Demika Levy is a Dental Hygienist Abroad who has practiced in Dubai, United Arab Emirates since 2014. In this interview, she shares what it was really like to build a life and career outside her home country — from navigating a new healthcare system to the personal and professional shifts that come with practicing internationally.
This story is part of the International Dental Hygienist Interviews series, created to give dental hygienists a realistic look at what working abroad actually involves — beyond the highlight reel.
Hygienist Snapshot
Name: Demika Levy, RDH
Origin: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
Education:
- Dental Hygiene (institution not specified)
- Extensive experience in public health and private dental care
Location Abroad: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Years Abroad: August 2014–2023
Background & Early Career
Where are you originally from?
Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Have you always worked in the dental field?
If not, what came first?
I had a great hygiene mentor during hygiene school, Mrs. Marva Williams. She instilled so many gems that I rely upon ‘til this date. My first employment was part-time in a multi-practice office; I learned a lot about sales. My last position before coming abroad was with a private associate office. Two of the associates were Anesthesiologists and Dentists, so all clinical staff were trained to work with special needs, including high-anxiety patients who were sedated during treatment.
However, my four-year tenure with the Broward County Health Department, working with The Ryan White Grant in their dental clinic, was my fondest. This grant included the oral health needs of HIV patients. Initially, I started out as a dental hygiene volunteer, which eventually led to a permanent part-time position.
Working Abroad in Dubai
What country do you work abroad in, and when did you move?
Dubai, United Arab Emirates — August 2014–2023
Why Demika Moved Abroad
What inspired you to move abroad?
The office I worked with for nine years restructured for a corporate acquisition, and the hygiene department was no longer a good fit. The move was very random: in March 2014, I responded to a Facebook ad from a dental group. In April, I was offered the position, and I arrived in Dubai in August 2014. I say it was serendipity!
What did your family say?
“Are you sure?” and “Why are you going so far?”
Were you afraid or nervous?
30%. I was afraid of the unknown, but the unknown didn’t outweigh my curiosity. I knew I could always come back home.
Life in Dubai — Culture & Environment
What is this region known for?
- Oil-rich
- Innovation
- Gatekeepers of tradition and culture
Image caption: Dubai, UAE — desert skyline meets modern architecture
Practice, Team & Clinical Setting
What type of practice do you work for, and what is the team like?
My first office was a regular dental DSO setup: two doctor owners with several associates and multiple locations. My second office was a medical start-up with a focus on preventive and collaborative medicine. The dental department was boutique in construct: one doctor, one hygienist, one assistant, and a part-time oral surgeon.
Makeup of staff:
- The first office consisted of international clinicians with varied philosophies regarding practice and the role of the hygienist.
- In my second office, both the doctor and I are from the US.
Social Life & Daily Living Abroad
What is your social life like?
Active but sometimes lonely. Most people work a motley of hours depending on the industry. Dubai has a strong food and burgeoning art culture. Socializing often revolves around Friday brunch, especially for ex-pats. People are very transient, so social circles shift frequently, but eventually, you find your tribe.
What do you most enjoy?
The ability to travel to different areas with ease.
What’s been the hardest adjustment?
The inability to get certain foods and other products from the US.
Patients & Clinical Experience
What are the patients like?
Any standout experiences?
Patients are diverse, with a mix of backgrounds and expectations. Working in two very different offices allowed me to engage with both corporate and boutique settings. The most rewarding experiences involve building trust and delivering patient-centered care consistently.
Professional Growth & Personal Reflection
How has this experience changed you — professionally and personally?
Professionally: It helped affirm the type of clinician I aspire to be: delivering care that integrates function, health, and aesthetics.
Personally: It expanded my cultural understanding, especially within Arab communities. I have gained insights into how culture shapes personality and behaviors.
Career Path & Future Plans
Do you still practice hygiene?
Yes, but I am serious about transitioning from clinical work within the next two years.
Any plans to leave the field?
Yes, planning to transition from being a clinician soon due to professional development and evolving practice goals.
Do you have any side projects, teaching roles, or global health work?
None mentioned.
Image caption: Professional workspace in Dubai dental clinic
Looking Ahead
What’s next for you?
Transitioning out of clinical hygiene work within the next two years to focus on the development and evolution of my practice.
Do you have any regrets?
None about moving or practicing in the UAE. My only regret is not taking advantage of learning Arabic while living here.
How would you like to be remembered?
As personable and kind.
Advice for International Dental Hygienists
Any wisdom for hygienists considering working abroad?
Remember exceptional ethics and professional standards of care at all times. Do not compromise your safety.
Thinking about working abroad as a dental hygienist?
Interviews like this one offer a glimpse into what’s possible — but everyone’s path looks different.
If you’re exploring international work and want a clearer starting point, these resources may help:
- Start here: Start Your Career As a Dental Hygienist Abroad A reality-first overview of what working abroad actually involves, including credentials, timelines, and common pitfalls.
- Next: Explore the Starter Guide for in-depth and step by step guidance on how to prepare for a move abroad
Photo by Denys Kostyuchenko
