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Dubai Exchange: Complete Guide to Location, Culture, and Opportunities in 2025

written by
Natasha Machado
10/7/2025
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5 min
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Understanding Dubai's location, culture, and context is the first step in planning a transformative international experience. Knowing these details makes all the difference between a successful exchange and an adventure full of unwanted surprises.

Where is Dubai: geography and strategic position

Dubai is located at Middle East, more precisely in Arabian Peninsula, bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Gulf. Many people don't know, but Dubai is not a country - it's one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE (WATER).

The 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates

Dubai is part of a federation composed of:

  • Abu Dhabi (capital and largest emirate)
  • Dubai (commercial and tourist center)
  • Sharjah (cultural center)
  • Ajman (smallest emirate)
  • Fujairah (unique in the Gulf of Oman)
  • Ras Al Khaimah (known for the mountains)
  • Umm Al Quwain (focus on agriculture and fishing)

Privileged geographical location

Dubai's position on the world map is simply strategic. The emirate borders:

  • Oman (to the southeast)
  • Saudi Arabia (to the south and west)

This location places Dubai as a true Bridge between East and West, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. For exchange students, this means easy access to multiple destinations and a truly international experience.

Geographic coordinates: 25.2048° N, 55.2708° E

Why has Dubai become the dream destination for exchange students?

In recent years, Dubai has attracted more and more Brazilians seeking international experiences. And the reasons go far beyond the glamor of social networks.

Diversified and growing economy

Unlike what many people think, Only 7% of Dubai's economy comes from oil. The main sectors that drive the economy are:

  • Financial Services (banks, fintechs, investments)
  • Tourism and hospitality (hotels, restaurants, events)
  • Information Technology (startups, software companies)
  • Logistics and aviation (international connection hub)
  • Civil construction (innovative architectural projects)
  • International trade (free zone and free trade)

For those considering the program Study and Work in the United Arab Emirates, this diversification means multiple career opportunities in modern and international sectors.

Favorable business environment

Dubai has created one of the most attractive environments in the world for international professionals:

  • Income tax exemption for individuals
  • Golden Visa for qualified professionals
  • Free Zones with special incentives
  • Easy to set up companies
  • Robust legal protection for investors

Exceptional quality of life

The emirate offers first-world infrastructure:

  • High security (one of the safest cities in the world)
  • Efficient public transport (subway, bus, taxi)
  • International quality health
  • Multilingual education
  • Cultural diversity (more than 200 nationalities living together)

Fascinating history: from fishing village to global metropolis

Learning about the history of Dubai helps you understand why this city offers so many opportunities for those who dream of an international career.

From humble beginnings to global success

  • 1095: First evidence of settlement in the region
  • 1799: First official records from Dubai
  • 1833: The Al Maktoum dynasty takes control (remains today)
  • 1958: Oil discovery accelerates development
  • 1971: Formation of the United Arab Emirates
  • 1985: Creation of Emirates Airlines
  • 2000s: Construction and tourism boom
  • 2020: Expo 2020 consolidates Dubai as a global destination

Planned economic transformation

What is most impressive in the history of Dubai is the long-term strategic planning. Emirati leaders understood early on that oil wouldn't last forever and invested heavily in:

  • Economic diversification
  • Quality education
  • Attracting international talent
  • World-class infrastructure
  • Technological innovation

8 fun facts about Dubai that every exchange student should know

1. Safer than many Brazilian cities

Dubai has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. For exchange students, especially women, this means peace of mind to explore the city, do nighttime activities and focus on studying without extra worries.

2. English is widely spoken

Although Arabic is the official language, Is English the lingua franca in business, education and everyday life. This makes it much easier to adapt for Brazilians who are learning a language abroad.

3. Warm climate, but with intelligent adaptations

  • Average temperature: 25°C to 35°C
  • rain: Less than 10 days a year
  • Sol: Over 300 days of blue skies
  • Air-conditioned infrastructure: Air conditioning in almost every environment

4. First-line public transport

O Dubai Metro it is modern, clean and connects the main points of the city. For students, there are special discounts that make transportation very affordable.

5. Unique cultural diversity

In Dubai, you'll be hanging out with people from more than 200 nationalities. This diversity is a true laboratory for developing essential intercultural skills in the global market.

