annorman | ExpatWoman.com
 

annorman

245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 October 2016 - 22:05
if you are buying handwoven or iranian/ persian rugs, I think it would be very worthwhile. I have taken about 5 UK tourists to Blue Souk and they have all been complimented on numerous occasions when they went home. One also managed to sell one for 3x cost last year as they are pretty tough to find over there. More usual are the turkish kilims. Happy shopping!!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2016 - 22:08
I get mine from Union Co-op - got about 2kg last time for 10dhs. Also the meat markets in Deira always have them and willing to give them away for a song. They are probably the freshest I've had - such high turnover there.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2016 - 22:05
They adopt a heavy censorship policy here on EW so it really could have been anything....usually, if it causes any level of lively debate, the thread will be promptly deleted!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 August 2016 - 23:09
Who is travelling during the forthcoming EID? I've heard that most direct flights are fast disappearing but there are still decent deals to be had....we just booked up for Seychelles for 4 days.....excited!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 August 2016 - 19:10
Hi Vanessa, If you google Federal Law number 5 in the UAE, this should be a good starting point in terms of regulations. I helped fund a nursery in Jumeriah back in 2011 which was a very interesting experience. What I would say is that if you get it right, it will be very lucrative - I ended up getting fully repaid within 3 years (4 years ahead of schedule). Good luck!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2016 - 10:44
A big thank you to everyone that wished me luck and gave me advice on my quest - i am over the moon. should be out there in the next 3/4 months (got to work my notice period!!! - gggrrrrrrr) i cannot wait !!! Very well done Puj75 - I had a good feeling about this one and hopefully you have a relaxing notice period before you move onwards and upwards! Congrats!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2016 - 10:42
Maybe some of you have seen in the news recently that Victoria Beckham has been slammed by her followers for posting an image of her kissing her child on the lips... [url=https://www.buzzfeed.com/jasminnahar/people-are-defending-victoria-beckham-after-she-was-slammed?utm_term=.nbYmM2z7q#.qn898r2OY'>You can read the full story here.[/url'> We'd like to know your thoughts -- are you a parent who kisses their children on their lips? Or if not, why and is it acceptable? At what age do you need to stop? Is this Admin's attempt at stimulating debate / conversation on a pretty dormat forum?
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 July 2016 - 14:50
Agree with the consensus here - why lose sleep over the lock repair which you should be able to do for a couple of hundred dirhams......not worth going through RERA and causing aggro with the landlord.....leave it for a serious problem!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2016 - 01:11
Hi Marie, Having sold businesses in the past, I would recommend that you pay rather than look for a free option which is full of time-wasters / bargain hungers. I have always used an agent and / or contacts when looking for buyers - I've been lucky to be approached on a couple of occassions direct also. Sounds like you have spent time building / developing a business so hopefully it will be $100 well spent to get a decent deal for your labours. You could also look at networking for people in the fashion / lifestyle industry - perhaps list in Regional magazines / journals. Happy Listing!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2016 - 00:12
Yep we are leaving back to the UK too.......................but we will be back after 2 months in September :-)
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 June 2016 - 10:49
Kasia, Get those plane tickets booked - I think Fairydusts should alleviate your concerns :-)
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2016 - 21:07
I've been using a Facebook site "Dubai Marina Buy Buy Sell Sell" to get rid of most of my stuff. Completely free and they appear to be concentrated on the Western expat crowd and I've found the process to be far simpler than the usual 'best price, last price, will you accept x" message trail / calls I would usually get on Dubizzle.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 June 2016 - 08:15
