Prettyperfect

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Latest post on 11 August 2014 - 11:24

...while I am disputing my salary delay [b'>I will essentially try to render my labour contract null and void as my employer broke it by not honouring my salary,[/b'> fingers crossed. Not a lawyer...did that make sense? Otherwise just get my dues and I am outta here. I am a dreamer and jump in where I see potential. Had I been treated differently and accepted into the vision of the company, I could have taken a salary hit here and there, after-all these are some of the growing pains for a start up. I thought I was becoming a pioneer, but alas. Essential rule when dealing with mol..... Keep it SIMPLE! lol You're confusing issues and a labour contract can not be rendered null and void because it's the MOL who drew it up in the first. All that can happen is that someone breaks a clause and the mol are there to help fix the clause that got broken. Stick to the salary issue, don't bring anything else into it. Ok noted! Keep it simple! Thank you :-)

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Latest post on 11 August 2014 - 10:01

You can't go to MOL about your probation issue. They'll tell you that if you had any issue with the dates being wrong, you shouldn't have signed it. While you're on probation there's no notice or pay in lieu-of notice. However you can go about your salary being late. And you really should. You're feeling used, and rightfully so, but now is the time to keep your emotions out of it. You will teach him sweet F-A about his attitude and behaviour. As you've experienced in your own office, very few people are willing to make a stand and many employers trade on the back of this knowledge. Once you leave and stop being the spokeswoman for your colleagues, do you think anything will get better for them? If you really want to go through the process for your colleagues to try and make the world a better place, then fair enough... be prepared for a long hard slog and lots of resistance from people who should be there to help you. Otherwise go to MOL, get your money and get out. If you play the delayed salary angle well, the best you can hope for is that they'll force him to go through WPS in future... this WILL help your colleagues. In future stay alert to when you are being used and get out of the situation quickly. Hi Wednesday Genius, Thank you for your response. And while I really did not want to be the spokesperson for my colleagues, they just seem to gravitate towards me and are looking for help. You are right about the probation issue, however while I am disputing my salary delay I will essentially try to render my labour contract null and void as my employer broke it by not honouring my salary, fingers crossed. Not a lawyer...did that make sense? Otherwise just get my dues and I am outta here. I am a dreamer and jump in where I see potential. Had I been treated differently and accepted into the vision of the company, I could have taken a salary hit here and there, after-all these are some of the growing pains for a start up. I thought I was becoming a pioneer, but alas.

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Latest post on 11 August 2014 - 09:51

yes - good luck and keep us posted (for morale support and cos we are damn nosy) :D I will keep you ladies posted, nosy or not lol. I feel so relieved and I haven't even gone to labour court yet lol.

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Latest post on 11 August 2014 - 09:34

To be honest i would have quit as soon as my salary was late. The only reason i work is for my salary. Yes take him to MOL - its wrong that he thinks that he can pay people late. I agree with Izzy, it will also teach him that he cannot get away with this Has he provided you with a visa and labor card? Hi ladies, Yes I am on the company's visa. in all my 7 years in Dubai, this is the first time I am faced with such unprofessional-ism and a lack of respect for staff. I will definitely take him to court.

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Latest post on 10 July 2014 - 10:45

I am a crazy fan of Tony Horton and Chalene Johnson's work. I also follow Chalene on Instagram and her quick work-outs are so innovative and motivating. I am now on that PiYo - can't wait to get my hands on it. I must say though I have never tried the shakes, I just follow the clean recipes and eat clean as much as possible and I see results within 20 days of my challenge. Started P90x after I gave birth. And ever since I have committed to doing it twice a year. Bring it Ladies!

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Latest post on 07 July 2014 - 11:18

I went from doing nail extensions to gel polish and my nails are very strong and healthy. I even do a gelish french manicure and most times people think I have nail extensions on. I highly recommend gel - however you need a very good person to apply it and ensure that it lasts long. I once experienced a lady who laid the nail polish on too thick and the polish started to peel within a week. Never used her again. Also key to good nails is following the product instruction, don't peel it off, visit your salon and have the lady remove it for you and put the treatment etc. Love it!

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Latest post on 02 July 2014 - 12:32

If science does not explain it for you, and you feel/believe there is more to it, I recommend you burn some sage and do some research on the subject. http://www.movingtowardspeace.com/mtpblog/the-ancient-art-of-burning-sage.html

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Latest post on 08 June 2014 - 15:09

A close friend of mine is South African, teaches foundation stage and earns 15k plus ticket home, medical aid, free education for her kids (she has twins) has 4 years experience and a Bed degree. She teaches at a nursery in Jumeirah.

