Multicultural Dubai: The best of cosmopolitan community living
Would it be right to call our beloved city, multicultural Dubai? Absolutely! Anyone who has lived here would name Dubai when asked which is the most multicultural city in the world. Estimates suggest only 10% to 15% of the total population of Dubai could be categorised as Emiratis. This means that expats make up around 85% to 90% of the population, contributing to the city’s status as truly multicultural Dubai.
Multicultural Dubai – What is So Special About It?
Cultural diversity in Dubai has become a hallmark of expat life. People from around 190 countries reside here, and the presence of numerous multicultural communities in Dubai is what makes it a wonderful and welcoming place.
The cultural diversity in Dubai also makes it an attractive place for professionals from different backgrounds. Dubai offers multicultural education, with schools providing a range of international curricula. The restaurants and eateries around town also cater to cultural diversity in Dubai. Multiculturalism in Dubai has flourished over the past few decades, creating a diverse and vibrant mix of experiences that make up the city we know as multicultural Dubai.
The city’s progress and development have been driven by the government’s openness to welcoming talent from around the world. A multicultural Dubai is synonymous with a successful Dubai. To maintain cultural diversity in Dubai, the government has taken steps to safeguard the rights of both immigrants and locals. You could have any passport in the world and still feel at home.
Embracing Cultural Diversity in Dubai
As a part of the Year of Tolerance celebration in 2019, the overarching theme of life in the UAE was one of compassion, brotherhood and harmony. The government has played a significant part in promoting cultural diversity in Dubai. These cross-cultural influences in Dubai have lent it a unique global flavour that other cities aspire towards.
Multicultural education in Dubai
One of the main reasons for cultural diversity in Dubai is that it allows schools to follow curricula from international educational boards. This gives parents comfort in knowing that their children are not just learning the Dubai way of life, but also know their own culture and remain close to their roots. It provides them with the option to return to their home country or any other country of their preference for further education. It’s accurate to say that multicultural education in Dubai has opened many doors for immigrants.
Here’s a look at the international schools in Dubai.
Indian Schools in Dubai
If you are an Indian immigrant, there are multiple options for your child’s education. There are top Indian schools in Dubai which follow the CBSE New Delhi curriculum or Kerala Board. For example, if you are renting an apartment in Bur Dubai, one of the many popular multicultural communities in Dubai, you will have multiple Indian schools to choose from. Even if you send your child back home for higher education, the transfer process should be easy.
British Schools in Dubai
The National Curriculum of England is followed worldwide and is often a preferred choice for parents. Numerous British schools in Dubai offer top-quality education, along with a wide range of co-curricular activities. If you are renting a villa in Emirates Hills, another popular multicultural community in Dubai, there are top British schools you can scout in the neighbourhood.
American Schools in Dubai
Similarly, there is a range of American schools in Dubai with top rankings. These institutes can prepare your child for the challenges that lie ahead. So, if you are a US citizen, there are schools which follow different American curricula. Here is a list of the top American schools in Dubai you can consider.
Pakistani Schools in Dubai
There are many Pakistani schools in Dubai as well. Such schools can follow a mix of British and Pakistani curricula. So while living in multicultural Dubai, your child can learn about Pakistani traditions and heritage.
Even if you are looking for the best higher education options in Dubai that are worth considering, you’re in luck. Many British, Australian and American-based universities have opened campuses in the city. And the best part is that these provide the same level of education as their counterparts in Western countries.
Shopping in a multicultural Dubai
Nothing represents the multicultural nature of Dubai like the availability of global brands. Such is the cultural diversity in Dubai that there is a ready market for various brands from every corner of the world.
For example, if you are accustomed to British or European brands, consider visiting Next, Zara, H&M, Mango and M&S. Department stores from the UK and the US, such as Debenhams, Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdale’s, are also available. Residents of multicultural communities living in Dubai often shop from these stores.
Even in terms of groceries, multicultural Dubai does not disappoint. There are special supermarkets catering to expat communities in Dubai.
