HereComesTheSun | ExpatWoman.com
 

HereComesTheSun

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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 July 2013 - 09:46
I don't know what a DHA elig letter is, but can you not just do a quick visa run?
544
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 July 2013 - 10:58
You audibly laugh that people on the UK think that it is soooooo hot there when it reaches above 28 degrees and weather warnings are issued when it goes above 30. The fact that it doesn't even go that low here in summer, even over night, would suggest that the flesh fest is an over reaction to a bit of sun - as rare as it may be in the UK. I think that's a bit unfair. The fact is that most English homes are designed to keep the heat in, with thick insulation and carpets making it extremely uncomfortable to even sleep at night in 30+ temperatures. People generally don't complain that it's too hot to sit out in the garden or go down to the beach; the problem comes when they have to go back indoors as it can be unbearable. We can laugh all we like about it over here but most of us live in buildings specifically designed to cope with this kind of weather - cool tiles on the floor, reflective windows and, of course, the ubiquitous air conditioning. It's 30 degrees during the day over there not at night. It's around 16 at night which is 10 degrees less than I have my AC set to. The inside of a typical British house will be much warmer than 16 degrees at night after a long day of 30-35 degree sunshine, simply because of the way they are designed. We become acclimatised to warmer weather because we live over here and deal with these sort of temperatures almost every day. They get them over there for several days every few years, so it's understandable that some people might find it unbearable.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 July 2013 - 10:36
You audibly laugh that people on the UK think that it is soooooo hot there when it reaches above 28 degrees and weather warnings are issued when it goes above 30. The fact that it doesn't even go that low here in summer, even over night, would suggest that the flesh fest is an over reaction to a bit of sun - as rare as it may be in the UK. I think that's a bit unfair. The fact is that most English homes are designed to keep the heat in, with thick insulation and carpets making it extremely uncomfortable to even sleep at night in 30+ temperatures. People generally don't complain that it's too hot to sit out in the garden or go down to the beach; the problem comes when they have to go back indoors as it can be unbearable. We can laugh all we like about it over here but most of us live in buildings specifically designed to cope with this kind of weather - cool tiles on the floor, reflective windows and, of course, the ubiquitous air conditioning.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 July 2013 - 15:34
The final bill is ready within 2 working days anyway, regardless of having a flight ticket. So if you're cut off tomorrow it will be ready for collection on Thursday. Worst case scenario is Saturday or Sunday, but still time before you fly on Monday.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 July 2013 - 21:35
Not fair. She's a sportswoman- not a model. Didn't you see her happy-smiley face after she won? What has this world come to if everybody gets judged by their looks no matter what they do? I bet you that everybody has a "certain facial expression" at some point that might not appeal to everybody. I won't go into detail... Like
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 July 2013 - 21:02
options >>>>>language>>>>>English. Rocket science it ain't
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EW GURU
Latest post on 02 July 2013 - 12:47
There are so many things wrong with this situation that I don't know where to start. Who was the cheque payable to, the landlord or the agency? If it was the agency, I'm concerned that you might be the victim of a rental scam. It certainly sounds like a sub-letting situation. Also, you're not going to be able to keep the price as it is. The Rental Calculator will stipulate an increase of 25% in this case (if you can actually produce a rental contract). Without one, you're at the complete mercy of the landlord's 'wife'. I suspect they've not given you a rental contract because they have no intention of honouring their side of it under law and will arrange for you to be evicted as soon as they find someone to pay the market rate. Your husband has been wholly irresponsible throughout this saga, and it may result in you having to move. Without a tenancy contract, you have no backing whatsoever under the law of the land. Very sorry to be so blunt, but I can only see trouble ahead in relation to this. edited by HereComesTheSun on 02/07/2013 <em>edited by HereComesTheSun on 02/07/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 30 June 2013 - 10:47
I believe that the old rule giving a second year at the same rent no longer stands. I think that landlords can now increase rents for the second year if allowed by the Rent Index calculator. But I also think they need to give you 12 months notice from the end of your current tenancy period. It's not an old rule, this law still exists 100% but sadly a lot of tenants do not enforce it. Believe or not the Law is on the side of the tenants in Dubai. It is an old rule, and 100% doesn't still exist. The rent can be increased in the 2nd year, but only in line with the Rental Calculator and only when 90 days' notice is given.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 16:21