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Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 12:31

I am in the same boat as you, my son is in a very reputable nursery that gets amazing reviews etc. But once on the inside things just change. Prior to joining this nursery my son had never had a cold or any other sickness (thank God) however when he started at this school he is always sick - sniffle here, rash there. Now I am a very practical person and knew this would come with enrolling my son in nursery. I only ask that when I ask the school what sort of precautions they have in place - they give me a good answer. My son has blossomed there, loves his teachers etc. For me as a parent, my relationship with the Nursery Manager has taken a dip, no hello when I drop him off. Even most of the teachers generally don't acknowledge you - I come from a country were it is impolite not to greet. This really irritates me, but I have had to accept that maybe a hello in the morning is not a prerequisite? Anyway just wanted to vent, and I am considering moving to another nursery - after I do what Lolacat has suggested. I am paying money and I expect my issues to be dealt with in a clear manner.

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Latest post on 02 June 2014 - 12:33

Hi there, I would say make sure you have a clear schedule, written done and stuck on the fridge with goals/tasks you expect your nanny to achieve. This includes meals/snacks for the day, nap time, play time, learning time etc. You want to take the thinking out of it all and let your nanny get on with it. By doing this you at-least (fingers crossed) protect your child from being plonked in-front of the tv the whole day.

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Latest post on 28 May 2014 - 15:47

I thought they had changed that rule and if it is only minor they want you to go to them now. Yep for minor stuff just go to the station at somepoint and make a file for insurance. Oh really? Had no idea, husband always insists they come to us....not that we dent the car often lol!

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Latest post on 28 May 2014 - 15:36

If you need insurance to pay for the damages then you need to call the police, otherwise if its a minor dent you can go to dentmaster to pay the cost of repair out of your pocket - if you cannot wait for police. I don't think you can drive to the police either, they need to come to you. <em>edited by Prettyperfect on 28/05/2014</em>

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Latest post on 28 May 2014 - 09:06

I don't subscribe to the notion that many successful businessmen have no degrees so it's ok to not get a degree. If we begin to preach this to them, they may fall on the way-side, without a degree and not turn into a Steve Jobs or Bill Gates. We raise our kids to know that school is important and it is, right up to that University degree that costs a fortune, because that's what parents do. We as parents are also tasked with the responsibility of understanding our children's dreams and how to help them get there. It's a very difficult position we are in. However thanks to life, we as parents are able to/should be to look at the bigger picture. Soccer and Education - how to make the two co-exist. At such a volatile age such as your son's it's important to find a balance between his dreams and reality. I second a lot of the ladies who have said let him explore his football passion while at University here. And with that compromise I am sure your husband will come around.

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Latest post on 21 May 2014 - 17:51

Hi, This is what my friend went through: She received an exciting offer and I was helping her to relocate. Officially if you call DNRD on 800111 I think, they will tell you no it's not possible - it depends on the duty Manager at the time of application. Anyway she brought her child along, got her visa - settled down and proceeded with child's visa with the assistance of a PRO. Day 1 we went there, and there was some guy (duty manager I assume) at the entrance of one the sections in the main DNRD office - he refused to let us in when we told him what we wanted. We had to go to the women's section where the ladies were very helpful. So they ladies said it's doable - they processed the paperwork then told us to go back to the guy who said no. We went back to him and he still said no. Then back to the ladies section - this time by luck there was a lady who appeared to be the Major's assistant. She took our papers and headed straight to the Major's office. He signed and sent us back to the guy who said no. When we returned to that guy, he was shocked and was trying to deny us entry when the Major arrived - saw us and asked what was the issue, that guy rolled out the red carpet for us. You would not believe the 360 change in attitude. Everything was brisk from there. From that day, I am no longer afraid of high ranking officials in the UAE. They are here to help us, it's the bottom power hungry people who give this country a bad name. Just wanted to encourage and tell you not to be discouraged as the rules here aren't exactly black and white. Don't be afraid, always seek a higher authority if someone tries to deny you anything. Good luck! Hi. Thank you for sharing your experience with your friend. I really do hope that I would have the same luck as her. Sorry, is your friend unmarried as well? She never married her baby's daddy. She did have the letter attested by embassy and min of foreign affairs - letter from father giving consent etc and standard residence paperwork.