Hi there ladies, Is anyone else using the above? I have to say, I was a bit skeptical at first, but my thrifty coffee companion persuaded me to download the app, insisting that I had nothing to lose and that I would instantly receive AED 40 credit by using a promo code. I have to confess that I actually was not listening when she started running off the list of rewards which were applicable (on the basis I already have numerous reward cards, store loyalty cards, credit card schemes), I just thought it was another one of these schemes. Anyway, this was around 6 weeks ago, and I started seeing these 'Beam' terminals at a lot of places I was shopping - Carrefour, Geant, Shakespheres, Jones the Grocer, Costa. Instead of using cash, I would just touch my mobile and go. It was only when I re-convened with my coffee-buddy yesterday that she asked "so how are you getting on with your rewards then". As I hadn't really been paying attention to these great rewards, I actually felt embarrassed but politely asked her to show me how I could access them. When she did this, I was amazing to see that I had racked up 650dhs of cashback and 180dhs of Uber credit in that period! I literally couldn't believe it! So I've since properly researched the rewards: 10% cashback on all expenditure + for every 800 dirhams you spend, you get a 30 dhs Uber voucher. This is on top of any rewards/airmiles you would usually earn from any store cards / credit cards you already have. For any ladies interested in getting the instant free 40dhs credit, the code is "CQBBJTX"
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2016 - 07:41
"i.e. a building where I can rent and office AND an apartment?" Yes mixed residential / office buildings exist across Dubai so this should be straightforward. I have a friend who has a similar set up in Bay Square in Business Bay - very upcoming area and looking very cool these days with all the shops, restaurants and offices filling up quickly
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 May 2016 - 19:37
I would highly recommend resume.ae (http://www.resume.ae) - they provide a free consultation on your existing CV (no obligation after that) and helped out one of our best friends who managed to get himself a role in the UAE recently last month on the back of a revamped CV from these guys.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 May 2016 - 19:04
Hi Anouja, I've been round to most of the main resorts / hotels in Dubai and I keep going back to One&Only - perfect setting, great spa treatments, and amazing beach, pool, restaurants to relax afterwards. This is now my go-to place when I have guests / surprise gifts and never fails to disappoint. Happy relaxing!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 May 2016 - 20:15
I wouldn't mind finding out some more information re. the investment opportunity. If it interesting enough, I might be happy to support
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 May 2016 - 07:30
Hi - we have a place near Camden which is empty for almost half a year.....a bit of a waste but we have a lot of our belongings in there and we visit 3 or 4 times a year. What sort of dates are you looking at? We are heading back in July for 6 weeks so not sure when you are planning on heading back.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 May 2016 - 23:28
Fantastic! Good luck Zuhairah - if you need someone to chat to for a bit more background on how they operate, ask for James Maidlaw. He's one of the good guys in recruitment and, even though he specialises in the banking field, he will be able to give you advice / put you in touch with the right specialist (and then you aren't really going in cold).
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2016 - 22:57
Hi Izzy, First of all, very well done on your selfless efforts - you've done a fantastic job and we need more people like you to make the world a better place. I've recently managed to sell loads of things via Facebook sites - one which I found particularly successful was 'Dubai Marina Buy Buy Sell Sell' which I managed to sell 15 items in the space of 10 days. Unlike Dubizzle, All buyers have been western-expat orientated and I seemed to have managed to avoid the aggressive hagglers and timewasters! I meant to do so but I will contact you separately to make a donation. All the best!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2016 - 22:45
Hi Zuhairah, What field of work is your DH in? My DH is presently recruiting for Financial Services positions and is exclusive with Robert Half who do a lot of work with the Abu Dubai banks. Appreciate your DH is at CEO status and hence none of the roles would be suited to him but worth giving RH a call if he does work in banking. I'm aware that FGB have lost a number of exec positions lately and are actively looking for a number of key roles to be filled. Happy job hunting!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 April 2016 - 09:14
Hi, how can we get in touch with you about this?
