UAE VAT within a year

[Quokka]

I met a local Rugby team in Barista Bar last year and they were all living it up big-time in Dubai. Discussion turned to people's pay and whilst everyone was better off than "back home", it became apparent that all of them were earning one third of my salary... but they were still having a good time with absolutely no intention of returning to their country-of-origin.

Some people are here for the money... and yes, some people are here for the lifestyle.

[fractional]

... but they were still having a good time with absolutely no intention of returning to their country-of-origin

That's right Quokka.
Unmarried guys or those married with no kids have no major issues really. There is a lot to do, things like playing sports where there is a smaller personal investment and still enjoy those ever joyful rounds in the Club after a good working session.
The problem is elsewhere; low or medium income families of 2, 3 or more kids. Some may say "tough luck"! Well, this is arguable.
These guys are really suffering and if things get worse, and salaries continue stagnant, living conditions in Dubai and in the region in general will become a nightmare, having them joining the conditions now seeing in the labour camps around if they have got no means to fly home. This spans be span a much wider range of expats well beyond those from Asia in particular. This will also be the local governments' problem. Will they jail them? Pay to expatriate them? Imagine seeing handcuffed and chained families being expatriated through airports and ports or even bus terminals. Hopefully, this won't get there, but... one never knows.
I don't think the guys in west side of the Jumeirah road or those at Emirates Gardens among others are too worried about what's going on with the price rises. Real expensive basic food for basic thought.