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Latest post on 21 May 2014 - 15:06

Hi, This is what my friend went through: She received an exciting offer and I was helping her to relocate. Officially if you call DNRD on 800111 I think, they will tell you no it's not possible - it depends on the duty Manager at the time of application. Anyway she brought her child along, got her visa - settled down and proceeded with child's visa with the assistance of a PRO. Day 1 we went there, and there was some guy (duty manager I assume) at the entrance of one the sections in the main DNRD office - he refused to let us in when we told him what we wanted. We had to go to the women's section where the ladies were very helpful. So they ladies said it's doable - they processed the paperwork then told us to go back to the guy who said no. We went back to him and he still said no. Then back to the ladies section - this time by luck there was a lady who appeared to be the Major's assistant. She took our papers and headed straight to the Major's office. He signed and sent us back to the guy who said no. When we returned to that guy, he was shocked and was trying to deny us entry when the Major arrived - saw us and asked what was the issue, that guy rolled out the red carpet for us. You would not believe the 360 change in attitude. Everything was brisk from there. From that day, I am no longer afraid of high ranking officials in the UAE. They are here to help us, it's the bottom power hungry people who give this country a bad name. Just wanted to encourage and tell you not to be discouraged as the rules here aren't exactly black and white. Don't be afraid, always seek a higher authority if someone tries to deny you anything. Good luck!

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Latest post on 08 May 2014 - 10:09

I'm sorry ladies, but I disagree with all of you who say the OP has been very fair and the husband is breaking the agreement as if their relationship is some sort of business agreement. She agreed to 5 years; lo and behold so far they have been very successful. Outside of this issue OP does not complain about anything else, so I will believe this is a hard working man just trying to realise his dream which believe it or not is a dream he has for his family and the OP. Just because some women prefer to support their husbands does not make them a Stepford wife. Too many cooks spoil the broth. I too have dreams, and my dreams start with where my husband and kids are, then I expand from there. At the end of the day you know what works for your fundamental beliefs. I believe: 1. Husband is the provider of the Family 2. I am not a kept woman, do not want to be a kept woman. so I work full time 3. I work full time by choice. If I decide to leave my job today I can. 4. My primary role in my family is to cater to my husband and children's needs 5. I am the glue that binds us. 6. My deepest desire is to back pack - alone. Husband compromised with 1 week in a year where I disappear and just absorb life. 7. I used to obsess over finding myself and what makes me tick. Now I take each day as it comes 8. If I ever had to sacrifice my dreams for my husband's I would do it in a heart beat. It's an investment into the future. 9. Feminism is overrated. Only I can define my rights. 10. I am in my late twenties and I think like this. Maybe I am crazy. 11. Husbands too should play a role in the family and catering to my needs and sacrificing his dreams, however this is complicated - wife's discretion is advised.d 12. At times I feel like I am a failure, however I remind myself that I am the author of my own destiny and success follows me wherever I go, not the other way round. Your life is very organized. Not every woman is so confident about the future, though. Many women see the increased divorce rates and fear they may be a statistic in this one day, and do not want to be blind sighted when/if the day comes. That the one thing they had invested their life in "the marriage" has failed. Investing in ones self, investing in two successful, happy, fulfilled parents for your children is another fantastic way to raise a family. One fulfilled person loving and respecting another. Two great role models for children, as opposed to dad being successful and mum running the home. This does work,too, but only if mums heart is into it. edited by Londiamond on 08/05/2014 I agree with the above statements however please not i did not say we should be fully dépendant on Our husbands. I believe in empowerment That Is in line with a happy home and family. And especially with high divorce rates now is the time to dig deep and improve ourselves in our marriages without calculating how much you Can get out of tour divorce. Success Is where you mâke it. Op May go and not experience the success she désires. I dont know the op Just That she has to have fixes everything within herself before she leaves her husband in pursuit of success.

