Safety in Dubai: when “normal” is a luxury you quickly get used to
According to the Numbeo ranking, the UAE holds the second place in the world for safety, right after Andorra. But for me, it’s not about dry statistics. It’s about how you live, breathe, and behave on the street. It’s about that quiet feeling that nothing threatens you—and the fact that you don’t even think about it.
I recently spoke with a colleague who moved to Dubai with his parents in 2005, when he was just 9 years old. Years later, from 2017 to 2019, he lived in Moscow. And suddenly, he realized: his whole childhood had been spent in a greenhouse. No fear, no street aggression, no constant internal readiness for something to go wrong.
He admitted that, as a teenager—out of naivety and youthful bravado—he sometimes behaved quite provocatively. Not because he wanted to cause harm, but simply because he never feared the consequences. In Moscow, he understood that such behavior could actually get you into trouble. But in Dubai? It didn’t. Because here, it’s genuinely safe.
And here’s what I personally believe: that’s not a bad thing. On the contrary—I think it’s a beautiful thing when children grow up in a world where they don’t have to be constantly on guard. Where violence and anxiety aren’t normalized from a young age. Where living safely isn’t a privilege—it’s just the norm.
Sure, things are different in other countries. But I truly believe this is the kind of world humanity should be moving toward—where calm, kindness, and a predictable environment aren’t the exception but the standard. And in that sense, Dubai is already the future.
According to the Numbeo ranking, the UAE holds the second place in the world for safety, right after Andorra. But for me, it’s not about dry statistics. It’s about how you live, breathe, and behave on the street. It’s about that quiet feeling that nothing threatens you—and the fact that you don’t even think about it.
I recently spoke with a colleague who moved to Dubai with his parents in 2005, when he was just 9 years old. Years later, from 2017 to 2019, he lived in Moscow. And suddenly, he realized: his whole childhood had been spent in a greenhouse. No fear, no street aggression, no constant internal readiness for something to go wrong.
He admitted that, as a teenager—out of naivety and youthful bravado—he sometimes behaved quite provocatively. Not because he wanted to cause harm, but simply because he never feared the consequences. In Moscow, he understood that such behavior could actually get you into trouble. But in Dubai? It didn’t. Because here, it’s genuinely safe.
And here’s what I personally believe: that’s not a bad thing. On the contrary—I think it’s a beautiful thing when children grow up in a world where they don’t have to be constantly on guard. Where violence and anxiety aren’t normalized from a young age. Where living safely isn’t a privilege—it’s just the norm.
Sure, things are different in other countries. But I truly believe this is the kind of world humanity should be moving toward—where calm, kindness, and a predictable environment aren’t the exception but the standard. And in that sense, Dubai is already the future.
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The UAE has overtaken the US, Germany, and all Arab countries in the World Happiness Index
How much does one really need to be happy?
The World Happiness Index 2025 takes into account 14 factors — from GDP per capita and perception of corruption to the frequency of positive emotions and willingness to help a stranger.
This year, the UAE climbed to 21st place, outperforming the UK, the US, Germany, France, Singapore — and every Arab country. For comparison: Kuwait ranked 30th, Saudi Arabia 32nd, and Oman 52nd.
Happiness is, of course, an elusive and subjective concept — not something you can measure with a universal yardstick — but sociologists continue to try, and in my view, they’re right to.
I’ve highlighted five personal factors that shape my own sense of satisfaction living in Dubai:
– 340 days of sunshine a year
– The sea is 15 minutes away, and the mountains are just an hour's drive
– Open, welcoming people and a truly international community — with 89% of the population being expats, there’s a real sense of belonging and equality
– Safety
– Comfort: digital services, high service standards, and easy access to all kinds of goods and experiences
How much does one really need to be happy?
The World Happiness Index 2025 takes into account 14 factors — from GDP per capita and perception of corruption to the frequency of positive emotions and willingness to help a stranger.
This year, the UAE climbed to 21st place, outperforming the UK, the US, Germany, France, Singapore — and every Arab country. For comparison: Kuwait ranked 30th, Saudi Arabia 32nd, and Oman 52nd.
Happiness is, of course, an elusive and subjective concept — not something you can measure with a universal yardstick — but sociologists continue to try, and in my view, they’re right to.
I’ve highlighted five personal factors that shape my own sense of satisfaction living in Dubai:
– 340 days of sunshine a year
– The sea is 15 minutes away, and the mountains are just an hour's drive
– Open, welcoming people and a truly international community — with 89% of the population being expats, there’s a real sense of belonging and equality
– Safety
– Comfort: digital services, high service standards, and easy access to all kinds of goods and experiences
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A visit to the doctor turned into a reason to share a few thoughts on healthcare in the UAE — through the lens of personal experience.
