Expatriate Forums in Abu Dhabi (UAE)

Markj · Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2008 5:23 pm Post subject:

I have been offered the chance to re-locate with my current employer from the UK - a very good career move!! so this should happen this autum

My wife has consented, however two cats being transported over are part of the bargin. I would move over in Sept and my wife following (with two cats) some 3 months later.

Unfortunately our initial excitement has some what receded as we have discovered that there is an accute housing shortage in the city and finding a suitable flat (say 1 or 2 beds) is impossible. Though my company is willing to pay my accommodation expenses etc I have read that this could take over 6 months!! and so far I have only got accom provided for 4 weeks.

I would like to hear resident Expats on their views on the above, together with comments on the following:

My wife works in ladies fashion retail - how hard would it be for her to find a job?

We both enjoy a night out, eating etc - is there much to do there?

Social clubs - are there any? and how do you join in?

Golf - are golf memberships available?

I would be grateful on any bits of useful information about moving to Abu Dhabi.

Regards and hope to see you soon.

888 · Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2008 9:14 pm Post subject:

My wife works in ladies fashion retail - how hard would it be for her to find a job?
Not hard. Should be easy but salary expectation may be an issue.

We both enjoy a night out, eating etc - is there much to do there?
Plenty of nice place to eat at hotels. Just need to money Very Happy

Social clubs - are there any? and how do you join in?
What type? For your wife - there's an expat wives club where they think of ideas on how to spend their husband's money. hahaha! they do lots of activities. most of my colleagues' wives who don't work, join this club and they do lots of activities/excursions/having hi-tea/play mahjong, etc.

Golf - are golf memberships available?
Yes. Membership at the best club is approx AED30k/year but there's a waiting list.

Markj · Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2008 1:20 am Post subject:

Cheers

Except for playing golf - nothing too stuck up in the club line will be fine.

I don't mind my "P & Qs" too well you see.

Windpomp · Joined: 05 Jul 2008 Posts: 9 Home Country: NULL

Prices?

Where can can we get an idea of rental prices?
3 - 4 BR
Villa / Townhouse or large apartment for kids

thanks

888 · Posted: Sat Jul 05, 2008 7:47 pm Post subject:

isw · Gender: Joined: 31 Jul 2008 Posts: 2 Home Country: uk

can anyone tell me how much would cost me renting a 3 bed house right now? aparently the prices sky rocked shockingly...

naturalbornkiller · Posted: Sun Aug 03, 2008 8:04 am Post subject:

ISW : It depends on the location & nature of building as well. I mean Villa or an apartment,

Where you will be working (location- Area) & when you are planning to move ?

llcolorado

My husband is considering an offer from Etihad, but after reading a little on this board and others I'm a bit hesitant because of the housing shortage. We have 2 small children and my mother will be living with us. I can't imagine my mother would stay long if we can't get at least a three bedroom (she lives in her own house right now). The housing allowance is AED160K. We can probably afford a bit more, but not much as we plan to keep our house in the US.

The job would begin as soon as October or as late as January. It is my understanding that he would be provided a room in a hotel until company housing (2 bedroom apt) is available OR given the 160K stipend.

Is it true that there is more housing available in Dubai? Is the commute worth at 10% decrease in the housing allowance?

nightingale · Joined: 09 Sep 2008 Posts: 4 Home Country: france

everywhere I read its about the housing shortage and price increase. My husband is currenlty looking for our new home and he has confirmed there is a housing problem.

he has mentioned abu dhabi Marine, Arabian Ranches and emirate hills, has any one seen these places, what are they like, or do you live there?.

I like to play mah jonng so interested in any news from players.

I also will be bringing my aged dog are there any NICE kennels with out concrete! I will be looking for the Xmas peroid. If you look after dogs in your home please send a PM.

If you know of somehwere nice for under 300 let me know where in a PM

I hate it when the hubby looks for a new home without me, not sure what I will get!

Drica · Gender: Joined: 07 Sep 2008 Posts: 16 Home Country: NULL

If anyone is looking for apartments to rent in Abu Dhabi it will be very hard to find anything decent on the island. If you don't mind commuting 20mins to the city centre Khalifa City A might be a good option. There are shops close by, easy parking, quiet atmosphere and a very good spot to live altogether.
Prices are in the region of:
50,000Dhs - Studio (quite large)
120,000Dhs - 1 bed
160,000Dhs - 2 Bed
etc.
Expensive, I know, but unfortunately these are the going rates.

These properties are available now and are brand new.

Call me for a free of charge viewing: 050 514 8792

Drica!