Chinese Expatriates in UAE

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for entertaining people across the globe for jobs and business opportunities in UAE. Therefore, the Chinese are also attracted to this global hub in the Middle East. The expatriates have loved the vibrant colors of life they experience in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, with time, the population of Chinese is also increasing in the UAE. They have found lucrative opportunities in the UAE’s tech industry.

The Chinese expats in the UAE are lucky to find various opportunities to begin their careers and get international experience. Chinese are happy to live and work in the UAE. Chinese are one of the biggest investors and entrepreneurs in UAE. Let’s see what makes them stay in the UAE:

• Business Expansion and Job Opportunities

The UAE has had the opportunity to use technology in its corporate sector. It has allowed Chinese professionals to use their technical skills by using artificial intelligence in construction, healthcare, and other public sectors of the UAE. Moreover, it has led many Chinese companies to expand their businesses in the UAE, fostering economic relations between the two countries.

• Investment Opportunities

It is true that the UAE is providing opportunities to entrepreneurs from all over the world. They can set up a new business in the UAE because the dynamic business environment of Dubai and Abu Dhabi encourages new business ideas, especially in the free zones.

• Community Growth

With Chinese expats in the UAE, many Chinese communities have also emerged. It has been witnessed that Chinese have not only contributed to the population of the UAE but have also upscale the economic growth with their amazing business ideas and sales growth. However, Chinese communities have also made efforts to strengthen their relations with UAE nationals by embracing their culture and making space for themselves in the dynamic and multicultural environment.

• UAE’s Geographical Location

The main reason for business expansion in the UAE is its strategic location. You will be surprised to know that the UAE has become a global hub, as international trade is easy via Africa, Asia, and Europe. Airlines also have stopovers in the UAE for commercial and personal travel.

In the multicultural environment of the UAE, Chinese expats have also played a role by interacting with other nationalities and introducing them to Chinese culture, including food and language. This has helped the Chinese expats to know how they are taken in the UAE and made it easier for them to communicate with those people. Every year, the Chinese celebrate traditions and culture per their calendar in their home country and the UAE. The third language which can be seen in DUBAI MALL and in few other key places, is Chinese.

Chinese people speak Mandarin, but Arabic and English are two official languages in the UAE. Hence, the Chinese try to learn Arabic basics; otherwise, they communicate in English.

Relocating could be a big challenge for many people, especially when there are a lot of cultural differences. However, families have to move to other countries for greater exposure, good opportunities for themselves, and better career options. Chinese may also face challenges in the UAE:

• Cultural Differences

The UAE’s culture is based on Islamic traditions, so it is different from Chinese culture. However, expats in the UAE respect other religions and cultures, especially when Ramadan, the fasting month of Muslims, is observed across the UAE. Dress codes are also different, so expats ensure they are modestly dressed, respecting Islamic values.

• Quality Life

The UAE is known for its luxurious lifestyle, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, families find living standards are expensive in these two emirates. Although income tax is exempt, Chinese expats have to plan their financials carefully.

• Language Barrier

As already discussed above, the UAE and Chinese languages are different; therefore, English is the only medium used to communicate with expats in the UAE.

Some communities are especially built for Chinese expatriates in UAE. You can also find few places mostly crowded with Chinese people only e.g. CHINA Cluster, Dubai International City.

1. Familiarize with the Local Culture

The Chinese expats must get to know about Islamic traditions and culture and ensure respect for Muslims.

1. Support Groups

It is good to join groups and communities of your nationality in another country because these groups ensure that everyone feels good about relocation. Chinese groups can be found online, and the Chinese embassy can also help provide you with a few social links.

1. Visit Local Markets

If Chinese expats want to learn more about the UAE, they must visit the local markets. Most will give them a different taste from what the Chinese find in their country.

Legal consultations for expats are a serious concern for the UAE government. Therefore, lawyers in the UAE ensure professionalism and experience in their specialization. However, the solicitors have specialized in specific fields of law to assist the expats in the best way they can.

For example, if Chinese expats want to establish a business in the UAE, they will need a business lawyer to explain to UAE business laws for the expats. Moreover, labour and employment disputes of the expats are also resolved through legal consultation as the UAE government believes in protecting everyone’s rights.

Chinese expats can come to the UAE on different visas. They can apply for golden visas, residency visas, or family sponsorship programs. In most cases, Chinese expats come through residency visas sponsored by their employer or another family member in the UAE.

If Chinese expats are coming on an employment visa, they are entitled to labour rights. Labour rights are exercised in the UAE to ensure the protection and safety of employers and employees, regardless of their caste or religion. Often, employment disputes involving late salaries, workers’ compensation, and non-payment of gratuity are resolved through UAE labour laws.

The UAE’s business environment is improving with the integration of technology. However, Chinese expats must explore the UAE business market in free zones, where they can own the business 100%. Moreover, the UAE’s strategic location shows that international trade could benefit the UAE’s economy as well as other economies involved in the trading business.

Chinese expats can invest in the free zones of the UAE, ensuring legal compliance with property laws. The rental agreements should be understood by Chinese expats. It is better that they hire a lawyer who will explain their rights as tenants and manage their tenancy agreements in the UAE.

Legal counsellors are available for Chinese expats. Therefore, whether it is about a criminal case or business advice, they can ask a lawyer to give them the best legal solution for their legal matter. The laws should be explained to the Chinese expats to avoid legal disputes in the future. Ask The Law China is a special legal support for Chinese workers and businessmen in United Arab Emirates. Our Law firm has a team of top attorneys and legal consultants.