I injured my knee during a workout, and after a couple of days with no improvement, I realized it was time to see a professional. I booked two appointments through the website of a clinic covered by my basic insurance: one with a GP and one with an orthopedist. I needed the GP first to get a referral to the specialist.
The only inconvenience? The insurance approval for the referral takes about 15–20 minutes — which is exactly how long it took me to write this post. The doctors themselves were calm, friendly, and didn’t waste time on unnecessary paperwork.
Overall, the experience was positive, though I’m now in the process of upgrading to a more comprehensive health insurance plan.
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On costs:
There’s a mandatory health insurance system in place here — no employer is allowed to hire someone without providing insurance for their health and life. So if you’re officially employed, you’re covered with at least a basic plan.
But if you’re a tourist, freelancer, or self-employed and haven’t sorted out insurance in advance, a doctor’s visit can be pricey. A general consultation starts from 250 AED (around $68) — and that’s just the base cost.
A basic annual plan starts at around 800 AED per year.
You can also upgrade your plan if needed. For example, around 4000 AED per year (about $1080) gets you extended coverage — something similar to a private health insurance plan in other countries. This usually includes most standard consultations, except dental and mental health services.
Premium insurance plans — starting from 10,000 AED ($2700) per year — often include:
- dental care
- eye care
- psychotherapy
- alternative medicine
- international coverage
(Second photo — the beautiful lobby of The Grove by Iman, where I was showing an apartment today right after my clinic visit.)
I injured my knee during a workout, and after a couple of days with no improvement, I realized it was time to see a professional. I booked two appointments through the website of a clinic covered by my basic insurance: one with a GP and one with an orthopedist. I needed the GP first to get a referral to the specialist.
The only inconvenience? The insurance approval for the referral takes about 15–20 minutes — which is exactly how long it took me to write this post. The doctors themselves were calm, friendly, and didn’t waste time on unnecessary paperwork.
Overall, the experience was positive, though I’m now in the process of upgrading to a more comprehensive health insurance plan.
---
On costs:
There’s a mandatory health insurance system in place here — no employer is allowed to hire someone without providing insurance for their health and life. So if you’re officially employed, you’re covered with at least a basic plan.
But if you’re a tourist, freelancer, or self-employed and haven’t sorted out insurance in advance, a doctor’s visit can be pricey. A general consultation starts from 250 AED (around $68) — and that’s just the base cost.
A basic annual plan starts at around 800 AED per year.
You can also upgrade your plan if needed. For example, around 4000 AED per year (about $1080) gets you extended coverage — something similar to a private health insurance plan in other countries. This usually includes most standard consultations, except dental and mental health services.
Premium insurance plans — starting from 10,000 AED ($2700) per year — often include:
- dental care
- eye care
- psychotherapy
- alternative medicine
- international coverage
(Second photo — the beautiful lobby of The Grove by Iman, where I was showing an apartment today right after my clinic visit.)
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Here’s a screenshot of the April transactions in the Ibiza cluster, Damac Lagoons project by developer Damac.
As you can see, the listed properties are technically registered as land plots. But in reality, these are four-bedroom townhouses.
In Dubai, it's common practice for townhouses and villas to be registered as land plots through oQood (Initial Contract of Sale) until the Title Deed is issued.
Key points:
• We see three transactions from the developer and three secondary market deals.
• On the secondary market, townhouses were sold for 2.300M, 2.400M, and 3.250M AED.
• Investors made around 9% profit on their purchase price (up to 16% on one unit).
• Meanwhile, similar townhouses from the developer are now listed between 3,019,000 and 3,101,000 AED.
What does this tell us?
Many people assume that buying directly from a developer guarantees the best prices.
But in reality, developers gradually increase prices as construction progresses. And that's perfectly normal — the developer is simply doing their job.
If you like the project — buy. If you don’t — don’t.
But it’s important to understand: buying at the latest developer prices without research can lead to overpaying by a huge margin.
It’s basically shooting yourself in the foot. Whether you're buying for personal use or investment, it’s a short-sighted move.
That’s why it’s crucial to have someone who understands the market and can at least teach you how to use basic tools like DXB Interact.
Here’s the link: dxbinteract.com.
It’s not the most precise source, but it has a very user-friendly and good-looking interface — that’s why I always make my screenshots from there.
As you can see, the listed properties are technically registered as land plots. But in reality, these are four-bedroom townhouses.
