the largest building in the world ( read about our trip to the Burj Khalifa ).

Everything has been done to excess, with no expense spared. From the opulent hotels to the oversized malls (where you have the option to ski), man-made waterways and islands, huge cascading water features, and immaculately kept golf courses and green gardens. You name it, they will mimic it and they seem to pride themselves on doing it bigger and better than ever before. It is a very glitzy city without a huge amount of natural beauty. It certainly lacks the idillic setting of tropical places like the Maldives and Caribbean, especially with building work ongoing (see point 2).

Dubai is a vibrant city where people from all over the world come to work. It has got some great hotels and restaurants with some of the top chefs from around the world clamouring to set up restaurants so you have your pick of fine dining. As it’s all rather glad, there’s good excuse to put your glad rags on.

Some of the beaches may not be completely natural (like those on ‘The Palm’) but the golden sand is real and the beaches are large and wide with few rocks and stones. The sea is deliciously warm and calm so perfect for children (and people like me who aren’t keen on freezing cold water and large waves). Oh, and the (very natural) sunsets are pretty spectacular too.

Noise Pollution

There is a lot of construction work still going on in Dubai. You’d  think the building boom would have eased off a bit, certainly after the 2008 property crash but it continues. The massive land reclaim project, The Palm, is still being developed on (although work on another such project ‘The World’ has halted).

Newer hotels and better transport links are being built to make the city easier to navigate for those who live there and boost business and tourism.  Although big, the hotels have excellent facilities. From water sports to volleyball, mini golf, massages or just plain sunbathing – there’s something for everyone. For the children, there’s water parks and kids clubs and the service is tip top too. Cold towel and fruit anyone? 

Dubai lacks culture?

Dubai is a hugely diverse city where lots of different cultures converge so it’s very cosmopolitan but, as it’s so new, there isn’t a great deal of history. For culture, visit the docks and explore the gold and spice souks. Or you could indulge in a desert safari or camel racing for a slight taste of Emirati life. Of course, there’s the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world  but overall, Dubai it is very much a hotel resort type place.

Some hotels are so huge they are like a mini city of its own – with everything provided for you. There are  no little shops to nip out and get some water or cute towns to have a mooch around  like you get in Europe.  The hotels have been designed so you don’t even have to leave during your stay (and I suspect a lot of people do this).

As much as I like adventure and exploration, sometimes it’s good to relax and not have the pressure of cramming in loads of sightseeing (especially if you are visiting on a short stopover). Not having the option to do loads can be a pro and you don’t feel so guilty about chilling by the beach/pool.

Although Dubai lacks culture, it’s still an interesting country to visit where you can learn lots from the people, of all different cultures, who live there. The ostentatious buildings are a wonder to marvel at – as well as the beautiful hotels, designed with incredible attention to detail channelling Arabian architecture and decor. Then there are the (nicely air-conditioned) malls like Dubai Mall which have every activity you can imagine at your disposal, particularly for children. You have to see it to believe it.

How Expensive is Dubai to go on holiday?

Dubai can be an expensive place to stay, with prices pretty much on a par with London (although certain things, like taxis, are cheaper). As it is a Muslim county, alcohol is particularly expensive.

You get what you pay for. In the luxury five star hotels the staff are friendly, welcoming and cater for (almost) every whim allowing you to relax. The beaches are private so you don’t get hassled and many of the children’s activities are free at the large resorts so you have the option to leave your little ones at the kids club while you chill.There are also some great deals which you can book, click here to find latest deals on hotels .

The food is of a very high quality so a great place for foodies. As it is a Muslim country, there are restrictions on licensed premises and bars have to be attached to the hotels. Wine and champagne is particularly pricey but we often get a bottle at duty free when we land to enjoy in our hotel room.

What about the heat in Dubai?

In the summer months it can get incredibly hot and humid so avoid June, July and August, especially if you have young children. We once went en route to South Africa for our honeymoon in August. We struggled to sit outside even in the evening when temperatures are still 40 degrees. The humidity is crazy too. Every time we walked out of the hotel our sunglasses steamed up. It’s like one big sauna.

Dubai can provide a great winter break in the sun – when the UK temperatures plummet! January was one of the best times of year we have visited Dubai!

Dubai Pros and Cons

There’s certainly a number of reasons why the Emirate keeps drawing us back. Dubai is also a great stopover before going to explore countries further east.

We went before children and enjoyed going out to fancy restaurants, bars and chilling out on the beach but now we have little ones, I can see why Dubai is a great family holiday too. There’s so much to keep kids entertained from waterparks, giant fish tanks, large swimming pools, theme parks and much more. .

I know we will go back at some point, for as many negative things about Dubai, there are many good things about Dubai. It ticks a lot of boxes and it is somewhere you should experience at some point in your life. Click here to find top deals on where to stay in Dubai .

Have you been to Dubai? Would like to go? Do you love or hate Dubai or are you like me? I’d love to know your thoughts. Please comment below.

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I've always loved to travel so when my two daughters came along, I didn't stop. Travelling as a family can have its ups and downs but I love showing my children the world and helping others navigate travelling with children in tow.

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Ha, same. It can be a bit of a relief. I think a lot of people are put off a bit but, like so many things/places, it’s what you make it and there are things to see if you want and like I say, is worth seeing at some point… Maybe a stop off? X

Hope you get to go to Australia soon! Dubai would be a fab stop off. Thanks for linking to #citytripping – really enjoyed your Budapest post x

Ohhhh I am so rubbish! I’ve just realised that I wrote the reply to your email and never pressed send (its sat in my drafts, I wrote it night feeding!!) so sorry I missed you!

