Feb 213 min read

Living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Fun fact: I lived in Dubai, UAE for 5 years. I accepted a job with Emirates airline as a flight attendant which required me to relocate there. You can imagine the excitement and nervousness I felt given that I've never visited that side of the world before. Butttt, I am known to be adventurous and so without any hesitation, I packed up 3 large suitcases, sold my car and all of my belongings, and off I went.

I expected a ton of sand and desert, but I was surprised to see how industrialized Dubai was. There were construction cranes EVERYWHERE, ready to build the next largest tower in the world.

One of my FAVORITE things about living in Dubai is the endless amount of fun you can have in this spectacular city. Whether that was shopping to your heart's content, trying a new restaurant from a world-renowned chef, laying out at one of the man-made beaches, or trying a new hobby, the possibilities were endless.

If you ever visit, here are my recommendations! :)

Favorite Hotels I have two. Both are located on the Palm in Jumeirah.

Fairmont the Palm is SPECTACULAR. Views of the Marina along the beach and the hotel is so spread out that it always feels quiet and not overcrowded. Just my vibe. The Pina coladas poolside are unreal.

Atlantis the Palm is my second favorite. The rooms are so nice and the view is unbeatable. I find Atlantis to be more crowded than the Fairmont and definitely a lot more expensive but you can always expect to run into someone famous in the lobby. The restaurants at Atlantis are world-renowned and incredible. Worth a visit!

Favorite Restaurants This is hard to narrow down but I'll try. Dubai has the best food scene ever.

Bu Qtair Restaurant is the best fish shack around. A local's favorite. Expect a line (but worth the wait). Go up to the cashier, choose a freshly caught fish, let them fry it for you with spices, and enjoy it with rice and their special curry sauce. You won't taste anything fresher. It's a true hole-in-the-wall but one of the most authentic experiences left in this modernized city. Expect a stray cat or two join you for dinner!

Amazonico Dubai is freaking stunning. It opened up a few months before I left but I was so happy I had a chance to check it out before I did. It's moody, it's stunning, and the drinks are amazing. Food was great too! 10/10. #instagramworthy

Favorite Cafes

Saving the best for last. I LOVE cafes.

Cassette Dubai. I went here every morning and is by far one of the best coffees I've had. I LOVE the vibe. I love the coffee. Their music was always a vibe. The baristas know you on a first name basis. The seating included built in power outlets and was a perfect place to meet friends or bring your laptop and work. It's located in a really buzzy and hipster area called Al Quoz. Parking is limited though!

Comptoir 102. A vegan cafe located in Jumeirah. No words needed on the aesthetic... it's b-e-a-uuuuutiful. The food is so good. The freshly squeezed juices are my favorite. You feel healthy just being here. Additional perk: they sell a lot of luxury home goods and jewelry as well!

Roseleaf Cafe tucked inside the Dubai Garden Centre is an underrated gem! I love that it is never filled with tourists and is a great excuse to always come home with a plant or five. All of their baked goods are to die for. And their coffee is strong and tastes perfect.