Saudi Expats in the United Arab Emirates: A Thriving Community

For many years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been attracting investors and job seekers from other parts of the world. Expats find lucrative opportunities in the UAE, as it is one of the undisputed regions with the greatest economic power on the globe. Americans, Asians, Europeans, Australians, and now people from the Gulf region are also settling in the UAE.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia share a bond built on rich cultural and historical values. The two neighboring countries have had economic ties for many years. They are influential in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), ensuring exemplary international relations. In addition to their deeply rooted historical ties, the citizens find meaningful partnerships in their businesses, which contributes to the economic growth of both countries. The UAE business dynamics allow Saudi expats to operate multiple businesses with 100% ownership in the free zones.

There are various reasons for which the Saudis would move to the UAE and have a good life:

• Economic Prospects

Saudi expats who are looking for better jobs and investment prospects find the UAE a great country to begin with. The amazing policy of no income tax on individuals and other tax exemptions for businesses also attracts job seekers and investors to the UAE. Moreover, business expansion could be great in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for tech startups and other businesses.

• Education

Saudi expats prefer to have international education in the UAE. The curriculum is based on British teaching styles and syllabuses. Also, the UAE has branches of many renowned universities in other parts of the world. For example, New York University, USA, has a branch in the UAE.

• Living Standards

Many Saudi expats are attracted to the high standards of living in the UAE. They are amazed to see the state-of-the-art technology used in the entertainment sector or wherever they go. However, the lifestyle in the UAE is moderate, ensuring respect for every culture. Saudi expats adjust to the lifestyle in the UAE as they share the same religious and cultural values.

• Geographical Proximity

Individuals can conveniently travel as these countries are close geographically. The flight schedules are not prolonged, so people can enjoy vacations with their families.

The Saudi expats have contributed significantly to the UAE’s economic growth:

• Business Operations

Many Saudi expats have indeed started their entrepreneurial journey in the UAE by establishing retail, real estate, and hospitality businesses. As a visitor to the UAE, you will come across many restaurants offering specialties of Saudi Arabia. The business dynamics are flexible with the rules and regulations, fostering positive relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

• Job Market

The job market in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is very competitive, yet Saudi professionals seek long-term jobs. With different experience and skills, Saudi expats are hired in multiple sectors, such as oil and gas, banking, healthcare, and information technology.

• Purchasing Power of Saudis

Saudi expats have a high purchasing power, making them valuable customers in the UAE’s retail and tourism sectors. They usually buy accessories from high-end brands and also go for fine dining.

The routine of the Saudi expats in the UAE is a blend of traditional and modern values. They easily adjust themselves to the multicultural fabric of the UAE. The Saudi expats have multiple ways to keep themselves engaged and happy in the cosmopolitan country:

• Networking Skills

Saudi expats have amazing social networking skills. They attend gatherings and community groups where they receive respect and accept other cultures. Through their presence in those groups and events, they can foster professional relations for their career growth.

• Similarities with Culture and Religion

The UAE and Saudi Arabia share Islamic values. Therefore, it is easier for Saudi expats to find halal dining and pray in mosques. However, Ramadan celebrations are always celebrated with joy in both countries.

Saudi expats have many benefits when relocating to the UAE, as both nations share the same cultural and religious values. However, there are challenges that the Saudi expats would have in the UAE:

• Living Expenses

Though Saudi expats have high purchasing power, not everyone can afford a luxurious life. For some, the cost of living is high in the UAE, especially if they are settled in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

• Competitive Job Market

The job market is competitive for Saudi expats, as many other expats are employed in multiple sectors of the UAE. Depending on their skills and experience, expats are hired in the UAE.

• Visa Rules and Regulations

Saudi expats can benefit from long-term residency through GCC agreements. Otherwise, it is difficult for expats to settle in the UAE.

Saudi expats can find lawyers who speak Arabic. Numerous legal consultants work for more than one client, whether local or international. However, Saudi expats should take their legal matter to an expert who can guide them about the relevant laws and provide the best legal solution. Also, Saudi expats should find a lawyer who uses modern techniques to resolve the case. For example, Dubai lawyers use mediation and negotiation to settle the matter out of court. It is convenient and economical for the client.

The Saudi expats who have already settled in the UAE are happy working there. Saudi investors have found amazing business opportunities, especially in the free zones with maximum tax exemption. The UAE is looking forward to digital transformation in all sectors. The digital world gives Saudi expats great exposure as they can do cross-border business and transactions. Moreover, the economic ties between both nations are strengthened if they continue to do business with each other and encourage fair business practices for the expats. Lastly, the Saudi expats can have legal consultation in Arabic, a language spoken by both nations.