http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Drain-Flies
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 16:07
Are you sure it's not just a case of it being a 2009 model that was made in 2008?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 13:33
Thanks both - you've solved the mystery. I feel so silly now, but I always leave my balcony door open slightly so that my cat can get in and out (her litter tray is kept outside on the balcony). It didn't occur to me that such a small gap would affect the humidity of the whole apartment. So I think the solution will be to keep her litter tray indoors during these summer months and keep the door shut! That will definitely solve it. These are extreme conditions now (70%+ humidity), so even a broken window seal would lead to the same problem.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 13:05
This happened to me once when I left a window open by mistake during the summer. The apartment was like a lake by the time I got home!! Humidity is getting in somehow, so check all your windows and doors. Also, get someone in to clear the filters and empty the drip tray. It's a very quick job and never hurts to have it done every few months. <em>edited by HereComesTheSun on 27/06/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 09:34
The others have all given you the correct advice. Politely explain the law to him (he may well not even know) and await your new contract. You have absolutely nothing to worry about as this wouldn't even make it to a hearing. The RC would tell him he has zero chance of winning before it gets that far.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2013 - 09:30
If you are feeling really devious, you could cancel her visa and tell her it is a formality, send her to Kish and tell her to await further instructions from you. Adios. Why would anyone even consider doing this? She's told a lie and deserves to be sacked for it (assuming there is irrefutable proof). But the OP certainly shouldn't resort to seeking petty, childish ways to gain retribution against her like you suggest; she should just act in a professional manner and do what needs to be done, retaining her dignity along the way.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2013 - 17:40
Our Dubai tenancy contract is not attested and never has been. I guess we just get lucky. ooooh think you are very very very very lucky..... big probs now because of this...... When people say 'attested by the municipality', do they just mean Ejari? If so, it's a fairly recent concept (in terms of actual enforcement anyway), so I'm not surprised people haven't been caught out by it yet. It will certainly be a major issue for the future though.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2013 - 11:14
Apparently they sell them here: http://www.dubailibrary.com/home.php There was a poster on here not long ago (within the last 2 months) who needed one and ended up having to buy a pack of 100 as that was all they had. I can't find the thread but if you can track her down I'm sure she'll be able to help you out. Edit: Found it - http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic207707-urgent--where-can-i-get-a-standard-tenancy-contract.aspx <em>edited by HereComesTheSun on 25/06/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2013 - 12:25
Same here. Birthday and Christmas cards have about a 50% success rate. It can't be a coincidence that these are the only things that fail to get through. Presumably they're being intercepted somewhere along the line by people who think they might contain money.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 23 June 2013 - 09:38
You're not legally obliged to do either of these things and I would strongly advise you not to do them.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 19 June 2013 - 21:37
Was closed yesterday. There's another one at the petrol station behind the hotel.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 14:13
If it's likely to be a fairly regular thing, sign up with Shop & Ship.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 12:23
Am I the only one that doesn't quite understand this? Not that long ago, DH and I decided to eat out as we'd been busy decorating and I couldn't be bothered cooking. I went upstairs, showered and changed then came downstairs. DH then went upstairs to do the same while I sat downstairs to wait on him, glass of wine in hand. An hour went by and I wondered what on earth he was doing! Up I went and found him, crashed out on top of the bed! All I could do was laugh! I left him to sleep and cancelled the taxi we'd ordered. Then I ordered a Chinese takeaway meal. He woke up about half an hour later. He apologised for falling asleep, we enjoyed our meal at home and laughed about him doing us out of our night out! We're married 36 years. It's about give and take and forgiving each others shortcomings. :) Presumably, though, he wasn't trying to make up for an argument that had lasted several days.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 12:21
