Expatriate Forums in Dubai (UAE)

adholman · Posted: Mon May 05, 2008 1:03 pm Post subject: Some General Q's - Please Help!

My wife and I are considering relocating to Dubai from Malaysia very soon. We have a 6yo son. I am a civil engineer and keen triathlete, and value my free time highly. I have the following concerns or preconceived ideas about Dubai that are making me think twice about going there....some question too -

1. Traffic seems really bad during the rush hours, and I hate wasting my life stuck in traffic!
2. I hear about the hottest 3-4months being almost unbearable
3. The cost of living is rising rapidly - just housing, or everything?
4. International schools are all full.
5. I like hills and greenery, but Dubai seems flat and sandy. What is the country like outside Dubai - is it all desert, or is there any variety?
6. Are you allowed to cycle on all the roads?
7. How easy will it be for my Malaysian wife (fluent English but few formal qualifications) to get a reasonable job?
8. Is it a good place for kids?

THANKS FOR ANY HELP!