Life in Dubai: Neighbourhood Living.
Dubai is known as one of the most family-friendly locations in the world, offering a plethora of safe and secure compounds, luxurious properties and endless nearby attractions. The only thing missing is a sense of community!
What impacts can this have on residents?
A lack of community can really cause discomfort for expats who are trying to fit in to their home away from home. It can often be difficult for expats to find time to network and make friends whilst also being kept busy with family and work. As a result, expats are currently facing several key problems:
Isolation and Loneliness - These feelings are not uncommon for the typical Dubai expat. Having relocated to Dubai in hope of a better life and financial freedom, the unfortunate opportunity cost for most is missing out on that 'neighbourly' feeling you're used to getting back home. A 2017 article from FRIDAY stated that these feelings have resulted in an increase in depression and anxiety amongst Dubai residents.
Lower Expat Retention Rates - With a major shift in the UAE's job market, expats are no longer getting the big salary packages that they used to, and having a secure job in Dubai is becoming less of a reason to stay put. There is also a shift in focus on having a high quality of life, where people are beginning to put happiness over a particular job. Dubai will need to work on creating more of a 'homely' feel in order to prevent residents from relocating back home.
General Unhappiness - With smaller social circles expats have less opportunity for extracurricular activities. A more close-knit community would allow neighbours with similar interests to come together. Neighbours could find a tennis partner, arrange a car-pool to work or for the kids to get to school. Small conveniences like these can significantly improve quality of life and happiness, which at the end of the day is what we are all looking for!
Join your Neighbourhood with Hayi
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