I love a good pros and cons list about places I know, Dubai is definitely all about bigger and better. There are some hidden gems though that people don’t know about, like the culture and history, if you go down to the old town you can find the history museum where it explains about how originally Dubai was all about the pearl diving and the old abra rides are incredible.

Ah, shame I missed you! (Although Im sure we’ll be back at some point). Hope all going well with baby boy. Was interested in your thoughts on this post…can imagine it’s pretty different living there but I bet it’s a fab place to be for a couple of years… Although tough in the summer! We once went in August during Ramadan… Double whammy! Haha. Need to do the museum at some point! Xx

It’s funny how it can be a bit polarising but I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Just embrace it for what it is and go along with the ride. X

Thanks Ting! Dubai is a funny one – and glad I’ve helped you rethink it. I’m still pretty split but there must be a reason why we’ve been back a few times. You can’t beat the sunshine (especially in winter over here) and the service is brilliant. Plus the children love it. Thanks for hosting #mondayescapes great idea xx

We went to Dubai for the first time last year with our then two year old and I was pregnant. I was a bit dubious about going as it sounded so fake and OTT and I must admit it definitely was 🙂

But, it was also pretty interesting and I quite admired how proud the people of Dubai were of what they had achieved. Us Brits are always bashful about stuff and ridicule things we achieve but over there they loved having the biggest buildings and the bluest sea, whitest sand, even if it was man-made. I sort of thought, good on them.

I totally know what you mean -hahaha – I always seem to have a good time there too. As tourists we do see a bit of a fake version of Dubai but it does tick a lot of boxes! And when I talk to all the workers who come from all over, they seem pretty happy to be over there and working. You are right, they are very proud of it all and I think good on them too…they are playing a bit of catch up but doing it to the extreme. It is my guilty pleasure. Glad you had a great time there!! Thanks for stopping by xx

Have a fab time! It really is a fab stopover. Perfect for some pre-sun fun. Enjoy Thailand! Love that country! Oh, you have to go to that Grand Prix at some point it’s pretty spesh! X

Wow – how fascinating to have seen that change. We went for the first time in 2008 and even since then it has grown enormously. Shame you got ill… Sounds like a return trip is defo in order! Thanks for stopping by xx

Thank you! I’m glad I’m not the only one too but it does tick a lot of boxes too and is lots of fun. Thanks for hosting #mondayescapes x

Yes! Do it. It is worth seeing and the restaurants, bars, shopping – it’s all good- just submit to the glitz and opulence! Xxx

It’s definitely worth seeing! Just make sure you emphasise the pros to the other half

Thank you so much. Yes! You’re right. I have yet to do Vegas but probably will next year… It has to done!! Thanks for stopping by x

Thanks! Just been reading your post actually! It is a great place and we still have so much to explore there…you have given me some fab tips. Every time I think of a con the pros outweigh it and it’s so good for kids. Xx

Well I am glad I helped you make a decision… It’s a bit of a marmite place and I get that it isn’t for everyone. Thanks for stopping by. X

Oh no! Such a shame you can’t go exploring – well together anyway. Thanks for hosting #bigfatlinky

Yes, you should definitely go see it at some point. It’s somewhere you have see. Thanks for hosting #thelist xx

I know! It’s ridiculous later on in the summer. We went in May and it was 42 degrees x

I just moved back to the UK after having lived in Dubai for the last 8 years. There are many great (& not so great) things about the place and lots of things to do with kids. My family and I spent our final night in Dubai watching the fountains at the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa.

Wow! That’s a long time over there. How did you find it? From what I have seen, it is a great place for children! still need to see the fountains! Welcome back to the UK. Xx

Hey Keri, I will have to check out your Al Dhafra festival post. It would be great to see the more cultural side of the UAE so next I will I go I’ll make sure I do that… then I can write a whole other post about its cultural side!! Even so, I do like Dubai, there is certainly something which keeps drawing us back! Thanks for the tips. Enjoy National Day – sounds fun! x

Thank you! I love sunsets! Yes, there is – lots more than meets the eye x

Dubai is so, so perfect for a stopover. Kids LOVE it and it’s perfect for some pampering x

I really agree with you. Dubai isn’t somewhere I’d rush back to but I’m glad I’ve been. It is a fascinating place and the hotels are amazing. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton and loved it. I think if I was going back I might be tempted to combine it with something else, like a jeep safari into the desert.

Ooh yes! I really want to do to a jeep safari and do a night in the desert too. X

Yes, good shout. The construction work was annoying but you sort of got used to it.

Thanks Trish – glad you have found it helpful. It’s a bit of a marmite place but great for a few days to recharge.

You are so right – know what to expect and you won’t be disappointed! If we go to Dubai again I’m going to explore its cultural side a bit deeper…I’m sure it’s there! X

Hi Ruth, I think you’ll really enjoy it too.

Thanks Sarah! I’m still pretty divided on it but you can’t beat it for winter sun.

Glad your sister had a good time. We stayed at the Atlantis once before but during a really busy time of year – was a bit hectic – but tons of stuff for the kids! So good for winter sun and there are deals out there. X

Very true! You do just have to embrace the glitz, sun and shiny new buildings. X

Haha! Indeed not! X

My friends who recently returned from Dubai had the same pro & con arguments why visit / not visit Dubai. 🙂 #CityTripping

That’s interesting- glad I’m not alone with it. It’s definitely a bit marmite! X

Thank you so much Jo! There are so many pros but ultimately it is a city that’s still in development so there will be construction noise although some areas are definitely better than others!

Kind of like Las Vegas with humidity and a beach?

You’re not far off!

It was very great to read such an informative post! Great post about Dubai!

Thank you so much.