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Latest post on 08 May 2014 - 08:45

I'm sorry ladies, but I disagree with all of you who say the OP has been very fair and the husband is breaking the agreement as if their relationship is some sort of business agreement. She agreed to 5 years; lo and behold so far they have been very successful. Outside of this issue OP does not complain about anything else, so I will believe this is a hard working man just trying to realise his dream which believe it or not is a dream he has for his family and the OP. Just because some women prefer to support their husbands does not make them a Stepford wife. Too many cooks spoil the broth. I too have dreams, and my dreams start with where my husband and kids are, then I expand from there. At the end of the day you know what works for your fundamental beliefs. I believe: 1. Husband is the provider of the Family 2. I am not a kept woman, do not want to be a kept woman. so I work full time 3. I work full time by choice. If I decide to leave my job today I can. 4. My primary role in my family is to cater to my husband and children's needs 5. I am the glue that binds us. 6. My deepest desire is to back pack - alone. Husband compromised with 1 week in a year where I disappear and just absorb life. 7. I used to obsess over finding myself and what makes me tick. Now I take each day as it comes 8. If I ever had to sacrifice my dreams for my husband's I would do it in a heart beat. It's an investment into the future. 9. Feminism is overrated. Only I can define my rights. 10. I am in my late twenties and I think like this. Maybe I am crazy. 11. Husbands too should play a role in the family and catering to my needs and sacrificing his dreams, however this is complicated - wife's discretion is advised.d 12. At times I feel like I am a failure, however I remind myself that I am the author of my own destiny and success follows me wherever I go, not the other way round.

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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 08:57

I don't think that there is anything that you can do as long as your son has been vaccinated on schedule. He will have a top up at 5 years. That is the best we can do... Ok thank you, I just got off the phone with the doctor's office too and they said the same thing. I don't usually panic but the Polio outbreak has touched my heart.

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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 13:42

Is the maid muslim? My stomach churned when I read it. I hope she appeals and receive a lighter sentence.

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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 13:40

We had gone to the agency yesterday and spoke to a few kenyan maids on the telephone and decided on oneand was today going to start her visa procedure. However yesterday late night i got an whats app msg from the maid stating that she was the one i spoke to and that am i the one (pic in the profile) to whom she would come to work for I was kind off uncomfortable with this msg (may be because for me whats app is used for a very close knit group only. Is this ok and am i over reacting or should i think once more before i start the procedure. Also ladies whats your opinion on kenyan maids, as i always had indonesian and this is my first time with kenyan. Advice wanted Never had experience with Kenyan maid, nor hiring someone over the phone but perhaps give her another phone call and speak to her again? Ask some more questions? and ask why she messaged you over whatsaap? She has your contact number, she can whatsapp you. Anyone can, it's not so private - although a more educated person would not directly whatsapp a stranger etc... I would say she is curious to put a face to the person she spoke with and indirectly showing you she is on whatsapp to chat if you have any further questions. Nothing complicated here. A friend has a kenyan maid, very pleasant, adores the kids etc.

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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 12:52

While I fully empathise with the tough decision you have to make. I would like to state my opinion and maybe you can view things differently (which I highly doubt) and a lot of women here may disagree with what I have to say. I had a very lucrative life back home, however I left it to help DH pursue his dream. It was a tough time for us, with me border lining depression till I learnt a few things about myself. My career is not back home, it is where I am. I make things happen for myself. I would love to pack up and go back home, but my husband is very much settled here and has been able to provide very well for us. In marriage, we sacrifice/compromise to reach the end goal. You mention giving him 5 years, and it's time he gave you - when your 5 years is up does he get another 5? Where is the growth when running a family like that?

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Latest post on 02 May 2014 - 22:04

well I think this thread is one of the worst ideas we've ever had on here.... sorry but if your spouse is that bad then divorce him fgs, other wise just suck it up - none of us are perfect and i'm sure there's loads of things I do that pee my husband off but at the end of the day we're happy.... I thought EW was supposed to be a place where women could share stuff and ask for advice, not slag their husbands off or gloat in the knowledge that at least their husband isn't as horrible as all the others......sorry. My husband is lovely and I love him as much now as I did when I married him 27 years ago...sorry to disappoint... When I started this thread I clearly stated that if your husband is perfect and have nothing to add on here stay away. So you really did not have to come on and post telling us to get a divorce. I too love my husband and are happily married. In all the 27 years you have been married, I highly doubt that your husband does not drive you up the wall sometimes - however its not grounds for divorce. One poster's frustrations were very serious, and we tried our best to offer our support. And yes, this thread is helping me, and thats how i benefit from EW. I was irritated and came on here to share my frustrations, now I am just laughing at a lot of these, and I am sure other women on here are too. It enables us to also appreciate our husbands, so just lighten up - in the most respectful way. And I am definitely not trying to say I am perfect, I too have my own bad habits that irritate him but we love each other and our irritating traits. We look forward to counting 27 years like you one day. <em>edited by Prettyperfect on 02/05/2014</em>

