Keyamom | ExpatWoman.com
 

Keyamom

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Latest post on 06 February 2014 - 12:30
Can we do business in Dubai with a license from Ajman free zone? I have spoken to the Ajman free zone as well as the Central office for Free zone in Dubai. As long as you fall under the Professional Services category, you can operate in any of the Free Zones in the UAE with a license from Ajman FZ. But manufacturing/selling products are a different ball game. Its best to speak to them regarding your line of business. I also think that Ajman FZ are the cheapest.
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Latest post on 22 January 2014 - 16:57
Has anybody ordered it online and had it shipped to Dubai? If yes, please do let me know how?
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Latest post on 21 January 2014 - 16:48
Hi AHST, You could try Sugarshack in Karama, they do themed cakes. they did a Princess Sofia themed cake for my DD & it was great. have a great b'day party!
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Latest post on 21 January 2014 - 16:40
Have you tried Gems Royal Dubai in Mirdif? Its a lovely school & the FS2 teachers are excellent!
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Latest post on 21 January 2014 - 16:38
Thanks ladies, this info is great for me too as we are planning a trip to Hatta for the weekend. A quick question - do we need to take passports or is the Emirates ID card enough? Do the passports get stamped at the border?
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Latest post on 21 January 2014 - 16:33
Anybody selling? Or any suggestions where I can find one?
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Latest post on 30 June 2013 - 18:30
Saw some amazing calligraphy paintings - small ones as gifts - as a special gift!
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Latest post on 30 June 2013 - 18:27
Hey Elmpark, I was doing my gift shopping too - baklava, figs with walnuts in them. For the kids I saw some nice camel soft toys & puzzles with The Camel Company. The Burooq accessories could make a nice gift, but it seems to be quite pricey (I may be looking at the wrong place) Have you checked out Arabesq - they have some nice stuff from this region?
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Latest post on 26 June 2013 - 16:20
Likewise! I've been feeling a little lost without recycling, so would be grateful to receive any info on this subject!
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 10:08
Any Lulu's would have it. Good luck
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 10:05
Our company pays an additional annual allowance for return tickets to go back home for the whole family. That way we can decide if we want to do one or multiple trips & what rout we want to take. But mostly its a case of negotiating at the time the contract is drawn.
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 09:59
Thank you, Ruth & Elabella - will check these two out! What hourly rates should I be looking out for? Apart from cleaning, what other work do they do? i.e. ironing, cutting vegetables etc.?
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 09:55
Safa was amongst our list of schools when we were going through a frenzied admissions process last month on our look-see trip to Dubai. I managed to get assessment done the next day. I had read some very good things about Safa from other posters & I think its a not for profit school with a good central location. However, I didn’t feel the school was right for my child, so didn’t take the offer. They do have a fairly long wait list, but I got the feeling that most of the people on the wait list were those who had already got admission in other schools. So if you like the school, just keep calling - the Registrar seemed to be a very stressed lady! She might just give in!
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 19:16
Hi DizzyDuck, We're moving into the Mirdif area soon, it would be great to know of a tailor for alterations. It would be great if you could share your regular tailor details. Thanks
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 15:08
We have recently moved to Dubai & will be moving into a villa in Mirdif this weekend. I would require the services of a part time maid - how do I go about looking for one? What kind hourly rates are paid for live out maids here? Can anyone recommend any agencies that I could check-out online? TIA
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 14:55
I know for sure that there are places available in Victory Heights & Gems Al-Khail. You may also try Foremarke, however, the fees is a bit high. You could also try Gems Royal Dubai, I think they may have some spaces in FS2 in Sept.
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 14:52
Hi, I think at this stage it really doesnt matter. I think you need to decide based on what curriculum the child is going to follow later in life. Also going by recent experience with school admissions in Dubai, its best to get a good school admission near wherever you are going to stay. From my knowledge on British & Indian curriculum - reading is an emphasis on the former, while writing is more so for the Indian curriculum.
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 08:45
Sorry, just realized you mentioned 4 yr old. Has she been promised a Spot? Yes she's been offered a place in KG1. Havent heard much about this school though so wanted some feedback!
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Latest post on 22 April 2013 - 09:23
Just for fun I put in what I assumed would be the profile of the Queen Income over 100k Owns her own home over 500k Owns Shares in excess of 100k Knows people from every category Goes to Stately Homes (of course!) Goes to Opera, watches sports, goes to theatre Socialises at home listens to classical music and Guess what She is 'Traditional working class' Probably because she knows people from every walk of life :D Hear, hear! She is a true Queen! Totally in touch with her subjects! LOL
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Latest post on 18 April 2013 - 09:22
My DD started travelling long distance when she was 6 months old! Today at 4 she has done more than 40 countries & upto 19 hours on a single flight & a seasoned traveller :) I think its important to get them used to travel early. The important thing is for you to be relaxed & the LO will be happy & snug. I've tried numerous airlines with my DD & I find Singapore Airlines & Emirates to be the most child friendly. VA for some reason doesnt seem to like young kids (that's been my experience in both Economy & business class). But generally most airlines from the Middle East are sympathetic about kids & go out of their way to help. Bon Voyage & enjoy travelling!
