crystalsindubai | ExpatWoman.com
 

crystalsindubai

crystalsindubai
713
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 April 2011 - 15:49
All of Me Love with a Perfect Stranger Highroad to China Something's Gotta Give
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 April 2011 - 18:24
Used to live in RAK town and commute. Whilst I would not repeat the experience if tied to a certain timing and location in Dubai that requires driving on Emirates Road thru Sharjah, if you can choose your timing into Dubai or drive to JA on the By-Pass Road, it's plain sailing (read driving). I would say approx 1 hr 20-30 min (to DIP).
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 April 2011 - 18:16
You're welcome. Hope all's going fine and dandy. M
crystalsindubai
713
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EW GURU
Latest post on 23 April 2011 - 18:10
JLT Community Market - next Friday. One needs trade licence. Call Ed Singleton, tel 050-728 4057.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 April 2011 - 09:52
There are a few places along the Emirates Road towards Ras Al KHaimah (after the newish Enoc stations), both on the left and right side of the motorway.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 23:38
to vp: I believe the new burj in Saudi ARabia heen postponed (at the very least), if not cancelled!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 15:01
There is a shopping mall on Jumeirah Beach Road that has been standing empty since the crash, but I understand they have some lovely apartments facing the sea. Can't quite remember the agency that handles these units (seven....something). Good luck with your search!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 14:57
Ignorance is bliss... but for how long? With certain "supplements" one can protect ones body, or expel contamination with others after the fact. Yes, it is a frightening subject, but I for one want to be informed, at least as much informed as one can be in this global media silence. For what it's worth, I am reading a daily newsletter called NaturalNews (www.naturalnews.com) which publishes a lot of information which is, I agree, mostly applicable to the US/Canada. Anyone who wishes to have the articles on Fukushima since March 11, please let me know; can email the links.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 13:33
Sorry to hear that, Tigerente... hope you'll find the right place for you...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 12:29
Hi Tigerente, Not familiar with the names you mentioned. The salon I have used for many years is NBar in the Palm Strip, Jumeirah Beach Road, only uses hermetically sealed and sterilized tools that are being opened before you. Their service has always been impeccable.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 12:24
Tarmeem World are specializing on antique restoration. They are at the Beach Center Jumeirah, 1st floor, and their consultant's contact is Teresa Godlewska, mob 050-515 8819
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 12:04
He Shezza1, Trainer sent the following reply: quote There are two things to be considered while determining the notice period: (a) Which contract was signed at later date; and (b) Is the employer capable of filing a court case against the employee for breach of contract (if the employee serves only one month notice). As explained during the training, MoL is a mediation authority that tries to settle disputes between parties amicably. If either party is not happy with the suggestions of MoL, the party can request the ministry to give NOC for filing a court case. The Court may look at it from the ‘contract law’ point of view, meaning that the contract that was signed at a later date will prevail. Nevertheless, if MoL has confirmed that the agreement submitted at the ministry will prevail, based on ministry’s recommendation, courts may agree on the same. Try to get something in writing from the ministry (which may be difficult), as it may be a personal opinion, not a procedural one. If they are willing to give it in writing- brilliant! Then you have nothing to worry about. If they do not provide written document, I would suggest the employee should either mark cc to Ministry while submitting his one month notice (mentioning that it is as per the ministry’s advice) or file a complaint with MoL stating that the employer is asking for 3 months notice while agreement registered at MoL states 1 month only. That way, you can be sure that if the employer files a complaint against the employee under the pretext of a disciplinary action (just to trouble him), the employee will have evidence that it was arbitrary. In any event, I would suggest that it is better to get MoL involved and get their guidance but ensure that the recommendations made by the officers are not based on personal opinion. One other thing you can do is to call the ministry 3-4 times (on different days) with the same question- that way you can see if their reply is consistent or not. I know its troublesome but it is the one practical way that works in UAE. From what had been announced by the government, there will be no ban for employees that are qualified/skilled level workforce (you will remember we discussed this during training), subject to certain conditions. However, the regulation has been recently introduced and pending any substantive documentation, it is not clear whether the skilled employee should have completed 2 years or are skilled employees free to move at any time to switch jobs. On this issue, since MoL has confirmed that there will be no ban, I would assume it to be accurate, as the regulation has recently been amended and MoL will have the official copy of the regulation. Also, if the employee is moving to a Freezone, each Freezone has its own regulations and in general, Freezones don’t recognize or implement a system of labour ban. I would strongly advice the employee to call the Freezone authority and clarify whether a labour ban from MoL will affect the Freezone sponsorship. Normally, Freezones don’t have a problem but it’s better to double check (considering that regulations here change on a daily basis). Hope that helps. unquote Wish all's going well. Monka