For the flowers I sent him flowers to his office before so whats the weird in that ? It's a bit weird, to be honest. Although that may just be a cultural thing.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2013 - 11:28
I would, after many years experience tell you that you should go out with your friends then. They will not send you on guilt trips. Who needs mental manipulation? Half of the world is starving, get a life. This makes even less sense than the OP. And to Kitty Bitty, your husband is right, you clearly don't respect him if you can't even be bothered to get yourself up for a special clear-the-air meal. <em>edited by HereComesTheSun on 18/06/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 16 June 2013 - 16:16
That's included in most tenancy contracts these days. It's completely meaningless and unenforceable, so don't worry about it.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 16 June 2013 - 15:56
Thought this was going to be another thread about estate agents!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 16 June 2013 - 14:08
MBK, but you will have to ask for the really good stuff as they won't have them on display. There's a good one on a corner at the top of one of the escalators on the mobile phone level (3rd floor, I think), but just ask around as there are lots of little stores selling them.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 June 2013 - 17:22
Apparently they're in the process of moving about 2,000 taxis and drivers from a base/depot on the Sharjah border to one in Jebel Ali, which explains the noticeable increase in taxis and standard of service around the New Dubai end of town.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 June 2013 - 11:06
If they're buying something off you, then obviously don't give them the item in question until the funds have cleared into your account. If they're paying you for something they owe, I'd prefer cash or a direct transfer, but the consequences for bouncing a cheque are severe so I wouldn't worry about it.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2013 - 18:48
The level of red tape (primarily in the form of stealth taxes) is getting ridiculous but Ejari is a good thing so hopefully this will help people protect themselves
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2013 - 15:13
Rather than actually being traumatised, you sound like you've simply spotted a way to try to make some easy money. I think you are blaming the victim. I'm not blaming her for being a victim but I'm certainly blaming her for seeking financial reward for an accident. She states that her main concerns are that it could have seriously injured a child, but how does an increase in her bank balance help address that issue? It doesn't. And it shouldn't have any impact on easing her 'trauma' either. If child safety really is the main concern, she could arrange a meeting with the management to discuss the issue and seek assurances that they will enhance the safety of their stores. Suing them won't achieve this, it will just put a bit more money in her purse.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2013 - 14:52
Rather than actually being traumatised, you sound like you've simply spotted a way to try to make some easy money.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 June 2013 - 15:46
The contract should be exactly the same as your previous one but with the words NON-RENEWABLE clearly stated at the top of the first page. You should also have received written notice via notary public or registered mail, informing that you will have to leave in 12 months. This clause you have posted has nothing to do with it being a non-renewable contract and I would insist on it being removed, particularly the word 'repairs'.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 June 2013 - 16:59
You can do it at the municipality building in Al Manara. It's right next to the metro station on SZR. Go through the front doors, turn right and you'll see the Ejari desk at the far end of the building.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 June 2013 - 16:15
Did the show start on time and approx what time did it finish? Also, how long was the wait for a taxi afterwards? Thanks edited by Yorky on 08/06/2013 Just read on another thread that it finished approx 11pm so just need to decide if we get a taxi or drive? edited by Yorky on 08/06/2013 Started on time, from 8-8.25 support act, then a break for 30 mins, then finished about 10.20. Taxi was ok. He came back out after that for another 20 mins. Finished just before 11.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 June 2013 - 12:38
Finished at 10.30 then he came back for a 20-min encore.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 June 2013 - 15:19
It's down to the landlord, but in this particular case I would tell your friend to do it herself as it will give her peace of mind and only costs AED 200. It can be done at the Al Manara government offices (among other places) and is a relatively quick and painless procedure. The landlord is also right in saying that it affords her a higher level of protection under the law.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 June 2013 - 15:05
