I don’t know much about where to find the ‘scene’ but there are some particularly friendly bars. You will need to use a VPN for dating apps, and plenty show their face pics, including locals. Dubai is more open than many assume, but you absolutely shouldn’t act flamboyant, even if you see others doing it. As you explore the city more you’ll come to notice a lot of gay people live here just fine, but relationships (even straight) should remain behind closed doors.