desert_doggie | ExpatWoman.com
 

desert_doggie

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Latest post on 24 September 2013 - 09:39
No, the government won't allow it. If she were here already, they allow renewals. I was told by the government that until the Ethiopian goverment and the UAE reach an agreement, its no longer permitted, at the request of the Ethiopian govt to protect their citizens. We are in a similar situation having a maid that worked for us for 5 years,went home to have a baby and is now ready to return. She is a part of our family.
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Latest post on 24 September 2013 - 09:35
Epilepsy is quite prevalent here. There are a number of excellent doctors. My dd was diagnosed at the beginning of the summer. She is on medication and touch wood, she's not had a seizure since. She sees an adult neurologist but also sees a pediatric neurologist who comes 1x a month from Oman (Canadian trained). The triggers for my dd are lack of sleep, and the heat. We ensure she's always with a hat, water etc. We are pleased with the care we have received here and when we went home, we asked to speak to a specialist who was also very pleased with the care we received and didn't change a thing! In terms of care, you'll be fine. Bring some extra medication at first, because I understand there are shortages at times. We haven't experienced that with the one we use. It will be okay.
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Latest post on 22 September 2013 - 13:43
Would love some recommendations for family dinner out on Thursday - celebration so nice but not too expensive. Was thinking on the palm somewhere? Somewhere middle of the ground as kids will be joining. <em>edited by desert_doggie on 22/09/2013</em>
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Latest post on 20 September 2013 - 22:16
Think it's only for US iTunes a/c holders Ah okay, ours are Canadian.
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Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 23:30
Depends what your expectations are. If you are looking for a nurturing, community type environment then I wouldn't consider R. The early years as Molly says have done well, but in our experience this is Nursery and Reception only. Your choices are likely to be limited by availabilty, the good ones like DESS, SAFA, Kings, JAPS, JPS I think you may struggle to get. But you should get a space at R, last I heard there are no wait lists except for EY's. Child started at Repton in early years and now in year 3. Its pre-prep so demanding academically. Its based not on the national curriculum but the independent school curriculum. Each year it is improving and we are extremely pleased with the education she is receiving. We went home recently and compared to her cousins and friends in the same year/grade, she was much more advanced in the material she was being taught. Additionally she has access to a good number of ECA's so she has the right balance as far as we're concerned. Its quite diverse as well, with a good number of Emiratis, Indians, Brits, Ozzies, Europeans (Italy, Denmark, Switzerland, and Germany) - this is just describing my little one's class to give you an idea, and even North Americans (like ourselves). End of the day, we are happy but each child is different. My second little one is now in nursery and I've noticed huge improvements since my older one's time. Its a huge school but the junior school is sectioned off and locked to the rest of the school. Its bright colourful, the teachers are lovely, great parent/teacher communication and we're pleased with their approach. Other schools have great feedback as well and you'll hear a lot of views about various schools, interestingly from people who've never attended the respective school, but are basing their opinions on hearsay. I would personally go and visit the schools you are interested in and see how your child feels there. Here's the waitlist info. http://www.reptondubai.org/en/admissions/availability-of-places.html Finally, there's now a sister school Foremarke Hall, which is yet to be opened to add to your list. <em>edited by desert_doggie on 19/09/2013</em>
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Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 22:53
When handing back my villa, I was assured that my aed 9000 deposit would be refunded within 2-3 days to a friend of mine, in her name as I was leaving the country. After countless emails, (my calls and emails are now being ignored) it still has not been refunded, it is now 10 weeks later. My friend who will be receiving the cheque on my behalf has also tried numerous times to call, he does not answer. This is a big company, so I am pretty sure my ex landlord is unaware of what is going on. I just have no idea how to contact him. So if anyone works for or knows someone who works for Alokozay could help me. I have done everything asked of me twice over. I keep when my email is answered being given stupid excuses. I do not have an office number or address as it first went through an agent then the guy who works for Alokozay took over from them. If anyone has any suggestion as to what I can possibly do, I would be grateful. I am not going it write that money off even if I have to spend more going back to Dubai! Sorry for the rant Ladies! Sorry you're going through this. Was the property in Falcon City by any chance?