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Latest post on 17 April 2013 - 18:43
That shouldnt be the case! There's only one monetary authority in the UK. The Scottish notes are printed by RBS & Clydesdale Bank but are also underwritten by the Bank of England! I think you should challenge the exchange (that is if you think its worth it!)
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Latest post on 04 April 2013 - 11:16
Thank you, ladies! Very useful information. Where do I start looking for the cheapest/more economical car finance companies? Also is there a resource available on driving rules in the UAE?
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Latest post on 31 March 2013 - 14:47
Mirdif is fantastic for family living, you have good chances of finding great 3 bedrooms for a reasonable price below your budget, i recently went house hunting myself and came across many potential homes! Also, its great for your children to grow up in, there's family parks and pre-schools around as well. Good neighbourhoods too! Hi Tripday, we will be moving to Dubai next week & we'll be looking for a place in Mirdif. Since you've done this recently do you have a list of contacts handy which I could use? How did you go about it?
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Latest post on 31 March 2013 - 14:31
Thanks CP! Is there no website like the Automart.com?
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Latest post on 30 March 2013 - 13:32
Arriving in Dubai next week and wondering it would be better to buy a car or rent it long term? I've checked online, but where do you go to find good deals for cars?
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 17:59
Maldives is brilliant - if you like beaches! Indonesia is another fantastic destination - Bali & Bora Bora. If you fancy a bit of a cultural scene - try Beijing (though it will be hot in August)
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Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 17:55
I live in Kent - so would highly recommend it! There are loads of places to camp (if you are coming in the summer. I would also recommend that you take a visitors membership to the National Trust & visit some of the heritage properties in Kent i.e Knole House, Chartwell (Mr Churchill's house), Bodiam Castle, Emmetts garden etc. etc. Loads for kids to do - feed deer, loads of farms nearby & absolutely fantastic pub food. London is close by - if the kids want to go to the acquarium or London Zoo.
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Latest post on 22 March 2013 - 19:07
There are other countries in the world with a higher crime rate (especially rape) than India - the US and South Africa to name a few! What's happening there is sadly not new (it has just attracted media attention now!),nor does it mean that its not happening in other popular tourist destinations in the world. As someone else said that if you use common sense then popular tourist destinations are as safe or dangerous as other major cities in the world (well maybe not as much as Dubai) And it's unfair to say that there's nothing to see in India - it's a culturally rich country with loads to see, enjoy and learn, one just needs to have an open mind! Whether you choose to go is a decision you & your family have to make! Wherever you go, I hope you have a great & safe holiday.
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Latest post on 22 March 2013 - 13:36
I would recommend the Montessori system highly - my little one(4years) has benefited hugely from it. Their philosophy of each child learning at their own pace & being put through a sausage mill is really nice. How ever, I am not aware of too many montessori's in Dubai (I have heard of one in Al Gharoud & I'm told the one in Ibn Batuta Mall is also good). However, I'm worried for my DD moving to a regular school in Dubai, as I'm told that she's too old to go to a nursery (Montessori is only till pre-school age in Dubai). Countries like Japan & the Nordics do not start formal education till 7 years & they have not done badly on the world stage, have they? I am a little worried about my DD starting school in Dubai this April - it did seem far too academically oriented when I visited the schools. So totally with you, Cigarra! Sorry cant offer any practical advise, but totally agree with you!
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 17:56
I am a bit sceptical of bulk cooking just from the hygiene point of view. However, I'm a great fan of cooking in bulk at home and freezing portions. Check this blog out for freezer cooking for slow cooker meals. http://melissafallistestkitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/freezer-cooking-slow-cooker-meals.html
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 17:46
Would recommend Hilton or the Marriott! Closer to T4, but easily accessible from T3 as well. For slightly more budget hotels - Park Inn Hotel or Ibis
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 00:32
Thank you very much ladies! Checked out all the recommendations & Intercontinental does seem to be the most convenient to both office & school!
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Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 11:51
Hi, we're just moving into Dubai & we'll need to stay in a serviced apartment for a month before we find a place to stay for a longer term. DD's school is in Mirdiff & DH's office in DIFC. Does anybody know of any reasonable priced place near these 2 areas?
