Every time I visit Dubai, I tell myself this won’t be the last time, and it never is. There’s something about the city that makes me want to keep going back. The more time I spend there, the more it feels like a second home.

Here are some of the reasons why Dubai has started to feel like a second home for us, and why we keep finding ourselves going back. If you’ve ever wondered why visit Dubai, this might just convince you.

1. The Food Scene Is Unbeatable

If you’re a foodie, you’ll understand what I mean when I say that good food can make or break a trip. For us, food isn’t just about taste but also about quality, and Dubai has mastered both.

We’re from London, and I’d say we’re pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to food. London has some of the best restaurants from every cuisine you can think of, but Dubai takes it to another level. The city offers the same incredible variety, from street-style bites to fine dining, but everything is Halal and served to an exceptionally high standard, which fits perfectly for us as we only eat Halal.

For anyone looking for Halal food in Dubai, you’ll be spoiled with endless options, from authentic Middle Eastern dishes to global cuisines prepared to perfection. Other than checking for allergens, there’s no need to worry about ingredients or suitability. That peace of mind makes eating out such a joy. Being able to walk into a restaurant, order freely, and know everything is permissible feels like the simplest yet most meaningful kind of freedom. After all, food really is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

I’ll share our favourite places to eat in Dubai soon because there are so many good ones worth mentioning.

2. The Vibe Is Next Level

The energy in Dubai is unlike anywhere else. The city feels alive in every way, from its striking modern skyline and luxurious lifestyle to the world’s biggest shopping mall, all built right in the middle of the desert.

What I really admire is how Dubai manages to be so modern and full of people from all over the world, yet still remains deeply connected to its culture and religion. Every time I visit, I notice that balance even more and appreciate how effortlessly it all comes together.

One of the moments that always stays with me is hearing the Adhan being called from the mosques five times a day. No matter where you are in the city, you can hear it. There is something so grounding and peaceful about it. As Muslims, it makes us feel instantly connected, almost like a reminder that even in such a fast, modern place, faith is still at the centre.

It is little moments like that which truly make Dubai feel like home.

3. Safety Like Nowhere Else

One of the biggest reasons we feel so comfortable in Dubai is simply how safe it feels. You really notice it in everyday moments.

We’ve left our phones, wallets and bags on tables in cafés or even on the beach, and not once has anyone touched them. My sister, who lives there, even leaves her apartment door unlocked in the mornings so the house help can come in while everyone is still asleep.

You can walk around late at night without worrying or needing to keep a tight hold of your belongings. There’s a level of trust and respect in the atmosphere that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it.

For families, couples or even solo travellers, that sense of ease makes such a difference. It’s one of the things that makes Dubai feel so welcoming and familiar to us.

4. Education and Healthcare That Work

I haven’t personally experienced Dubai’s healthcare or schooling, but from my sister, brother-in-law, and nieces, I’ve learned that both are of a really high standard.

The schools, especially the British and American ones, have great teaching methods and modern structures. Most are private, so education isn’t cheap, but it does come with quality. Healthcare is also private, meaning it’s generally quick and efficient. Of course, access to these depends on having a stable job or business setup, but it’s reassuring to know the systems are strong.

This makes living in Dubai an appealing option for expats looking for quality education and reliable healthcare.

5. Sunshine All Year Round

The weather in Dubai is warm all year, and for someone who has grown up in a cold, rainy country, that honestly feels like a dream.

Yes, the summer months can get extremely hot, but for most of the year it’s perfect for spending time outdoors. Whether it’s relaxing at the beach, going on a boat ride in the Marina, exploring the desert, trying water sports, visiting local markets, or simply enjoying dinner by the sea, there is always something to do.

People often ask me what there is to do in Dubai, but the truth is that every place has its own charm. It’s really about what connects with you and what kind of experiences make you feel happy.

I’ll share some of our favourite things to do soon, because there are definitely a few places and experiences that stand out.

6. The Not-So-Perfect Side

To keep it real, not everything about Dubai is perfect. The traffic can be a nightmare, especially during peak hours. Getting from one side of the city to the other can take longer than you’d expect, and the public transport system isn’t as developed as it could be.

But once you settle into the pace of life there, even that starts to feel like part of the experience.

Final Thoughts

For me, Dubai is more than just a holiday spot. It’s a city that feels warm, welcoming, and full of energy. Every visit leaves me with new memories and new reasons to return.

If you’re planning your next trip and wondering whether Dubai is worth visiting, my answer will always be yes. It’s a place that truly has something for everyone, from incredible food and sunshine to safety and that feeling of belonging no matter where you’re from.

Dubai stays with you long after you’ve left, and that’s how I know it’s special.

A dusk view of Dubai Marina with high-rise buildings, a lit mosque and boats moving across the water.