Wow.. love the way you’ve listed out the good and bad! Cheers!! 🙂

Thank you. It’s a bit of a marmite place!

I can understand all these pros and cons but I think if I got the chance to go I’d still jump at the chance! I mean, hot weather, swimming pools, amazing hotels. Yes please!

Hehe – very true. The positives are very alluring. The do hotels very well!!

Thanks Jessica, glad you found it helpful!

I lived in the UAE for 6 years, and then made regular business trips to Dubai to see clients for the next 10 years, so feel I know it pretty well. I agree with your pros and cons, but would add a couple. On the Pro side: if you want to see Arabia, then take the short taxi ride up to Sharjah which still has lots of old buildings and some wonderful museums. Sharjah also has a large Shiite population with links to Iran, and there are a couple of beautiful Iranian-style mosques with beautiful blue and green tilework, well worth a look. On the Con side: do not forget you are in a Muslim country with very strict laws. Be careful what you do in public. One of our friends worked as a lawyer and tried to help numerous Brits who fell foul of local laws. Some of his clients’ stories were very sad. Read the blog “Banged up in Dubai” for some eye-opening true stories.

Hi Fiona, thanks so much for those added pros and cons! I’d love to explore more of the country – great recommendations. Yes, I think it’s easy for some people to forget the local customs and laws. A cautionary tale!

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Dubai Faces Festering Tourism Challenges Beyond Pandemic

Reem Abdellatif, Skift

March 5th, 2021 at 12:00 PM EST

Dubai has spent significant capital billing itself up as a progressive destination that offers uninterrupted tourism and entertainment, but now reality may have caught up to the emirate.

Reem Abdellatif

The shimmering coastline of Dubai’s tree-shaped Palm Jumeirah island is known for its posh apartments, glitzy hotels, and upscale restaurants—but the lights in this exclusive enclave, like much of the city, have started to dim.

That’s because Dubai’s economy, built on the hopes of globalization, was on thin ice long before the pandemic.

In 2018 and 2019, the image-conscience emirate had reportedly kept the lights on in some emptied skyscrapers and hotels to maintain its reputation as an “instagramable” destination.

“Through the medium-term, it could very well be touch-and-go for Dubai,” said Varsha Koduvayur, senior research analyst covering the Gulf states for Washington D.C.-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies. “The Covid shock will affect the leadership’s thinking and spur Dubai’s leaders to look towards building up other sectors that might (to the extent possible) be more pandemic-proof.”

Although Dubai seemed to have handled the chaos of Covid-19 well during the early months of the crisis, that quickly changed around New Year’s when tourists and locals hit the pubs and parties without face-masks or social distancing measures.

The city had welcomed international visitors too soon, with about 300,000 people traveling between the UAE and the U.K. in November and December alone. That’s when Dubai was accused by the global community of being a “super-spreader” of the virus abroad.

On February 1, the city took action to close all bars and pubs for the entire month and limit other activities amid rising coronavirus cases and an ongoing crash in oil prices.

The CEO of Dubai’s Tourism Authority did not respond to Skift’s request for comment in time for publishing.

“Dubai is in a different situation than that of Abu Dhabi, as Abu Dhabi can still rely on oil and gas revenues; which have supported Dubai and helped the emirate to bounce back after the financial crisis of 2008,” said Dean Mikkelsen, director of UAE-based Hannibal Global Insight, a political risk consultancy.

Before coronavirus brought global travel to a standstill, Dubai International Airport was one of the world’s busiest. This year, officials expect a difficult chapter ahead after passenger numbers slid 70 percent in 2020.

Dubai, home to long-haul carrier Emirates , now has its hopes pinned on vaccination rollouts.

“The UAE and Emirates are supporting the IATA version that indicates whether an individual has been vaccinated or not and is Covid-negative,” Mikkelsen told Skift.

But these measures will take time to implement, and would only allow some tourism from Europe, the U.K., or other developed nations.

This excludes travelers from regions that haven’t adopted digital health passports , such as Southeast Asia, Africa, or other parts of the Middle East — places that the majority of Dubai’s service sector employees call home.

“The vaccine has not been distributed equally across the world and many smaller or less wealthy nations have been left behind. This raises questions about much of the service-based market in Dubai, as many of the employees come from South Asian countries and may not be vaccinated,” said Mikkelsen.

Desperate times call for desperate measures

The UAE now faces a defining moment in history. Its leaders will be forced to make tough decisions amid intensifying economic rivalries in the Middle East, as well as growing pressure from a more socially conscious global community.

Read Skift’s take: 5 Middle East Travel Innovations Born Out of Pandemic and Fierce Rivalries

In 2020, Dubai’s population fell 8.4 percent — the steepest decline in the Gulf region — as many expatriate workers exited the country due to the pandemic’s negative impact on key employment sectors of tourism, aviation, hospitality, and retail.

Recognizing the need for reforms, the UAE announced a new citizenship scheme last month. The UAE passport, which is valuable when it comes to mobility, will be offered to select investors and professionals including “doctors, inventors, specialists, intellectuals, artists and their families.”

Foreigners can only be invited to apply by UAE royals or government officials.

“The UAE’s decision to enact some recent societal reforms, aimed at improving its attractiveness as an expat and business hub amidst growing competition from Riyadh for the same businesses, is also a good move … but it is still too restrictive,” Koduvayur told Skift.

“To keep its competitive edge, the UAE should seek to tap into its huge and talented expat pool and incentivize ways for these groups to create a more permanent presence in the UAE,” she added.

The UAE also signed the Abraham Accords with Israel in September, allowing for full normalization for the first time between the two nations. The move was seen as strategic since Israel is a competitor for the UAE in many ways — particularly when it comes to tourism, travel, and research and development (R&D).

