Why I Moved to Dubai?

[@tlevans62]

I went there for the Airshow in 1997, and decided I wanted to live there. I moved from Australia to Dubai in 1999 and stayed until 1998, when the real estate market crashed. I absolutely loved the place and my time there. Everyone there is about business, work or pleasure, no beggars, thieves or lazy people. You can go fly ultralight aircraft in RAK, or go Scuba diving over in Fujairah, you can go rock climbing, dune bashing or even indoor skiing, golfing, driving go carts, sky diving, basically anything you can think up. There’s so much to do there, so many festivals etc. You can go eat cheap in local restaurants and eat shawarmas, or get great Indian food, or go to the most high end bars and restaurants. You can go on safari in Kenya, or go visit the pyramids in Egypt. It’s only six hours to Europe, so in summers I always went travelling for a month. I made sure I had a couple of other breaks every year and travelled to different places or visited family. Getting things done there is easy, the Government really helps, rather than hinders you. All the health services are there, even Harvard Medical School. Thai massages are cheap etc, Chiropractors are plentiful, dentists, basically everything. The city never sleeps. When I went to visit my parents back in Vancouver, nothing was open after 9pm except Boston Pizza, in the UAE, people are just sitting down to eat then. I really miss the place and it’s “can do” attitude. I’d move back there in a heart beat.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Trevor, thank you for sharing your experience! Any plans to visit again?

[@tlevans62]

@@OffshoreCitizen actually yes, I’m thinking of setting up a second residency there and maybe a business entity. I’d like to look you up when the time comes.

[@multa7053]

@@tlevans62 Can I ask where you're located in Australia? I'm actually looking forward to enjoy some years in Australia and was thinking of Brisbane or something. I actually spent 2 months in Australia and I really liked it. Super clean, mostly calm people (besides some MDMA drug addicts?) and I enjoyed the cities. It's just so different from Italy lol. I guess Dubai has changed quite a lot. It was my first time last year and I went twice because I liked it and it was easy to enter, but "exotic" in some way. But I think Abu Dhabi is way more beautiful than Dubai.

[@tlevans62]

@@multa7053 I was based in Melbourne, but I've also lived in Perth, Adelaide and Sydney for short periods of time. All are really nice places. My older kids live in Perth now. I'm in the Philippines now myself. Abu Dhabi has a much slower pace than Dubai but is also very nice. Ras Al Khaimah is more remote but is also an interesting place to be in the UAE. It's worth visiting RAK if you go back again.

[@iamomarhachem]

Thank you for sharing this. I'm currently considering a move from Canada to Dubai but I've never been to Dubai before, so I'll be planning a visit (hopefully) this upcoming summer. I've heard such great things.

[@hellophoenix]

I was watching my Portuguese KZbin lesson when I got the notification and I immediately stoped my lesson to watch your video 😆

[@tinglestingles]

Yes, I should start my lessons soon too!!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

We’re honored! 😁

[@karlsvensson1766]

Recently moved to Dubai. It really feels like the place to be. It's tax free (well, with some caveats) combined with high quality of living, a combination you can't find in any other place. English spoken, open to expats, economic freedom, Emirates best travel hub etc etc.. So many benefits.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Happy to hear you're enjoying it! How did you come to the decision to move here?

[@karlsvensson1766]

@@OffshoreCitizen Comparing the pros and cons of every other country basically. The decision was made while most of the world was still under heavy lockdowns or other restrictions, so going to one of those places was not an option. I love the weather in Dubai (I hate rain), the ability to easily get a residency visa and be tax free, the economic freedom and possibility to sell and live off Bitcoin, the high quality of life and amenities. It's the new Singapore, where the money is flowing and where things are happening.

[@vimalcurio]

@@karlsvensson1766, What do you think about Ireland? Should I choose Dubai Over Ireland?

[@user-np4ei9lp6q]

Hello! Where did you move from?

[@multa7053]

@@vimalcurio Definitely choose Dubai over Ireland. Dubai CAN be quite cheap, but what's definitely unbeatable is the actual tax freedom. You don't even need to spend 6 months or something in Dubai. It's enough to go into Dubai every 6 months for just 24 hours and not get a tax resident of any other country. That's pretty rate without spending additional money.