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 21:07
awesome! my email is leenavaz at hotmail dot com Got it, you can remove now!
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 17:31
We have one that you are welcome to buy. We weren't actively selling it but its sitting in storage doing nothing :) Whats your email and I'll contact you
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Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 16:19
Does anyone have any recommendations for such a retreat/resort either in Nepal, Thailand or india. Looking for a girls weekend with some introspection. TIA
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 17:04
very, very bad!!!! :o Where abouts in Dubai are you?
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Latest post on 24 August 2013 - 12:54
bump
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Latest post on 23 August 2013 - 09:50
Dr millicent Grimm did mine. I had early cataract surgery as they do not recommend waiting now as waiting for the cataract to become 'ripe' as they say can impact vision without knowing it. Also, with all the new technology today there is no reason to wait. Have it done early and improve your vision. I found this article that helps explain it. http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery-experience.htm When the surgeon want to operate on the cataracts now, it does not mean he is rushing into it, it means that he is recommending doing it now rather than waiting..not to get more money :) Can anyone tell me how much it costs approximately here. I know its subjective in that the amount of damage but a price range? Reason being my mom is in Canada and was advised. Hers is not ripe enough that its not covered by the Provincial health care so it would cost 3000 in Canada. Wondering if better to have it done here as she's here for the next 12 weeks.
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Latest post on 16 June 2013 - 12:15
Ok thats reassuring. We have the prescriptions and their in their original containers. I'm reluctant to start moving them to other bottles.
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 11:18
Ok, now I'm crying again for different reasons. SANDY HAS BEEN SEEN yesterday and today in the desert beside that park. Loads of gardeners are out to catch her. They said she can't escape from that area. Thank you everybody once again. I can't believe how supportive you all are. X x x x x OOOH thats great news!! I hope you find her soon. Praying for you. xx
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Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 11:17
Thanks Ladies. This is great. Kezzler, thanks for the caveat - thats very helpful as I almost did tune out at brunch!
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 10:11
The video? Obama? Korea? April fools jokes? The words I highlighted omg, lighten up. No its not a joking matter, but it was April Fools Day and some of us were just having a little fun. There will always be good and bad things going on in the world and any opportunity to have a chuckle, keeps stress levels down. Life is too short.
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 10:01
I like the google one <em>edited by desert_doggie on 02/04/2013</em>
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 15:59
There are a number of chauffeur services - Midway luxary for example that can assist. It was far more expensive that hiring a driver full-time but they had their own car, in great condition, and their petrol. We eventually got our own driver, once we found someone suitable. Best of luck
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Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 16:58
There is a range of packet mixes available, for muffins, etc. and for pastry. DD has used them for her friend and they are surprisingly good. She got them in either Choithram's or Spinney's. Be VERY VERY careful, yesterday they had gluten and non gluten all mixed up together and it could be disastrous for the gluten suffer Thats true. I often get attacks when food are shelved together even when they are gluten free due to cross-contamination. Its horrible, b/c seemingly safe food are not. As a result, I make a lot of things from scratch. You can make curries, rice dishes (no soy sauce unless you're using gluten free or Tamari), rice noodles (just make sure it has no wheat derivative), Baked chicken/steak/fish - again make sure any seasons you use do not contain gluten (surprisingly a large number do!), grilled vegetables, sheppards pie, gluten free pasta with sauce, potatoes, risotto etc Some things to avoid, couscous, soy sauce, processed cheese, regular pasta, regular bread, barley, rye, or its derivatives, spice with gluten. The easiest meal my friends make when i go over is a salad, with oil and vinegar dressing (no croutons), steak/fish/chicken with grilled veggies and homemade potatoes. Its always a hit and safe and doesn't cause them a great deal of expense or inconvenience. If you use butter, use a new one as the bread crumbs from previous use will cause issues. I really appreciate when friends make an effort taking my condition into account. Good luck!