In Dubai, it's common practice for townhouses and villas to be registered as land plots through oQood (Initial Contract of Sale) until the Title Deed is issued.
Key points:
• We see three transactions from the developer and three secondary market deals.
• On the secondary market, townhouses were sold for 2.300M, 2.400M, and 3.250M AED.
• Investors made around 9% profit on their purchase price (up to 16% on one unit).
• Meanwhile, similar townhouses from the developer are now listed between 3,019,000 and 3,101,000 AED.
What does this tell us?
Many people assume that buying directly from a developer guarantees the best prices.
But in reality, developers gradually increase prices as construction progresses. And that's perfectly normal — the developer is simply doing their job.
If you like the project — buy. If you don’t — don’t.
But it’s important to understand: buying at the latest developer prices without research can lead to overpaying by a huge margin.
It’s basically shooting yourself in the foot. Whether you're buying for personal use or investment, it’s a short-sighted move.
That’s why it’s crucial to have someone who understands the market and can at least teach you how to use basic tools like DXB Interact.
Here’s the link: dxbinteract.com.
It’s not the most precise source, but it has a very user-friendly and good-looking interface — that’s why I always make my screenshots from there.
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Ghaf Woods - Capria Brochure.pdf
33.7 MB
One of the simplest and most reliable investment strategies in Dubai real estate is buying a unit during the very first launch of a large-scale community by a major developer.
When big players like Meraas, Emaar, Nakheel, Beyond, or Damac announce a brand-new project, it’s a great opportunity to earn — especially if you enter in the first phase.
Sure, at that point, there’s not much information available. And yes, it can be hard for new investors to understand why they’re being asked to pay an EOI (Expression of Interest) before all the details are revealed. But that’s exactly what makes it such a strong move.
These developers have powerful analytics teams. Their pricing is calculated carefully, and every next phase usually comes with a +2–5% increase. In a large community, even that small bump can create a solid margin for resale.
This post was inspired by the latest launch of a new cluster in the amazing Ghaf Woods community. Even though prices are higher than in the two previous launches, we still bought — because the pricing is still super competitive, and the overall concept of the community is truly unique.
I’ll attach the layout of the apartment we secured and the project brochure.
The next launch is expected in about 4–5 months. I see strong potential here — so if you’re interested, we can help you secure a unit too.
When big players like Meraas, Emaar, Nakheel, Beyond, or Damac announce a brand-new project, it’s a great opportunity to earn — especially if you enter in the first phase.
Sure, at that point, there’s not much information available. And yes, it can be hard for new investors to understand why they’re being asked to pay an EOI (Expression of Interest) before all the details are revealed. But that’s exactly what makes it such a strong move.
These developers have powerful analytics teams. Their pricing is calculated carefully, and every next phase usually comes with a +2–5% increase. In a large community, even that small bump can create a solid margin for resale.
This post was inspired by the latest launch of a new cluster in the amazing Ghaf Woods community. Even though prices are higher than in the two previous launches, we still bought — because the pricing is still super competitive, and the overall concept of the community is truly unique.
I’ll attach the layout of the apartment we secured and the project brochure.
The next launch is expected in about 4–5 months. I see strong potential here — so if you’re interested, we can help you secure a unit too.
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Every time I drive down Hessa Street or Al Khail Road, I can’t help but glance at one of the last massive undeveloped plots in central Dubai — Jebel Ali Racecourse.
And every time, I wonder: how will this space evolve?
Now we know — and it’s something to be genuinely excited about. Starting in 2026, this iconic site will be redeveloped with a strong focus on sustainability, heritage preservation, and architectural excellence.
It’s not just about location. It’s about vision.
The project will be led by none other than Bjarke Ingels, one of the world’s most forward-thinking architects — known for transforming urban spaces with bold, green, future-facing design. (You’ve likely seen his work — like the waste-to-energy ski slope in Copenhagen.)
This development is more than just another construction project. It signals a shift:
A rethinking of what centrality means in a growing, living city like Dubai.
I expect similar transformations in parts of Al Quoz, Meydan, and near Dubai Hills.
Cities evolve. And when they do it with this much care for both people and the planet — that’s something to celebrate.
Sharing below a few photos of BIG’s most iconic projects.
And every time, I wonder: how will this space evolve?
Now we know — and it’s something to be genuinely excited about. Starting in 2026, this iconic site will be redeveloped with a strong focus on sustainability, heritage preservation, and architectural excellence.
It’s not just about location. It’s about vision.