[@russells9590]

As another Canadian that has lived in the UAE on and off since 2004, i would like to say: 1. Food costs - it is not true that if you dont want to spend a lot that you have to eat in dodgy cafes in Deira. With time you learn how to leverage the system of huge number of discounts that go up to 75%. How about ladies nights, where women get free drinks all night long? Entertainer's 2 for 1. Credit cards with discounts up to 50%. But all in all, you should never be saving on your meals coz your health depends on it. 2. Fake - maybe to some extent, but there are no ideal places in the world. It is only fake if you choose to see it that way. Whats key is your social circle. If you have a very strong social circle, you will love your life here. You dont like fake? Come to Abu Dhabi. After living in both places, i found Abu Dhabi to be more authentic and more like a proper city. 3. Summers - manageable if you want to manage it bybstaying inside the country. You've got malls and not just for shopping. You have many activities indoors. You have all types of sports hosted indoors during the summer. When Canadians ask me about the summer in the UAE, I ask them back as to how much they like 7 - 8 months of dark grey skies, rainy weather, and mud on the roads back in Canada. I choose the heat of the UAE. You also have another option. Escape for the summer. Do more trips. The UAE is so central, you can choose to fly anywhere you want. And if you are self-employed, escape to Europe or North America or wherever else for the whole Summer. Problem solved. The UAE would stay to be our primary home and not lpoking forward to living in the "democratic" restrictive Canada that has gone down the drain in terms of liberties. Visiting is fine, but until they change things up there, i think i will work on another citizenship.

[@vimalcurio]

Wow! That's the great solution I was thinking to move to Ireland because of my love of Nature, greenery and what not. but I think moving to dubai make more sense because I can always travel to places like Ireland.

[@nicolas4771]

Can I ask; how much does a standard 2-bedroom costs per month? I'm not talking high luxury, just the normal and modern flat you would get in the western world. Also, is it easy to make friends? He never talks about it in the video but it's kinda the main question for me. don't want to be miserable in a place just because there is no tax etc.

[@baflah1]

@@nicolas4771 start 1 thousand dollar if far from the city center , but most realistic around 2 thousands a month

[@iamomarhachem]

Fellow Canadian here considering a move to UAE after a recent job loss that left me questioning things. I appreciate you sharing your story. It's always nice to hear of other Canadians who have found their way in a place like UAE. I'm hoping to book a vacation sometime soon to see it up close before considering a permanent move.

[@victorpod4068]

Great video. I’d only add that in comparison with what Canada has become today Dubai is pretty affordable lol especially in comparison with Toronto/Vancouver which are one of the biggest housing bubbles in the world

[@jdbos5530]

Dubai as a base for tax residency purposes is great, especially if you're self made and/or financially independent. The tax savings more than compensates for the higher cost of living. I left my home country of Malaysia and now split my time between Dubai (where I stay at least 183 days in a year to claim tax residency) and Istanbul.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Sounds great! How do you like Istanbul?

[@jdbos5530]

@@OffshoreCitizen Istanbul (and Turkey as a whole) is a wonderful place. Good food, friendly people and fantastic nightlife. If you have experienced KL pre-pandemic and enjoyed it, you'd definitely love Istanbul. Plus, it's a great hub to explore the surrounding countries.

[@vimalcurio]

@@jdbos5530 what do you think about Ireland?

[@jdbos5530]

@@vimalcurio I've visited Dublin once as a tourist. It's nice, but personally, I wouldn't want to live there. I prefer the varied landscape that Turkey has to offer.

[@effexia9735]

Thank you for the info. I was wondering why didn't you choose Monaco or Switzerland which has somewhat similar tax conditions?

[@HunkyMan777]

Yes - the absence of nature and natural beauty has been a challenge for me - especially moving from New Zealand

[@Tzmaker]

It's an oasis in the desert, they can never change that

[@vimalcurio]

Yeah, Actually because of nature I am thinking to move to Ireland, so what do you think about Ireland?

[@ShrungJV]

God bless Dubai, it’s a true wonder on planet earth.

[@edmondprice6215]

Seems like America is like the son of a rich father. We are just coasting and our Government isn't successfully making great strides for a better tomorrow. We are just enjoying the fruits of a ancestors labor until we collapse under our debt.

[@AdmiralMeow]

I love UAE. Had their citizenship not been impossible to obtain I would have moved to UAE in an instant

[@michaelgreen8525]

You seem happy so I wish you all the best. Good to hear the pros and cons.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Thank you, Michael! Have you ever been to Dubai?