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Latest post on 15 March 2013 - 13:49
Hi lizab, I am on the other end of your spectrum - we are just about to move into Dubai from London! Having been through the school madness here in both the cities, I have to say that you are in a better position. The school system is far more organised here in the UK, the Ofsted reports more reliable and at least the private school's not quite as over-subscribed as in Dubai! So if you keep at it, there is light at the end of the tunnel! All the very best & dont give up :)
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Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 12:16
Royal Brunei any day! I definitely prefer them over BA as they are more child friendly! And BA staff couldnt care less! :(
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Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 12:02
10% would be adequate if you are happy with the services, I guess!
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Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 00:16
The 3 schools on British curriculum which are scheduled to be ready by Sept 2013 that I am aware of : Victory Heights Formarke Gems, Al Khail
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 17:41
Turkey is an exciting place for all age groups - I'm sure the girls would love to explore the palaces in Istanbul. Also if you can take them to Cappadochia - its very exciting with its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and out of this world landscape! There are some fabulous beach resorts in Turkey, if they like the sea. But Turkey is a big country & it will depend on where you are going!
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 17:27
Another quick one - is Bassetts soft & chewy vitamin supplements available there? And how about Children's books? DD is an avid reader & loves books
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 16:09
What about stuff like kid sunscreen, kid swimsuits??? Also do I need to pack warm/winter clothes or do I just leave them here?? Does anyone wear boots in Dubai?
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 16:03
A sense of humour ;) Always a good idea :) That & truckloads of money & you dont need anything else, eh?!
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 15:39
I absolutely love Goa - its a great vacation place & I've been there several times! Would definitely recommend the Marriott or the Park Hyatt! Both of them are on the beach and have lovely pools. food is safe in all the 5-star hotels there & I would definitely recommend Martin's Corner for a meal - phenomenal Goan food there! Stay away from street food if you are concerned about food poisoning and always carry a bottled water. Most of the restaurants on Baga beach are well established and have served tons of foreign tourists, so give them a shot if you feel confident. July will have rains, but rains in India are more like downpours and then out comes the sun again. It doesnt rain constantly. And believe me the rains are a respite from the heat!! Enjoy your holiday!
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Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 14:39
Hi, I met the school representatives last ween at the EW education fair. They are quite confident about their opening in Sept 2013. They have even sent me an email with some info - "Foremarke School located in Al Barsha South, will open for FS1 to Year 2 in September 2013 with Years 3 to 5 opening in 2014 and Year 6 in 2015. At this point, the school is still under construction." You can get in touch with them at [email protected] They are just taking interest enquiries at the moment, but as soon as they get khda approvals they will start the admissions process. We visited Repton as well last week & they were actively promoting this school.
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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 15:24
here's some info and real life experiences for you from our Property Guide section http://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/monthly_property_guide_dubai_area_mirdif_7133.aspx HTH Thank you - this sounds great! :)
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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 12:03
Hi, my DH works in DIFC and we live in Mirdif. Really love it here, been here 6 months. He gets dropped be me at Rashidya in the morning and takes the metro to Emirates tower in the mornings. Takes me 7 mins from house to station! Planes not a problem Emirates British Nursery/ small Spinneys side of Mirdif ie streets off 71 street. We live in a large compound that has 84 villas and our kids just love life here. Really pleased we chose Mirdif. Hi Elmpark, looks like you have a lovely place. Could you inbox me the name of the compound at [email protected] please? Many thanks
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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 12:02
Hi, my DH works in DIFC and we live in Mirdif. Really love it here, been here 6 months. He gets dropped be me at Rashidya in the morning and takes the metro to Emirates tower in the mornings. Takes me 7 mins from house to station! Planes not a problem Emirates British Nursery/ small Spinneys side of Mirdif ie streets off 71 street. We live in a large compound that has 84 villas and our kids just love life here. Really pleased we chose Mirdif.
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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 11:53
Thank you, lovely ladies, for all the info and encouraging words! Feel a lot better now. Appreciate it :)
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Latest post on 10 March 2013 - 13:02
Thanks louisedvs! Are there any specific areas in Mirdiff that are not on the flight path? Also are there any department stores for groceries within Mirdiff? Are there community swimming pools & play areas? And if you dont mind me asking - why did you move?
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Latest post on 01 March 2013 - 21:56
Does anyone know about The Children's Garden, I think its a nursery which also offers FS1/FS2? Is that a good place to put my DD for the time being? Any parents with experience with TCG?
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Latest post on 01 March 2013 - 14:41
I came from England 6 months ago and got places for both kids at GEMS Royal Dubai, I am really happy with that school for my kids. It continues the English curriculum that they are both familiar with, teachers are British, there are specialists for PE, art, French and Arabic. In addition the children are streamed early on for maths, plus they have a fabulous accelerated reader program for KS2 which ensures comprehension levels are good for free reading as they must sit a test to change their book. The choice of literature in the library is wonderful also! Thanks Elmpark, I hope we are lucky too - have already registered for a place at Gems Royal, lets see how it goes