The project will be led by none other than Bjarke Ingels, one of the world’s most forward-thinking architects — known for transforming urban spaces with bold, green, future-facing design. (You’ve likely seen his work — like the waste-to-energy ski slope in Copenhagen.)
This development is more than just another construction project. It signals a shift:
A rethinking of what centrality means in a growing, living city like Dubai.
I expect similar transformations in parts of Al Quoz, Meydan, and near Dubai Hills.
Cities evolve. And when they do it with this much care for both people and the planet — that’s something to celebrate.
Sharing below a few photos of BIG’s most iconic projects.
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Off-plan resale options up to 5,5M AED.pdf
4.9 MB
Coming back to you with quite an interesting case. I’ve been analyzing the Off Plan Resale segment — properties resold before handover that can deliver either strong rental returns or solid capital gain upon handover.
I’ve picked two options for those who like to dive into the details and run the numbers.
One to highlight is Blue Waters Bay — a project with a rather controversial history. Just a year ago, you could find units priced 1 million AED below the original launch prices! Those who entered during that dip did exceptionally well.
Pay attention to the layout and location — this is a strong project. Despite going through both highs and lows, I’m confident it will finish strong. Especially for those who had the patience to hold through the drop, or those who bought from sellers who panicked.
I’ve picked two options for those who like to dive into the details and run the numbers.
One to highlight is Blue Waters Bay — a project with a rather controversial history. Just a year ago, you could find units priced 1 million AED below the original launch prices! Those who entered during that dip did exceptionally well.
Pay attention to the layout and location — this is a strong project. Despite going through both highs and lows, I’m confident it will finish strong. Especially for those who had the patience to hold through the drop, or those who bought from sellers who panicked.
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Probably one of the biggest challenges for me in working as a broker is the inability to properly plan my day.
There’s a lot of chaos. It’s dynamic, fun, and in its own way exciting, but for someone like me — structured and used to planning — it’s genuinely difficult.
Something similar happened with the Telegram channel. At some point, I was completely pulled into deals, clients, and referrals, and there was simply no time left for the channel.
For the same reason, I can’t and won’t promise consistency in posting. Life taught me a long time ago not to promise things I’m not sure about.
That said, there’s one thing I want to be clear about. I’m here, I’m working, and lately I feel less like someone who “sells real estate” and more like someone who helps grow capital — in the most rational and convenient way, based on each client’s situation.
Even in the 50th week of the year, I still have plenty of energy and focus, because I genuinely love what I do.
If you have a request, feel free to message me directly.
There’s a lot of chaos. It’s dynamic, fun, and in its own way exciting, but for someone like me — structured and used to planning — it’s genuinely difficult.
Something similar happened with the Telegram channel. At some point, I was completely pulled into deals, clients, and referrals, and there was simply no time left for the channel.
For the same reason, I can’t and won’t promise consistency in posting. Life taught me a long time ago not to promise things I’m not sure about.
That said, there’s one thing I want to be clear about. I’m here, I’m working, and lately I feel less like someone who “sells real estate” and more like someone who helps grow capital — in the most rational and convenient way, based on each client’s situation.
Even in the 50th week of the year, I still have plenty of energy and focus, because I genuinely love what I do.
If you have a request, feel free to message me directly.
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I’ll share something interesting with you.
Quite recently, I introduced a client to a project that I personally found compelling from an investment perspective.
The concept is straightforward: an old villa is acquired through a crowdfunding platform, then renovated, upgraded, and resold as a finished premium product.
According to the platform’s statistics — based on more than 30 completed villas — the median premium is 56%. Not in presentations or theory, but in already closed deals.
As a result, the final product is a clean, well-executed property that the market absorbs fairly quickly, with an average cycle of 14–18 months.
https://youtu.be/YN5xs_2sKeA?si=F4WDNT_upAMEUvBs
Quite recently, I introduced a client to a project that I personally found compelling from an investment perspective.
The concept is straightforward: an old villa is acquired through a crowdfunding platform, then renovated, upgraded, and resold as a finished premium product.
According to the platform’s statistics — based on more than 30 completed villas — the median premium is 56%. Not in presentations or theory, but in already closed deals.
As a result, the final product is a clean, well-executed property that the market absorbs fairly quickly, with an average cycle of 14–18 months.
https://youtu.be/YN5xs_2sKeA?si=F4WDNT_upAMEUvBs
YouTube
Miami-Style Lakefront Five-Bedroom Villa
This five-bedroom villa in Jumeirah Islands is part of the very limited Miami Collection: homes that have been fully renovated in a style inspired by the distinctive South Beach aesthetic. The villa is positioned in one of the community’s most desirable clusters…
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