You pay VAT because the service is taking place in the UK. You obviously can't take that service out of the country like you can with a watch or a handbag.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 June 2013 - 14:03
The others have offered good, sound advice but I would also advise you not to rule out negotiating with him completely. The likely outcome of enforcing your rights at 84k is that you will be issued with a non-renewable contract and will have to look for something else in 12 months' time. This may actually suit you fine, I don't know. Meeting him at, say, 90k may avoid this and help secure the property for at least another 2 years. It all depends on your personal situation; if one year is enough for you then make sure he sticks to the law.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2013 - 13:02
At the very minimum you will want a signed receipt together with copies of the landlords passport and visa.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 June 2013 - 12:39
riajoaquin, it dates from 2008. [i'>Article 25d (http://www.awf.ae/law-33-2008.html) d. If the owner of the property wishes to sell the leased property. And for the purpose of clause (2) of this Article, landlord must notify tenant with reasons for eviction at least twelve months prior to the determined date of eviction subject that such notice be sent through the Notary Public or by registered mail.[/i'> The proper procedure is for notice to be given by notary public/registered mail and then for a 'NON-RENEWABLE' contract to be issued for the final 12 months. So even if a simple email is accepted as notice, your landlord has still failed to comply with the 'NON-RENEWABLE' contract part.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 01 June 2013 - 21:26
I only pay my DEWA every 3 or 4 months and have never been cut off. Although I'm in an apartment rather than a villa so it's obviously not as much. And I just pay through the DEWA website; seems to be the easiest way.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 01 June 2013 - 21:17
From the Done Events website: MICHAEL MCINTYRE SHOW TIME: Doors will be open at 6pm with the show commencing at 8pm. Come down for an early dinner and a drink :) - See more at: http://www.doneevents.com/michael-mcintyre-live-in-dubai-2/#sthash.Sl2dgcmy.dpuf
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EW GURU
Latest post on 30 May 2013 - 21:06
Thanks everyone
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 May 2013 - 17:15
Thanks ecochic :) I might just do that. Although I seriously feel a bit scared of the guy, but I guess RERA is the way to go as I wouldn't think he could threaten them. Does anyone know if I can refuse viewings or whether RERA would look poorly on that? Obviously it's always best to accommodate viewings (at a time that suits you) but if they continue like this you have no legal obligation to allow them in. Assuming you have a proper contract until November, you can legally stay until November 2014 and not allow any viewings.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 May 2013 - 11:12
What is the recent experience – is ID asked in Barsha for registration? I should re-register my car and cannot find my ID card… I did mine through our PRO yesterday. He only needed my passport/visa copy, didn't require my Emirates ID card.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 23 May 2013 - 12:49
[b'>AnneCoulter[/b'>, what are you talking about? We do not have a Non-Renewable Contract! LaLaLayla Posts 328 QUOTE 25/02/2013 20:37:53 Unfortunately, it does say: "Renewal of Contract is at the discretion of the landlord". And "The Contract is valid up to the end of the specified period after which date it is considered null and void". Looks like we're stuffed :-( Those two phrases appear in almost every rental contract in Dubai and mean absolutely nothing.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 22 May 2013 - 16:07
I thought it was only apartments at Shoreline?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 May 2013 - 19:34
Go to booking.com and select your dates. You can arrange the results in order of price, which will give you an idea of what's available. You can also select specific areas of London.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 May 2013 - 10:48
I'll be honest, I hadn't considered the weather implications when I made my original post. Phuket is very wet and humid at the moment. Samui is slightly better, but still not great. The forecast for Cyprus looks great, so I'd certainly consider that when making your final decision.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 May 2013 - 10:17
Whatever you do, do NOT go to Pattaya!! You can't really go wrong with Phuket or Koh Samui, especially with it being your first time. But, depending on what type of thing you're looking for, I'd avoid the main nightlife centres like Chaweng, Lamai and Patong. Ten days is quite a long time for one place though and internal flights in Thailand are cheap, so it might be worth doing both Samui and Phuket, or even flying up to Chiang Mai for 3 days of something different. You could also spend a couple of days seeing the sights around Bangkok. Kanchanaburi is another beautiful place, but you can't fly there (it's about 2-3 hours drive from Bangkok). It all depends on what you want: beach, city, countryside, mountains etc etc. There really is something for everyone in Thailand.