Now Israel has become the world’s most unlikely country keeping tourism going in Dubai, with up to 50,000 Israelis visiting the emirate since last November.

Trouble on the home front

Long before the coronavirus pandemic, there was trouble in paradise.

Dubai’s economic growth had been steadily slowing since 2017, and job cuts were hitting the emirate’s expat workers — who make up about 90 percent of the 3.3 million population.

Hotel occupancy rates in the emirate were also shrinking, with revenues down by 15 percent in the first 10 months of 2019.

The exodus of high-paid senior expats and blue-collar workers had started chiseling away at spending in the consumer-driven economy. By then, the emirate had already invested about $7 billion towards construction costs for Expo 2020. The now postponed event was expected to bring in about 25 million visitors.

One of the Middle East’s most powerful leaders, UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, had pledged many expo surprises, but even he couldn’t have predicted the economic onslaught that would bring his city to a standstill — nor did he plan for it.

With a strong PR machine under their command, Dubai’s rulers managed to keep much of that bad news under wraps, until the pandemic forced these issues to the surface.

The emirate also faces growing criticism amid reports of rights abuses, including failing to meet minimum standards for the elimination of human trafficking and limitations that still keep many women living below a glass ceiling.

Princess Latifa Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed’s daughter, recently spoke against her father – who she said is holding her hostage in a Dubai villa. She has also accused him of forcibly kidnapping and disappearing her sister, Princess Shamsa.

“This will be Dubai’s biggest challenge,” Koduvayur told Skift. “The revelations about Princess Latifa and the growing public awareness over women’s abuses in the emirate will be hard to shake off.”

“Unless the emirate responds and adapts to these criticisms in positive ways — which, frankly, we have not yet seen — through the medium-term, Dubai’s undisputed position as the region’s tourism and business hub could very well be in jeopardy.”

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: coronavirus , coronavirus recovery , dubai , emirates , middle east , united arab emirates

Photo credit: The view of Palm Jumeirah island from Jumeirah Beach. Arvin Mantilla / Getty

25 Important Disadvantages of Tourism

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I am sad to say that there are many disadvantages of tourism. Tourism has the power to do so much good, but equally it also has the power to do so much bad. The key is careful and sufficient tourism planning and management. So what are these disadvantages of tourism, why are they so bad and how can we overcome them? Read on to find out…

The 3 categories of disadvantages of tourism

Natural habitat disruption, resource depletion, climate change, wildlife disturbance, coral reefs damage, seasonal nature of tourism, economic dependence, revenue leakage, unequal distribution of income, opportunity cost, over-reliance on a single industry, environmental costs, cost of living, cultural commodification, cultural displacement, commodification of culture, overcrowding, increased crime, social inequality, change in local lifestyles, loss of local employment, inflation in property prices, sustainable tourism practices, involving local communities, education and awareness, diversification of the economy, government regulations and policies, infrastructure development, long-term planning, adaptable management strategies, the disadvantages of tourism- to conclude, the disadvantages of tourism.

As one delves into the captivating world of globetrotting, it is easy to become enamored with the captivating allure of exploration, adventure, and cross-cultural interactions that define the tourist experience. Tourism, undoubtedly, contributes significantly to the economic prosperity of nations, providing employment , generating foreign exchange, and fostering cross-cultural understanding . Yet, there exists a darker side to this glittering façade, one that, more often than not, escapes the radar of mainstream discourse.

This post will highlight the less celebrated aspects of tourism, focusing on its potential downsides that are, somewhat ironically, entwined with its many benefits. Despite the ubiquity of tourism and its significance in today’s globalised world , it is crucial to address its potential for harm in the name of balance and long-term sustainability .

The downsides of tourism are numerous, encompassing aspects such as the environment, culture, economy, and social fabric of tourist destinations . Through this article we will delve into these impacts, seeking to not merely criticise, but also to inspire a rethinking of our attitudes and practices around tourism. By doing so, we endeavour to shed light on how we might navigate these complex issues and foster a more responsible and sustainable approach to tourism .

The disadvantages of tourism can be broken down into three categories: economic, environmental and social. I have summarised these below for you.

Now lets dig a bit deeper into the disadvantages of tourism outlined above one by one…

Environmental Disadvantages of Tourism

If responsible tourism practises are not employed, tourism can, and does, cause significant harm to the environment. I have outlined some of the most common examples of the environmental disadvantages, also known as environmental impacts of tourism , of tourism below for you.

Tourism often leads to deforestation and disruption of natural habitats to accommodate tourists , causing a significant loss of biodiversity. This could involve clearing land for accommodations or other facilities, thereby endangering flora and fauna unique to the area.

How can we mitigate or reduce this disadvantage of tourism?

Sustainable tourism practices, including limiting development in sensitive areas, promoting eco-tourism , and educating tourists about responsible travel , can help preserve natural habitats.

Tourism can strain natural resources, particularly water and food supplies, especially in regions where these resources are already scarce. The increased demand can lead to overexploitation, endangering the long-term availability of these resources.

Implementing resource management strategies, promoting the use of renewable resources, and encouraging tourists to respect local resources can help mitigate this issue.

Tourism contributes to various forms of pollution. Air pollution results from transport, noise pollution from increased activity, litter from irresponsible disposal of waste, and other types of pollution, all of which can degrade local environments and disturb wildlife.

Establishing and enforcing environmental regulations, utilising environmental impact surveys , promoting green travel options, and educating tourists about proper waste disposal can help reduce pollution.

High tourist traffic can cause physical damage to natural landscapes. For example, excessive hiking and foot traffic can lead to soil erosion and degradation of historic sites, damaging these irreplaceable resources.