Meena Bazar is known as ‘Little India.’ Textile stores and exotic jewellery stores take you back to your homeland. For those renting an apartment in Meena Bazar, subcontinental flavours will not be far away. You will also find Pakistani clothing brands in Meena Bazar. Similarly, Boulevard One is another outlet which has gained popularity amongst the Indian crowd.
Dragon Mart has almost recreated the hustle and bustle of Chinese markets in Dubai. Even if you are from another country, Chinese products are renowned for their global appeal. So, whether it’s shopping, entertainment or food, Dragon Mart is a perfect choice.
Spotting global brands at popular shopping destinations shouldn’t be difficult. After all, you’re in multicultural Dubai.
Food in multicultural Dubai
The famous British breakfast is available throughout the town. If you are missing the rainy day’s breakfast at King’s Cross St Pancras, visit any restaurant that offers beans, sausages, English tea and more. Similarly, many top British restaurants in Dubai offer delicious British cuisine throughout the day.
Regarding Indian restaurants in Dubai, you are truly spoiled for choice. You can find most Indian delicacies, as people from various subcultures of India reside here. In fact, you can find multiple excellent Indian restaurants in Dubai, offering a wide variety of Indian food, in almost every corner of the city. So, whether you enjoy Veg Kebab Platter from Mumbai or Dum Biryani of Hyderabad, you can have it all.
Some people think that Pakistani food is quite similar to Indian dishes. A trip to the best Pakistani restaurants in Dubai can change that perception. If you’re a meat lover, Pakistani restaurants could become your second home. And this is not all. All multicultural communities in Dubai have plenty of places to visit and relive the tastes from back home.
If you’re looking for some American brands, consider visiting TGI Friday’s, Shake Shack and The Cheesecake Factory. The famous American burger brands, including Five Guys, Burger King, Wendy’s, Johnny Rockets and more, are widely available across Dubai.
French food is considered by many to be the best food in the World. Dubai boasts numerous excellent French restaurants, including STAY by Yannick Alléno, La Cantine du Faubourg and La Petite Maison. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for German food, there are many high-quality restaurants, such as Treff. For an authentic Turkish experience, visit Ruya at Grosvenor House.
Whether it is shopping, education, entertainment, or food, Dubai can rival any city in the world with its diverse offerings. Your children can stay in Dubai and study a curriculum closely tied to their home country. One can make a home in multicultural Dubai, safe in the knowledge that this city welcomes and celebrates the diversity of its cultures. The multicultural environment in Dubai makes everyone feel at home.
RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE IN DUBAI
Religious tolerance is an integral part of this society’s fabric. There are multiple religious establishments that cater to a diverse range of expatriates.
Christians have several churches in Dubai where they gather to perform their religious duties. Similarly, Hindu expats can visit the grand Mandir in Jebel Ali. For the Sikh community, there are multiple Gurudwaras in Dubai.
CULTURAL EVENTS
From heritage festivals to concerts, every year Dubai hosts numerous cultural events for art enthusiasts. Comedians from around the world, as well as popular musicians and performers, find a welcoming and loving audience in the emirate. You can check out the full list of cultural events in Dubai for 2025.
WORKING IN DUBAI
Merit and skill level are the focus of companies operating in the emirate. In an ultra-competitive environment, employers are competing in a global talent pool for the best talent. The most in-demand careers in Dubai are filled by individuals who excel at their jobs, regardless of their nationality, race or religion.
MULTICULTURAL LOCALITIES IN DUBAI
With a large expat population, most localities in Dubai are welcoming to expatriates. From the budget-friendly International City to the globally renowned Downtown Dubai, you will find a rich cultural diversity.
Some areas are particularly popular among the diaspora of certain countries. For instance, here’s a list of the most popular areas to rent for Indian expats. Similarly, check out the top localities for Pakistani expats.
FAQs
There are over 200 nationalities in Dubai, representing more than 300 languages and dialects.
Dubai is one of the most populated cities in the UAE, with a total of over 3.6 million people calling the city home.
While Dubai, like other cities in the UAE, is governed by Islamic law, it also accommodates multiple cultures. It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world.
As you can see, Dubai celebrates its multicultural heritage. Multiculturalism in Dubai serves as an example to the world that growth is possible when people from diverse backgrounds work together.
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