Living in Dubai as a Woman in 2022

Overview

A tough experience might be relocating to a new city, especially for ladies. Despite our greatest efforts, women continue to experience more problems and difficulties than males, with safety and equality ranking as the two main concerns. Dubai, a sophisticated metropolis in the United Arab Emirates, is growing quickly and adjusting to the demands of its inhabitants, who come from hundreds of different nationalities. Women could have a hard time seeing life here. a result of the different rumors and tales they hear. I want to address a few of misconceptions in my blog post so that readers will have a more accurate understanding of what it's like to be a woman in Dubai. These are the questions that were often asked: "Can you drive?"

Do you have to cover up with a burqa? Do you feel oppressed?

As a woman who has lived in Dubai for a while, I can attest that it is empowering. Some of the numerous women in Dubai who occupy important positions and run prosperous enterprises include Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, the Minister of State for International Cooperation, Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, the Minister of State for Tolerance, and Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy.

Gender equality

The UAE places a high focus on gender equality, and several steps are being done to enhance the lives of women. The Dubai Women Establishment collaborates with governments to advance legislation that gives women greater power and runs a sizable aid programme for working women. For instance, it is increasingly necessary for women to be represented and included on the board of directors in large enterprises and government organizations. The UAE wants to rank among the top 25 nations in the world for gender equality. The UAE Gender Balance Council was established to make sure Emirati women play a key role in its growth as part of its efforts to accomplish this. The UAE now has nine female ministers, one of the highest percentages of cabinet positions in the region at 27.3%. In addition, women hold 30% of senior leadership roles and 66% of occupations in the public sector.

Workplace

In Dubai, workplace harassment is uncommon, and there are several resources available to help if a problem does emerge. Discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, or religion is outlawed under national law, and such conduct is subject to thorough investigation and appropriate sanction. Women are employed here at all levels of seniority and in a variety of sectors. Additionally, I've encountered women in senior positions earlier in their careers than one might anticipate in the UK.

This illustrates the significant prospects for advancement that women have in this place. However, a few job postings specifically specify whether they are looking for a male or female candidate, which is against the law in the UK. Women are generally safe in Dubai. Around the globe, the UAE has the highest percentage of women who feel secure in their communities, according to Georgetown University research from 2021. A whopping 98.5 percent said they felt secure. The highest proportion in the world is that. This strikes me as one of the finest aspects of living here, especially in comparison to London, where crime rates are far higher. When you stroll alone, you don't need to be on the lookout for anyone or experience any anxiety. Of course, there are times when prudence is necessary. However, the vast majority of places are secure. I haven't encountered any situations that made me feel very anxious or afraid.

Compared to other nations in the region, Dubai is a comparatively open nation, yet there are still some rules that must be followed. Public nakedness is not permitted. Swimwear and bikinis are acceptable on beaches and in swimming pools. When not in certain settings, they are less acceptable. Another myth is that women in Dubai are required to cover themselves completely. Nevertheless, this isn't always the case. Dressing modestly is encouraged. Make sure the hemline of any dress or skirt you decide to wear is not excessively high. When you're in public places, like malls, the regulation normally applies. But when you go out to hotels or clubs, you may often dress as you wish.

Outing places for women

There are occasions when women are restricted from entering certain places, such as theme parks and theatres. There are Ladies' Days and Ladies' Nights in restaurants and nightclubs every day of the week. Women might benefit from exclusive offers or freebies like beverages and discounts. Men are often welcome at these events, but they won't be given the same discounts as women. For moms, single women, and professional women, there are female-only groups on several platforms, including WhatsApp and Facebook. I was made to feel welcome in these gatherings and found them to be beneficial. They plan get-togethers and exchange advice on a range of topics.

I was given the chance to study, and I discovered a network of supporters that I could consult about subjects I don't yet fully understand. In public places and on public transportation, Dubai has several zones that are exclusively for women. The metro, tram, and buses all have spaces specifically dedicated to women and children. And of course, there are Dubai's renowned Pink Taxis, which are taxis operated by women, for women. Even parks specifically for girls and kids exist. On some days and at specific times each week, men are not permitted. The crew is made up entirely of women. Pink Priority spaces and events, despite some criticism, provide women a sense of security, especially those from modest or religious backgrounds.