Chartered Accountant Nitin Kaushik recently took to social media to share his perspective on why moving to Dubai for work may not be as lucrative as many believe it to be. While the city is known for its tax-free salaries and luxurious living, Kaushik warns that there are hidden costs that job seekers should consider before making the leap.

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Kaushik highlights that while Dubai offers attractive financial incentives, the cost of living is far higher compared to India. For example, a 1BHK apartment in Dubai can cost between Rs 1.5 to Rs 3 lakh per month, whereas the same would cost significantly less in major Indian cities like Mumbai or Delhi, where prices range from Rs 40,000 to Rs 70,000. Groceries, too, come at a steep price—Kaushik notes that a litre of milk in Dubai costs approximately Rs 120, double the price in India. Public transport and utility bills further add to the financial strain, with a monthly metro pass in Dubai costing around Rs 8,500, compared to just Rs 350 in Mumbai.

Kaushik also draws attention to the lack of job security in Dubai, which many newcomers might overlook. “In Dubai, losing your job means losing your visa,” Kaushik explains. Workers only have 30 to 60 days to secure a new job or leave the country. Many hopefuls arrive on visit visas, only to face rejections and return empty-handed. Unlike India, Dubai lacks severance protections, and layoffs can happen suddenly without warning.

Although Dubai follows a Wage Protection System, salary delays and deductions remain a common issue, particularly in lower-paying sectors such as construction and retail. Long working hours and a lack of overtime pay are also prevalent, leaving workers with minimal work-life balance. Even white-collar professionals often find themselves working six days a week, Kaushik says.

Despite these challenges, Kaushik doesn’t discourage people from moving to Dubai. He emphasizes that the city can offer great opportunities, particularly for those with a strong skill set, enough savings, and the right network. However, he urges job seekers not to chase the “Dubai dream” blindly. “The key is to plan smart, understand the ground reality, and then make an informed decision,” he advises.

Kaushik’s post sparked a range of reactions on social media. One user commented, “True, Dubai’s costs are steep—Rs 1.5L for a 1BHK is wild! But the trade-off is worth it for many. Clean streets, enforced laws, and reliable systems make life smoother than India’s chaos. Discipline > affordability for a better quality of life.” Another user added, “If your tax on freelance or internet income is over Rs 24 lakhs, moving to Dubai makes sense due to lower taxes on cars and international electronics.”

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