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Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 16:44
They have received approval and fees are now out - starting at 90,000 AED for FS1 plus 20,000 facilities fee. They are taking admission for September 2013.
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Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 16:05
Can you join Shk Mohamed from there heading towards sharjah, or only cross over to sports city? Before you would have to take Al Khail to Um Suquim and jump on from there.
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Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 11:51
We are also from North America and I fortunatley haven't witnessed any bullying to that degree here...yet. I did ask what the position was on bullying at my daughters school, and I was told it was zero tolerance. I know from my dd that accidents happen and kids are left to manage their battles but if its serious that parents/teachers do get involved. I think thats fair as there will be times when kids need to sort their own issues out but if its "bullying" as we know it, then teachers should be involved. We are lucky so far that we haven't had to deal with this here with my two girls. I was bullied for about 5 years by the same girl growing up (grades 5 to 10) and despite my parents speaking to the school repeatedly, nothing was done, (the school made up excuses which I have no idea if they were true about her home life being troubled, low parental involvement etc) until I was in my teens and my mum threatened to involve the police. Having said that once the police were threatened she never bothered me again.
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Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 10:10
Very common in Canada as well. If the child didn't grasp the skills necessary to move forward, they were held back. I'd rather my child held back and learn the material than float through the system and not learn a thing. I had a friend that was held back, and sure at the time he felt embarassed but over the long term it did him well. He's now a doctor having studied at a very reputable school.
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Latest post on 24 February 2013 - 16:13
I'm sorry about what happened to you and like everyone else said, you must call the police. But I'm trying to imagine how the security got too close to you and how did he have the chance to touch you many times!!! Where did this happen and how? Why did you stay and let him touch you? Did he grab you? Did he follow you? I don't mean to be unsympathetic here but I cant understand how it happened and why didn't you say something to him or why didn't you run away? Its so easy to cast stones. Seriously, I imagine the original poster was in shock. Probably the first time it happened, she wasn't sure and then so on. Its irrelevant "how" she allowed this to happen, good God, you sound like a women that would tell women who are raped, they shouldn't have been wearing what they were, or shouldn't have been out so late, or on the wrong bus.
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Latest post on 24 February 2013 - 16:10
*Hugs* I agree with the other posters, sometimes its just a matter of there not being enough spots so don't over-analyse. Trust me it doesn't get easier. Why didn't they get picked for this, for that, why didnt so so speak to them today - a mothers stress - be strong and fingers crossed the next one come through!
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Latest post on 24 February 2013 - 15:32
Definitely report to the police and subsequently his employer. I am so sorry that you had to experience this but this should not be tolerated. Next time he may be braver and who knows where that could lead. These perverts play on people feeling embarassed and not knowing what to do. Sending u hugs!
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Latest post on 24 February 2013 - 12:22
Its tough. For mani/pedis - I go at lunch time. For eyebrows/waxing b/c I have a preference not close to work, I tend to go in the evenings once the LO's are asleep. Sometimes I end up cancelling and rescheduling several times a week depending on how tired I am. Finally once in a while, I let their dad do a breakfast without me and go to the salon then. Its importrant to have me time as that ultimately makes me a better mum and I figure 2 hours away is not huge in the grand scheme of things.
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Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 11:59
Does anyone know whether when renewing an adult passport, sending the old passport is sufficient, or do I need to send birth certificate again? I've gone through the site and that it only lists the old passport (its not expired but I've run out of pages). I'll need to send it tomorrow - so guess off to the UK I guess.
