What makes life truly fulfilling — is it the money you earn, the growth in your career, or the lifestyle you enjoy? A Bengaluru-based techie who has worked in Dubai, the USA, and India has taken to the internet to share his honest comparison of these three global destinations.
His detailed breakdown of salary, career growth, and quality of life in each country is sparking debates online — and his final verdict may not be what you expect.
From Bengaluru to the World: A Journey Begins
A 32-year-old software engineer, who prefers to stay anonymous, began his career in Bengaluru. After spending five years in India’s Silicon Valley, he moved to Dubai for a better salary and later relocated to the United States in search of long-term career growth. Now, after nearly a decade of experience in three different countries, he posted a now-viral LinkedIn article titled: “Salary vs Career vs Life: India, Dubai, USA – My Honest Take”.
In the post, he wrote, “I wanted to settle. I wanted money. I wanted peace. But what I found in each country was something very different than I expected.”
Let’s break down his key findings.
1. Salary Comparison: USA Leads, But There’s a Catch
According to the techie, the USA offers the highest salary, especially in tech hubs like California and Seattle. Even entry-level engineers in the US can earn upwards of $100,000 per year.
However, he adds, “The real income is what you save. High salaries in the US come with high taxes and expensive healthcare. One health emergency, and you’re paying out of pocket.”
In Dubai, tech salaries are decent, but not as high as in the US. The biggest advantage? Tax-free income. “What you earn is what you take home,” he said.
In India, salaries are the lowest of the three — especially for those early in their careers. However, cost of living is also lower, making it possible to save more if one lives modestly.
Read: Average software engineer salaries in the USA
Explore: Tax-free salary benefits in Dubai
2. Career Growth: USA Is Competitive, India Is Dynamic, Dubai Is Stable
Career-wise, the USA offers immense growth, but it comes with fierce competition. “In America, you grow fast, but burnout is real. You’re always expected to be learning and upskilling. There’s no chill.”
Dubai, he says, is more relaxed. “The tech scene is not as fast-paced. There are opportunities, but fewer cutting-edge projects. Great for a stable job, not ideal for long-term career growth.”
India, surprisingly, comes out strong in terms of dynamic opportunities. “Startups, unicorns, and global MNCs are investing heavily in India. There’s hustle, yes — but also innovation and global exposure if you’re in the right place.”
Check: Top tech companies hiring in India
Read: Working in tech in Dubai – What to expect
3. Quality of Life: India Has Heart, Dubai Has Comfort, USA Has Freedom
When it comes to lifestyle, the Bengaluru techie ranked all three based on his personal experience:
- Dubai: “Life is easy. Services are smooth, transport is great, crime is low, and leisure options are amazing. But it feels artificial after a while. It’s like living in a beautiful bubble.”
- USA: “There’s freedom. Nature. Culture. You feel truly independent. But it can get lonely, especially if you don’t have family. Plus, healthcare is a serious issue.”
- India: “There’s traffic, chaos, and pollution. But there’s family, friends, festivals, and food. Emotional peace is something I only found in India.”
Final Verdict: “India is Where I Belong — With Global Skills”
After years abroad, the techie chose to return to India in 2023 and now works remotely for a US-based firm from his Bengaluru home.
“People are shocked when I say this, but India is where I feel most alive. I may not earn as much, but my career is growing, I’m close to loved ones, and I have peace of mind.”
His post has sparked thousands of reactions, especially from young Indian professionals debating whether to go abroad or build their careers locally.
One comment read, “Thanks for the honesty. Not everyone wants the American dream — some of us just want balance.”
What Can We Learn?
This viral comparison reminds us that no one-size-fits-all answer exists when choosing between salary, career, and life. It all depends on your personal values and what you are willing to trade.
If money is your priority, the USA is a great option — but be ready for pressure and responsibilities. If you want comfort and safety, Dubai is appealing, especially for mid-career professionals. But if your heart seeks connection, culture, and balanced growth, then India is still a land of opportunity.
Conclusion
The techie’s story proves a powerful point: Life is not just about earning the highest salary. Sometimes, true success lies in emotional well-being, purpose, and connection.
In the end, he writes:
“Home is not where you were born. Home is where you are understood.”
Would you choose Dubai, USA, or India if given the choice? Tell us your thoughts in the comments or share your own journey!
Follow more inspiring tech journeys on LinkedIn
Explore career options globally with Glassdoor
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