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 April 2016 - 09:13
Why don't you try listing on one of the FB Buy and Sell Groups - we have friends who have just started "Dubai Marina Buy Buy Sell Sell" and stuff seems to sell very quickly!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 April 2016 - 21:29
Hello - unless you are sure you have received funds into your paypal account, I would avoid doing the deal. One of my businesses accepts paypal payment - whilst they do take a commission in respect of all receivables, they do provide piece-of-mind for buyers and sellers (i.e. they will / do reimburse where there are are any issues with transactions). I have never had any issues where a person has credited my account . Happy Selling!!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2016 - 20:27
Yes, I would say 11k upfront is actually quite reasonable - our last maid was around 14k. Think of it as an investment, if you get a good one, she really will be worth her weight in gold and afford you a lifestyle you may struggle to match back at home.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2016 - 18:11
Unfortunately the Auction House has ceased trading and therefore you will have to use the likes of dubizzle, classifieds etc to sell your goods. Happy selling!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2016 - 20:36
I found it really good - perfect weather after the storms earlier and good variety of entertainment and food options. Also appeared to be a lot more freebies this year (spin the wheel sort of things). DH / I had a decent haul of freebies including : dinner for 4 at Thai Orchid, 2 x 250dhs vouchers from MMI, 1 x free entry to Kidzania, 1 x free game of bowling at yalla bowling, 12 free coffees at Costa (giving them away liberally), dinner for 2 at Nobu. So overall, well worth the trip and we have plenty to keep us going over the coming weeks!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2016 - 20:26
3. Can he ban you from working in Dubai? No - due to recent labour law revisions, a labour ban is no longer enforceable as of 1st January 2016.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 March 2016 - 14:20
Hi, try Polkadot Party Hire - used them a couple of times and they've always been great with me. https://polkadotpartyhire.com/product-category/tables-and-seating/ Happy Partying!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 February 2016 - 13:13
Hi Hope31, DH is presently recruiting for a Analyst position based in Abu Dhabi - if this would be of interest. They are actively looking at diversifying nationality and hence coming from Europe ticks the box. But it does require some finance / accounting background preferably?
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 February 2016 - 10:08
Talk about first world problems!!!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2016 - 23:10
Scarab22, if you are in an apartment block, the maintenance guys should be able to help you with a drill (and probably do the holes for you). Just give them a nice tip afterwards. Happy drilling!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2016 - 23:02
Pink Lily, Yes you can do it with HSBC - pretty handy to have right now as you can instantly transfer funds from your AED account to £ without commission and take advantage of the present interest rates. Happy saving!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 January 2016 - 12:57
Ditto on blondie's comment - I'm friends with 3 ladies (who had all been on EW for over 3 years) who no longer use EW because of the number of posts / threads which were being deleted when any kind of debate got remotely controversial / lively. You find the 'old timers' have so much knowledge / experience to share and hence their loss is a shame. Also its clear that EW don't want members to contact each other direct via these boards (they have their own commercial interests to protect via their organised / sponsored events) and hence FB boards create more of a community feel where you can contact whoever you want.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2016 - 20:14
Its the lowest it has been in 5-years which is great news - will be transferring a chunk tomorrow!!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 January 2016 - 13:40
Hi Dgec, Sorry I didn't realise what your salary was before suggesting the bank - in your circumstances, I would suggest that you seek the help of your family / friends to help get you on your feet with a loan. Then you could look for a job with higher pay where you can save properly. Even if you were to get a loan from a loan shark, it would be risky and also, I think it would be challenging to get a decent sized loan with your present disposable income. Good luck and wish you all the best in Dubai!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 January 2016 - 22:13
DISASTER.....Pizzaexpress has also disappeared!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 January 2016 - 19:32
Hi Dgec, welcome to Dubai. If you are looking for finance for the purposes of renting a place yourself, I think a rent / bank loan should be achievable and perfectly normal in the UAE given the structure of the rental system. Provided that you can comfortably afford the repayments, I see no issues on going down this road. You mention that banks have 'very strict requirements' but, from what I've seen / heard, they are actually a lot more lenient that I would expect (e.g. I have a friends who have multiple loans / credit cards and they've told me that banks don't even check / verify what other debts they have elsewhere). As I mentioned, rent loans are the norm here so I would approach one of the banks who should be able to help. In terms of approaching other loan shark-type lenders, I would avoid! Happy Borrowing!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2016 - 19:30
I believe Aquaventure was removed from last year's book - I've just checked the app for 2016 and can confirm that its not in this year's book. Loads of other vendors have also stopped working with the Entertainer - I've noticed around 7 or 8 places which have been removed from 2016 which is quite disappointing. Even the likes of Red Lobster and Nandos have disappeared!!! Used to love using the ones for Yo Sushi also.. Wish I had waited now rather than being seduced by their 'buy early' inducements towards the end of last year.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 January 2016 - 13:32
probably your best bet is to call them and see if any kind souls have handed the phone in - I think most people would hand it in if they stumbled across it. Also try ringing it to see if anyone answers.....