[@sallysmith3885]

Absolutely LOVE Dubai ! You are so right about the government there Michael, Sheikh Mohammed is a true visionary and man of action.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Happy to hear! How long have you been here?

[@sallysmith3885]

@@OffshoreCitizen I have only visited, but might consider a move there in the future.

[@im.m]

pls make more videos about dubai and setting up your business there, im really interested

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Will do and we've already made plenty, feel free to check out some of the older ones. As for the company formation -kzbin.info/www/bejne/poDNn6pvbKxkpJY and you can always reach out through one of our websites, we can assist throughout the whole process.

[@im.m]

@@OffshoreCitizen i have watched many of them but i feel overwhelmed with Where to start, i have so many questions

[@vie51]

Thank you for another great video, Michael! 👍 In the previous UAE video, you mentioned that the amount for 5-year investment visa dropped from 5M to 2M. I searched everywhere since you published that video, but didn’t find related information. Could you please share the official source that mentioning this news? Thanks a lot!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Please send us an email

[@tumdeedaidee7835]

I love the Philippines, still waiting for a vid.

[@Yasin_Affandi]

Thanks for sharing this wonderful video.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Always a pleasure! What are your thoughts on Dubai?

[@Yasin_Affandi]

In 2008, MIDA, a Malaysian investment agency, opened a new centre in Dubai. There were 2 other new centres opened in d same year, 1 in Mumbai n 1 in Guangzhou. Initially, I was hoping to work n live in London, Milan or Paris, but instead I was posted to Mumbai. I should have pursued an opportunity in NYC that was opened soon after I accepted d offer to Mumbai. 🙂

[@Yasin_Affandi]

@@OffshoreCitizen My actual thoughts on Dubai is d city looked absolutely amazing with all d mega projects. I hope u r having a wonderful time living in d city. 🙂

[@WhoCares..808]

He is right on the money about Dubai!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

How's your experience with Dubai?

[@billhennessey6374]

Great video, Michael! Very informative!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Thank you, Bill! How do you feel about Dubai?

[@Bri-wi8kq]

Was in Dubai in 2006, loved it, the energy, and all the construction. Were there greater businesses opportunities than Bulgaria or is it the warmer weather?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Both :D Any plans to visit again?

[@Bri-wi8kq]

@@OffshoreCitizen Yes, in a few weeks on my way to Sofia!

[@karlsvensson1766]

Dubai has changed immensely since 2006.

[@Bri-wi8kq]

@@karlsvensson1766 Really, wow I can't wait! Sorry if I sound like a recruit before 1st shore leave... Bring it on Dubai... let's have a little fun!

[@TommyWeb3]

Just noticed you're the same guy from De.Fi :D Great to see you man. I'm actually researching Dubai for crypto reasons so it's great to see I'm on the right path. Cheers!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Welcome aboard! Nice to see you here as well 💪🏻

[@Jabwoy4444]

Love your videos, very concise and informative. Hmnnn considering Dubai for good reasons. In regards to safety, I felt safe in Malaysia, lived there for one year.

[@SajidG..]

Glad i came across this video, have been thinking of moving to Dubai/Sharjah from UK as am originally from India. i am gonna explore more onto what you said their vision for 2030 / 2040 is ... i think its also the hustle energy there compared to UK that attracts me . theres always a doubt that people are hustling to come to UK and i want to get out lol which makes you nervous if its the right decision but i think even with kids there are lot of concerns growing here in secondary school without mentioning am sure a parent from UK / USA will know what i mean. I understand the college and uni level education isnt on par but like you mentioned it should get better now that people are choosing to live there. UKs healthcare is totally broken if you have a wound that needs dressing your GP first asks you send pictures online then prescribes you medicine and then they dont even have nurse to bandage it : you have call another hub to take an appointment sounds totally stupid that you cant even get a GP to fix your wound .

[@Tzmaker]

If you want great weather all year round San Diego is hard to beat. Only in spring you get a cloudy spell. It is a bit boring but good infrastructure and well connected

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Nice! Do you live there? Have you ever been to Dubai?