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Latest post on 10 February 2013 - 12:03
In Canada when I was growing up, I was alone after school from about 9 years old. I came in, did my homework, watched tv for and within the hour my parents would be home. I was mature and they had no choice. There's no way I could/would leave my child alone at that age but times were different then and of course, there are laws in place now. I was babysitting neighbours kids/little brother by 10-11 on occasion. I do think its based on the maturity of a child. Parents know when the child is ready. Edited to say, I think now parents are more aware/concious of the dangers of leaving a child alone now and therefore more nervous to do so which I am as well. <em>edited by desert_doggie on 10/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 10 February 2013 - 11:51
Hi, Think every child is different, but my DD (7y) needs her sleep..she is in bed at 7, she can read a book for 15 min..then it is sleepy-time.. At 6.30am, have to wake her up, so she needs her sleep.. In weekends we try more or less same routine, but it can happen that its is later, but than she can sleep out next morning.. As long as you feel she needs her sleep, why would you change her sleeping habits? Thanks! I guess sometimes when I tell people the kids are in bed by 7 - I get odd stares and I thought perhaps I was being too firm for a weekday and then when I noticed somenights bedtime taking quite long I wondered if I had missed the boat. I know it doesn't matter what others are doing but I was curious. Thanks!
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Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 11:49
yep it is. Google search http://dubai-gymnastics.com/ My daughter was there, moved to another due to driving distance. Big regret, its still excellent and will be moving her back there.
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 08:52
ya, perhaps weightloss was the wrong word as I dont really need to lose weight - on the lower end of my range and exercise daily. I'm looking more for a detox/cleanse where your body expells about 10lbs of mucus and other grose stuff in your colans that are "stuck" where they also incorporate yoga, meditation, and a wholistic lifestyle for a 7 day, 14 day cycle. They are quite common in both India and Thailand and I did find an earlier thread which offered numerous recommendations in Thailand but was keen to do India as its so close. Cheap hotel, not looking to have the runs but rather a proper detox :) Thanks Maple for the recommendation.
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Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 15:57
Anyone?
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Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 12:00
We always stick a few sides cucumber sticks hummous carrot sticks olives 1 main meat sticks wraped with cheese with toothpick crackers with cream cheese egg salad hot dogs sandwich And 1 Dairy Yoghurt or yoghurt drink
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Latest post on 23 January 2013 - 10:19
Yesterday - Me: do you have this bra in 36E. Shop Assistant: No ma'am we have 36B, you want to try? Me: No, thanks??!! Shop Assistant: We have this one really nice, 36A, you want to try? REALLLLY?!!!!!?? I just walked out.
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Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 14:13
My dad cheated on my mum, several times. She stayed with him b/c of me and my sibling. We knew he was a cheater (I was 9 the first time, I sensed it) and we held it against him. We never told our parents we knew as they tried to protect us from it. He continued to cheat on her until about 2 years ago with different people. He is now 70. By the time, she was ready to leave, we were adults and she was semi-retired. Financially, it didn't make sense. If I had one wish for my mum is that she left him the first time. Sure, it may have been tough on us but 1) we would have survived 2) she could have opened herself up to the happiness she deserved 3) we wouldn't have had built up resentment towards my dad as we felt like he "got" away with it and 4) perhaps both of them would have been happier. I can't comment on your situation but thought I'd share from my perspective, child of father who cheated.
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Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 12:56
yes they can do that, its a benefit and at their discretion.
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Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 11:31
Thanks ladies. Found both at K-Lynn!
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Latest post on 23 December 2012 - 20:41
I must have been about 4 years old, and we went to see Santa. He asked what I wanted and i told him a record player. I didn't see my parents speak to him but somehow xmas morning when I got that record player, it was so magical. We spent the day listening and singing to christmas carols and Kenny Rogers of all things. Every xmas thereafter, we always listened to Kenny Rogers and to this day, when I hear one of his songs, it reminds me of xmas....
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Latest post on 22 December 2012 - 23:51
Thank you for the contact info. I pray that you and your ds's have a bright and lovely future. You are a strong woman and to be admired - I will say a prayer for you all tonight. Your children are so blessed to have you as their mum.
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Latest post on 22 December 2012 - 21:05
I've seen them in Claire's in Dubai Mall. And also a pricier version at Dune. Awesome!!!! Thanks
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Latest post on 22 December 2012 - 20:48
Which spinney's? I've checked three locations with no luck so far?
