Guide

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

When Is the Next UAE Public Holiday? Eid Al Adha 2025 Dates Revealed

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

An Enchanting Regency-Era Evening Awaits at Dubai's Bridgerton Candlelight Concert

Education

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

What Are the Benefits of Academic Scholarships in Dubai?

Money

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

Home

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Choithrams Announces Launch of All-Women Operated Store in the UAE

Where to Order Same-Day Valentine's Day Flowers in the UAE

Car

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Wellness

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Top 7 Scenic UAE Jogging and Running Routes

IVF in the UAE: Unmarried Non-Muslim Couples Are Allowed to Undergo IVF

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

Newbie asking for advice

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 14:43

Hi All

I'm moving from London (which has fab weather at the moment...rare I know!) to Dubai next month and wanted to see if you could offer me some advice on key things to do before I leave (e.g download Skype, buy the explorer book) and for when I arrive (stay away from x estate agency etc.)

I'm looking for a 2 bed apartment Dubai Marina and have been looking at Better Homes website as I want to get viewings set up for as soon as I arrive as only have a couple of weeks in the hotel paid by my company but the building names mean nothing to me.....anyone in the area that can recommend a building...my max budget would be around the 70k mark.

Thanks

Sherry

Log in to post new content in the forum.

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 17:10

Hi fellow newbie aka YorkshirePud - no probs re gatecrashing..info applicable to all :)

YorkshirePud40863

190

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 14:18

Hi there, hope the preparations for your move are going smoothly. Some things to do before you come over that aren't to do with estate agencies! Unlock your mobile phones if you want to keep using your nice handsets, as new handsets here are expensive to buy. Then when you arrive you can just buy a local SIM card and pop it in your phone. Also, haircuts, dental and eye tests are all cheaper in UK - and eyes and teeth are only covered here on some insurance policies, so it can be expensive. If you have kids, do the eye tests and trip to the dentist on the NHS! Also, download skype and any Blackberry or iphone apps as these are blocked sites here (some people seem to able to get them but I have failed!). If you are redirecting mail from the UK, have it sent to husband's office as mail is not routinely delivered to actual houses in UAE. It takes time to set up a PO Box of your own here (most people decide not to bother). We are finding the redirection is quite efficient and only takes about 2 weeks to deliver. Definitely get your marriage certificate attested in the country you were married in -needed for residence visa purposes! Easier to do it there than over here, and less costly, quicker postage etc. Take heaps of passport photos in a booth - you can never have enough. You'll be needing them for a whole list of things when you arrive, and you won't be wanting to find a photo shop in a tearing hurry when you first arrive. Think that's it! Good luck! Im a newbie too arriving in just under 4 weeks, great advice :) (sorry to gate crash)

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 02:23

Hi Clare1976 - thanks for non-home related advice - much appreciated :) Hi Muurtje - thanks for recommendation....duly noted :)

44

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 17:41

Hi Lal The advert and further details are on dubizzle,just add Palladium in the search box under flat rentals. Available from 1st / 2nd week of May. You can contact zero five zero one four one three one seven six

367

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 17:21

Hi sherry Welcome to Dubai! I have just posted an advert on dubizzle re leasing out my 2 bed apartment in JLT,fully furnished,optional,at 85k. Take a look at the advert,it's the palladium tower,labelled as direct from British owner. Great place,location and sociable. Can you post contact details Rachel -it's for a friend returning from uk.

1913

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 17:12

Bump

833

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 10:11

One tip I would like to give, is when you go out looking for a mobile phone provider go with Etisalat and not with Du. I've had many problems with my reception with them and will be switching over to Etisalat.

