A Guide for Expats

Recently moved to or considering a move to Dubai? Loads of expats flock to this city and love its clean streets & daily life. But Dubai is often a dramatically different environment for a lot of expats, and those first few weeks - when you have to adapt to your new country - can be incredibly difficult. This is why we came up with our own guide - practical tips for keeping a healthy lifestyle in this capital city.

This city's unique climate, diverse culture, and fast-paced environment require thoughtful adaptation to ensure well-being, but a lot can be sumamarized as adapting to your new environment and looking after yourself. Here are our practical tips to help expats thrive in Dubai.

Adapting to Dubai's Climate

Dubai's arid, subtropical climate means high temperatures, especially during summer months when it can reach up to 50°C (122°F). You’ll want to make sure to combat this directly by staying hydrated to prevent dehydration, applying sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and limiting your time outdoors during peak heat hours (typically between 9am and 4pm).

Embracing a Balanced Diet

Dubai's multicultural environment offers a variety of cuisines. When thinking about your diet, you should make sure to choose nutritious foods by opting for meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Also be cautious with street food; ensure street food is prepared hygienically to avoid foodborne illnesses. But above all, stay informed and familiarize yourself with local food options and their nutritional content.

Staying Physically Active

Regular exercise is absolutely crucial for health. It’s always worth utilizing indoor facilities and taking advantage of gyms, fitness centers, and indoor pools, especially during hot months, as well as exploring outdoor activities during the cooler months, such as jogging, cycling, or beach sports. But if you’re struggling with accountability or inspiration, we’d always recommend joining fitness communities and participating in group classes or sports clubs to stay motivated and meet new people.

Managing Stress and Mental Well-being

We all know adjusting to a new environment can be incredibly stressful, so we have some ideas for supporting mental health. Firstly, practicing mindfulness by engaging in meditation or yoga can reduce stress. Seeking support from fellow expats - or professional counselors if needed - is another great way to manage stress. However, the method that will benefit you the most long-term is maintaining a good work-life balance by setting boundaries to ensure personal time and relaxation.

Navigating Healthcare Services

Access to quality healthcare is always essential. Firstly, make sure you understand the system - familiarize yourself with Dubai's healthcare facilities and services in advance, before you need anything. Secondly, secure health insurance, ensuring you have adequate health coverage to access necessary medical care. But help yourself and your health by also staying up-to-date with your vaccinations to prevent falling ill otherwise.

Adopting these strategies can help expats lead a healthy and fulfilling life in Dubai. Health comes first, but allows you to focus on all other aspects of your life. Start improving your lifestyle today by considering Dubai’s heat, embracing a balanced diet, staying physically active, managing your stress, and setting yourself up correctly to navigate local healthcare services.