Restricting access to vulnerable areas, creating designated pathways, and educating tourists about the importance of preserving these sites can help reduce erosion.

The carbon footprint from travel, especially air travel, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, leading to global climate change. Tourism’s contribution to climate change can have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems worldwide.

Promoting low-carbon transportation options , implementing carbon offset programs, and raising awareness about the environmental impacts of travel can help mitigate tourism’s contribution to climate change.

Human interaction can disturb the natural behaviour of wildlife. Some species may become overly dependent on human food sources, while others may react aggressively or retreat from their natural habitat, disrupting the balance of local ecosystems.

Educating tourists about respectful wildlife interaction, enforcing rules about feeding wildlife, and promoting non-intrusive wildlife viewing experiences can help to reduce disturbance.

Activities like snorkelling and diving can unintentionally damage delicate coral reefs . Additionally, increased boat traffic can lead to oil leaks and other pollution, posing a threat to marine life.

Implementing and enforcing marine protected areas, educating tourists about coral-friendly snorkelling and diving practices, and monitoring boat activity can help protect coral reefs.

Economic Disadvantages of Tourism

Unfortunately, there are many economic disadvantages of tourism, also known as negative economic impacts of tourism . I have outlined the most common below.

Tourism tends to be seasonal, often peaking during particular times of the year. This fluctuation can lead to periods of high employment followed by periods of widespread job loss, creating economic instability. This cyclical pattern can be challenging for local communities that heavily depend on tourism, making budgeting and financial stability a strenuous task.

Diversifying tourism offers, promoting off-peak travel and developing other forms of sustainable local industries can help smooth out the seasonal fluctuations of tourism and provide more stable employment.

The increased demand for goods and services during the tourist season often leads to price inflation . This surge in prices can result in an increased cost of living for local residents, making everyday goods and services more expensive and less accessible.

Implementation of policy measures to control inflation and monitoring of prices, especially of essential goods, during the peak season can help ensure that locals are not negatively impacted.

Regions that rely heavily on tourism can become economically vulnerable in the face of downturns in the industry. These downturns can be triggered by numerous factors such as natural disasters, political instability, global pandemics, or even changing travel trends. This economic fragility poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of local communities.

Diversifying the local economy by promoting and developing other industries can help reduce dependence on tourism and build economic resilience.

Often, a substantial proportion of the revenue generated by tourism does not benefit the local economy but ends up in the hands of foreign-owned businesses , such as international hotel chains and airlines. This phenomenon, known as revenue leakage, can undermine the local economic benefits of tourism.

Encouraging and investing in locally owned businesses and promoting local goods and services can help ensure that more of the tourism revenue stays within the local economy.

The economic benefits of tourism are often unevenly distributed within a community, exacerbating income disparities. More affluent regions or populations tend to gain more from tourism, while less affluent regions or marginalised populations gain less, exacerbating economic inequality.

Implementing policies and practices that promote equitable distribution of tourism revenue can help counter this problem. This might include investing in community-based tourism projects and ensuring fair wages for all tourism-related workers.

Investment in tourism-related infrastructure and services can lead to the neglect of other sectors of the local economy, potentially limiting overall economic development. The resources devoted to tourism could be used elsewhere, potentially offering better long-term economic outcomes.

Balanced investment in various sectors of the economy can help ensure broader economic development, reducing the opportunity costs associated with over-investment in tourism.

Over-dependence on tourism can lead to the neglect of other potential industries, limiting the diversification of the local economy. This lack of diversification can leave the local economy vulnerable to shocks in the tourism industry.

Diversifying the local economy by promoting various industries can help ensure economic stability even when tourism experiences downturns.

Tourism often drives environmental degradation and loss of natural resources, which have their own economic costs. These can include the expense of building infrastructure in sensitive areas, cleaning up pollution , and the lost opportunities for alternative uses of the land .

Implementing sustainable tourism practices that prioritise environmental conservation can help to reduce these costs. This includes regulating tourist activities in sensitive areas and investing in sustainable infrastructure.

Increased tourism can raise property prices and the cost of living, making it challenging for local residents to afford their community. As demand for properties increases with tourist influx, locals may be priced out of their own housing market.

Governments can implement regulations and controls on property prices, especially in regions that are experiencing or are at risk of high tourism-driven property inflation. Policies can also be put in place to ensure affordable housing for local residents is protected and preserved.

The commercialisation of local culture and traditions for the tourist market can lead to “ staged authenticity ,” where cultural activities are modified to cater to tourists. This commodification can potentially lead to the loss of cultural heritage and its inherent economic value, damaging the uniqueness that made the location attractive in the first place.

Policies that protect and promote the preservation of cultural heritage can help counter this effect. Additionally, educating tourists about the importance of preserving local culture and promoting authentic cultural exchanges can lead to more respectful and sustainable tourism practices.

Social Disadvantages of Tourism

There are also many social disadvantages of tourism, also known as social impacts of tourism , that need to be considered. I have outlined the major issues that are commonly encountered below.

The influx of tourists can lead to displacement of local populations and their cultural identities, resulting in a loss of cultural diversity . This phenomenon often results from the pressure to accommodate tourists and can erode the local way of life.

Respecting and protecting local cultures, promoting responsible tourism , and involving local communities in tourism planning can help mitigate cultural displacement.

The commercialisation of local customs and traditions for the tourist market can lead to the loss of cultural authenticity and exploitation of cultural heritage. Traditional practices may be transformed into spectacles for tourists, sometimes leading to staged and insincere representations.

Promoting cultural understanding and respect among tourists, supporting community-owned tourism initiatives, and setting guidelines for respectful cultural engagement can help preserve cultural authenticity .

