In recent years, Dubai has emerged as a formidable hub of innovation and opportunity, attracting talent and ambition from around the globe. A striking example of this trend is Fares Ksebati, a 33-year-old entrepreneur who recently transitioned his life from a suburban setting outside Detroit to the vibrant city of Dubai. As the founder and CEO of MySwimPro, Ksebati enjoys a base salary of 0,000 with an anticipated total income of 0,000 by 2025. In contrast to the modest median household income of just under ,000 in Wayne County, Michigan, where homes typically sell for around 0,000, Ksebati’s choice to invest in an apartment in Dubai, costing approximately 0,000, epitomizes the changing landscape of global living standards and aspirations.
Having first visited Dubai in 2021, Ksebati describes a transformative connection to the city. “Every single year, I just fell more in love with the energy,” he remarked during an interview with CNBC Make It. His words echo a sentiment shared by many as Dubai’s population burgeoned by approximately 300,000 residents between 2019 and 2023. A survey by Remitly ranked Dubai as the most sought-after destination for potential expatriates, while TripAdvisor placed it third among global travel hotspots in 2025— a significant achievement that underscores its allure.
Ksebati’s Dubai apartment, despite its cost and the monthly mortgage and utility expenses totaling around ,750, reflects a type of lifestyle that differs dramatically from what he could experience back in Michigan. While the option exists to purchase an entire house in the Midwest for considerably less, the unique advantages of owning property in Dubai convinced Ksebati that his investment was worthwhile. He cites three predominant factors that contribute to his enthusiasm for living in this dynamic metropolis.
First: A City of Innovation
Ksebati describes Dubai as a city steeped in innovation, fueled by the energies of entrepreneurs and affluent individuals committed to progress. “It really is a city of innovation,” he states, emphasizing how both the populace and government initiatives are driven by a desire for self-improvement. In such an environment, Ksebati finds inspiration, identifying a multitude of opportunities for business growth and personal development.
His swim training app, developed years prior to his relocation, continues to thrive against the backdrop of Dubai’s entrepreneurial spirit. “As someone who’s already been in the entrepreneurial game, it’s really an opportunity for me to level up,” Ksebati said, illustrating the transformative impact of his surroundings on his ambitions. The climate of collaboration and high achievement sets Dubai apart from his experiences in numerous other countries, making it an unparalleled nexus of innovation.
Second: Culinary Diversity and Excellence
Among the lesser-discussed perks of residing in Dubai is its extraordinary culinary landscape. Renowned for its approximately 13,000 restaurants, the city offers a diversity of dining options surpassing even that of New York. Ksebati relishes this aspect, declaring that the “amazing culinary experiences” available significantly enhance his quality of life. “There is so much good food from all over the world,” he enthuses.
A recent foray into Ramadan celebrations saw Ksebati spend around ,000 on dining, showcasing not only the richness of Dubai’s food scene but also its overall affordability. “Typically I spend about half that,” he notes, highlighting his accessibility to high-quality Arabic cuisine reminiscent of his childhood. The city allows him to easily access dishes that evoke nostalgia while celebrating his cultural roots.
Third: Convenience and Affordability
Contrary to perceptions that Dubai is a playground solely for the wealthy, Ksebati argues that living there can be surprisingly affordable across a comparative spectrum. “Dubai has a bad rap when it comes to how everyone thinks ‘Oh, it’s so expensive,’” he says. He elaborates that costs in Dubai can be lower than what one might encounter in cities like New York or Miami, rendering a higher quality of life attainable for diverse income brackets.
Moreover, the city excels in offering an abundance of low-cost or complimentary activities, from sightseeing to beachfront leisure. Ksebati points out that thrilling, luxury experiences like jet-skiing remain affordable, dispelling myths about the prohibitive cost of enjoyment in Dubai. The ease of access to amenities and attractions further bolsters the appeal of the city, making it an exceedingly appealing place to reside.
As Ksebati reflects on his journey, it becomes apparent that Dubai represents more than just a geographical location; it embodies a lifestyle brimming with promise and potential. His story resonates deeply amid ongoing conversations about globalization and the future of urban living, inviting others to consider what it means to seek opportunity in today’s rapidly evolving world.
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