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 11:56
Have used Eazy Moving & Storage before; they have been very helpful, their storage in Al Qoz is very clean, modern and accessible 24/7. Their prices are good as well. Try [email protected], www.eazy.ae
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 11:53
Try Easy Moving & Storage, email: [email protected]/www.eazy.ae. They have been very helpful in a recent move, but specialize on storage.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 10:37
Shezza1, glad I could help! Will get back to you with clarifications.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 10:35
Like Chocs01, I much prefer nature / natural surroundings... A few summers ago I swam with the Mussandam dolphines, dipped into the waters from the dhow... An experience of a lifetime! Absolutely breathtaking...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 09:12
Perhaps the Ministry of Labour can help? Personally, have no experience on that issue.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 08:26
If regulations have not changed recently, the local visa/labour costs/annum for sponsoring a domestic are: 1. medical tests: about AED 600 + incidentals for paperwork 2. medical card (goes instead of insurance): AED 300 3. labour card: (don't remember if that's a separate cost) 4. Goverment tax ([i'>annual[/i'>!) for expats sponsoring a domestic: AED 5,000 (non-refundable) You may consider that, once she has baby in her life (even though being taken care for in the P) her priorities are changed. From my experience, I would say she may physically be here, mentally a shift will have taken place from total commitment to the job to focus what is happening with baby. Human, of course, but from the viewpoint of an employer often frustrating/dissatisfying.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 23:05
Hi Shezza1, the course was very comprehensive and it helped that we could discuss all our issues with the trainer and the other delegates (getting more opinions and clarity). The best part about it was the fact that the trainer also explained the legal system in UAE, which helped clarify a lot of issues. I did receive a lot of written material so will refer to that while providing my opinion on the situation: 1. Notice period: From what I understand, yr DH has signed two employment contracts- one that is registered at MOL (English-arabic) and the other that is between the employer and employee (only English). From what we were explained during the course, legally, the contract signed at a ‘later’ date is enforceable- which I presume is the contract not registered at MoL. Hence, the employee will have to submit a 3 month notice. The labour law stipulates 1 month notice period mostly as a regulatory issue, for those who fail to mention notice period in their contracts. If the parties have agreed otherwise, the agreed period of notice shall prevail. 2. NOC: According to Cabinet Resolution No 25 of 2010, the system of labour ban has been revised to provide some flexibility in the market. If under Unlimited contract, an employee leaves his/her employment, before completing 2 years, there is no requirement for NOC and there is no 6 months ban, PROVIDED: (i) That the employee is qualified and his/her degree is registered with the MoL; (ii) Employee is leaving employment because employer failed to comply with legal or labour obligations towards employee; OR (iii) Employer terminates work relationship However, it is necessary that you call or visit MoL to find out about the ban, as the system is very new and may lead to some confusion. Hope this assists your situation. For more detailled info I can get in touch with my trainer, if need be.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 19:16
An acquaintance sold her household goods on FB - in a jiffy! She had great photos, an extensive network, all gone within days. Living in JLT, she also had a note on the board of her building.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 19:00
A weekend at the romantic Miramar Hotel in Al Aqqa/Fujeirah, perhaps?
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 18:56
Marlin Furniture and United Furniture (Zabeel Road & Karama) always have a good choice.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 09:06
First to come to mind is the Organic Food Store & Cafe; one outlet in the Greens, the other one at Dubai Mall.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 09:02
Wow, arohadxb, what exciting plans! Wishing you wonderful times on your journeys.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 April 2011 - 22:30
Automatic Restaurant - grreat Arabic/Lebanese food with home delivery... Love their shish taouk, hommos, mutabbal, fried kibbeh, labban with garlic, artichoke salad, falafel....
