Moving to Delhi

Modern New Delhi, existing just south of the old and original city, has the same multifarious characteristics that the Indian capital has held for several thousand years. The city is a tangle of crowded streets, diverse languages and beautiful architecture – the metropolis is teeming with different industries and cultures, and now a wave of expats moving to Delhi adds to the eclectic nature and community of the centre.

Delhi's economy is developing at a rapid rate and the modern skyscrapers and robust industries look like they are trying to leave a less developed India behind. The accelerated growth of Delhi's key industries, including IT and telecommunications, means there is a high demand for experienced employees, many of whom are recruited from abroad.

The differences in culture in Delhi can feel confusing and alienating for some expats while seeming wonderfully multicultural and accepting for others. Perhaps more than any other major expat city, Delhi has no single culture expats must conform to. Instead, this is a city that contours around one's needs. New city development is often luxury Western-styled accommodation and expats often find businesses eager to adopt a Western management style.

While Delhi remains one of the most expensive locations for expats living in India, coming in second to Mumbai, the city still has a reasonable cost of living. Expats will find that in New Delhi they can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with access to luxuries they would not be accustomed to at home for just a fraction of the cost. There are also good facilities available in the form of private healthcare options and international schools.

Ultimately, expats living and working in Delhi will need to approach the city with an open mind. Those that do are sure to find that Delhi offers the unique beauty and diversity of a quintessentially Indian experience alongside the excitement and fast pace of living in a big city.