[@Tzmaker]

@@OffshoreCitizen lived in S.D. for a year and a half. Been in Dubai, but only in winter

[@nicolas4771]

@@Tzmaker the problem is the craziness that the US has become lately. It's all political. If you listen to people it's either you are a marxist or a fascist and everybody is fighting about everything from mask mandate to vaccine to foreigners to gay rights to statues, to voting rights. It gets exhausting.

[@Molloy1951]

My favourite thing to do in the soulless city of Dubai is to take a taxi to the airport and get out of there.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

What did you not like about it?

[@chocmilkisgood]

Will you stay in Dubai long term?

[@peterj.farnsworth2606]

Hi, another GREAT video so many thanks. However you kind of skipped over the VPN situation. So does that mean they are totally clamping down on VPN's there?

[@hellophoenix]

Michael every time you have a video on Dubai , you get so many negative comments and attacks. So be ready for it. 😊

[@OffshoreCitizen]

True, many people seem to dislike it.

[@hellophoenix]

@@OffshoreCitizen There is nothing wrong about disliking it but most of them never been to Dubai and they have based on misconceptions.

[@im.m]

@@OffshoreCitizen pls keep making them, im really interested

[@Topknot60]

Very interesting video. Is there scope for those who are looking to wind up their careers and live off their investments (retirement visa)? And, realistically what sort of income is needed for a comfortable lifestyle. I realise this depends on the individual, but let's put it this way: what is the lower cut-off in your view for someone used to living in London, Tokyo, NY and wanting to live there off their investments--i.e., don't think about it if your cashflow is less than X.

[@peaceonearth8693]

There's a saying. If you have to ask, then you probably can't afford it. :-/

[@rosebogert6047]

It depends on your requirements. The minimum for a retirement visa is 15k AED (around 4k USD) monthly. You probably want more than this for a comfortable lifestyle, but it is quite possible to live in Dubai on that money.

[@karlsvensson1766]

Many people go for a freelance license just to get the visa.. the cost is about $3K per year.

[@bbrebozo6417]

The reason Dubai is well run is it’s leadership isn’t constantly running for office (or looking to climb up the ladder of political offices). The worse thing in the world is a public official looking for the next opportunity to self aggrandize. Those people don’t do their jobs, the create crises that they can use to gain higher office. This syndrome is destroying “democracies” all over the world.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Traditionally monarchs aren't that good so I don't think that reasoning holds. Dubai is an anomaly

[@magnusbohansen5841]

Hi Michael Nice video 🙏. How many days a year do you need to be in Dubai in order to be a tax resident? ☺️ for example like Cyprus has the opportunity of 60 days.

[@vimalcurio]

Good Question!

[@karlsvensson1766]

You only need to be in Dubai 2 times a year, every 6 month to retain the residency visa. So it's all about not spending 6 month in any other country that wants to claim you to be tax resident. So technically you can be in Dubai 2 weeks per year only and travel around and live in a few other different countries the rest of the year. UAE residency visas don't require an apartment/address, but your home country might require proof of foreign address depending on country.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Please check out the videos I've done on tax residency myths as I've discussed these points a lot. Karl is largely correct

[@drowningfish75]

what people actually don’t know is when the removed the tax they tend to increase the rates and prices of their products or services. And the foreigners just focus on the fact that their are no taxes tsk it’s honestly really expensive to live here but it actually depends on your budget and fyi i have been living here in uae since I was born:)

[@b4bmm]

Dubai seems to be a place a lot of people are relocating too. I dont think Im in a position financially to enjoy life there as I would like to. Probably need $US10-15k a month for a couple to live a nice life there? The food scene in Dubai would be incredible with the amount of options I imagine.

[@patrick1992]

Depends on your lifestyle. You can also live in Dubai with 1-2k USD a month. It's not that expensive. If you go every day eating in the Burj khalifa than 1-2k is not enough sure.

[@karlsvensson1766]

Dubai life certainly comes with a price tag. Especially housing. Rents are high, internet connection is most expensive in the world etc. But other things like taxi and transportation is cheap

[@multa7053]

You definitely don't need 10-15k USD a month. I'd say 3-5k are fine when trying to save something up. But there's obviously NO state insurance like in Europe that covers you when something happens. You need to do it on your own or get an insurance by yourself.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

As others have said depends how you want to live. I generally live pretty well and spend alot 15k/mo

[@multa7053]

@@OffshoreCitizen how the hell do you spend 15k on living costs?