An influx of tourists can lead to overcrowding, straining local facilities and infrastructure, and reducing the quality of life for local residents. This can create tension between tourists and local communities and degrade the visitor experience.

Implementing visitor management strategies, promoting off-peak travel, and developing infrastructure in a sustainable way can help manage overcrowding.

Some destinations may experience an increase in crime rates associated with tourism, including theft, drug trafficking, and exploitation. This can disrupt the local social fabric and lead to unsafe conditions for both tourists and locals.

Enforcing laws, ensuring adequate security measures, and educating tourists about safe practices can help curb crime associated with tourism.

Tourism can exacerbate social inequalities if the financial benefits of tourism are not evenly distributed within the community. This can lead to social tension and resentment within the local population .

Ensuring fair wages, promoting local ownership of tourism businesses, and implementing policies that promote the equitable distribution of tourism revenue can help address social inequality.

The presence of tourists can influence the behaviour and attitudes of local people, sometimes encouraging undesirable behaviours such as begging or petty crime. This can disrupt local norms and create social issues.

Promoting responsible tourism, involving local communities in decision-making processes, and ensuring that tourism benefits flow to the community can help reduce negative influences on local lifestyles.

In some cases, tourism can lead to the displacement of traditional industries, causing job loss among local populations. This can destabilise local economies and disrupt social structures.

Encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism development that complements rather than replaces local industries can help preserve local employment.

An influx of tourists can increase demand for real estate, inflating property prices and potentially making it unaffordable for locals to own property in their own community. Companies such as Airbnb can exasperate this issue. This can lead to social displacement and exacerbate economic inequality.

Implementing policy measures to control property price inflation and ensuring affordable housing for locals can mitigate this impact.

How Can Destinations Balance The Disadvantages of Tourism With The Advantages of Tourism?

Balancing the disadvantages of tourism and advantages of tourism is a delicate task requiring thorough planning, strategic management, and conscious efforts from all stakeholders involved, including tourists, the local community, and the government. Below are some strategies that can help:

This approach focuses on minimising the disadvantages of tourism while maximising the advantages of tourism. These practices might include limiting the number of tourists allowed in a certain area at any one time, promoting off-peak travel, and supporting eco-tourism initiatives.

By involving local communities in the planning and decision-making processes, destinations can ensure tourism development aligns with local needs and values. This can also help distribute the economic benefits of tourism more evenly, reducing social inequality.

Raising awareness among tourists about the impacts of their behaviour can lead to more respectful and environmentally friendly behaviours. This can be achieved through informational campaigns, signage, and guidelines, all of which can help to reduce some of the disadvantages of tourism.

By promoting other sectors of the economy alongside tourism, destinations can mitigate the risk of over-dependence on tourism and provide alternative employment options for local communities.

Governments can establish regulations and policies to manage the disadvantages of tourism. This might include zoning laws to protect sensitive environments, regulations to prevent exploitation of cultural heritage, and policies to ensure equitable distribution of tourism revenue.

Thoughtful and sustainable infrastructure development can manage the influx of tourists, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance the quality of life for local residents.

Taking a long-term perspective in tourism development can help balance immediate economic benefits with the need to preserve a destination’s cultural and natural resources for future generations.

Given the unpredictability of tourism demand , adaptable management strategies can help destinations respond to changes and mitigate negative impacts. This might involve regular monitoring of tourism impacts, feedback mechanisms, and flexibility in policy implementation.

By adopting these strategies, destinations can work towards a more balanced and sustainable tourism model that reaps the benefits of tourism while managing the disadvantages of tourism.

As you can see, there are unfortunately many disadvantages of tourism. However, just because these disadvantages of tourism currently exist, doesn’t mean that have to continue. With adequate planning, policies and governance and with sustainability principles and long-term planning at the forefront of our minds, we can limit the disadvantages of tourism significantly.

If you enjoyed this article about the disadvantages of tourism, I am sure you will enjoy these too:

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Sustainable Tourism in the UAE: Challenges and Opportunities

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• రియల్ ఎస్టేట్ చట్టాల ఉల్లంఘన..డెవలపర్‌లకు భారీ ఫైన్
• అబుధాబిలో ఘనంగా తెలంగాణ రాష్ట్ర ఆవిర్భావ దశాబ్ది ఉత్సవాలు
• ట్యాంక్‌బండ్ వద్ద భారీ కార్నివాల్

- మరిన్ని వార్తలు

'BAPS' హిందూ మందిరం ప్రారంభోత్సవం.. మా గల్ఫ్ సమర్పిస్తున్న ప్రత్యేక గీతం

దుబాయ్ లో 'వరల్డ్ మెటా సమ్మిట్'

యుఏఈ లోని అతిపెద్ద హిందూ మందిరం.. ప్రారంభోత్సవ విశేషాలు..మందిర అద్భుతాలు..

దుబాయ్: మహిళా దినోత్సవం..