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Latest post on 02 May 2014 - 00:06

Love him to bits and I'm very lucky however ;) 1) Puts his dirty clothes on the lid of the laundry basket never inside. 2) Googles stuff to prove he is right during a discussion. 3) Lies around until I'm ready to walk out the door & then needs a drink, toilet, brush teeth etc 4)Chews so flaming loudly! 5) Jiggles his big feet in bed at night making the whole bed shake 6) Keeps cables for everything electrical he has ever owned I feel great getting that off my chest :) omg number 6 Is the story of my life.

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:54

What about face products? My Dh uses mine, and I recently switched to another face wash and he came out of the bathroom commenting on how great the product is and his pores are so open he does not want to clog them with face cream..lol lol lol! This is one thing I don't mind my DH doing. I'd rather he 'borrowed' my products than didn't bother. I agree, so my thinking was if he cared for male grooming I'd buy him his own range...he doesn't use. Prefers mine and now my products aren't lasting as long lol

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:53

Another funny thing is there are certain things I will ask for and he will refuse, and say if you were my girlfriend i'd jump to do it but now you're my wife so naaahh! Thats just awful, maybe say "dont worry about it I decided to get me a boyfriend, he will jump to it". lol, I would be asking for trouble if I were to respond like that. I simply skip making dinner and let him know i'm behaving like a girlfriend this week. Better than saying the B word...lol

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:47

What about face products? My Dh uses mine, and I recently switched to another face wash and he came out of the bathroom commenting on how great the product is and his pores are so open he does not want to clog them with face cream..lol lol lol!

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:46

It's good to know I'm not the only only. My husband is so good at his job, high level blah blah but at home, might as well be dealing with an infant. Lazy for days! We spent 2 weeks without bedroom lights, when I complained he added another week. I won't even mention the poor grass outside. Another funny thing is there are certain things I will ask for and he will refuse, and say if you were my girlfriend i'd jump to do it but now you're my wife so naaahh!

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:29

When we first moved to the middle east and got a maid, he used to run around doing all the laundry and cleaning everything before the maid arrived. I told him to let her do her job. Now ... he does nothing in the house at all! At-least he follows your instructions love...LOL

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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 12:41

If you're husband doesn't do anything to irritate you stay away from the thread. I love my husband to bits but sometimes he drives me up the wall: 1. We are off to bed, just as I am getting comfortable - he whispers "I'm thirsty". This means going down the stairs to the fridge to fetch a glass of water for him. I'm his dedicated thirst quencher. 2. He secretly thinks he is a youtube sensation and sings stupid songs about me which I secretly believe would go viral if we filmed them. I try not to laugh, if I do laugh it means I have confirmed him as the King of Comedy. 3. 3 weeks later and 1 stair gate has been installed at the bottom of the stairs - patiently waiting for top stair gate to be installed. I can't push him you see, it will delay the task further. 4. I think he was sent to this planet to ignore my advice. So sometimes I try to tell him the opposite so that he does what I want. 5. His first wife is his Iphone, I am the one sent to find it when it goes missing. 6. He hates easy meals, always compares me to an Indian housewife who grinds and makes curries and fresh bread suggesting that she is a better wife because she slaves at the kitchen. I grill fish and throw a salad together, he rolls his eyes. He will not eat pasta at home, but devour it at a restaurant. What irritating things does your husband do. I could go on and on!

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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 18:00

OP, on that package to be honest life will be pretty tough for you and your husband. You would need to get a jop asap. A lot depends on why you are leaving your home country. For some people it may be to enjoy the luxury of living in Sharjah and commuting to work for 2 hours or living in shared accommodation with your family with a basic food allowance and sending little home. You will not be greeted with a red carpet on that package. Your child will also be unable to attend a high end school. There are schools within your budget, then again what sort of education do you value is the question? Think long and hard before you venture out. Use dubizzle for a price on rent - check on rooms to rent too to see the other side of the coin (although this is illegal) sadly that's the reality of your salary bracket. If you get a job and earn say 14k or even 6k, things can get better slightly. I am all for hardwork!