6. Impressive architectural innovations

  • Burj Khalifa: Tallest building in the world (828 meters)
  • Burj Al Arab: Hotel in the shape of a candle
  • Palm Jumeirah: Artificial island in the shape of a palm tree
  • Ski Dubai: Ski resort inside the mall

7. Global Connections Hub

O Dubai International Airport It is one of the busiest in the world, offering direct connections to more than 240 destinations. Ideal for those who want to explore other countries during the exchange.

8. Multicultural labor market

With professionals from all over the world, Dubai offers international networking unmatched. Many exchange students get career opportunities that take them to other countries after their experience in Dubai.

Practical information for planning your exchange in Dubai

Essential facts about Dubai

Aspecto Informação
População 3,5 milhões de habitantes
Moeda Dirham dos Emirados Árabes (AED)
Idiomas Árabe (oficial), Inglês (amplamente usado)
Fuso horário UTC+4 (7 horas à frente do Brasil)
Código do país +971
Eletricidade 220V (adaptador necessário)

Cost of living for exchange students

  • Shared accommodation: AED 2,000-3,500/month (R$ 1,500-2,600)
  • Food: AED 800-1,200/month (R$ 600-900)
  • Transportation: AED 300/month (R$ 225)
  • Lazer: AED 500-800/month (R$ 375-600)

Best times to exchange

  • October to April: Milder climate (20°C-30°C)
  • May to September: Hotter but lower prices

Required Documentation

  • Student visa: Obtained through the educational institution
  • passport: Valid for at least 6 months
  • Health insurance: Required and widely available

Career opportunities in Dubai for Brazilians

Trending sectors for international professionals

Information Technology:

  • Software development
  • Cybersecurity
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Data analysis

Financial Services:

  • Investment consultancy
  • Asset Management
  • Digital banking
  • Fintech

Tourism and Hospitality:

  • Hotel management
  • International cuisine
  • Corporate events
  • Luxury tourism

Aviation and Logistics:

  • Airport management
  • Supply chain
  • International trade
  • Port operations

Attractive salaries

Salaries in Dubai are internationally competitive, especially considering the income tax exemption:

  • Junior professionals: AED 8,000-15,000/month (R$ 6,000-11,250)
  • Full professionals: AED 15,000-25,000/month (R$ 11,250-18,750)
  • Senior professionals: AED 25,000+/month (R$ 18,750+)

Language courses

If your goal is Improve your English in an international environment, Dubai offers language schools with advanced methodologies and unparalleled global networking.

Work experience

The program Study and Work in the United Arab Emirates Allows you to combine quality education with international professional experience, preparing you for a global career.

Essential cultural tips for exchange students in Dubai

Diversity and Tolerance

Dubai is known for religious and cultural tolerance. People of all faiths live together harmoniously, and there are temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues in the same city.

Dress code

  • Corporate environments: Conservative and professional clothing
  • Beaches and pools: Normal swimwear is accepted
  • Shopping malls and public places: Clothes that cover shoulders and knees

Ramadan

During the Islamic holy month, respect local customs:

  • Avoid eating/drinking in public during the day
  • Dress more conservatively
  • Be more discreet with loud music

Is Friday a holy day

  • Many companies work Sunday through Thursday
  • Friday is a day of rest for Muslims
  • Saturday may be part-time

Networking and the Brazilian community

Active Brazilian community

Dubai has a growing Brazilian community and well established:

  • Groups on WhatsApp for networking
  • Cultural events regulars
  • Brazilian restaurants Authentic
  • Support groups for new residents

International networking

Dubai's diversity makes it easy to build a global contact network:

  • Professional events Weekly
  • Groups of entrepreneurs assets
  • Meetups by area of interest
  • International Conferences Frequent

Be Easy: your partner for a transformative experience in Dubai

Na Be Easy, we understand that choosing Dubai for your exchange is a decision that can be a real game-changer in your career. Our experienced team offers full support from initial planning to your complete adaptation to the United Arab Emirates. We combine years of exchange experience with expert knowledge about the Emirati market, ensuring that you make the most of the unique opportunities that Dubai offers. Contact us today and transform your dream of an international experience in Dubai into a safe and well-planned reality!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy