Chances are the hardest thing you’ll ever have to do in the UAE is leave.
The country is a haven for travellers — but that also means that packing up and bidding farewell is all part and parcel of the overall journey.
Obviously, everyone has their own experiences and memories of the UAE, and given that its diverse population will be dispersing to countries around the world, it’s hard to generalise about what people will miss most.
As someone who has recently relocated, here’s what I miss.
Perennial sunshine
Yes, UAE summers may not be for everyone. But it’s a small price to pay for brilliant blue skies all year round.
Every single day, you can step out of the house without having to check the weather forecast or wear a million layers (like I do in my new Canadian home). That also means that on the handful of days that it does rain, it’s considered rare enough that you actually appreciate the novelty.
The ease of everyday life
One of the biggest things I miss about the UAE is the sheer convenience the country provides. Need the house cleaned? You can hire a cleaner for a nominal rate. Maintenance? There’s a guy for that and you can book him via an app. Fancy a cup of tea well after midnight? Some late-night spots will even deliver it to your car for a mere dirham or two.
Let’s face it, this country spoils you, and it’s hard to adapt to a life less convenient after moving on.
Everything delivered
Going out of your house isn't a necessity, but a choice. After all, you can get everything under the sun at your door. I’m not just talking about Zomato and Talabat or Amazon and Noon.com. I'm thinking of haircuts, massages, laundry, pet grooming, PCR tests and even fuel (thank you, Cafu).
You can even call the local grocer to ask for a packet of crisps or milk (as I’m ashamed to admit I’ve done on several occasions).
Every cuisine under the sun
Thanks to the marvellous diaspora (there are more than 200 nationalities in Dubai alone), you can find just about every cuisine your heart desires. With options such as Peruvian-Japanese-French or an Omakase with Emirati-Japanese flavours, it’s easy to feel spoilt for choice, especially since sometimes it’s all under the same roof, too, as in the case of food halls.
And thanks to the ever-evolving food scene and home-grown players, the options are only getting better.
The ridiculously delicious and cheap street food
While UAE is known for it’s pretty high standard of living, you really do get the best of both worlds. The street food, in particular, is eccentric and highly affordable.
Anyone who has lived in the UAE for any length of time knows that shawarmas, falafels and hummus are delicious and found on every corner, while cafeterias will prepare everything from Szechuan chicken noodles to colourful sundaes.
From Emirati regag and luqaimat to Dh1 chai and pani puri, you don’t need to break the bank for a delicious and hearty meal out.
The nightlife
Restaurants and clubs are open late, beach clubs are bustling and, thanks to the warm weather and great security, going out at night is easy and, well, fun.
If you’re always looking for your next party, the UAE — and, in particular, Dubai — might be a hard place to get over.
The technology
In terms of life admin, processes are fine-tuned, easily deciphered and everything is online. All you need is a mobile phone and internet to do everything from banking and paying off driving fines to making bookings and clearing utility bills.
It really does feel like you’re living in the future sometimes, especially if you then move to a place that has a lot of red tape.
Road trips
The UAE and its residents love their cars. Fuel is more affordable than most other parts of the globe, plus long stretches of roads and affordable insurance makes this a great place to own a car.
Some of my favourite memories involve long drives with no end destination.
The views
With sandy white beaches around every corner, gorgeous desert views (if you drive to the outskirts) and rocky mountains as you get closer to Ras Al Khaimah, there’s a lot of gorgeous natural beauty to explore.
On the flipside, if it’s sparkling skyscraper views that make your heart beat faster, it doesn’t get better than Downtown Dubai at night.
Easy and quick travel
Thanks to its central location, you don’t have to spend a bomb to satisfy that wanderlust. There is a plethora of countries less than a four-hour flight away and this also translates to affordable tickets and impulsive weekend getaways. My top tip? Be sure to take advantage of those offers and air miles while you can.
Dubai's best family-friendly tourist attractions - in pictures:
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The Museum of the Future, with its remarkable architecture, has quickly become a highlight for visitors to Dubai. Photo: DTCM -
The Wild Wadi Waterpark in Jumeirah is one of the attractions that make Dubai a family-friendly destination. Photo: Wild Wadi -
The shops, cafes, bars and restaurants along Jumeirah Beach Residence in Dubai are popular among tourists. Photo: Reuters -
A jump at Skydive Dubai has become a must-do for daredevil visitors. Photo: Skydive Dubai -
Admirers will say that the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world at about 830 metres, is Dubai's most famous tourist attraction. Photo: Dar Al Arkan -
Visitors can enjoy an almost immersive experience of water and light at the Dubai Fountain. Photo: Alamy -
A visit to Dubai often involves a trip to Al Fahidi Fort, with its dhow installation to celebrate the Gulf's maritime history. Photo: Alamy -
The ski lift at Ski Dubai inside the Mall of the Emirates. With its 22,500 square metres of skiiing, the centre is arguably one of the Gulf region's most eye-catching and unexpected attractions. Photo: AP -
Bluewaters Island, where the Ain Dubai wheel is located. Photo: Reuters -
One of the pods on the Ain Dubai that offer visitors sweeping views of the city and Arabian Gulf waters. Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The Ain Dubai lights up. Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. Photo: Atlantis, The Palm