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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 09:27

Dear OP, When we moved to the UAE, I unfortunately had 2 very bad experiences with domestic help. I am a very cheerful person who grew up with househelp so I know very well how to treat a maid. This place almost changed my perception on how to treat people. Everywhere I turned, I was met with the same advice, you are too soft, you need to rule with an iron fist blah blah. The one person who grounded me was my husband, he insisted that the 3rd maid we have, we will open our home to her. If it does not work out then hard-luck, at-least we retain our dignity. I can say to you it's been just over 5 years, and we are very happy. Soon we will be off to her wedding, and she may resign to try something else, because I enabled her to do a secretarial course. I am very happy. When I look back at the past, I am peaceful, I know no one holds a grudge against me. Not saying fly in the sky and kiss your maid, have rules etc, but don't let this experience change you. And you handled it pretty well. Do not feel bad about the salary, its the consequences for her actions, which is fair in my opinion. I worry for your child, may you find someone better, who will be a constant. Ta!

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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 08:37

I disagree; she has signed a year long contract - that is her commitment and there should be consequences for not keeping to her commitment. If i signed a year long contract and after 7 months decided it wasn't for me, there would be consequence. Are you saying that because she is a maid that she should not be held to the same eithical standards as other people? No Izzy, I agree with what you are saying. I gave the example of how I received an automatic ban after 9 months. If the system did that for maids, then no issue. Note with my automatic ban I am able to lift it, meaning that the Govt understands that people WILL change jobs. However it is the requirement of you as the employer to make that decision that bothers me. My employer did not place a ban on me even though I broke the contract - and that's how it should be. This whole ban thing is akin to slavery. Outside of the UAE how would this be handled? To even discuss or justify banning someone makes my skin crawl, I think as a society we can do better. The Govt places the option, but can't we rise above it? Professionally and Domestic. <em>edited by Prettyperfect on 30/04/2014</em>

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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 08:30

unless she committed a crime. She has been working illegally. Putting herself at risk of imprisonment and deportation. Putting OP at risk of a 50k fine. Was she herself thinking of her kids and family? How is that for taking responsibility of her own actions? In my statement I chose to ignore the working illegally on the side because it is not very clear to me. Counting on the OP's judgement it could be possible. However as an outsider looking in, or if it were me, I would first verify my sources. And asking myself, who would most likely sell my maid out? Other maids. And what do these maids have to gain from it..... That's my line of thinking. Now given the fact that she already wants to leave and there is talk of illegal work, I would simply wash my hands of the matter and send her on her way. Hoping that her next employer will be more diligent. I would not place a ban unless I was absolutely certain that she had jeopardised my family. Once again, maybe I am naive.

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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 08:26

Unlike most of us professional woman a ban on a domestic worker is a ban on her family, her kids etc. It is a catastrophic domino effect which you may never truly understand or ever have to face.. And the maid must take responsibility for this. Her family lose out as does the OP and her family. Give them an inch etc. Because she had the audacity to change her mind about working for the OP her family must suffer? In your profession, have you never changed jobs?

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 08:16

. Unlike most of us professional woman a ban on a domestic worker is a ban on her family, her kids etc. It is a catastrophic domino effect which you may never truly understand or ever have to face. I implore the other ladies here too, unless she committed a crime and you are legally obliged, take the high road. I feel very passionately about this, because I volunteered at a shelter in the Philippines and saw the other side of the coin. Well said. It is sad to see so much anger and rage and calling for bans for a maid daring to want to leave before her contract ends. If she leaves before her contract ends, an employer can always refuse to pay for the ticket back, but banning a person from a job unless she definitely has done something criminal like stealing just smacks of a vengeful mindset. Agree if she is willing to pay back pro rota visa costs etc.... otherwise ban and not as a vengenful act but to stop other famallies suffering the same fate. At what cost would you be willing to bear with a maid you who has decided to leave but will stay on for an additional 3 months to pay off her visa? My current contract states that if I leave before probation I have to pay for my visa costs, I think its fair and I can afford it. Now with our housemaids its a different ball game all together, I imagine we as a family would no longer enjoy nor trust the benefits of having a domestic worker on notice. Note also that it is within her rights to decide this is not for her. She too has a family, or whatever clandestine reason it may be, fact is she can no longer exist in the house. I would just write it off as a bad decision on my part, unfortunate and learn from it by trying to incorporate the whole pay for visa issue at start of contract - although it would be a threat I would never follow through on. Also note the OP stated that she was an otherwise very good housemaid whom she counted on dearly, can we not thank her for her time served and send her on her way in peace? Maybe I am just naive, but I like to believe that a little of my blood has not been tainted by these Dubai nuances.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 29 April 2014 - 20:50

