A More Than Common Experience for Irish Youth Today

The transition from citizen to expat is one that many young people in Ireland continue to explore. For me, it was never something I considered until the very end of my studies in DCU back in 2020. I was lucky enough to be able to study both my bachelors and masters in DCU (a solid attempt to extend my time there, particularly in the surf n sail society). Towards the end of my master’s, I had plans of travelling which were brutally axed by travel restrictions set in place by the global pandemic. Determined as I was, I adapted such plans through a suggestion made to me to teach abroad.

One thing that can resonate with a lot of students (as it did with me) towards the end of their studies, is that overhanging loom of uncertainty. As much as it feels as though you need to have it all figured out at that time, it’s really the opposite. That moment is your exact opportunity to trial and test so many different paths. Dubai was an opportunity for me to start that trial period.

I moved over as a primary school teacher and upon completing my contracted period have since shifted into recruitment within renewable energy. My role revolves around supporting the supply of talent to large scale renewable energy projects in the GCC region. I really enjoy getting involved in helping build teams that deliver sustainable and notable projects that better serve our environment than conventional energy.
Dubai has given me such a high quality of life straight out of university that unfortunately Ireland would not have been able to offer me. As your income is not subject to any tax, this gives you a lot more access to simple things such as renting your own apartment and a less frugal lifestyle overall. Whilst Dubai is ahead of times with many things, healthcare is one thing that stands out to me. Healthcare is a cost absorbed (alongside your visa) through your employer and is exceptionally efficient. If I need to go to the doctor, it’s easy to book an appointment, medicine/procedures are usually almost entirely covered by insurance (80%) and results you can expect within maximum 3 days.

Tips For Moving Over:
Your network is king: A credit to the Irish people is that we tend to carry a very positive reputation worldwide and fortunately, there is a huge Irish population living in the UAE that you can engage with, not only for social reasons but for career growth. As the job market here is quite saturated and there is an abundance of people trying to relocate, the best way to stand out is through personal interaction. The relationships you form with people here go much further than any job application. There are brilliant clubs such as the Irish Business Network and Dubai Irish Society who regularly organize events to support this.

Prepare Financially: If you are organizing your own accommodation (which for teachers, you may not have to), you will need quite a substantial financial backing behind you to rent an apartment. You will mostly likely need: a security deposit, deposits for utility providers, broker fee, plus most leases here require payment in either 1, 3 or 6 rental cheques. Whilst the prices of somethings here are significantly cheaper such as fuel, other imported goods can be very expensive, and you will find you need to pay for things you did not anticipate for in the initial move. Make sure to have a good safety net.

Stay Grounded: It’s very easy to perceive Dubai for what it is portrayed as online:
Glamourous. It most definitely is, but don’t chase this dream too soon through things like credit. It’s very easy to play the comparison game here but you must remember that everyone is on their own journey. Those already with wealth tend to linger here.

I need not mention the weather, living in a holiday destination is so precious to every resident here and this creates a certain work mentality that pushes you to strive for better each day. Everyone who lives here recognizes the opportunity they have to create wealth and ultimately live a more comfortable life. I am grateful to younger me that I took the leap of faith in moving here and look forward to what the future brings
here.

Author: Sarah Moore, Associate Partner at BWP