[@Misratti75]

Do they still use sewer trucks for most of their skyscrapers? The smug you mentioned is not smug; it is humidity, and it gets up to 95 percent. Breading water, basically. Ladies love it there: free drinks and free gifts . I met lots of girlfriends for the weekend type of thing.

[@karlsvensson1766]

The sewer truck thing is a myth.

[@flyheli]

Many interesting facts I haven't heard of!

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Happy to hear that What do you think of Dubai?

[@FULYSIMO]

What do you think about upcoming food crisis and or Dubai is prepared for that?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

If there is a, major food crisis Dubai is not yet prepared. I don't think we're likely to have a major issue though

[@mark10601]

Really useful thanks

[@OffshoreCitizen]

A pleasure! Could you see yourself living in Dubai?

[@mark10601]

@@OffshoreCitizen I plan to move there later this year actually.

[@RomilCPatel]

You don’t talk about South America a lot. Can you make more videos about countries like Chile(PR to citizenship in 5 years without spending much time), Uruguay(3 years to citizenship), Paraguay(PR by putting money in the bank) etc. Because many of these countries don’t get talked enough, like Chile which has a great passport.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

We did touch on some of it in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4vPiaunfcxokKc What's your experience with South America?

[@jesselivermore9285]

Dubai is an amazing city

[@OffshoreCitizen]

It is! How was your experience in it?

[@jesselivermore9285]

@@OffshoreCitizen I love the economic freedom low taxes and raw capitalism. Dubai is an oasis of freedom away from suffocating western nanny states. I hope it never changes no matter how many woke western leftists try to impose their morals on the UAE.

[@sophiewanlin8612]

Interesting reasons, thanks for sharing (but for now, I stay in France.^^)

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Haha France is a beautiful country! Where are you staying?

[@sophiewanlin8612]

@@OffshoreCitizen In Paris, but I'll retire in Greece in 15 years, I know the country well and I speak Greek, having done my Erasmus there. :)

[@enzyme86]

What do you make of the place being virtually landlocked and separated from the rest of the world by road. Seems like in issue in post-pandemic times.

[@Winston_SA]

Joining you very soon.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Happy to hear that! What is your plan? Are you going to live here all year around?

[@dovygoodguy1296]

Living in different places must be very difficult if a person is married and has children. A person can't live this way unless you're an independent free bird..... plus the heat would be prohibitive. I can't imagine how human beings lived in such places before there was electricity and air conditioning....

[@artkarapetov5712]

I've watched your videos about Bulgaria/Serbia and I'm going to investigate Belgrade and Sofia/Plovdiv/Varna. in 2 weeks (flying there from Toronto). Was wondering what drew you away from Sofia? Was there something specific about Bulgaria you didn't like that made you want to move to Dubai? Just curious :)

[@OffshoreCitizen]

They are quite different places. Generally quality of life, conveniences and opportunity are greater in Dubai. Lower costs, nature, European accessibility, etc are greater in Bulgaria. To be clear I retain Bulgarian residency but am now spending a minimal amount of my time there vs Dubai. Personally my decision was mostly a function of winter weather and access to far better lifestyle but it comes with trade offs which is why I spread myself between multiple places

[@artkarapetov3933]

@@OffshoreCitizen I see, thanks. In terms of opportunity, in this in a sense that there are more available clients/jobs? I’m running a web design agency for crypto/NFT startups and my clients are mostly from US and other English native countries. Would this make any difference in my case, how is crypto/NFT situation in Dubai?

[@NxD3TH]

Great to hear about your move. What are your thoughts on Bahrain? Seems like a more affordable option, but with less activity than Dubai. Apparently its the most Liberal gulf country when it comes to alcohol etc.

[@hellophoenix]

Bahrain is a nice country but it’s a small island with fewer business opportunities than Dubai and fewer options for entertainment. As far as the laws regarding alcohol both Bahrain and Dúbia are very similar.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Too small for me

[@tinglestingles]

Great stuff! Good fortune to you both!

[@hellophoenix]

My plan is similar to Michael’s , Dubai for 7 months and Lisbon for 5 months . How do you like Lisbon so far ?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Thanks!

[@tinglestingles]

@@hellophoenix We are just south of Lisbon - yes, it's great! Just a short visit to the UK to finalise residency and rent our house to a long-term tenant. I did not want to leave Portugal! My wife said to me this morning... she's thinking of making Portugal her forever home - I couldn't be happier!

[@robster7012]

@@tinglestingles pleased to hear that. Being a subscriber on here I have seen your posts, and was interested to know if you considered Mexico or Latin America as an option before deciding on Portugal?

[@tinglestingles]

@@robster7012 We looked at Malaysia first but with the recent covid weirdness and the border closed we decided elsewhere. We travelled to Mexico a few years ago and loved it! BUT... Portugal has better tax advantages for us/ closer to UK for family and friends - also it seems easier to settle in without too much trouble. We will definitely travel to both Mexico again and also Ecuador. Travel is our passion!

[@DigitalNomadOnFIRE]

Currently staying in Bansko Bulgaria, during ski season, reasonable studio apartment with my own fridge, cooker, oven, washing machine, bath tub. €210/month. (+maybe 50% electricity depending how much you use). Dubai is hilariously expensive, has zero culture, history or reason to exist really.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

It's about the same price as any first world capital. You'll pay as much in Paris, London, NYC, Toronto, etc but you'll also pay huge taxes in those places. Yes, if you're not earning decently into the 6 figures Dubai probably isn't the best option. On the other hand the quality of life, conveniences, amenities etc in Dubai are 100x what you get in a place like Bansko or anywhere in Bulgaria really. So it depends on your circumstances and your values. Many people consider Dubai the best city in the world these days

[@healingnarcissism_]

ouch!

[@stephtropcool]

We just move here too

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Welcome! How are you liking it so far?

[@stephtropcool]

@@OffshoreCitizen one of the best place I have been, change after 2 years in Mexico. My only concern is about walkability. That’s why I’m in the old Dubai. Which area did you choose ?

[@healingnarcissism_]

this is interesting, I imagine it's night and day from mexico ! PLEASE comment more... @@stephtropcool

[@emmanueljames2487]

How is the weather?

[@ayub44]

If you are a six-figure earner then it is the best option for you

[@vimalcurio]

six-figure monthly or yearly?

[@multa7053]

@@vimalcurio yearly dude.

[@saralbudhiraja]

@@multa7053:D

[@fritzmetzger22]

Is it easy to open accounts outside Dubai using a UAE residency card? (without depositing 6 figures in wealth mgmt etc) is it true that w pays tend to keep most funds outside the UAE?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Depends where, many places yes but banking globally is getting harder

[@iro3d]

I still don't understand, why do they block WhatsApp and Telegram?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Apparently security reasons. In reality, they don't want competition to local mobile providers- and therefore free calls are not allowed.

[@iro3d]

@@OffshoreCitizen Ah, yes, killing the competition makes more sense than security. Not so great for the free trade though, not to mention the inconvenience for the people.

[@sidali2590]

I'm in the usa and I visited Dubai it was expensive

[@OffshoreCitizen]

How did you like the city?

[@sidali2590]

@@OffshoreCitizen it was good clean but Expensive

[@multa7053]

@@sidali2590 I'd say USA is generally more expensive than Dubai.

[@HunkyMan777]

Dubai is a cool place - moved here last November but it is very capitalistic without the human kindness side and money rules over being humane to others

[@p.c.h.6721]

Money talks right?

[@HunkyMan777]

@@p.c.h.6721 It is important to be ethical and kind when making money. All for capitalism but with a decent moral code is my position

[@Tzmaker]

Yes... Maybe they just embrace it whereas in the West they pretend it's still 1970 while behaving in the same way. Virtue signaling is removed in Dubai

[@jesselivermore9285]

I much prefer capitalistic individualism and independence over nanny state collectivism and socialism which is the direction western countries are heading. Dubai is an oasis of freedom for people wanting to escape the suffocating welfare nanny states of the west. Please let it stay that way! The weirdest thing i see is socialists wanting to leave their high taxed nanny state countries to move to a free capitalist country for its abundance and low taxes only to try and reimpose their leftist ideals that are what ruined their home country in the first place. Dubai is for capitalists, if you want to try and impose your "woke" leftist morals don't go there in the first place.

[@EnderViBrittania]

@@HunkyMan777 Feel free to stay far away if you want to bring your collectivist leftist woke virtue signaling nonsense to Dubai. No one wants people like you, stay in your poor leftist hole! -- Also hilarious how much of a true virtue signaling hypocrite you are: your other comment is you wishing for normal Russians to “suffer long and hard” for the actions of the Russian government. Meanwhile here you bray about “human kindness” and being “humane to others”, LOL! GTFO typical leftist hypocrite.