As professional women we rejoiced when the ban rules were eased. I recently switched jobs within 6 months of my employment. While my employer was disappointed I did not receive a ban from them. I did however receive the automatic ban from labour which I have lifted using my better position, salary etc. As a woman's forum, I would like you to rise above the injustice you have experienced. Do exactly what is required of you and send her packing. Unlike most of us professional woman a ban on a domestic worker is a ban on her family, her kids etc. It is a catastrophic domino effect which you may never truly understand or ever have to face. I implore the other ladies here too, unless she committed a crime and you are legally obliged, take the high road. I feel very passionately about this, because I volunteered at a shelter in the Philippines and saw the other side of the coin.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 12:26

A friend in the same predicament resorted to using RTA taxi with the nanny and car seat for afternoon pick up. I help whenever I can but I did not want to commit to it then change my mind :( From my conversations with her, everything else was very expensive. I will recommend her to try In Safe Hands. Hope you find something.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 08:35

OP, It is unfortunate that we live in a society without dog regulations. I know in some places one bite and a dog is put down. While other places will quarantine the dog and observe it for signs of aggression. Your case is further complicated by the fact that you have a toddler. I would say you need to quickly assess the situation and try to understand why your dog reacted that way, as some people have said - the dog may have felt threatened. Do biting dogs deserve a second chance? It only takes one bite to create a monster.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 16:38

Managing Director fires hubby and bans him from Dubai. Now he is making moves on you.... Happy for you though. Just be careful who you let into your heart. You took the words right out of my mouth. If it were my husband.....we would be in World War 3 where money is concerned, ban or no ban. I would have a criminal case waiting for me in my home country.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 09:31

Sorry to hear about your bad experience OP. I guess I have been lucky with maids.ae as I have not had any serious issues with them. Both companies you mention are one of the oldest companies in the business. Maybe they are slacking, or the guy was tired and the Jumeirah Maids girl was new. It's a hit or miss with these companies sometimes.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 06:37

wow, all nationalities can participate? What a great initiative. Do you have some offers for certain nationalities only, maybe 500 AED returns?

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 21 April 2014 - 13:29

Dear OP I have the NBAD card - blue and its called the e-dirham card. I mention the colour because they have different types and the blue one enables online purchases. I applied for it at NBAD using my Emirates ID and passport. They ask for original passport - no idea why. Received it same day. Loaded it at the ATM and I use it for everything. I can check my account online and top up whenever I need. If you wanted a credit card - I know it's very difficult to obtain one as an SME, my husband and I struggled to get one and eventually gave up. I know Mashreq has a special service if I remember correctly but it was such a tedious process and our business took off real quick so we never really needed a credit facility.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 19 April 2014 - 16:16

Outside of the UAE asking for someone's nationality is borderline racist and I believe we would not publicly acknowledge or justify this in anyway - outside of the UAE. We as a society in the UAE are racist, we stereotype in public and behind closed doors. We come in clean, then suddenly we are tainted. OP you have every right to be upset by it. Unfortunately being viewed as a native English speaker may not be reflected in your written English - for those who claim superiority based on their mother-tongue. I believe written English is a different ball game. I learnt that the hard way. We had a Social Media role to fill and we hired a British girl initially - it didn't work out, her English was very poor. We then switched to an American girl and had the same experience. Both had wonderful personalities, accomplished Degrees but their grammar was atrocious. I try my level best not to judge a person by their passport. Instead by their qualifications and what the role may require. We all play a role in this nationality, passport thing. Try to be fair and view someone based on their qualifications and not their passport.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 14 April 2014 - 11:22

Had a quick word with my brother and the plot has thickened. On the day in question his father in law will be over visting, so she is planning an rememberance day for her past mother. Brother said , this is the first time she has done this. He is still brings the kids to our party. It will leave her to remember her mother along with her Dad and his NEW GIRLFRIEND !!! I fail to see how this 'thickens the plot" and I find your suspicions totally uncalled for. Most likely she is making a point to her dad's new girlfriend by remembering her mum on that day, so in my view it only explains why she is not coming to your party. Given the fact that her kids and husband are coming I don't see why you are complaining about this. If you were a real friend you would take to her directly instead of talking to your brother behind her back. Why are your bitching me? How can people learn about different cultures , customs and traditions if they don't ask questions ? I only just learnt that my brother and his kids are coming . Why I posted was to see if it is a cultural thing english people do as when we announced the party she said it clashed with the date of the death anniversary and they all could not come. Her Dad has been married again since and was not even married to the dead mom when she died. She also remarried well before her death. I am not being mean. I was looking for opinions to help my understanding and whether I should cancel on account of the grief. edited by Whereintheworld on 14/04/2014 Very crass Whereintheworld. Your words lack emotion and respect for the dead.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 11 April 2014 - 22:58

