Hi
Volunteering would not generate a work visa. Apart from doing visa runs, you will find it very difficult with regards to your son. He is viewed as an adult so sponsorship will be out of the question and work opportunities will be very limited. Non-professional jobs such as cashiers and supermarket helpers etc go to low paid sub-continent workers here - it's just the way it is. Working conditions, treatment, hours etc are not what you would want or expect for your son and are not in line with countries like Australia, UK etc.
Expats with young children with special needs struggle to obtain the support they require for their children and many relocate because of the lack of co-ordinated services etc so i would imagine it would be just as hard, if not harder, if you are looking for supports for your adult son.
Tertiary education does not really exist - not for expats and again, getting places in any type of education for anyone with a disability or additional needs is extremely hit and miss.
As has been mentioned, there is the opportunity for apply for a visa on humanitarian grounds but nothing is guaranteed and I would think very carefully about whether Dubai is the right place for your son.
Sorry to sound a bit of a downer but it is the reality unfortunately.
I am now wondering about tertiary education opportunities in Dubai (not uni) or availability of jobs for a non professional, who has retail (supermarket) experience? Any thoughts or suggestions?
Unfortunately males over the age of 18 can't be sponsored by their families in the UAE. They either have to get a student study visa or an employment visa. I'm not sure if there are any exceptions for special circumstances. You'd need to contact immigration and ask.
ETA: a friend has just said there's a humanitarian committee where you can state your case and they then decide whether to allow you to sponsor a family member outside the normal rules.
You said it right there. I cannot also imagine any special circumstances that will help his condition. And you're right,
the best option is to contact the immigration for this matter.
Unfortunately males over the age of 18 can't be sponsored by their families in the UAE. They either have to get a student study visa or an employment visa. I'm not sure if there are any exceptions for special circumstances. You'd need to contact immigration and ask.
ETA: a friend has just said there's a humanitarian committee where you can state your case and they then decide whether to allow you to sponsor a family member outside the normal rules.
I don't know but I hope you'll find answers. I've seen some centers for special needs around Dubai in general and I think you'll find some facilities that would suit your needs inshallah but let's wait for other ladies to answer and give more details.
Hello,
I live in Australia and my husband is currently in Dubai for a job interview, having been headhunted.
I have a 22 year old daughter who is at uni and happy to stay in Australia and a 19 year old son, who is still living at home and would have to come.
He is 19, on the Asperger's end of the Autism Spectrum, and while coping well with doing a TAFE course (a pre apprenticeship course)and working in our local small supermarket 4 days a week , is certainly not able to be left long term.
I know over 18s are only supposed to stay on a visitors permit, but does anyone know if there is any way for him to be able to stay? Or any idea of what educational facilities would be available (he would not cope with uni).
Thank you :)