[@DS-vx3wf]

best areas to live in Dubai?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Depends on what you’re looking for and at which price range. Marina, Downtown area and The Palm seem to be the most popular. If you’re wealthy and want a mansion you go to Emirates hills or Al Barari. Then there are tons of areas with villas of all kinds, so it will really come down to your price point and personal preferences

[@sdnalyam]

The problem is that most people simply can’t afford to move there. In real terms the average person, especially those on social security are doomed. The amount you need for a retirement visa in many countries has gone up significantly so that the cheap and good options are No longer available, ie, Malaysia MM2H etc. I have looked but can’t find a realistic video etc on the amount needed to retire/live in another country with a retirement/long term visa.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Dubai isn't a great place to go for low income earners that's certainly true. Though if you've even a modest income earner in a high tax country the tax savings are often more than worth it. Consider for example if you earned $150k/yr in a country where taxes are approx 50% that's $75k/yr, so say it costs you $50k/yr extra for equivalency in Dubai, you're still ahead by $25k/yr Good suggestion for retirement visas. Places like Greece or Portugal can be good for this.

[@michaelstringcode7776]

What about alcohol ? Can you go to bar and drink there ? Can you drink on the beach ?

[@EnderViBrittania]

Alcohol is a toxin.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Yes alcohol at all bars, drinking in public on beaches I'm not sure but guessing no

[@doctorstrange69]

How long do you plan to stay?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Long time at this stage

[@sophiastuart4016]

‘’Courage taught me no matter how bad a crisis gets ... any sound investment will eventually pay off." - Carlos Slim Helu

[@face2much]

Is Dubai car dependent?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Yes, very much so! It’s not really walkable, except for a few areas, and public transportation is limited. So it’s either your own car or taxis and Ubers to get around.

[@face2much]

@@OffshoreCitizen thanks!

[@karlsvensson1766]

Living in the Marina area and I don't need a car. Very walkable and there is a tram that takes you around the Marina and there is Metro. Also there are Careem electric rental bike stations everywhere included in the careem pro 19 AED monthly deal.

[@gwliv2310]

@@karlsvensson1766 Whereabouts in the marina area, out of curiosity? Dubai living without the need for a car is quite appealing.

[@face2much]

@@karlsvensson1766 yes, whereabouts in Dubai, I think I’ll spend a month there to feel it out. Car may not be a deal breaker, but I really prefer not to live somewhere car dependent

[@snterp]

Think I can find a good job or start a great career in Dubai?

[@vimalcurio]

I think Dubai is best for entrepreneurs and coders

[@multa7053]

Starting a career in Dubai can be quite hard. Better for business owners or whatever. Forget about starting a career in Dubai if you're not European, UK, USA or have any other "high" quality passport. Indians and Pakistanis do most of the work and accept less salary even with the same or higher qualifications. That's racism, but that's how it works.

[@mohamedrasvi9341]

Would like to know how much investment I need to make in dubai to have passive income to live there ? I’m a site reliability engineer specialist/ software architect Can you suggest me something would like to move with family

[@kuzinets]

Hi Michael. I really like your videos. What are your thoughts on UAE being called a neo-slave state?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Mostly those statements are made without context. You can ask "what does it mean that something is slavery?" Poverty for instance isn't slavery. There's plenty of poor people in most parts of the world including the US. I'd define slavery based on having no real control over your own destiny, you're stuck not based on your psychology or behavior but based on an economic and legal structure around you. It's true there's a low paid service class in Dubai but generally still in better conditions than their home country. I've also seen plenty of cases where people who came to Dubai and started as very low paid service workers ended up creating other jobs or opportunities for themselves and advancing. You don't get that in slavery. It is true there were problems back in the day with people coming from abroad and having their passports taken away and being trapped but that's illegal in Dubai now and things have improved considerably. It is true you sometimes end up with information asymmetries where those who most need help don't know about their rights so are more open to abuse and that's an issue though it is improving.

[@kuzinets]

@@OffshoreCitizen ​ @Offshore Citizen Thanks. I have heard bad things, but its hard to get at the real underlying numbers. Per the 2021 US Gov trafficking report about UAE (youtube doesn't seem to allow links - would be under "2021 Trafficking in Persons Report: United Arab Emirates"), it seems that UAE do not take labor trafficking very seriously (maybe because of the dynamic of the monarchy giving citizens power over migrants and themselves having undemocratic power over the citizens, as put forth in a Carnegie article - again, can't post link, but the article name is "The UAE’s Kafala System: Harmless or Human Trafficking?"). I would be surprised if they take sex trafficking much more seriously. They identified 23 sex trafficking victims in 2021, and given the internet's thoughts on prostitution in Dubai, this seems like a token PR move. "The government did not prosecute any traffickers for forced labor and has not reported convicting any labor traffickers; it also reported fewer convictions for sex trafficking crimes." "In addition, it did not regularly investigate labor law violations that exhibited trafficking indicators-such as cases of unpaid or withheld wages, passport retention, and related abuses-as potential trafficking crimes, addressing them administratively instead of through criminal proceedings." "The government identified 23 sex trafficking victims and one child victim of forced begging that were involved in the 19 cases prosecuted during the reporting period, for a total of 24 victims, and referred them to care at government shelters." After you replied, I stumbled on a video from a 2M subscriber economics channel that I like, called "Economics Explained" called "Why the Gulf States Need to Keep Building Big Dumb Mega Projects" about the Gulf economies. Towards, the end, he said "...majority (of the expats) are unskilled workers making very little money working in appalling conditions under circumstances that mean they are effectively trapped there indefinitely." This is, for me, another intelligent, reasonable, and (as far as I can tell) minimally biased (at least in their public work) person (having followed his work for a long time) that seems to feel there is enough evidence to believe there is massive human mistreatment in UAE. Interestingly enough, I read that taking away passports has been illegal since 2002. Given that it is illegal to criticise the government in the press in UAE, punishable by imprisonment, I imaging it is difficult for people experiencing these situations to appeal their case to the public. I believe the term neo-slavery as used to describe UAE might (or maybe should) include a point regarding humans being shipped in, worked during the productive period of their life, and then sent back...if that model was widely adopted, it would not be good. Thanks again for the thoughtful reply.

[@peterjohnson5586]

Life is short. To live in the desert, 40 deg C++, is not worth the 0% taxes.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Most of the year the weather is great. Dubai has world class quality of life. You should try spending some time during the winter

[@JoseGarcia-vx4bd]

Fact: In Dubia different nationality worker earn different salary??

[@i1pro]

I'm sold...

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Haha what's the plan?

[@andrewes7045]

Hello, How about for Crypto traders. Ive heard there are some difficulties with opening an account and such. Thanks

[@pereira025]

Michael, did you consider Lisbon or Portugal in general? If so, what made you go with Dubai?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Lots of things 1. Way more conveniences in Dubai 2. Simplicity of compliance 3. Belief in the government trajectory I considered Portugal, it's decent but a bit small city for me

[@newparadigm907]

Good video and I'm thinking of moving to Dubai, but you gloss over the pandemic situation greatly, people were locked into their houses for 7 months, one trip a week to the supermarket, and if you are not vaccinated, you couldn't leave during this time. Just to make your viewers aware of these Draconian measures which you did not cover.

[@OffshoreCitizen]

In Dubai? Umm no that's not true at all

[@stevemyers2092]

they implemented VAT of 9% did they not?

[@AH-bs5wr]

It’ll be in 2025

[@multa7053]

And it doesn't even affect you

[@EnderViBrittania]

5% VAT, 9% corporate tax

[@stevieweevie71]

Been here 3 months. No jobs

[@gregorymichaels2248]

How does residency work ? Is there a minimum investment ?

[@OffshoreCitizen]

You can do it by forming a company. Feel free to contact us if you want assistance

[@Resmith18SR]

I like when he says the cost of "help" is not great. You mean all the imported slave labor from the Phillipines and all over the world they exploit and abuse? That "help?"

[@EnderViBrittania]

Cry more and keep lying, poor woke jealous leftist. No one wants people like you in Dubai, stay away.

[@brp361]

overrated

[@OffshoreCitizen]

Why do you think so? :D

[@karlsvensson1766]

Underrated. A lot of unsubstantiated hate and preconceptions that are false.

[@kickinghorse2405]

Yeah. Why did you move to a town built by slaves? So, curious.

[@chocomojo9552]

Taxes....it's all about taxes.