Backend developer with 6 years’ experience sparks debate over salary fairness in viral Reddit post
A Reddit post by an Indian backend developer weighing job offers from India and Dubai has ignited debate over compensation fairness for tech professionals moving abroad. With six years of experience and currently earning ₹23 lakh per annum in India, the engineer posed the question: “Am I being lowballed? , reported hindustantimes.com.”
The Dubai offer includes AED 18,000 per month (approximately ₹50 lakh annually), along with health insurance (self), commuting costs, and an annual flight allowance of AED 1,500. However, it lacks housing benefits and dependent insurance.
By contrast, the India-based offer stands at ₹33 lakh annually and includes a hybrid work model, family and parental health insurance, and reportedly better work-life balance.
An Indian engineer’s dilemma over two job offers — one in Dubai and one in India — has sparked a larger debate on whether ₹50 lakh per annum is fair pay in the UAE tech market
Shared on July 20, 2025, the post has garnered over 30 likes and dozens of comments, with users offering differing perspectives on whether AED 18K is competitive for Dubai.
One user, @Loud_Voice_9350, advised: “Single – Dubai. Family – India,” emphasizing that the cost of living in Dubai can heavily influence the actual value of the offer. Another commenter, @StArLoRd_808, warned: “If you are planning on moving to Dubai, I highly recommend you ask for accommodation; otherwise, this salary will vanish in no time.”
While the headline number may seem attractive, Redditors suggested factoring in quality of life, cost of living, housing, taxation, and future prospects. Many urged the engineer to negotiate further or consider long-term career goals before making the leap.
The post reflects a growing sentiment among Indian tech professionals who are increasingly evaluating overseas offers with caution, taking into account not just the gross figures, but what truly lands in their pockets and how it aligns with their lifestyle and family needs.