339

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:33

Hi there, hope the preparations for your move are going smoothly. Some things to do before you come over that aren't to do with estate agencies! Unlock your mobile phones if you want to keep using your nice handsets, as new handsets here are expensive to buy. Then when you arrive you can just buy a local SIM card and pop it in your phone. Also, haircuts, dental and eye tests are all cheaper in UK - and eyes and teeth are only covered here on some insurance policies, so it can be expensive. If you have kids, do the eye tests and trip to the dentist on the NHS! Also, download skype and any Blackberry or iphone apps as these are blocked sites here (some people seem to able to get them but I have failed!). If you are redirecting mail from the UK, have it sent to husband's office as mail is not routinely delivered to actual houses in UAE. It takes time to set up a PO Box of your own here (most people decide not to bother). We are finding the redirection is quite efficient and only takes about 2 weeks to deliver. Definitely get your marriage certificate attested in the country you were married in -needed for residence visa purposes! Easier to do it there than over here, and less costly, quicker postage etc. Take heaps of passport photos in a booth - you can never have enough. You'll be needing them for a whole list of things when you arrive, and you won't be wanting to find a photo shop in a tearing hurry when you first arrive. Think that's it! Good luck!

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 01:10

Also wanted to say how great it is that so many people are happy to offer advice and contacts....a rare experience here in London but really looking forward to moving over and helping future newbies :)

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 01:08

Hi Rachel - I had a look at your ad on Dubizzle and the flat looks fab. I'm due to come over in 3rd week of May so shall I private message you then to check if it's still available and arrange a viewing? Thanks Sticky Wicket - No probation period but like your idea of serviced apartments in short term whilst I finalise areas and try to find somewhere I like...any recommendations on where as the majority I've seen are in hotels & cost mega ££. Hi Cornish Pixie - Thanks for the advice...love the name btw :) Hi Clairehdp - Thanks for the advice...JLT is definitely back on my list after th positive comments here Hi Dally - Thanks for the link - that thread is a godsend and will definitly be calling them if it doesn't work out with Rachel's apartment.

Anonymous (not verified)

0

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 13:25

Check out the recommendations on http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=142954

44

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 12:55

Hi Ladies Let me know if anyone is interested...its a nice place!

2958

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 11:47

Hi Sugarbeach - thanks for the heads up! That's why I was sticking with Better Homes as someone had said they were the best out there albeit with prices to match but take on board what you're saying. I have to work with real estate agents every day and I hate to break it to you but BH are terrible, they want their commission when you pay the security deposit on a place and then don't give a monkey's wotsits any more! Find Rachel 07's place on Dubizzle - that sounds a great deal to me, and JLT is getting better by the day - more shops/restaurants opening and the metro has made a big difference to the accessibility! Ooooh i agree cp about betterhomes i'm surprised they can use that name i could think of a far more appropriate name!!!!! If you can find a good agent its better to stick with that one and let them work for you. Most (not bettrrhomes though) work on split commission so you work with your preferred real estate person and they take you to view properties they have found for you and if the property is not on their books they split the commission with the company who has the prooerty on their books. It means you are not phoning and having to deal with so many different agents. Finding that one great agent is the key to stressfree hunting. I cant recommend an agent now i'm afraid as the 4 i knew are no longer working in real estate but they do exist perhaps people on here can recommend individuals to you. I woud definitely look at jlt with your budget ome of the towers ive been in are really nce and ive nit had any problems with traffic there.

2043

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 08:12

Just wanted to add that if you can rent direct from a LL you will save the 5% real estate agents fee BUT do check the ownership documents/passport copy/visa (if applicable) all add up to that property, before you hand any money over. Good luck!

2043

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 08:10

Hi Sugarbeach - thanks for the heads up! That's why I was sticking with Better Homes as someone had said they were the best out there albeit with prices to match but take on board what you're saying. I have to work with real estate agents every day and I hate to break it to you but BH are terrible, they want their commission when you pay the security deposit on a place and then don't give a monkey's wotsits any more! Find Rachel 07's place on Dubizzle - that sounds a great deal to me, and JLT is getting better by the day - more shops/restaurants opening and the metro has made a big difference to the accessibility!

44

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 23:49

Hi sherry Welcome to Dubai! I have just posted an advert on dubizzle re leasing out my 2 bed apartment in JLT,fully furnished,optional,at 85k. Take a look at the advert,it's the palladium tower,labelled as direct from British owner. Great place,location and sociable.