How do I handle tantrums ladies? My son is generally very good around other people - at nursery to be specific, however when we are out for dinner or at the mall, my husband and I are very nervous all the time because we always know that we end up becoming those parents you see out with a kid writhing on the floor and we leave with him in our arms kicking and screaming. At home, he is generally well behaved too but he has these bouts of fighting with us, punching and clapping etc. Im a first time my mom and TBA i don't know how to deal with this. I ignore the bad behaviour, tried time outs but he does not comprehend. We don't do sweets, i'm very religious with his routine, and his days are very predictable. The naps really help to. Would love to get some insight from you all.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 09 April 2014 - 21:14

Hi I have a 2 and half year old boy, goes to nursery till 1230 and he gets home has lunch and naps till 3pm. When he wakes up he will play for a bit this may include colouring, watching barney depending on his mood, then he has a snack around 430pm and finally is out for a walk at 5 mostly a cycle around the neighbourhood or visiting the park. He spends about an hour out, back 6-630. We have family dinner. Husband plays with him, then bedtime bath at 730-8pm, story time and lights out at 830. I found that afternoon naps take the edge out of him, and I would have loved to have him in bed at 7 but for my family 830 seems to be the best time. Would love to hear from others.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 April 2014 - 15:28

I have been living for this season to start...Im on the verge of buying the books!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 April 2014 - 08:43

Dear OP, I have been sitting on the sidelines watching everyone comment, and i finally decided to throw in my two cents. My husband and I have a very good lifestyle, we are fortunate to have all the necessary benefits that make life simple. For a family of 3 adults and a 2 year old, our grocery bill averages 2500 aed shopping online at geant - then 500 aed a week for fresh produce from Carrefour. We live in Al Furjan. Life for us is good, we have very little to complain about. On the other hand, I have a cousin who lives here too. Life hasn't been very good to them. They have lived here for 7 years. And started out earning a very low salary. With hardwork and determination, they suffered but today they are in a better position. The husband earns about 25k, they live in Al warqa with 3 kids in a 2 bed flat. She works, however her salary is very low. My point is that in Dubai, there are very different people with different lifestyle expectations and different advice. While I would never be happy living in DSO or Dubai Land, there are some people happy with that lifestyle. My point being, you will get people saying why bother coming if you are struggling to balance the numbers. Ask yourself what it is that you and your family want out of life. What sort of struggles are you willing to encounter to get there. My cousin has taught me to be grateful for the life I have, and I envy theirs because they appear very organized with their finances. They also show me that with less money, life does go on. I wish you all the best, and you can make a life for you and your husband here on that salary. It just might not be the grand life you envisioned. Once you start working, then things will improve. Dubai has its negatives, but we all came here for a purpose and I encourage you to come out, just be realistic with your finances.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 April 2014 - 10:33

Hi I need to redesign and install new bathroom, does anyone have company/person they can recommend thanks fiona Hi Fiona, I use Codice Interiors for the office and residential, although they are predominantly into commercial projects only they do take on mini projects. I recommend you find 3 interior companies and select the best out of them. You can reach Codice Interiors on +971 430 0735. Their Senior designer is Italian. Also try The Bigfitout, i highly recommend them.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 01 April 2014 - 14:39

Hi there, Your friend is giving him power by being in constant fear of him posting the pictures. My advice would be to come clean to friends and family acknowledging that there are some bad pictures out there which were taken during an intimate time, with someone she trusted. She apologizes and has learnt never to take such sensitive pics again. She is essentially a victim of emotional abuse and there is no way besides a head on acknowledgment, it leaves the x bf powerless in my opinion. Look at Kim K... Maybe Kim K is extreme, I had a friend who had an intimate relationship with a guy here and he threatened her endlessly. Imagine with the UAE and its rules. She called his bluff and nothing happened. Not saying your friend's bf won't post anything though...

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