Is living in UAE as a woman as scary as people put it? There are concerns about issues, especially regarding equality and safety. That cannot be very encouraging, especially since this country is a perfect destination for someone seeking greener pastures. Besides, it is a conservative space, and any liberal woman may wonder if she can adjust to it accordingly. The male gender also contributes over 70% of its population, making women the minority. Hearsay aside, how is the life of a woman living in UAE? Read on to find out!
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Does Living in UAE as a Woman Mean No Driving?
Due to its proximity to Saudi Arabia, the UAE is often perceived as a country that doesn’t allow women to drive. The only country that prohibited women from driving was its neighbor, Saudi Arabia. However, even that is now a thing of the past, as this country lifted that ban. So, you can be a woman living in UAE who drives whenever she deems fit.
Working as a Woman Living in the UAE
As much as most people believe it is hard, if not impossible, for a woman living in UAE to work, that’s far from the truth. That’s because the UAE allows women to work, and many job opportunities are available. You will be surprised to learn that women can get better job opportunities in this country than elsewhere.
That’s also quite surprising, given the nature of gender roles in the Middle East, including the UAE. In most setups, men are their household’s breadwinners, whereas women do house chores. However, that’s not a rule; expats don’t need to live up to these traditions.
There might be a few exceptions, but just like any other country, many UAE companies appreciate the capabilities and potential of women.
Top Job Opportunities for a Woman Living in UAE
Living in the UAE as a woman increases your chances of securing different jobs in various industries. After all, these job categories often prefer working with women. Some of them include;
Finance
- Accounting
- Financial Planning
- Investment Banking
Technology
- Cyber security
- Data Analysis
- Software Development
Hospitality
- Culinary Arts
- Event Planning
- Hotel Management
Education
- Curriculum Development
- Education Management
- Teaching
Media and Communication
- Journalism
- Marketing
- Public Relations
Those are just a few job opportunities available in the United Arab Emirates. There is more to do for working planning in the country. You are good to go as long as you have a positive mindset and the job qualifications are right. Under such circumstances, the career of a female expat in UAE will grow within no time.
Dress Code of a Woman Living in UAE
When living in UAE as a woman, the location and the occasion should guide you on how to dress. Nonetheless, the need to wear conservatively in this country is indisputable. Whereas you shouldn’t cover your entire body, most of it, including shoulders, should be covered. Here are some places and the corresponding dress code in UAE.
Mosque
If you are a woman living in UAE and must visit a mosque, ensure you cover your hair. Your legs and arms should also be covered. Wear loose clothes, too, and do not forget to remove your shoes at the mosque’s entrance.
Pool and Beach
The UAE is known for its conservative clothing, so people are often curious about what a woman should wear when heading to the beach or swimming. Whereas UAE rules are strict, they are reasonable. Therefore, wearing bikinis or swimming costumes is legal as long as you are in a hotel pool or a private beach. However, that’s a different case when near a pool or a beach. For instance, what should you wear when going to a restaurant or a bar near the swimming pool? Ensure you wear a kaftan or any other clothing that covers your shoulders and swimwear.
Club, Restaurant or Bar
The dress code isn’t as strict as that of a woman headed to a mosque. Therefore, exposing more skin and wearing short clothes may be an option. However, don’t assume this is true for all bars, clubs, or restaurants. The dress code differs from one establishment to another; hence, it is crucial to do your homework. If you can’t find out about that place before visiting, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Do not expose the top of your legs, either. However, be aware of air conditioning in shopping malls. It makes these places relatively cold; hence, it is vital to wear enough to keep you warm.
Shopping Malls
If you are a woman living in UAE, the dress code in shopping malls should be modest and conservative. Ensure your clothes cover your back, shoulders, and midriff. Do not expose the top of your legs, either. However, be aware of air conditioning in shopping malls. It makes these places relatively cold; hence, it is vital to wear enough to keep you warm.
Final Words on Living in UAE as a Woman
The stereotypes about the life of a woman living in the UAE are far from the truth. Living in UAE as a woman is not as bad as people paint it. Women living in UAE have a better life than those in other countries. So, if you plan to visit, do not hesitate to try.
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