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 April 2011 - 11:29
@desertprincess: KAS Cafe: 04-447 1703 / [email protected]
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 14:50
KAS Cafe in Lake Terrace (Cluster D) overlooking the lake next to Almas offers scrumptuous muffins, sandwiches, fresh juices & a lot of other goodies. And they do home-delivery... PS: am not working there, just a happy client!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 10:44
Perhaps it would be sensible to take the afternoon cruise, unless you plan to be at the border by 6 am...! Would be a pity if you started what should be a relaxing weekend with time pressure. Also, and best of all - sunset on the dhow, at sea, wow... Whatever you do, enjoy!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 16:24
I think that would depend on the state of the sea... Many years ago I would have been seasick by the time we left harbour... just my mental state of expectation that I WILL be sick! Once I made up my mind not to be I was ok - and I am talking about voyages in the Baltic and North Seas, i.e. serious waves... Determination to be ok, remaining seated/standing upright (don't "lounge"/lie), going with the movement of the boat, watching the horizon and deep breaths certainly helped me. Hope you're having fun, say hallo to the dolphines for me...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 11:51
Have attended a course on UAE Labour Law for Non-Lawyers in January. Want to know more about it, ask me for their contact.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 11:45
I always liked Travco for their professionalism and service, for the better food in their desert camps.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 11:41
dairylea: if you want his contact, let me know.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 11:40
dairylea: A friend of mine took us up there in our own 4x4, We visited Najd, a valley oasis (green even in July) and "topped" our tour just below a military camp on the highest mountain of the Mussandam peninsula, where beyond the pass you would go down into the northern part of Wadi Beah (very beautiful wadi but unfortunately closed to foreigners as it is military area). I'll never forget the dhow cruise! A pod of dolphines accompanied us for a while - and we did join them in the water...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 11:19
There are quite a few workshops on the road to Hatta (near Madam) and to Fujeirah that have ready-made units and make to custom. Don't know the prices, but would assume they are much cheaper than locally made ones.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 23:17
Answer to question 1: if your car is insured fully comprehensive, you can obtain a stamp from your insurance that is also applies to Oman (if not already stamped on your policy). Otherwise you can buy an insurance for the time you wish to spend in Oman at the border post. Answer to question 3: it's quite breathtaking, steep and perhaps a bit scary for people who have not done mountain-driving here before. We went up to about 2100 m - would do it all over again and again...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 21:40
Made a hotel tour of Fujeirah just yesterday - the Miramar at Al Aqqa gets my vote with flying colors!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 13:21
Hi Kiki, when sponsoring a domestic, a tax/fee (non-refundable) of AED 5,000 is being levied to expats for every year of sponsorship, aside from the visa/medical fees and on top of your running costs of salary, medical, food, accommodation, airticket, holiday, etc.. Domestic visas are valid for one year. Does your husband's new own company employ a PRO for official business? He should be able to advise you.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 12:33
OUr drive was more like two and a half hours...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 23:27
Why not try to get into the spirit of Ramadhan and appreciate the pleasure and joy Muslims experience during this festive season? With just a bit of adjustment it's not difficult to follow the "restrictions" imposed - don't seem to be such a hardship to me. Why not try some sort of fasting as well? I don't eat but consume water... and, believe me, Iftar takes on a new meaning! You'd be surprised just how well you feel after a month. During this very special season, spend time with your Muslim friends; experience a truly local iftar, for instance, at the Bastakiya's Foundation for Cultural Understanding with food cooked by the mother of one of the local volunteers. What hospitality!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 22:54
How about Pepper Crab at the Grand Hyatt...!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 22:53
Love good ole Gerard's in Jumeirah - still best croissants in town!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 22:52
I visited there in January and it was fabulous. Occupancy was fairly low, the service very friendly and efficient, the food exquisite: at breakfast - best croissant and yoghurt (in a glass!) for a long time, steak for dinner to die for. Woke up early to a cold, cold foggy morning (in the valleys) and climbed the nearest sand - huge - dune to a spectacular sunrise. What a start to a day...! I would also stay two nights... one is too short.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 22:43
Not quite sure it would be suitable for your purpose: Al Futtaim Training Center in Al Ramool has several, different size rooms for rent.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 22:28
As a matter of principle, I refuse to be short-changed. If the supermarkets cannot give the exact change, I ask, and usually receive, more. If these "peanuts" would be to top up personnel's (such as porters, cashiers, helpers) meagre salaries, I would not mind. The supermarket, however, charges me not too little percentages of profit for their goods - and and top of it all I should subsidize this?
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 15:20
Perhaps call the Radisson Blu for further info @ tel 04-222 7171.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:03
I always prefer to use the dhow belonging to the Radisson Blu (starts from the creek right before the hotel) - food is just consistently good.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 16:19
I was correct then, after all, about the objective of the question. As em2san commented, attempting to employ a domestic as a company employee is inviting trouble. Immigration/labour Departments are well aware of expats trying to circumvent the domestic tax/fee.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 15:56
I use a Thai salon nr Spinneys Umm Suqeim (left on the road towards the beach); they give both great Thai and oil massages (I bring my own aromatherapy oil which they mix with their carrier oil); prices between AED 150-180. Tel 04-394 8500
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 13:50
Throughout my many years of living in Dubai, Police has been polite, helpful and courteous... Compliments the the authorities! Glad you got thru this scary experience unscathed!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 13:41
I use an essential oil mix of lemongrass (or citronella) and clove, 10 drops each diluted with 20ml of carrier oil (jojoba is good); apply to exposed skin. On balconies/terraces I burn a citronella cancle.
 
 
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