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Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 14:19
If you've recently updated your software, that could be the issue. Basically one of the features of the latest upgrade is that Facetime can now be used on 3G. However, if its trying to connect via 3G, in the UAE, it will be blocked. To avoid this, you need to still connect via WIFI, if possible. Hope that helps! - Edited to say, I've actually never had much luck with Tango and deleted it within a week due to problems <em>edited by desert_doggie on 03/10/2012</em>
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Latest post on 02 October 2012 - 15:15
I felt that way recently, my two are a bit younger than yours but my cousin the same age as me has both kids at university and it dawned on me how old I'll be when they're at uni compared to my cousin. It sucked!
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Latest post on 01 September 2012 - 14:28
You can take the Al Khail, you need to watch carefully as the sign isn't that big. You stay on the Al Khail (44) go past the Jebel Ali raccecourse signs and there is a turn off after that. The sign will be on the right and it says Springs, Meadows, and a few others I can't remember. I did it yesterday so it's open. Awesome! Thanks!
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Latest post on 26 August 2012 - 18:25
They don't at the present time but I read in the papers a couple of months ago that they are going to trial it again. The last time it didn't work for whatever reason but they are going to trial it again, they didn't say when though typically !! I recall when they stopped using them at the gas stations saying there was a lot of fraud. Would be awfully convenient to be able to pay by cc again.
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Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 12:44
sorry for the diversion - but how do you get to burj park from the mall? does anyone know?
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Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 12:40
Thanks ladies! I'll check it out.
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Latest post on 20 October 2011 - 18:01
We do the scarey house thing...lots of cobwebs, haunted music and props outside. We just moved so can't seem to find any of it but still hopeful <em>edited by desert_doggie on 20/10/2011</em>
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 15:16
UAE visit visa sponsorship - http://www.dubaifaqs.com/visit-visa-dubai.php For visitors not from one of the countries that can obtain a visit visa on arrival, they need to find a UAE based sponsor to apply for a visit visa for them. The sponsorship possibilities are For cases where the visit is greater than 30 days up to 90 days Documents and requirements needed for individual sponsoring a visit visa Resident's passport with valid UAE residence visa. Resident's labour contract or salary certificate as proof of minimum salary. Proof of relationship of family member, documents will probably need to be attested. Proof of medical / health / accident insurance for the visitor. Copy of visitor's passport (should be valid for at least 6 months after expected date of entry to the UAE). Visa application form - obtain at the typing center at the immigration department (DNRD in Dubai, or other UAE immigration office). Relevant visa fees. Refundable deposit (might be AED 1000 ). Minimum salary requirement as follows (treat figures as approximate): Relationship first-degree relative second-degree relative friend Minimum Salary AED 4,000-5,000 AED 6,000-7,000 AED 10,000 Procedure to obtain visit visa for Dubai and other UAE emirates The person or PRO of the company sponsoring you needs to go to the immigration department of the emirate which issued their residence visa (or trade licence). It might be possible to apply in a different emirate if the sponsor has a good reason for that e.g. they live in a different emirate to the one that issued their residence visa (in which case they should bring a copy of their tenancy contract, DEWA or telephone bill as proof they live in a different emirate, or labour card as proof they work in a different emirate), but they might still be told to go to the emirates that issued their residence visa. The process starts at the typing center where the visa fees are paid and the application form will be filled in. The typing center will direct the applicant to the next relevant counter for document submission and processing. Visit visa should be issued within a day or two, possibly the same day if urgent processing fees are paid. After receiving the visit visa, either the original or a copy should be sent to the visitor. If only the copy is sent, then the original visa needs to be deposited at the Dubai airport DNATA counter at least three hours prior to arrival of the visitor. There is also a Visa Delivery Service available at the DNATA counter at the DNRD (but visa needs to be left with them a day before arrival of the visitor). For other emirates, ask when the visa is collected from the immigration department, where the visa needs to be deposited for collection by the visitor on arrival. We followed this and it was on point. We received the deposit back when she left. We were booked via Emirates and Etihad in both cases and the reduction applies generally when its for a tourist visa.