'సద్గురు' తో మాగల్ఫ్ ముఖాముఖి

COP28 లో పాల్గొన్న SEMP Group

Tourism in the united arab emirates, advantages and disadvantages

• Published: December 20, 2021
• Updated: December 20, 2021
• Language: English

Tourism has made a big share in the United Arab Emirates’ income; it is one of the big changes that happened since the union of the emirates in 1971. The tourism boom has begun back in the eighties, when Dubai, yet a small city, became the destination for business investment for Arab and Khaleeji people. This rapid movement has affected the country. Here is a list of the main advantages and disadvantages of that. The first distinguishable target for tourism is commercial. The country has set eases for foreigners who wanted to invest in the country. This strategy has led to a dramatic evolution in the country’s development which set the neighboring countries for the competition. The second target for tourism is political. A small and young country has written its name in the international debates, many countries around the world have made good relationships with the UAE. This has led to good reputation for the country. The third target is social. The people of the UAE have learnt a lot about other countries’ morals and social habits, it is more than breaking the ice, and it is more like removing intolerance, misunderstanding and hate. This will also give the tourists and idea about the Emirati people, making a clear and reflective image about the citizens. But what are the undesirable effects of tourism. Some people think that too much foreigners in the country would set it on a national crisis, things like the cultural mixture would let to the loss of international identity, a part of the country’s history that every generation should keep as long as the UAE exists. Many Emiratis, especially elders, condemn the behavior of wearing jeans and making odd hairstyles. They think it is a “ Western” value and a habit that came with the tourism. But more dangerous and extraneous values have arrived; some habits that interfere with our religious and national morals can make a hot and controversial topic, and cause many problems that we were indispensable of them. With a brief comparison, we see that the country have changed a lot during the last two decades. There were more of a stable relationships and marriages, there neighbourous familiarity was present and there were much less crimes at that time. At the end, we are out of signs, every topic is clear and simple, the advantages and disadvantages are shown above, and it’s the time to decide. I agree with the idea that the tourism boom have gave our country a lot of benefits, apart from that we should move to repair out the cultural and moral gaps that outsourced from that. One tiny recommendation is to guide and instruct tourists when they arrive in our country; they should know what behaviors we hate and what we like. Not only in our country but, this system is applied in many countries around the world.

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Why the UAE is a leading tourism destination in the region

Travel & tourism.

The last 42 years has seen major infrastructure developments the has helped put the UAE on the map

Dubai: Since the unification of the UAE’s seven emirates 42 years ago, the UAE has made its mark in the world as a leading tourism destination.

In the last 42 years, the UAE has seen the creation of airlines, such as Emirates and Etihad Airways, airports, a metro station, shopping malls and other major attractions.

“The tourism industry has strengthened greatly, with improving occupancy in Dubai and Abu Dhabi on the back of the expanding network of Etihad Airways and Emirates airline,” Christopher Hewett, senior consultant at TRI Hospitality Consulting, said.

According to data by Dubai Chamber, the UAE’s tourism sector is expected to grow by 6.5 per cent annually between 2011 and 2021.

Once a small trading hub, Dubai has risen to become an international tourism destination for leisure and business travellers “through the infrastructure developed to cater to these markets,” Hewett said.

Dubai is recognised as an entertainment hub, known for its shopping malls and attractions.

Earlier this year, Dubai launched Vision 2020, which involves attracting 20 million visitors to Dubai by 2020, from 10 million visitors in 2012, and tripling the annual contribution made by tourism to the city’s economy.

“We have started out positively on the journey, with a 9.8 per cent increase in visitors during the first nine months of the year, when compared to the same period of last year, having welcomed 7.9 million visitors to Dubai between January and September,” Ahmad Belhoul, CEO of Strategy and Tourism Sector Development at Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said in an email.

Following the vision, DTCM will focus on positioning and promoting Dubai as a family, event and business destination.

The UAE has become a regional hub for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, as well as VFR tourism (visiting friends and relatives), says Chiheb Ben-Mahmoud, head of hotels and hospitality for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region at Jones Lang LaSalle.

“Sporting events contribute greatly to strengthening the UAE status on the world circuits as a leading international sport tourism destination: Tennis, Golf, Formula 1, as well as Marathon, Cricket, Rugby, Sailing, and more recently Sky Diving,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dubai has seen a number of new hotels open this year to accommodate the growing number of visitors, including The Conrad, Shaikh Zayed Road, The Oberoi Dubai, and Novotel Al Barsha, among others. BY 2015, DTCM expects around 35 additional hotels.

In September, DTCM announced an initiative to incentivise the hotel industry to develop more 3 and 4 star hotels in Dubai by waiving the 10 per cent municipality fee.

Meanwhile, other emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, are trying to establish an identity, according to Jeff Strachan, general manager of insights Management Consultancy.

Abu Dhabi is trying to become “a capital city”, boasting cultural sites, Strachan said. The emirate will see the opening of Louvre Abu Dhabi in Saadiyat Cultural District in 2015. The site will also be home to Zayed National Museum due to open in 2016.

The emirate is also trying to position itself as a family destination, with the opening of Yas Waterworld, a waterpark, this year.

In addition, the emirate is ramping up its retail offering, with the opening of The Galleria and the World Trade Centre Mall this year, and Yas Mall in 2014.

Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has been working over the years on promoting Abu Dhabi as a tourism destination.

“We are on-track to achieve our hotel guest target of 2.5 million for 2013 which would represent growth of 10 per cent. This has been achieved through our efforts to communicate that there is much more to see and do in Abu Dhabi, and our continued efforts to deliver world-class cultural, sporting and entertainment events,” Mohammed Al Dhaheri, director of strategy and policy at TCA Abu Dhabi, told Gulf News in an email.

Commenting on milestones achieved this year, Al Dhaheri said TCA Abu Dhabi launched the Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, which was established to drive its business tourism ambitions.

“The Bureau, working closely with stakeholders, has gone on to secure some major convention wins including next November’s hosting, on Saadiyat Island of the DRV annual congress — the summit of the German travel industry. DRV is the umbrella association of the world’s largest outbound market for foreign travel,” he said.

Another milestone is the establishment of an Industry Development Committee to serve the cruise sector, which Abu Dhabi is hoping to develop. The committee will meet every month to discuss challenges and opportunities in the industry.

India is Abu Dhabi’s largest overseas market, with 121,763 Indians staying at the emirate’s hotels in the first nine months of the year, followed by the UK and Germany.

