Living in Dubai
The culture, the etiquette, the Irish community and settling in.
What life in Dubai is actually like once you land: how the culture works day to day, business etiquette, Ramadan, the rules that surprise new arrivals, and finding your feet in one of the biggest Irish communities in the Gulf, GAA clubs included. Understanding the culture is part of the move, and the differences run both ways. We've lived both sides, and these guides bridge the gap.
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Settling into Dubai from Ireland: the first month checklist
The first month after arriving in Dubai is mostly admin. Here's what Irish movers need to tackle first, including one step most people do in the wrong order.
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Ramadan and the Dubai working week: what actually changes
Working hours shorten by law, the city slows by day and comes alive at night. The catch: if your Irish clients are expecting 9-to-5 availability, plan ahead.
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Schools in Dubai for Irish families: British curriculum, IB, or something else
Most Irish families in Dubai choose British curriculum or IB schools. The catch: demand far outstrips places at the top schools, and sibling priority doesn't guarantee you a spot.
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Dubai vs Dublin: cost of living for an Irish family
Dubai can cost less than Dublin for a family once you remove income tax, but private schooling and summer travel are the numbers most Irish families underestimate.
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Business culture in Dubai: what surprises Irish professionals
Dubai business culture rewards directness and relationship-first thinking, but the Friday-Saturday weekend, hierarchy norms, and Ramadan rhythms catch Irish arrivals off guard.
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The Irish community in Dubai: GAA clubs, events and where to find them
Dublin to Dubai: there's a thriving Irish community waiting. The GAA Dubai club is one of the largest in Asia, with both adult and juvenile sections active year-round.