The words that crop up in everyday chats give great insight into life in the emirate. They work as a kind of blueprint into our trials and tribulations, our happiness and our woes.
1. I’m stuck on Hessa street
Well, who isn’t? Hessa is probably one of the most disliked streets in Dubai because it’s busy any time of the day.
2. This is the hottest summer so far.
Everybody in Dubai talks about the weather. Everyone's a meteorologist.
3. No thanks, I’m not interested in your offer
You get spam phone calls daily about buying new property or opening a new bank account. So you're saying "No thanks!" more times than you like.
What you really want to say is: “Did someone tell you I was freaking Donald Trump?!”
4. Where’s the valet?
In Dubai you simply don’t ask “do you have valet?” You just ask: “where is the valet?” Because parking your own car is for peasants ...
5. I missed the exit again!
No one is going to laugh at you if you still miss the exit even after living in Dubai for more than a decade. The emirate taught us very well that the road that exists today might magically disappear tomorrow!
6. How do I get out of Dubai mall parking?
It’s completely normal to spend 15 minutes trying to exit the intricate and web of gridlines that is the "The Dubai Mall Parking"!
7. Did you see that new…
Restaurant? Hotel? Manmade palm? Water canal? Tallest building in the world? Fastest train on the planet? … You get what we mean.
8. Hala walla
This popular greeting is a favorite amongst locals and expats. You just can’t say it without a huge smile on your face. Come on, try it!
9. Ma fi mushkel
Another firm favorite. It’s a phrase you use when you want to get out of trouble, lighten the mood or just end a boring conversation.
10. Staycation
A new entry on the list, especially with all the long weekends and offers you find on Cobone and Entertainer. This word always comes backed with an Instagram shot of a drink by the pool and the #MyDubai hashtag.
11. So spoiled
Honestly, how many times do you use this phrase in your conversation?
12. Snapi
You are never really a true “Dubaian” until you’ve:
A. Downloaded Snapchat
B. Started calling it “Snapi”