Now that The Abraham Accords are in place, a lot is being discussed and written in regards to a comparison between the cities of Tel-Aviv vs Dubai. So which city is best for you? In today’s post we will try to help.
Some similarity can be found between the United Arab Emirates and Israel in regards to the concept of a conservative, religious and historic capital (as Abu Dhabi & Jerusalem), with a business on the coastline style “Party Capital” (Dubai / Tel Aviv). But aside from that, there is some difference between the two cities
But before we continue, a quick review of each city.
Tel Aviv
Who doesn’t know Tel-Aviv? Located on the Israeli Mediterranean coastline and with a population of around half a million, it is the economic and technological center of the country and the center of the Gush-Dan metropolitan area.
As the “party capital” of the Middle East, it has a lively nightlife and 24-hour culture, and receives over 2.5 million international visitors annually. Lately it received the title of the “World’s Vegan Food Capital”, as it possesses the highest per capita population of vegans in the world, with many vegan eateries throughout the city. it is liberal, gay friendly, fast and easy going.
In terms of Business, the city has become a major world high tech hub. Tel Aviv has more than 1,000 startup companies and was ranked the second-most innovative city in the world, just behind Silicon Valley.
Dubai
Established in the 18th century as a small fishing village, the city of Dubai grew rapidly in the early 21st century into a cosmopolitan metropolis with a focus on tourism and hospitality.
As the most modern and progressive of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is It is by far the most luxurious spot for shopping, partying, sunbathing and fine dining. It is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, with the second most five-star hotels in the world and the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa.
Located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula on the coast of the Persian Gulf, Dubai aims to be the business hub of Western Asia.
Tel Aviv vs Dubai
Even though the cities are quite similar, there are several major differences between Tel-Aviv & Dubai.
Religious & Conservative Atmosphere
This is the main difference between the cities. The UAE is a more conservative country, where laws are based on Islamic standards and most people wear traditional Arab clothing.
Actually, the biggest risk to your safety in Dubai is unwittingly breaking a local law. Dubai has strict rules regarding alcohol consumption, dress, sexual conduct, and social behaviors in general. Dubai is incredibly strict about public drunkenness, and it is unacceptable and punishable to drink in public places – even beaches.
The United Arab Emirates has some of the strictest laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights in the world, and all types of same-sex acts are illegal and punishable. Additionally, it’s against the law to make defamatory statements or offensive comments about people and organizations in the UAE.
In Tel Aviv, on the other hand, freedom is the law (or at least the vibe).
Tel Aviv is known as “the city that never sleeps” and a “party capital” due to its thriving nightlife and famous young atmosphere. Eighteen of Israel’s 35 major centers for the performing arts are located in the city, and drinking is allowed from the age of 18.
Additionally, Tel-Aviv was named “the best gay city in the world” by American Airlines, and it is one of the most popular destinations for LGBT tourists internationally, with a large LGBT community living in the city.
Tourism, Culture & Architecture
Both cities are a highly toured destinations, but in Dubai you might encouter many Arab and Muslim tourists, which Israel almost does not have. The culture in Tel-Aviv is much more cosmopolitan, mainly “western” influenced but with a middle eastern touch – while Dubai has mainly Arabic culture, at a very high standard.
The lifestyle is quite different as well. In Dubai it can be common to see Ferraris, Mustangs and Rolls Roils driving on the street right and left. In Israel, the cars (and the people) are a lot more modest, and most Tel-Avivians are living in small rental apartments, riding bicycles or scooters, and prefer beer over champagne.
In terms of architecture, Dubai is new. Really, really new. All buildings are impressive, grandiose and huge, while Tel-Aviv has a more historic small town vibe, mainly in the old city center. Although they both have many nice impressive architecture, Tel-Aviv is famous for its Bauhause style and Dubai for its amazing skyscrapers.
Cost of Living in Tel Aviv vs Dubai
According to Numbeo, You would need around 4,375$ in Dubai to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with 6,155$ in Tel Aviv-Yafo (assuming you rent in both cities). This calculation uses Cost of Living Plus Rent Index, to compare cost of living between Tel aviv vs Dubai.
More statistics:
- Consumer Prices in Dubai are 33.95% lower than in Tel Aviv (without rent).
- Consumer Prices Including Rent in Dubai are 28.97% lower than in Tel Aviv.
- Rent Prices in Dubai are 18.83% lower than in Tel Aviv..
- Restaurant Prices in Dubai are 35.95% lower than in Tel Aviv.
- Groceries Prices in Dubai are 42.83% lower than in Tel Aviv.
- Local Purchasing Power in Dubai is 50.87% higher than in Tel Aviv.
Tel Aviv vs Dubai – Summary
The choice between Tel-Aviv and Dubai is quite an easy one once you know what you are looking for. To sum it up:
Dubai is truly an intoxicating country that offers the potential for an unprecedented lifestyle. A true world-class vision of a futuristic forward-looking city, which still holds onto a conservative tradition that you will have to accept if you choose it.
Even if less extravagant, Tel-Aviv can also offer you a “24/7 active night-life and ten cafes and bars on every corner” lifestyle, with much more personal freedoms. If you are looking for a long term living it should be better, as long as you are willing to pay a bit more for it.
