As I look around and recall instances throughout my journey here so far as an expat, a few things jump out that might be of interest to someone planning on moving here in the future. Some of these are quite trivial…more comical than anything. Some can really get you wound up and ready to hit the road back home. Through all of it, just remember, you came here for a reason, most likely to EXPERIENCE another culture unlike your own. So how willing are you to “put up with it”?
Here’s one I can’t fault anyone for, argue against, or say is wrong…cutting in line. It’s a cultural thing. We grew up with lines and waiting our turnes…it’s all we know and it’s what we practice. Here, it’s not that way. They did not grow up with that understanding, so of course, they think we’re nuts for not pushing our way to the front and standing our ground. And don’t be fooled, just because you have a ticket number and it’s your “turn”, someone else still may come up to the counter and start a full on conversation, while you look at your number, look at the screen, look back at your number, then at the intruder, then at the clerk, then down at your number again and shake your head in disbelief. I have been cut infront of many times. But I have not had the nerve to stand my ground as of yet. Many have and are learning quickly that to get what you came for, you need to be a little forceful. You kinda expect it to happen no matter where you are, and while not everyone does it, be prepared to have it happen to you at least once a day. Again, it’s not a bad thing, it’s just different. We grew up one way, they another. But you can’t let it get to you…you’re in their country now.
So, while the surroundings and veneer of it all are gorgeous here in the UAE, there will be some things that might make you a little crazy as you learn to be tolerant during your stay. This was a short list, but the most common everyday experiences we go through. There are other things you might find unfamiliar like how paperwork and organization are handled, how everything is a wait, or how your passport copy and photos are handed out like lollipops at a doctor’s office…but you get used to it all…eventually. The UAE is a very wonderful place to live…for those who can exercise patience.