living in Dubai | ExpatWoman.com
 

living in Dubai

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 August 2018 - 14:24

Hello,

my family and I are currently expats in Copenhagen, Denmark. From London originally and looking at moving to Dubai in the next 12 months.
I guess my questions are simple and ones I've learnt to ask over time seeing as we've done this before.
-Where would you live with small kids, as part of an expat (British speaking) community?
-what schools would you look at first? what age does school start?
-What is the real cost of living, averagely, housing, cars, school, fitness club etc?
-Do expat partners work?
-Does everyone have some form of home help? how common is it, maids, drivers, cook etc?
-How real is this alcoholic licence and is it hard to get if it is?

And generally how is it, is the weather a killer or are there lots of stuff to do?

Thank you so much in advance.

3
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 October 2018 - 13:22
Hi. There are many sections of the city to live in, depending on one's preferences. Dubai Marina is an exclave of expats, Deira and Burj Dubai is the more traditional area. Outer communities include Arabian Ranches and the Green Community. Jumeirah, Al Wasl, Al Safa and Umm Suqeim have lovely residential accommodation. Hope that helps.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2018 - 09:15
Hello fellow Brit! - I'd personally recommend Springs/Meadows/Lakes or Arabian Ranches, they're heavily populated with expatriates - a lot are British or Western, and have lovely community vibes and safe spaces and playgrounds for kids. - Schools in Springs are Dubai British School, or JESS is quite a popular one. - Cost of living is med-high... Meaning, there are ways to bring your spends down without having to go overboard like a lot of people. It's easy to spend here. A family sized car you could get for 60k - 80k like a Hyundai or something, Volvos around 140k+ - housing for 2 bed villa is cc. 110k pa, 3 bed up to 130k pa and 4 bed above 140k pa depending on the area you want ot live in. School fees I can't comment on just yet, and definitely can't comment on the fitness club. Hahhaa. - Yes expat partners work, the trailing spouse is something of a myth now here in UAE... They're still around, but more and more women are working and going back to work here. - Very common for maids, nannies and drivers - live-ins are popular, or you can hire a weekly visit from an agency maid - The alcohol license is VERY real and is very easy to get for a fee :) just visit any one of the alcohol shops Weather is a killer in summer but that's the time for hibernation and Netflix. The cool, winter months make up for it :) lots of stuff to do when it's pleasant outside. Even when it's hot, there's plenty to do inside.
 
 

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