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 January 2016 - 13:04
We went on a Saturday so they definitely do it then. By the way it is set up, it could be available everyday. Forgot to mention - if you get a table on the terrace, you have stunning full marina views. Happy Roasting!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 December 2015 - 23:21
the Intercontinental on the Marina has one of the best roasts dinners I've had - its on the ground floor in a restaurant called Accents. They have all cuts of meat (loads of pork) and all the trimmings. The veg etc is kept in small quantities but always replenished to ensure freshness.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 December 2015 - 22:14
Dubai officials are saying that the fire is 'under control' but appears that over 50 floors are in flames, the sprinkler system doesn't appear to have activated and there is speculation that the structure may now collapse.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 December 2015 - 22:05
Unfortunately it looks like the whole hotel is being gutted - the entire hotel appears in flames right now. Such a shame!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 December 2015 - 23:10
Lego! works every time!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 December 2015 - 23:10
Lego! works every time!
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 December 2015 - 08:38
http://www.bayt.com/en/cv-writing/ Various options here depending on how slick you need it
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 November 2015 - 22:49
Hi Ivy, try www.bayt.com - loads of UAE vacancies there in the fields which you mentioned.
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 November 2015 - 22:44
So this is a personal question. I'm a (relatively) newly wed. It's been 1.5 years since we got married and we have a 9 month old son. I'm a stay at home mom and didn't get a chance to get a job in Dubai since I got pregnant as soon as I moved here. I was working before getting married so I was financially independent but now I'm dependent on my husbands like most of the south as in women. My husband is the typical clueless man and thinks that women do not spend much otherwise than grocery shopping. I've explained to him time and again that girls like to shop but he doesn't get it. He doesn't stop finances but doesnt extend them voluntarily either. I'm still shy of asking him for more money and now I'm just tired of having the same money related debate with because I'm afraid he'll start thinking I'm some sort of materialistic spend thrift. Now, with a baby, i have to budget my 'pocket money' really hard and have hardly any savings of my own. He gives me 2000-2500dhs every month for myself, and grocery is separate from this. How much do other stay at home moms get from their husbands to spend? "Now, with a baby, i have to budget my 'pocket money' really hard and have hardly any savings of my own. He gives me 2000-2500dhs every month for myself" This isn't designed to sound harsh but I would just like to put things into context - you are a full time stay-at-home housewife and mother of a baby. If you were employed as a maid with the same responsibilities as you presently have (less the bedroom activities), your husband would have to pay more than what he is paying you. In fact, once you factor all the additional costs on top of salary, he would probably have to pay close to 4,000.........and this is BEFORE having to incur expenditure in respect of your baby which would be at least an additional 1,500dhs. So I think you are being sold short - you are in a partnership with DH, and if he is earning comfortably, you are doing more than your fair share by supporting the family so you should be given sufficient funds so you don't feel like the way you do...........
245
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 19:16
wow - 5.61 was a great rate! I'm kicking myself now as I transferred via Lulu exchange in September for 5.74 which was the best rate I could find at the time and the slight tweak equates to over £2k....the best deal my bank could offer for the same deal were 5.87! Can I ask which exchange house in Satwa please Goku?