What's the point? They built a society that works for them with an extremely low crime rate. And their population is happy enough to vote for the ruling party to remain in power for the last 5 decades. Ultimately, whatever ideology you espouse, it must have a practical purpose. What is the point of talking about liberalism and infringing upon someone's liberties when you are much more liable to get stabbed on the streets of South London than Singapore? To live in fear while allowing criminals to roam around, Is that your idea of liberalism?
Even though you are obviously kidding, the funny thing is that many people have that impression of ALL the middle east!! reality is, they dont chop people's heads off in Dubai, thats Saudi Arabia, you have obviously never been to Dubai, as you wouldn't make that comment. In Dubai you will actually be at the strip club with a Saudi gentlemen next to you and he will probably buy you a drink!!!
I was under the impression alcohol consumption was allowed in Dubai. Apparently not officially? And this beggars belief. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-23381448
It was world war back than so conditions don't compare. I've spent quite a bit of time in some reputedly tough dicatorships and enjoyed life there. Don't get involved in politics, especially dońt get involved with the opposition and u should be fine. Not that tough, especially that in the West as well, more so where there is no 1st amendment, freedom of speech is quite restricted. Also thanks to corruption and laissez faire policies as long as it doesńt come to politics one might enjoy more freedom than in the west in several regards. Met quite a few expats with similar experiences. That beeing said I'd be a little wary to move to the middle east.
Current judicial news from Dubai : http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/...ail-sentence-in-dubai-for-reporting-rape?lite
I am quite surprised anywhere in the middle east would be preferable to Singapore. So many great destinations are within 2/3 hours flight which is a huge attraction to me. May I ask in what sense you found the place backward?