Sticky Wicket36659

1511

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 22:28

Look at serviced apartments to rent for the first 3 months or your probation period.

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 22:27

Hi Sugarbeach - thanks for the heads up! That's why I was sticking with Better Homes as someone had said they were the best out there albeit with prices to match but take on board what you're saying. Abit worried now as I start work as soon as I arrive and only have a couple of weeks paid accomodation in a hotel so not sure when I'm going to fit all this chasing & viewing in as well as getting used to the heat. OMG - what have I let myself in for <yikes>

Sugarbeach23383

1566

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 21:50

Hi Sherry - I have found that there's no such thing a few "reputatable" and recognised estate agents covering a particular area, similar to what you might be thinking in terms of how it works in the UK, it's all very, very fragmented. You will find it extremely frustrating if you expect house hunting to work similar to how it does in the UK. You will have to make numerous phone calls to a large number of agents when you are house hunting here, and keeping track of the contacts, appointments, properties etc., is quite a job. Also, people rarely call you back so you will have to do most of the chasing. <em>edited by Sugarbeach on 09/04/2011</em>

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 21:45

Hi Fragglexx I was advised to stay away from JLT due to the traffic (random conversation with someone in the UAE embassy in London whilst we were both waiting for our degree certificates to be attested) but will re-consider if you're recommending it. Thanks. Sherry

27

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 21:41

vero possumus - Thanks. I'm just waiting for the work permit to come though now so fingers crossed! salsB - 38! That's one thing I'm not looking forward to as despite having asian skin I burn at a drop of a hat...better stock up on the industrial strength sunblock :( I've stayed away from Dubizzle as being new wouldn't know who is reputable or not but will have another look. Thanks for Trident Bayside security tip Main Marion - I could probably push to 90k but was trying to saving ££. I was thinking unfurnished and then decking out in Ikea...I'm hoping the prices are still cheap in Dubai! Sherry

81

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 21:22

Try looking at the area called Jumeirah lake towers 2 bedroom apartment there from 65.000 close to metro and its just across from the marina you could try Olive property group they have a couple on their webpage

Maid Marion32802

208

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 21:10

Hiya, We arent here too long, only 6 months and to be honest 70k for a 2 bedroom you will be struggling! Like SalsB says for a well maintained, good size apt you are looking at nearer 90k. You can find less but to be honest what we saw did not impress us. Are you looking for furnished or unfurnished?

2725

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 20:02

Try asking security in Trident Bayside, I think they may have numbers direct with the Landlords. 2bed unfurnished going for about 90-100 now. Lovely building with great finish, near Marina Metro too. Check out Dubizzle website aswell, you will find loads of apartments on there. Enjoy the UK weather it hit 38 today here, winter is over, brace yourself for the hot summer.

vero possumus37927

876

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 15:15

wow. are you really coming? Good luck house hunting.

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 10 Low Cost Airlines in the UAE

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Best educational summer camps for teenagers in Dubai: MDX Summer Camps

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Real Madrid World Dubai - Summer Offer AED 199 per ticket

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

Scholarship opportunities at the Swiss international Scientific School Dubai (SISD)

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

UAE president announces 2025 will be the 'Year of Community' in the emirates

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

List of confirmed UAE public holidays in 2025

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Dubai's gravity-driven tunnel to reduce flood risks by 700%

Pictured: Flooded roads from the record-breaking storm that hit Dubai in April 2024.

Dubai Flood Risk to Be Cut Down by 700% With New Tunnel

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai for busy moms

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai: Self-Care Recommendations for Busy Moms

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

E-scooters are no longer banned on the Dubai Metro stations and trains

RTA Finally Lifts E-Scooter Ban From Dubai Metro

Spa packages at Saray Spa in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Step Into the Ultimate Relaxation Bliss With Saray Spa's Pampering Packages

How to book Dubai taxi through WhatsApp

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

RTA Dubai flying taxi official launch date

Image credit: Joby Aviation.

RTA Finally Confirms Launch Date of Dubai's Flying Taxis

Are "own visa" Domestic Workers legal in the UAE?

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?