Many expatriates who initially moved to the UAE for temporary work have chosen to settle long-term, citing career opportunities, quality of life, and family-friendly environments as reasons for staying permanently.
“Came for a short stay, stayed for life”: Why expats are settling and raising families in the UAE
When Mohammed A. first arrived in Dubai in 1977, his plan was straightforward: he intended to spend two years in the UAE before returning to India. Nearly 48 years later, he remains in the country, living with his family, including children and grandchildren. “During the early years, I always thought I would go back,” he recalled. “But then I got married, had children, and realised the UAE was the ideal place to raise a family.”
He added that leaving Dubai is now unimaginable. “Our lives are completely rooted here,” he said. “The infrastructure, safety, and services in this country are exceptional. Many friends who arrived around the same time had similar plans to retire in India. Yet today, several of them are still living here. There is something about this country that makes you want to stay long-term.”
A significant number of expatriates arrive in the UAE expecting a short stay but ultimately settle permanently. For many, the high standard of living is a key draw, while others are attracted by the ease of doing business and the support for innovation and entrepreneurship. Earlier this year, a global survey ranked the UAE seventh among the best countries to live in. While 18 per cent of expats plan to stay long-term, around 39 per cent remain undecided about their future in the country.
In 1987, Barakat El Magboul was leading a stable life in Sudan, juggling two jobs as a college lecturer and a private tutor in his hometown, when he decided to visit a friend in Al Ain. Arriving with just $300, he was encouraged to apply for a position. “He kept saying, ‘You have potential, just go for it,’” Barakat recalled. “I was hesitant initially, but I chose to take the chance.”
He secured the role and decided to stay. What started as a brief visit evolved into a 35-year career, during which he progressed from an engineer to managing the company’s northern region. “I never intended to stay this long,” he said. “Yet the opportunities kept expanding.”
After marrying, Barakat moved his family to the UAE and raised five children here. Today, three of his children are also pursuing careers in the country. “The UAE offered us stability and a sense of belonging,” he said. He now splits his time between the UAE and Egypt, maintaining strong connections to both nations.
Earlier this month, media professional Binesh Babu Panicker launched a podcast celebrating expatriates who have made the UAE their permanent home. Titled ‘One Way Ticket to Dubai’, the series will feature investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, aiming to dispel misconceptions and showcase the UAE’s unique business and lifestyle advantages. The podcast will be produced and broadcast in eight languages.
“Nothing else compares”: Why some expats choose to stay in the UAE
American expatriate Aaron Jon arrived in the UAE in 2020 with the intention of staying for just one year. Six years on, he and his wife have welcomed their first child, with no plans to leave the country. “I initially thought I would explore the UAE and save some money before moving elsewhere,” he explained. “But after settling here, I felt very comfortable. The country offers so many opportunities for fitness, wellness, socialising, and entertainment. Public holidays allow for travel, and the UAE’s connectivity makes it easy to explore multiple destinations.”
Aaron added that despite traveling extensively to other countries, he and his wife still regard the UAE as home. “We kept comparing other cities to Dubai, and nothing matched up,” he said. “Until I find somewhere better—which, frankly, I don’t think I will—this is where we belong. I am excited to raise our daughter here, enjoying the safety and stability that Dubai provides.”