Meanwhile, the northern emirates of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah are positioning themselves as centres for heritage and culture, while Sharjah is becoming a religious and cultural destination.

Strachan said that “it will take time” for the emirates to establish their identities as they will need higher volumes of visitors.

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15+ Pros and Cons of Doing Business In UAE (Explained)

The United Arab Emirates is situated on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula and is composed of numerous sheikdoms. The country itself is at the forefront of modernity, and creativity of the 21st century.

Since oil discovery in the 1930s, the UAE has developed into one of the region’s richest nations.

In recent years tourism and a dynamic economy have made the UAE a regional center for foreign investors and an attractive nation.

Never before has the business done in the United Arab Emirates been more satisfying. Here are a few of the pros and cons of doing business in the UAE.

Pros of Doing Business in the United Arab Emirates

• Approach to a Diversified Economy

From the last few years, the economy of the United Arab Emirates has seen a lot of diversification. While the oil and gas industry is still on number one in the economic development of the region.

The United Arab Emirates has also seen the substantial development of tourism, science, and technology.

Moreover, the government of Emirati has recently invested its $13.4 billion in the non-oil related industries for the growth and expansion if this industry, and a significant portion of which will be devoted to the virtual technology market.

• A Focal Point for World Trade and Business

The UAE lies at the center of a few of the world’s most famous manufacturing and commercial regions. It has always been so traditionally and remains so much today, making it a center of world-class trade.

By establishing your company in the United Arab Emirates you will have access to the Asian, African, Southern, and Eastern European and Middle East markets.

With state-of-the-art air and maritime ports, the country has the requisite facilities to handle foreign trade, rendering business in the UAE an enticing endeavor.

The government of the UAE provides attractive tax incentives for companies doing business in the region. There are presently no foreign exchange restrictions, trade barriers, and no personal or corporate taxes that can help eliminate major operational and management burdens from multinational companies.

• Expansive Spectacle of Technical Solutions

From the last few years, the United Arab Emirates has gained a significant reputation in the field of telecommunications and IT quality. With Dubai Media Area, one of the most modern infrastructure and facilities, the country is the perfect place for the advancement of your activities.

Moreover, the companies that operate in the United Arab Emirates would benefit greatly from Communicaid’s diversity training curriculum for doing business in the UAE.

To function effectively across the world, knowledge of the local culture and the national business culture is completely necessary.

Equipping the workers with this information until they are seconded would help foreign assignments communicate with their Emirati counterparts effectively and successfully. Cross-cultural training programs offered by Communicaid, adapted to the unique features of UAE business culture, can accomplish both.

• Business-Friendly Rules and Regulations

For so long, the government of the United Arab Emirates has been considered as the most significant aspect that helps many businesses operating in the country.

Dubai’s business-friendly policies and regulations aim to make it simple and profitable to do business in the emirate. In any company the government plays a vital role — regardless of where it is.

International companies can also invest and open their business in Dubai within a month, with the aid of professional Support services. It is necessary to work with a competent business management consultant who is familiar with the rules and regulations of Dubai to ensure effective and proper company set-up.

Here are only a few of the services they offer:

• Visa and Extension applications
•  License
•  Establishing Non-Native Residence
• Aid from the Ministry of Labour
• Local Patronage
• Free-Trade Zones

Dubai has 37 free-zones (economic trade zones) that are extremely attractive to many business groups. Unlike the mainland company that allows an Emirati national to serve as a local partner or service agent, free zones allow expatriates to maintain 100 percent control of their business with the right to repatriate capital and income.

Free-zone establishment also gives foreign business owners exemption from paying corporate tax for 15 years or more, and no import/export, withholding, or personal income tax.

Although it is not convenient for all to run a company in a free zone, this is an excellent option for many companies. Professional PRO services will provide useful insight and knowledge that will help investors make educated decisions.

Obstructions of Doing Business in the United Arab Emirates

• Communication Style

Communication types vary around the globe, country by country, and area. For companies working outside their home country, this can be difficult.

Organizations doing business in the UAE must be mindful of some of the gaps in contact they can come across. The different definitions of ‘yes’ and ‘no’ for example may vary significantly from their own cultures.

In The United Arab Emirates, the level of formality and directness can also be difficult to adapt to.

Although the UAE is a progressively modern state, especially in relation to its neighbors to the Gulf State, religion is still at the core of the culture and society of Emirati. Islam plays a vital role in the daily lives of people, both inside the workplace and outside.

It is important to observe Islamic customs and value the impact of the Islamic religion on business dealings when doing business in the UAE.

• Attitude to time

In the UAE, timekeeping is regarded with a much more casual mindset compared to Europe and the US. Meetings, for example, are frequently crowded, late start, or postponed at the last minute without notice.

Another important difference in the business culture in the United Arab Emirates is that the workweek is different from that of Christian countries, lasting from Saturday to Wednesday, with the Muslim Sabbath protected by the ‘weekend’.

Hierarchy remains a very important principle which you should take into account when doing business in the UAE. Respect for the titles and role of individuals within society is important.

Many organizations have a top-down hierarchy, with one central executive making most of the decisions.

The UAE is increasingly modernizing but conservative Muslim traditions appear to be at the core of Emirati society. There must be business organizations recognizing the contrast between the new and the traditional.

Participating in a cross-cultural business management training program such as Communicaid’s Doing Business in the UAE will help you build strategies to successfully function in the UAE thereby improving the effectiveness of your company.

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Business, marketing, and blogging – these three words describe me the best. I am the founder of Burban Branding and Media, and a self-taught marketer with 10 years of experience. My passion lies in helping startups enhance their business through marketing, HR, leadership, and finance. I am on a mission to assist businesses in achieving their goals.

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